Ah, Santa Fe. We’ve been to this New Mexico capital a few times, and with every visit, we fall in love even deeper with it. Surrounded by the sun-drenched mesas and vibrant culture of the state, Santa Fe attracts travelers with its unique blend of history, art, and natural beauty. However, beyond the bustling Plaza and historic landmarks, a different kind of magic awaits. The Santa Fe best resorts are the city’s hidden gems. We’ve spent our nights in most of its resorts, and we can confidently say that each is a haven of relaxation. Infused with the unique spirit of the Southwest, these resorts offer unforgettable experiences. From pampering spa treatments to exhilarating outdoor adventures, they bring so many things to the table. Let’s check out these amazing resorts, where every corner promises a memorable escape.
Table of contents
- Inn of the Governors
- Hyatt Regency Tamaya South Santa Fe
- La Fonda on the Plaza
- Eldorado Hotel and Spa
- The Hacienda & Spa
- Inn & Spa at Loretto
- Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo Thunder
- La Posada de Santa Fe
- Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado
- Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi
- The Inn of The Five Graces
- Our Verdict!
- Where to Stay in Santa Fe, New Mexico
- Why is Santa Fe so famous?
- What is the best time to visit Santa Fe?
- Is Santa Fe a walkable city?
Inn of the Governors
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Set in downtown Santa Fe, the Inn of the Governors delivers a warm Southwestern experience paired with the comfort of modern amenities. During our trip, the inn put us right where we wanted to be. Only steps from the Santa Fe Plaza and a short walk to the iconic Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, our days were filled with cultural immersion and artistic wanderings. When we were there, we stayed in the Superior King Room. It wasn’t fancy but certainly charming. With Spanish artwork, warm hues, and modern conveniences, we had a great time.
Every morning, we would start our day with a complimentary breakfast – a perfect way to prepare for exploring Santa Fe’s treasures. Later, we would head to Del Charro Restaurant, the inn’s on-site casual eatery serving burgers and sandwiches. When you’re in the mood for a drink, visit the vibrant bar featuring signature margaritas and tempting cocktails. As one of the most popular accommodations, the Inn of the Governors doesn’t forget the little details. Upon arrival, we were greeted with a warm Sherry and Biscochito welcome gift, a sign that our stay would be good. Despite its affordable rate, this inn doesn’t hold back. For more affordable options, check out these best cheap hotels in Santa Fe!
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Hyatt Regency Tamaya South Santa Fe
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At the Hyatt Regency Tamaya South Santa Fe, you can expect captivating Native American culture, luxury accommodations, and gorgeous natural beauty. The spacious rooms on the property offer all the modern amenities you could imagine. From coffee makers to premium toiletries, you name it. We stayed in the King Room, and ours had a private balcony, which was our spot for our morning tea ritual. The highlights, however, are the breathtaking views of the mountains and the resort’s lush grounds. No matter which room you choose, you can expect a peaceful space to unwind.
The resort offers four different restaurants for diverse culinary experiences. From traditional Pueblo fare at Santa Ana Cafe to contemporary Southwestern cuisine at Corn Maiden, your taste buds will be taken on a delectable journey. For recreation, we would take a dip in one of the three sparkling pools. Yep, there are three on-site, making it a nice choice for those searching for hotels with pools in Santa Fe. In addition, there’s also a championship golf course and a full-service spa. If you consider yourself a nature enthusiast, go explore the nearby Rio Grande Nature Center State Park or embark on horseback riding adventures!
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La Fonda on the Plaza
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Explore Santa Fe’s unique charm firsthand at La Fonda on the Plaza. It’s the only Santa Fe hotel on the Plaza, hence the name. Thanks to its central location, we were only steps away from art galleries, shops, and the vibrant cultural pulse of the city. Forget car keys and lace up your walking shoes! With over 100 years of hospitality under its belt, this resort exudes a timeless elegance. One of the best historic hotels in Santa Fe, handcrafted furnishings and original artwork blend seamlessly with modern amenities at La Fonda. There are 180 beautifully appointed rooms on the property, and each truly feels like home.
Sure, you’ll find comfy beds and attentive service. However, this resort offers much more. With complimentary art and history tours, you’ll never run out of things to do. For relaxation, we would float in the pristine outdoor pool. If you want to lift weights, go to the in-house gym instead. We also loved spending our time at the rooftop cocktail bar, from which we could take in the breathtaking views with a glass of cocktail in our hand. Aside from the cocktail bar, the resort also offers two other New Mexican dining experiences on-site to explore.
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Eldorado Hotel and Spa
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Just a stone’s throw from the historic Plaza lies the Eldorado Hotel and Spa. Stepping into the resort was like stepping back in time, with its Pueblo Revival architecture and warm walls adorned with handcrafted native art. The guestrooms here continue the theme, boasting handcrafted furniture and views of the city or the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The highlight of our stay was our experience at the full-service Nidah Spa. Ancient Pueblo rituals inspire the menu here. We really enjoyed the rejuvenating massage, and we also soothed our tired muscles in the eucalyptus steam room. In addition, there’s an on-site fitness center, too.
