The Old Town
Santa Fe New Mexico has it all. A beautiful sunny climate, wonderful food and unique scenery. As a travel writer I have obviously been to a lot of places and few cities are as amazing as Santa Fe. Not only is it the state capital of New Mexico but one of the oldest cities in the United States. In fact, at the same time the Mayflower anchored in 1640, a weary traveler in Santa Fe could check into a hotel and dine at a local restaurant.
Oldest House in the United States
You heard that right. Santa Fe is home to the oldest house in the United States. Conveniently across the street is the oldest church in the United States, San Miguel Church.
The Inn of the Five Graces
One of the most unique hotels we have ever splurged on is the Inn of the Five Graces. Each room is amazing and incorporates local art. The experience started upon late arrival. Our room included wine, cheese and even treats for the dog. A gigantic, made-to-order, breakfast is included and easily doubles for lunch. The attention to detail is impressive. After a wonderful dinner around the corner I stopped by the lobby for a drink. While the lobby was quiet, except for a roaring fireplace, a bartender jumped to attention.
Food
The restaurant scene in Santa Fe rivals cities several times its size. The Pink Adobe is about as authentic Santa Fe as we have ever seen. While they serve a traditional Southwestern cuisine, I could not resist that night’s special which was grilled elk. Check out Restaurant Martin for a more refined American contemporary experience.
La Fonda has several terrific dining venues including the French Pastry Shop & Creperie and the central courtyard restaurant, La Fonda on the Plaza.
Georgia O’Keefe
Long-time resident and artist, O’Keefe, adopted Santa Fe as her home for many years. The museum dedicated to her works and legacy lies just off the main square. The museum only sells a fixed number of tickets each day so make reservations well in advance.
The Loretto Chapel
The Loretto Chapel is the home of the “miraculous staircase”. Legend has it that a mysterious carpenter appeared to the Catholic sisters and built the staircase, using only basic tools, before disappearing without asking for any payment.
Golf & Hiking
Imagine gazing out over a golf course with the above view. Such terrain does not do much good for one’s golf game but who cares. We played one of the three Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo Thunder golf courses. Greens fees were really reasonable. Afterwards, we headed for one of the area’s numerous hiking trails.