SANTA FE GETAWAY:TRAVEL GUIDE

While attending an abstract expressionist artist workshop at Santa Fe Artist Getaway, I had the opportunity to spend a couple of extra days there and explore the city. The word ‘enchanted’ is used a lot when describing Santa Fe, and now I know why.

Santa Fe really is in my personal sweet spot…beautiful countryside, art galleries, shopping, creative people, and lots of delicious food. Here are a few of my highlights:

Santa Fe Restaurants

La Plazuela. A beautiful light-filled space with lots of twinkly lights, right in the square in Santa Fe. In the middle of the historic La Fonda on the Plaza hotel, it is worth a visit. You may know that I have a thing for beautiful hotel lobbies, and this one is a treat!

The Shed. My friend Penney and I sat at the bar because there was a two-hour wait. Yep, it’s that’s popular. And I see why, because the chili rellenos were delicious as were the margaritas. The patio looked like the place to be on a beautiful day. It was a hopping place for sure!

Arable: Farm to table. Locally sourced. I’d recommend the Guy Fieri-approved New Mexico Bison Gravy Poutine.

Harry’s Roadhouse. Good enchiladas and a margarita served in a cocktail shaker.

Pink Adobe. My favorite is a prickly pear margarita. You can’t always find them, and this one was delicious.

Cowgirl BBQ. I did not make it here…(I just ran out of time) but I heard it was a ‘do-not-miss’ location.

Geronimo Restaurant. Again, we ate at the bar. It was the only reservation available, and it was fun because the bartenders gave us the details of each cocktail and food item we ordered. Upscale, traditional Santa Fe, yet inspired food. They describe it as ‘global eclectic’ and the chef is award-winning.

Cafe Pasqual’s. My friend Penney recommended it, and this little breakfast place was probably my favorite restaurant we visited. The huevos rancheros ‘Christmas’ style was my choice. I think the recipe might be in their cookbook too. They just published a second cookbook, AND they have an art gallery in-house.

Hotels & A Day at the Spa

There are plenty of choices for hotels in Santa Fe, but I stayed at the Inn on the Alameda. It had an extensive breakfast included and felt cozy and warm.

Ojo spa. Where do I start? Wow, what a hidden gem. Well, it may not be hidden, but I was thrilled to discover it. I booked a day pass and enjoyed a healing day there. Had I realized what a jewel this was, I would have stayed longer! The resort is 77 acres of atural spring heated pools, a labyrinth, walking area, and a spa. I started the day with a farm-fresh huevos rancheros breakfast (again). It felt like such a spiritual, calming environment and a place for complete relaxation. Just what I needed.

Santa Fe Galleries & Museums:

On Sunday I explored the Canyon Road galleries, the market at the Santa Fe Railyard, and the Georgia O’Keefe Museum.

Georgia O’Keefe Museum. I loved learning about her life as an artist, both in Santa Fe and New York. They also offer online art classes, which is kind of fun.

Ahmyo River Gallery. Jewelry, paintings, and sculptures.

Ventana Fine Art. I was greeted with a warm welcome and given an overview of the art there. I had a nice discussion with the curator about Santa Fe art and the current exhibit. They’ve been in business for 39 years, and represent contemporary American artists.

Blue Gate Gallery The work of Danielle Procaccio. Check out her florals.

Prescott. Sculptures using kinetic motion. My favorite was Elvis Presley.

Shopping:

Full Bloom Boutique. Spent too much money here. That’s all I gotta say.

Chocolate & Cashmere. Artisan knit cashmere and handmade chocolates.

Kikipelli Gallery. I bought a pair of turquoise earrings for my mom. And a pair for me too. This delightful Santa Fe shop is owned by a lovely lady and specializes in vintage jewelry. Don’t miss it. Next to the Shed.

Overland. I was lured in by the leather goods and curated selection. The Grand Ole Opry was playing live on the overhead speaker, and the nice lady working there went back to find out what XM station it was. I was smitten.

All in all, there was too much to see in Santa Fe in a couple of days. I’m definitely going back.

Want to read about my workshop at the Santa Fe Artist Getaway?