If you decide to spend your nights here, make sure to also savor the flavors of New Mexico at the Agave Restaurant & Lounge. This gem serves innovative cuisine crafted with fresh, local ingredients. We ordered the Kurobuta Pork Chop, and it tasted so good. If you’re into desserts, order the Tequila-Lime Tarte! In the evening, you should unwind with live music in the lounge. And when it’s time to venture out, you can immerse yourself at the nearby museum.
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The Hacienda & Spa
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Best Service. Up next is Hotel Santa Fe The Hacienda & Spa, a hotel that offers a luxurious escape steeped in the rich culture and beauty of the Southwest. Fun fact: this is the one and only hotel in the downtown owned by a Native American. And for over 25 years, it has been pleasing guests from all over the world. From the moment we arrived, we were hugged by serenity, with the adobe walls, beautiful courtyards, and soft hues of the desert landscape setting the tone for a memorable stay. After a day of exploration, we would retreat to the on-site spa, where the highly skilled therapists would do their magic. The holistic treatments are all worth trying. And when we were hungry, the acclaimed Amaya Restaurant at the nearby property was the answer. The breakfast here is divine.
“The Hacienda & Spa is a gem. It’s the place for a relaxing escape and unmatched service.”
WOW Travel
Stepping into our room was like stepping into a curated gallery showcasing the artistry of the region. We chose the King Room, which was uniquely decorated with gorgeous Native American art, a cozy fireplace, and an oversized seating area. It was the perfect spot for us to unwind after a day of exploring. The personalized service at the resort truly sets it apart. We loved how the professionally trained butlers were always at our beck and call. Our every need was met with gracious efficiency. They helped us to unpack and made reservations.
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Inn & Spa at Loretto
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The Inn & Spa at Loretto is a sanctuary that offers all the right ingredients for a memorable stay. First of all, the location of this resort is hard to beat. In the heart of Santa Fe, we were able to reach the city’s renowned galleries, captivating museums, and the legendary “Artist Row” of Canyon Read in mere minutes. What’s more, Loretto Chapel, a Santa Fe icon, is literally right next to the hotel. As hotel guests, we received complimentary tickets to the church, which is also famous for holding weddings.
However, as the name suggests, this resort specializes in wellness treatments. The Spa at Loretto is open daily, and there are plenty of treatments to choose from. When we arrived at the spa for the first time, we were asked to choose the custom-crafted aromatherapy that we loved. Then, we ended up trying the 4 Elements Ritual, which was said could help us connect to the spirit of New Mexico. Additionally, there’s a salon too. Regarding the rooms, we stayed in the Grande King Room, which was great. We had our own balcony with views of the mountains and the chapel.
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Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo Thunder
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Best Amenities. Surrounded by the sun-kissed mesas of New Mexico, Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo Thunder is unlike any other. It’s the marriage between Las Vegas-style excitement and the rich charm of Santa Fe. One of its most famous amenities is its 61,000 sq ft casino. A dazzling wonderland with over 1,200 slot machines and 11 enticing table games; our jaw dropped when we entered the casino for the first time. After bringing back some extra money, we then retreated to the serenity of Wo’P’in Spa for a blissful escape. The deep-tissue massage was a blessing, and we heard that the skin treatments are great, too.
Furthermore, golf enthusiasts will be in their element at the on-site award-winning Towa Golf Course. This 27-hole golf course is huge, and though we weren’t pro golfers, we still had a lot of fun. During our stay, we also loved to take a dip in the sparkling outdoor pool and soak up the sunshine poolside. Psst! There’s an indoor pool as well! The resort also makes it easy for guests to embark on a culinary adventure as there are six gourmet restaurants, each offering a distinct flavor palette to tantalize your taste buds. This Santa Fe golf resort & spa at Buffalo Thunder sure knows how to keep its guests busy!
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La Posada de Santa Fe
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Another popular option is La Posada de Santa Fe, one of Santa Fe’s best resorts. We really loved the accommodations here. Each room and suite is immaculately clean and well-decorated. Think dark wood furnishings, plush linens, and tasteful period accents. After unpacking our stuff, we spent no time for a nap as we were so excited to explore downtown. One of the resort’s biggest selling points is its prime location. Just a short stroll away, Santa Fe Plaza buzzes with energy, and Canyon Road beckons with its vibrant art scene.
After a stroll through Canyon Road’s galleries, there was no better way for us to relax than by taking a dip in the refreshing outdoor pool. Alternatively, you can soak in the bubbling hot tub, too. The heart of the resort, however, has to be the garden. It invites lazy afternoons under the warm New Mexican sun. Meanwhile, the on-site Spa Sage promises pampering rejuvenation. In addition to the traditional massage and facial services, guests can enjoy its full-service salon, fitness center, and yoga classes held every weekend. No wonder it’s named one of the best luxury hotels in Santa Fe.
