I spent my 41st birthday in Santa Fe, New Mexico and had a blast. It was one of my bucket list vacations. Can you believe it was my first time visiting the Southwest?
The city was beautiful with epic views of the mountains, great food and truly hospitable people. Every where we went folks were eager to share gems like the best place to shop or grab a margarita.
The six-day trip ended way too soon, but it was just enough time to get the lay of the land. Check out my recommendation for where to stay, what to do and where to eat in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Where to Stay
We stayed in an amazing Airbnb that was a former art gallery. The space felt fun and creative. I loved the decor and small touches throughout like the clawfoot bathtub. It was literally a dream to soak under the skylight.
There are also some amazing boutique hotels in Santa Fe with easy access to the plaza (main drag) and other areas. I would recommend:
You can also stay at my new favorite spa Ojo Caliente. Let’s get into this magical place next.
What to Do
Spa
Visiting Ojo Caliente is a non-negotiable for all my future trips. It is a property filled with natural hot springs that are heated from sulphur underground. For centuries, indigenous people have believed that the water has healing properties.
We soaked nude in a private room for an hour and then enjoyed the eucalyptus steam room. Afterwards, we enjoyed the outdoor springs and a delicious lunch. I had such a good time until I went back three days later for a lavender body wrap that included exfoliation. It was absolutely blissful.
If you’re visiting remember that they have two locations. I visited Ojo Caliente Santa Fe which is about 20 minutes outside of downtown.
Shopping
Lucchese — the place for authentic western boots. I loved that they had contemporary styles that everyone would love. Plus, they were the first bookmakers to create molds for both left and right shoes. Beforehand, people were just breaking their boots in to mold to their feet. Can you imagine?!
Double Take at the Ranch — This place was a literal playground. Vintage clothes, bags, boots, jewelry and home goods. You can literally find it all at Double Take at the Ranch. We visited twice and still didn’t fully grasp all it has to offer.
Standard and Strange — Men’s clothing, but with a unisex twist. They also have a location in Soho, New York. I was super impressed by their array of unique, but practical pieces.
Sote — a breath of fresh air at the edge of the Plaza. It’s worth stopping in just to look at the carefully curated jewelry, home goods and small selection of clothing. It felt otherworldly.
Santa Fe Vintage — This place is a vintage lover’s dream. It’s outside of the Plaza area, but worth the trek for sure. The shopping is by appointment only and they’re super responsive to emails. We went after visiting Ojo Caliente and got lost in the many one of a kind pieces.
Real Deal Collection: This spot is a luxury consignment boutique that’s small but mighty. They had dozens of Hermes fashion jewelry pieces and a good selection of handbags.
There are really too many shops to name located in and around the historic Plaza. Do yourself a favor and wear comfortable shoes. You can spend the entire day browsing.
Cultural Experiences
Taos Pueblo: There are over a dozen Puebloan communities across New Mexico, but Taos is one of the few (if not only) ones open to the public. You arrive and pay $25 to enter the property. Afterwards, you entire a living indigenous community with small in-home shops and restaurants. It was a life-changing experience to learn so much about native culture on their land.
Meow Wolf: This immersive art installation is definitely worth the visit. You can solve a murder mystery with clues throughout or just explore the many rooms like we did. It’s great for young people too if you’re planning a family vacation.
Where to Eat
Jambo Cafe: It came highly recommended and did not disappoint. The Caribbean cuisine is delicious and I loved my oxtails. They also have great fish.
Cowgirl BBQ: Laidback restaurant with mouth-watering BBQ. Get the pulled pork sandwich — you won’t be disappointed.
Paloma: THE BEST HANDS DOWN. Yep, I said it. It’s Oaxacan food made into contemporary dishes. Plus, the cocktails are amazing. The decor and vibe was very “cool kid.” If you don’t like a hipster crowd, then stay far away.
La Reina: Speaking of hipsters, this bar inside of El Rey doesn’t disappoint. It attracts a younger crowd and stays open a little later than the rest of the city. We pulled up on a Sunday, and they had a really dope live band.
Geronimo: If you want to go upscale, then this is the spot. It’s a Michelin-star restaurant with an exquisite menu and service. Upon seating, you’re greeted with a glass of champagne. Get the shrimp, stay away from the sea bass and ramen.
Tonic: The well-known after-hours spot. Pull up after dinner for great conversation, good vibes and delicious drinks.
Don’t Forget
The city closes early. Spending time there during the week was a trip because we couldn’t find much to do after 8 or 9 pm. Santa Fe has a reputation for being a sleepy town so don’t come looking for city nightlife. It ain’t happening.
Wellness resorts and spas are a thing throughout the area. You gotta treat yourself to at least one experience even if you don’t stay on a property.
Get your textiles and pottery directly from native people. Oftentimes, resellers are charging more than double of what these pieces actually cost. Plus, buying directly from the indigenous people means you’re supporting an entire family and can count on the authenticity.
If you visit the Taos Pueblo be respectful of their traditions. It is a beautiful community where families have lived for many generations. Ask to take pictures even if you don’t see a sign forbidding it. I saw visitors complain about the food or ask for lots of modifications. It blew my mind that they were treating a person’s actual home like Burger King. It’s tasteless and disrespectful.
What I Wore
Overall, Santa Fe was an amazing time, and I can’t wait to return. I’m already making my list for the next trip. Have you ever visited? Let me know your recommendations down below!