Santa Fe Travel Guide

I just returned from a four-day mother-daughter trip to Santa Fe, New Mexico. The Land of Enchantment didn't disappoint. Here's my guide to the best places to eat, drink and discover in the desert oasis.

I have to thank my dear Charleston friends designer Jill Sharp Weeks and Susan Hull Walker of IBU, who both gave me their own "must-do lists." Jill and Susan each have homes in Santa Fe and were kind of enough to get us off on the right track!

P.S. Perfect for travel, I packed along my Silver Lining Topknots and Pegasus Pendant necklace for this trip. 

STAY:
Mom and I stayed in this adorable Air BnB. We felt right at home in the traditional adobe casita, complete with a fire place and cozy blankets. Small world... my friend Raven Roxanne, a talented artist, also stayed here on her mother-daughter trip!

Palomas: creative and modern Southwestern food served in a vibrant, cool setting. Start with a margarita and dig into the roasted cauliflower over mole.

Pasquals: this relaxed, airy institution has been serving elevated, comfortable Southwestern food for 40 years. Make a reservation!

Dolina: a warm, earthy cafe with a polished feel. Where well-heeled locals eat, for sure. While tucking into my giant chicken dumpling soup, I saw the radiant brunette owner (?) give hugs to her regulars.

Izunami: the exquisite Japanese restaurant inside the 10,000 Waves Spa. Authentic izakaya (the tapas of Japan). Killer views and sleek, modern, minimal decor.

Others... we heard fabulous things about - but didn't get a chance to try - Compound (dreamy and fancy), SantaCafe (al fresco), The Shed (veteran), Opunita Cafe (casual) and Geronimo's (fine dining).

Double Take:  a sprawling, marvelous vintage store where I got my suede fringe jacket. Other gems include a wall of cowboy boots, high-end consignment and even furniture upstairs.

Seret and Sons: if you're building a house and in the market for some fabulous doors from far-east Asia or India, go here. Inspiring window shopping.

Weekend Flea Market: situated indoors at the Railyard complex. I found some beautiful African beads and sorted through vintage Native American jewelry.

Back at the Ranch: iconic vintage cowboy boot store.

Shiprock: a beautifully edited and curated boutique in the plaza dedicated to the high-end, authentic Southwestern jewelry and home goods.

Georgia O'Keefe's Home in Abiqiu: buy your tickets in advance. The GO museum downtown is a must-see and a great appetizer to this fantastic event. The tour of her private home was absolutely breathtaking. An hour drive from Santa Fe. Make a day out in the desert by visiting nearby Ghost Ranch and going for a 3 mile hike up to Chimney Rock. 

10,000 Waves Spa: I got the Thai massage and it was the best massage I've ever had. Book in advance. Beautiful, no-frill amenities include a series of intimate outdoor bathing pools under pine trees and bonsai cedars. I was told in the busy season this place gets very crowded... after your treatment, prolong your bliss at Izunami.

Canyon Road is the main cultural drag of Santa Fe, with endless galleries and boutiques dotting up a hill. Locals told us it's bit touristy now, so we went for a walk in the early morning, peeking inside windows and courtyards. End your walk at the top of the hill with breakfast at the Compound.

Museum Hill is home to the compact and educational Botanical Gardens, as well as the Folk Art Museum and The Native American Museum. You can easily spend a day up here, with lunch at the museum cafe.

Wish we had more time for...  Saturday Farmer's Market, day trips to nearby Tent Rocks and Bandolier. My mom and I were focused on the culture and shopping on this trip, so we didn't do any hiking besides walking many miles around town each day! But next time I can't wait to try Chamisa Trail (4.5 mile wooded trail) and Atalaya Trail. The Dorothy Stewart Trail was recommended as short and sweet with great vistas.