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Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado
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Best for Families. In the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado lives up to its name with its magical blend of luxury, tranquility, and privacy. Throughout our stay, we never ran out of things to do. To rejuvenate, we would pamper ourselves at the full-service spa. The treatments are divine, and you should give them a try. To beat the heat, we would take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool with the picturesque views of the mountain as our backdrop. We also loved spending our morning in the yoga studio. Better yet, when we felt like venturing out, we would just use the free shuttle service. It made exploring the city center a breeze.
From suites to two-bedroom casitas, there are plenty of different accommodations for all kinds of travelers here. We had the privilege to stay in the Sunset Suite, and it was truly an experience of a lifetime. It screamed rustic luxury, and we loved every single thing in there. We especially loved to chill on the patio, soaking in the sun as we were drinking our favorite wine on the lounger. Best of all, each room at this resort boasts a private patio, cozy fireplace, and stunning mountain views.
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Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi
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Conveniently in downtown, the Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi is oozing with Southwestern charm. The amenities at this resort are unlike the rest. For one, it boasts a library. Feel free to curl up with a good book by the crackling Kiva fireplace and lose yourself in a board game with your loved ones. In the mornings, it offers a complimentary coffee bar, while evenings call for a Silver Coin margarita. Another highlight is the restaurant. We loved eating there. It’s a restaurant, bar, and lounge all at once. We particularly enjoyed the Crispy Kurobuta Pork Belly.
Apart from those amenities, we also appreciated each of the staff members. They were always ready to help us in any way possible during our stay. The little things like remembering our names made us feel cherished. And then there’s our Triple Room. Like the rest of the rooms on the property, ours was fitted with a Kiva fireplace. The crackling flames casting a warm glow reminded us we were in a truly special place.
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The Inn of The Five Graces
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Best Concept. Located in the center of Barrio de Analco, The Inn of The Five Graces offers an unmatched experience in Santa Fe. We were transported back in time once we stepped through the adobe walls. This gay-friendly hotel in Santa Fe occupies a structure originally built by Tlascalan Indians centuries ago, and you can sense it from the design and decorations. Here, each room is a meticulously curated space. The handcrafted furniture, vibrant textiles, and unique treasures made our room feel like a museum. Our stay was made even more enjoyable with the plush bed and luxurious soaking tub.
Our morning would begin with a symphony of flavors at the resort’s intimate dining area. Or, you can also choose to savor the made-to-order breakfast on the sun-drenched patio. Then, continue your day by pampering yourself at the spa center, where expert therapists will soothe your mind and body with traditional techniques. We also loved seeking solace in the inn’s secret courtyards. Keeping our body in shape was also easy thanks to the 24-hour gym. It’s just right across the street and offers a variety of beverages to keep you hydrated, from lemonade to tea.
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Our Verdict!
As you can see from our list above, each resort has different things to offer. Nevertheless, they all promise an unforgettable retreat. To make your decision-making process much easier, we’ve categorized some of the resorts based on these categories, which are our main considerations when choosing an accommodation.
- Best Concept: The Inn of The Five Graces
- Best for Families: Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado
- Best Amenities: Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo Thunder
- Best Service: Hotel Santa Fe The Hacienda & Spa
Where to Stay in Santa Fe, New Mexico
The heart of Santa Fe is none other than the Historic District. It’s where you’ll find the iconic Santa Fe Plaza, Palace of the Governors, and Loretto Chapel. This place is packed with art galleries, museums, and shops, all within easy walking distance of each other. With adobe buildings and street performers, it will remind you of the city’s rich past.
In addition, many travelers love to stay on Canyon Road. A haven for art lovers, it’s home to more than 100 galleries showcasing everything from traditional Southwestern crafts to modern masterpieces. Stroll along the picturesque street and have fun browsing the colorful exhibits.
Midtown is another area in the city where you’ll find plenty of restaurants, bars, and cafes. It’s a bit more spread out than downtown but still walkable and full of character. It’s also home to the immersive art experience Meow Wolf.
And in case you’re wondering, no, Santa Fe is not the same as Santa Fe Springs in California. If you want to visit the latter and have fun, check out the Santa Fe Springs event calendar here!
Why is Santa Fe so famous?
Some of the main reasons why Santa Fe is so famous is because of its thriving art scene, historic charm, unique cultural blend, and breathtaking landscapes.
What is the best time to visit Santa Fe?
Spring is probably the best time of the year to visit Santa Fe. During this time, the weather is just nice, and you’ll be able to explore all the attractions and the great outdoors.
Is Santa Fe a walkable city?
It is! It’s considered a walkable city, especially in the downtown and surrounding historic districts. These areas have narrow streets and attractions within walking distance.
