How To Have The Best Vacation In Santa Fe

Take A Break is your ultimate guide to the perfect trips to recharge, rediscover yourself and your relationships, and reengage with the world. We’ll cover shopping stops, great bars, restaurants worth your money, photo opportunities, memorable experiences, and other important details you need before you book.

A long-held travel goal of mine is to visit all 50 states in the U.S. Earlier this year, I crossed off my 38th state ― New Mexico ― with a visit to the capital city of Santa Fe.

Nestled amid picturesque mountain landscapes, “The City Different” as it’s called, boasts a captivating blend of art, history and nature. From the striking adobe architecture to the rich culinary traditions, there’s good reason Santa Fe draws visitors from around the world.

Shortly after my arrival, I knew it would become a repeat destination for me. If you’re looking for charming small-town vibes, warm locals and endless cultural experiences, put Santa Fe on your list. And to help you make your itinerary, I’ve compiled my favorite dishes, attractions and more highlights from the Southwest gem.

I stayed at Inn of the Governors ― a 50-year-old hotel with traditional southwestern style interiors. The decor, convenient downtown location and signature biscochito cookies and sherry that I received upon arrival were hard to beat.

Being able to walk right into town was a huge plus for my short visit, but there are many incredible hotels outside the center as well. Friends of mine loved El Rey Court, an 86-room adobe roadside motor court along Route 66. Originally built in 1936, it’s now a stylish boutique hotel that just screams to be photographed.

For more luxury vibes, try Bishop’s Lodge or the Four Seasons Rancho Encantado.

New Mexico has an impressive devotion to all things chile pepper. The official state question is “red or green?” in reference to the two choices of chile sauces offered at many restaurants.

I took full advantage of the food scene, trying as many dishes as I could with green chile sauce, red chile sauce and even the compromise “Christmas style” with both. Some of my favorites were the enchiladas at La Fonda’s restaurant La Plazuela, which I enjoyed with a sopaipilla on the side, and the green chile burger at Blue Heron.

Other interesting chile-related…