Santa Fe, New Mexico is a destination where history, spirituality, art, and wellness intersect to create a truly transformative travel experience. Often called “The City Different”, Santa Fe enchants travel enthusiasts with its unique blend of Native American, Spanish, European, and Mexican influences, embodied in adobe architecture, historic landmarks, and vibrant art galleries. The serene landscape, nestled at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, offers you a chance to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with your authentic self.
Ranked among the Top 15 Best Cities in the U.S. in 2024 by Travel + Leisure readers, Santa Fe invites you to embrace its rich heritage, immerse yourself in culturally-inspired wellness and self-growth practices, and explore the natural beauty of its high desert surroundings.
Before we delve into the best places to visit in this majestic locale, I want to preface this by saying – my recent voyage here was much more than just a vacation—it was a transformative personal journey of self-discovery, filled with deeply healing moments, unexpected spiritual encounters, and meaningful, emotionally charged experiences that left a lasting impression and changed me to the core. After speaking with several people who love visiting Santa Fe, we can all attest to the mystical and mesmerizing highlights of this destination that captivate visitors year after year.
To be honest – I didn’t have any plans to visit New Mexico this year, but through what I’m now calling a God-ordained divine intervention, thanks to the PR team at the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado who invited me to experience “The Land of Enchantment”, my vacation to Santa Fe was set in motion just a few short months ago. From the moment we started planning this unexpected and remarkable sojourn of a lifetime, I sensed that this wouldn’t be just another trip – but, perhaps, had the power to become the life-changing experience my soul had been craving.
The morning I embarked on my voyage from the Monterey Peninsula to New Mexico, the inexplicable signs and mysterious synchronicities that I can only refer to as “Guidance from the Universe” were there as friendly reminders that my “Spirit Squad” (angels, ancestors on the ‘other side’, and God), was guiding and protecting me on this exploration of the unknown. While I was raised Christian, I tend to view myself as “more spiritual, than religious”, so I knew there would be a religious overtone (given Santa Fe’s background), but I didn’t expect the vacation to deepen my faith in the ways that it did.
It all started in the Uber ride, en route to the Monterey Airport. The second I got into the car, I noticed a tag hanging from the driver’s rearview mirror that said “Ask me about Jesus”. Then, when I was boarding the plane, the guy standing before me had a Jesus pin on his baseball cap. To top things off, while listening to the airline’s free musical entertainment, I noticed that the song playing had the word Angel in it.
These are just a few of the uncanny signs and reminders of “Holy Faith” (which is what Santa Fe translates to) that kept appearing throughout my entire vacation, right up until the moment I left. From the beginning, my intuition sensed this was going to be a soulful vacation that would catalyze the expansion of my heart, mind, and spirit in ways I couldn’t have predicted…
Where to Stay in Santa Fe – The Best Hotel in New Mexico
Since I was a kid, I’ve been fortunate to travel to many of the world’s most exquisite hotels; so, having high standards for vacations has been engrained into my way of thinking. If you’ve been reading my travel guides for a while now, you know that I’m a fan of the Four Seasons brand of hotels and resorts. Not only is each hotel distinctively unique and reflects the characteristics of whatever locale it’s based in, but the unparalleled service (that makes you feel genuinely cared for) and beautifully designed properties elevate vacations to a higher level.
Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe
The Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe served as my home during this unforgettable journey, offering a luxurious and comforting retreat that embodies the essence of Santa Fe’s serene spirit. This boutique resort (which features 65 casita-style guest rooms and suites), is located about 10-15 minutes from downtown Santa Fe and is situated on over 50 acres of pristine desert terrain, providing you with total privacy, a tranquil, slow-paced refuge tucked away from the hectic world, and easy access to explore nearby attractions, including Santa Fe Plaza.
It’s easy to see why the resort has received numerous accolades, including Forbes Four-Star status in 2024, a feature in Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards, and the #1 spot on U.S. News & World Report’s list of Best Resorts in New Mexico. The guest accommodations are thoughtfully designed and exude an inviting ‘home away from home’ atmosphere – featuring spacious, adobe-style casitas blending Southwestern charm with modern luxury.
My 2nd-story casita featured a kiva wood-burning fireplace, high ceilings with wood beams, heated stone bathroom floors, and an oversized soaking tub, creating a cozy, upscale ambiance with a clean and contemporary spin on Southwestern decor that’s perfect for relaxing in style. The private patio provided sweeping views of the mountains and landscaped terrain, making it the ideal spot to enjoy morning coffee or an evening glass of wine while watching the dramatic sunset over the high desert.
