Wander With WHIT: Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is one of those places once you visit, you can’t believe it took you so long to get there. Maybe it’s the laidback vibe that doesn’t scream “visit me”, but it doesn’t always come to everyone’s mind when they think of their next trip location. We’re here to tell you Santa Fe, is perfect for a long weekend, the air is crisp and clean, the culture is unmatched, and it feels just rugged enough to be different than your everyday getaway.
For hundreds of years, the city has been a meeting point for Spanish, Native American, and Southwestern culture. These strong values are very much present in everyday life, from the smooth adobe structures and detailed patterned linens, to the subtly-spiced local cuisine. While more than a mile in elevation (drink plenty of water) the air does feel a bit different up there. Here are our top picks for a perfect itinerary visit to Santa Fe, New Mexico.
STAY
If you want to be right in the middle of things, stick to hotels near the Plaza, just know they might experience a bit of street noise from their proximity to restaurants and shopping. There aren’t any high rises in town, so requesting a courtyard view will offer the most privacy. Here are two of our most requested hotels in the area, and our top picks for clients when they visit.
If you don’t mind being a short drive from town, it doesn’t get much better than this. A legendary landmark, Bishop’s Lodge was recently re-imaged by the Auberge brand. It’s a complete retreat steeped in nature. Offering 317 secluded acres and spacious accommodations, it’s worth a visit in itself.
Located in the heart of downtown, this hotel honors and celebrates the creative spirit of the region, and offers guests an “elegantly modern take of Pueblo life”. With large suites and multiple restaurants, its a comfortable stay even past a long weekend.
EAT
La Boca Opened by famed chef, James Campbell Caruso, this thoughtfully curated tapas restaurant transports guests to what seems like a lively European wine bar. It was recently named the “most influential restaurant in Santa Fe” by Pasatiempo Magazine and the New York Times described the menu as “modern re-inventions of classic Spanish cuisine”. It’s a must-try.
Paloma A vibrant, upscale Mexican-inspired kitchen, known for their fresh, hand-pressed blue corn tortillas that just might be some of the best in town. Made with heirloom corn grown within the state, they make a perfect base for the restaurant’s crispy fish, cauliflower and carnitas tacos.
The Pink Adobe This charming, eclectic eatery is nestled inside a 360-year-old adobe house. Right across the street from the oldest church in the country, this quaint spot offers classic New Mexican cuisine with some surprising French twists.
Chainé If you’re in the market for a dreamy, bohemian atmosphere sprinkled with artfully decorated cookies and cakes that change with the season? This is your place.
SHOP
Ohori’s Coffee This family-owned roastery and coffee house is passionate about coffee, and selects high-quality beans to be roasted in their own shop in Santa Fe’s Railyard District.
Santa Fe Clay Both ceramics store and art gallery, this whimsical store offers handcrafted pottery, bakeware, bowls, and dinnerware. Be sure to package any purchases carefully for their journey home!
Modern General Also a bakery, brunchery and juicery, this one-stop general market really does have it all. The contemporary general store section offers a joyful collection of specially selected household goods from barware to watering cans. If you’re cruising in and out of Albuquerque, be sure to visit their sister location there as well.
Santa Fe Dry Goods For something to take home that celebrates the spirit of the Southwest, this local boutique offers clothing, jewelry, footwear and select home goods with unique adaptations of shape, texture and vibrant color.
SEE
The Plaza The heart of town is difficult to miss, with quaint winding streets flecked with local boutiques and family-owned restaurants. Its the perfect way to spend a leisurely afternoon.
Railyard District Just a five minute drive from downtown you’ll find this bustling neighborhood filled with art galleries, outdoor performances, indie shops and antique stores. Don’t miss the farmer’s market each Saturday, which features local artists and produce vendors.
SITE Santa Fe With a brand new building, this contemporary art museum has called Santa Fe home for over 23 years. In a beautifully renovated beer warehouse you’ll find modern exhibits from local artists and nationally known names. Their coffee bar, crave, and store, curated, are worthy stops as well.
Georgia O’Keeffe Museum Developed to honor the artistic legacy of the famed artist and activist, the museum preserves O’Keeffe’s early works and personal materials including items from her historic private homes. It is a tribute to the striking landscape of New Mexico, where O’Keeffe called home.
Ready to wander on a trip of your own with a customized itinerary? Get in touch with our team and we’ll get you ready to go!
