Santa Fe, New Mexico: Our Favorite Things About Our Home Town
Santa Fe, like nowhere else in America, is authentically sturdy in its history, culture and beauty. Nestled in the stunning Sange de Cristo Mountains, Santa Fe, with its smooth adobe architecture, culinary marksmanship, and world-class artistic expression chose me, as it does so many of us who call it home. The moment I first arrived here 20 years ago, I felt a tug at my heart, a drum beating in my soul, whispering, “This is your home.” Although it took time to leave Los Angeles, Roxy and I answered the call, and we’ve been here ever since.
There’s nothing like the welcoming warmth of the locals. Everyone here is glad you’ve made the trip. We love our city and we love sharing it with you. Stay a few days or a lifetime. Take a lot of pictures. Sip a silver coin margarita. Order red, green or Christmas (when you know, you know). Savor it, and love it like we do. Try to come in September. The pleasing scent of piñon wood burning in kivas, and the eye-popping sight of aspens, cottonwoods and Chamisa turning golden yellow captivate the senses. There’s a slight chill in the air at night, and excitement flows from the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Festival at Fort Marcy to curated wine dinners at the city’s most celebrated restaurants. If you’re lucky enough to visit during this unique time, count your blessings because these locals are about to tell you what to do, what to eat, and where to stay.
In the heart of Santa Fe
Downtown, no building can soar higher than Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi. Framed against a backdrop of mountains, blue sky and fluffy white clouds, this architectural marvel still knocks us out after all these years. The Hebrew word for God, carved into the stone above the entrance, pays tribute to the local Jewish community that helped finish the cathedral, reminding us of the interfaith connections that spiritually seal Santa Fe. This sentiment is further expressed by the "Cross of the Martyrs," a monument honoring the diverse heritage of Santa Fe. It depicts European settlers, Native Americans, Spanish conquistadors, and Catholic bishops, symbolizing the complex history and cultural intersections of our city. Standing prominently in the Cathedral's garden, it offers a reflective glimpse into the past. Inside, traditional New Mexican Spanish Colonial folk art adorns a massive altar screen and the Stations of the Cross, while handmade wooden sculptures grace the sanctuary.
On the plaza, there’s always entertainment or a festival sprawled across the grass and walkways. Make it a point to have lunch at Plaza Café or The Shed, local favorites. Afterward, stop by Whereabouts to see Aline, who offers fabulous, well-priced fashion for women and men. Next up, Webster Collection where Paisley and Christopher showcase fine art, design, clothing, and crafts from the far reaches of the world. For high-end, trend-defying clothing head to Cicada where Irena offers her gospel of a black and white wardrobe. If you want genuine Santa Fe goods, look for Jed or Samantha at Shiprock, the gourmet trading post for blankets and jewelry from local pueblos and reservations. And if you’re in need of make-up and toiletries, CosBar is the place to go--ask for Jen; she’s a dream. For gifts with Santa Fe style, don’t miss High Noon, where Emily, has redefined the concept of a glamorous general store.
Canyon Road & the Art of the Long Lunch
There’s a lot of loot on Canyon Road, so you’ll want to walk up to meet the 100 galleries, shops and restaurants with a latte in hand from The Tea House. After you’ve filled up on art, you must have a boozy lunch at The Compound. This is our go-to spot to dress up and meet girlfriends for lunch. What’s on the menu? A good bottle (or two) of white wine, French fries extra crispy and chopped or lobster salads. Divine! If you want to do some drunk shopping on the heels of such a feast, don’t miss Nathalie, a French cowgirl’s fantasy, or La Boheme, the perfect mix of chic travel clothing from around the world.
The Railyard & Beyond
Adjacent to downtown is the unmissable Santa Fe Railyard District. If it’s a Saturday morning, dive into the vibrant Farmer’s Market, brimming with fresh produce and local artisanal goods. Next, head to Site Santa Fe, a contemporary art space known for groundbreaking exhibitions, including Indian Theater: Native Performance, Art, and Self-Determination since 1969. After exploring the thought-provoking art, pop into some nearby galleries before enjoying a beer, barbecue, and live music on the patio at The Cowgirl , a beloved local joint that never disappoints. After lunch, check out Double Take and Kowboyz for the best worn-in Western clothes and boots this side of Texas. Then, stroll around the block to Lust and Fond, a fiercely curated consignment shop that only accepts the finest vintage pieces—better than dessert!
You don’t have to venture too far to experience the real Santa Fe. If you enjoy tailgating in tuxes and gowns with China, silver, and fresh flowers, than you won’t want to miss opening night at the gorgeous and glorious Santa Fe Opera, renowned worldwide for its contribution to the living art form. Here, our painterly sunsets are framed by the stage’s wings in a grand amphitheater that seems to defy gravity. Another must-do on the outskirts is Ten Thousand Waves, where you can soak in Japanese tubs and savor tapas in the spa’s signature restaurant Izunami, which boasts the largest collection of sake in the state. We also love taking friends and family to the Museum of International Folk Art, home to a collection of miniature handmade worlds, and Meow Wolf, a wildly creative immersive art experience that never fails to amaze.
Hiking and mountain biking are what the locals do, and so should you. Santa Fe offers the rare opportunity to hike year-round. From the Winsor Trail, where you can bathe in a forest of golden aspen trees, to Atalaya Mountain Trail, a rigorous path lined with majestic Ponderosa pines that rewards you with breathtaking views of the city, there’s so much to explore. Don’t miss La Tierra Trails, a paradise for mountain bikers, along with Dorothy Stewart Trail and Dale Ball Trails, where every step reveals stunning vistas from different perspectives. With 100 miles of trails, adventure awaits around every switchback, especially with our Teddy Bear Doodle, Chief leading the way.
There’s so much more to explore we want to share - here’s just a few more favorites. Whether you're indulging in fabulous finds at Ooh La La, catching a performance at The Lensic, savoring seasonal dishes at Joseph’s Culinary Pub or New Mexican soul food at family-run Atrisco, you’ll find that Santa Fe has a charm and authenticity like nowhere else in America. For a memorable stay, consider Bishop's Lodge Hotel, an Auberge Resort, with its appealing dude ranch vibe; Inn of the Anasazi, which offers sophisticated downtown elegance; or Hotel St. Francis, known for its clean, monastery-like feel. We can’t wait for you to experience the magic of our beloved Santa Fe. Tell ‘em Roxy and Robin sent you!
