It’s impossible to see everything in Santa Fe in one day; thankfully, the city has no shortage of great hotels for an affordable budget. From complimentary drinks for people looking to party, to a wellness focus for the health nuts among us, here is Culture Trip’s pick of the best places to stay in New Mexico’s capital.
The Sage Hotel
Independent Hotel
Turn on, tune in and drop out at this beatnik-inspired hotel with over 140 large rooms to choose from, all decorated with a Native American or Spanish touch that firmly places you in the region. Guests receive a complimentary drink coupon on arrival, which can be put to good use in the lively in-house restaurant bar. Across the road, Railyard Park, a 10 acre (4ha) historic garden and performance space is a great place to hang out or let your kids adventure.
Las Palomas
Independent Hotel
With lots of rustic wood and local art hanging on the walls, Las Palomas has made it their mission to create an independent and charming residence to enjoy your time in the heart of Sante Fe. The rooms are all individually decorated and have a gas or wood-burning heater for a cozy evening. The textures and colors of this friendly hotel lend themselves to a relaxing stay.
The Parador
Independent Hotel
For the unique experience of living among artists, visit this non-profit hybrid hotel. The 200-year-old farmhouse in downtown Santa Fe carries its history through its corridors and into its comfortable rooms. A perfect stay for those interested in the arts or are mindful of the importance of the creative mind. Homely and historic, it is a sanctuary from all the excitement that downtown, close by, has to offer.
St Francis
Independent Hotel
Only one block from the historic Plaza, St Francis is close to animated downtown but offers an insight into the fine culture that sits as firmly in the past as it does in this modern setting. With delicious food served within a grand space of tastefully handcrafted wood by local artisans, this is luxury that only the best boutique hotels can offer. The deluxe rooms have views of the mountains that emphasize the serenity all around you.
Four Kachinas Inn
Bed and Breakfast, Inn
Those in search of a homely bed & breakfast that delivers on modern facilities and prime location will find the Four Kachinas Inn a godsend. Rooms have private entrances with their own patios in the tranquil gardens of the hotel; all are decorated with a warmth that reflects the frontier history of this unique city, only matched by the welcome you receive from your hosts.
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El Rey Court
Boutique Hotel
This calm, light-filled boutique hotel, where the well-heeled escape to take part in the New Mexico experience, has 86 rooms that all have their own unique decor, plantlife, and come with great in-room sound systems. The bar attracts a sociable and hip crowd, obviously enticed by the aesthetics and love that has gone into making this an oasis for the free-spirited.
El Farolito
Bed and Breakfast
Downtown’s strikingly authentic El Farolito Bed & Breakfast, possesses adobe architecture that envelopes you within its charm and history. The guest rooms offer a peace that can only be obtained from being set within walled gardens, whilst the common area has a wood fire and is the perfect spot to get to know other guests. The standalone Casitas have their own courtyards for those in search of more privacy.
The Inn of the Five Graces
Hotel
The multi-award-winning Inn of the Five Graces offers six types of accommodation, including premium suites and rooms, queen quarters, two-bedroom suites and the Luminaria Villa. Each room comes equipped with a wood-burning fireplace and a separate sitting room, and a few even have private balconies. The decor is warm and vibrant, reflecting the style of the Southwest and creating a comfortable space you may not want to leave. However, when you do, the inn features a fine-dining restaurant, a relaxing spa, a fitness center and beautiful gardens.
Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi
Boutique Hotel, Hotel
With only 58 rooms and suites, it is the perfect place to stay for a quaint, authentic Southwestern experience. The Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi has several room types, including suites and accessible rooms, with each one featuring handcrafted pieces; you’ll also find original work from local artists throughout the hotel. When hunger strikes, you can dine at the hotel restaurant, bar and lounge, out on the patio or in the wine cellar for an intimate, candlelit dinner. Rosewood Inn also offers in-room massages and aromatherapy treatments, specialized amenities and services for children, and many meeting spaces for important events.
El Dorado Hotel and Spa
Hotel
El Dorado translates to “City of Gold,” and if you stay at this luxurious hotel, you are guaranteed to live like royalty. It has a variety of rooms, including ones with private balconies and fireplaces. However, El Dorado offers so much more than a room to sleep in: there’s a fitness center, restaurant, two nightlife lounges, a world-renowned spa and a rooftop pool. The property is a popular wedding venue and even features a grand ballroom and a chapel. It also has a welcoming, bilingual staff and is pet-friendly.
La Fonda on the Plaza
Hotel
You’ll find La Fonda within the historic Santa Fe Plaza, near the city’s main attractions. The elegant hotel comprises 180 guest rooms of varying sizes, in addition to The Terrace, an exclusive floor of 15 rooms and suites with a private concierge. Each room is uniquely designed with one-of-a-kind art and authentic Southwestern furnishings and decor. Rejuvenate at the wellness center and day spa. La Fonda also serves delicious food at its restaurant and lounge, so feel free to stop by for breakfast, lunch, dinner or a cocktail.
Hotel Chimayó de Santa Fe
Hotel
The charming Hotel Chimayó de Santa Fe has everything from a hand-carved Madonna in the lobby to large red chilies hanging at the entrance. The rooms are centered around a beautiful courtyard, and some have private balconies and cozy fireplaces. However, each room has exceptionally comfortable furniture and bedding, including handmade woven throw blankets, and original works of art from local talent. This hotel has all the benefits of being a first-class establishment, without the high costs.
This is an updated version of an article originally written by Shyla Watson.