Each recently refreshed casita offers a seamless connection with nature through expansive windows that flood the room with natural light and invite you to feel immersed in the beauty of the surrounding landscape, featuring cacti, colorful trees, and even edible Yucca plants. The decor reflects the region’s cultural influences, with neutral tones, wood accents, and native artwork that evoke a sense of calm and authenticity. Whether you choose a standard guestroom or an upgraded suite, every accommodation feels intimate and private, ensuring a peaceful stay.
The property itself is meticulously landscaped, with native plants and desert blooms adding bursts of vibrant color throughout the picturesque grounds. Winding pathways lead you to various resort amenities, including a heated outdoor pool and hot tub, a state-of-the-art fitness center and yoga studio, and a world-class spa. The peaceful setting of the Four Seasons Rancho Encantado encourages you to slow down, take in the scenery, and find moments of stillness amidst life’s busyness.
This resort is more than just a place to stay—it’s a sanctuary for personal renewal. Whether enjoying a quiet evening by the fire or reading an inspiring magazine on the patio, I felt deeply connected to both the land and myself during my time here. From the warm and welcoming hospitality that makes you feel pampered to the outstanding desert landscape, picturesque architecture, updated interior design, and unparalleled services, the resort embodies the heart of luxury hospitality, creating an environment where every detail encourages relaxation and rejuvenation.
Where to Eat in Santa Fe – Top-rated Gourmet Restaurants
Terra
At Terra, the signature restaurant at the Four Seasons Rancho Encantado, dining is an immersive experience that celebrates the flavors of the region. With breathtaking views of the mountains as a backdrop, the restaurant offers a menu that reflects a modern take on Southwestern cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is serene and elegant, with modern Western decor that complements the natural surroundings, creating a perfect space for a refined meal.
Breakfast at Terra was a delightful experience. I began the day with a Prickly Pear Granola Parfait, featuring Greek yogurt, mixed nuts, dried fruit, and homemade granola. It was both refreshing and satisfying, setting the perfect tone for the day ahead. I also tried the vegetarian version of their Eggs Benedict, which replaced the traditional elements with sage country sourdough toast, sautéed vegetables, and Chimayo red chile hollandaise—a delightful twist that added a touch of regional flair to a classic dish.
During dinner one evening, I indulged in the Pepita Crumble Seared Scallops, served with roasted red pepper romesco, brown butter, and tri-color cauliflower. The scallops were perfectly seared, and the combination of piñon nuts and spiced pepitas added a delightful crunch. I also enjoyed the Poached Pear & Burrata Salad, a light yet flavorful dish made with organic arugula, dried cranberries, and a verjus rouge vinaigrette. The thoughtful balance of flavors showcased the chef’s talent for blending simplicity with sophistication.
The outstanding dishes, combined with the serene setting and dramatic sunset views in the background created a memorable meal that captivated my senses.
Coyote Café
Another standout dining experience was at Coyote Café, a lively downtown restaurant known for its creative approach to Southwestern cuisine.
If you stay at the Four Seasons, you’ll be happy to learn that the hotel’s complimentary shuttle will take you directly from the resort to downtown Santa Fe, and will drop you off in front of Coyote Cafe – so it’s an easily accessible restaurant. Be sure to book a reservation in advance, as it’s a jumping hotspot, especially on weekends. From bachelorette parties and girls’ trips to memorable date nights with your partner, this top-rated local restaurant infuses contemporary Southwestern flair with a fresh, modern approach to fine dining.
The energy of the space, paired with vibrant flavors, made it a highlight of my trip, especially since Travis Limoge (the charming, talented new executive chef) kept me entertained throughout the evening. In addition to learning about his noteworthy background working for a variety of outstanding restaurants and hospitality groups (including The h.wood Group, which owns celebrity-studded restaurants in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Miami), Travis is passionate about elevating Coyote Cafe with both beautiful, tasty dishes and a sustainable approach to food sourcing.
After just a few short months in Santa Fe, he’s converted 100% of the restaurant’s produce sourcing to local organic farms, as he’s devoted to supporting nearby farms and communities. He also infuses seasonal ingredients into the creatively-designed dishes that are served. The owner, Quinn Stephenson, said “This restaurant has always been a trailblazer and that is why we are especially thrilled to welcome Travis.”
I started with a refreshing ceviche, prepared with kampachi, grapefruit, honey, and a crisp dashi topping, followed by an artfully-prepared Beets & Burrata salad served with pickled fennel and beet gel. For my entrée, I enjoyed an outstanding Baja Seabass, accented by kabocha squash, Anson Mills rice, and mole verde—a perfect fusion of bold flavors and delicate textures. And, I’d say my favorite dish was the chef’s modern take on a bagel with lox which was a playful and unexpected surprise that was both flavorful and elegant.
While Terra and Coyote Café were the highlights of my dining experiences, Santa Fe offers several other top-rated restaurants worth exploring, including Skyfire at Bishop’s Lodge, The Shed, and Sazón. Based on my research and what I’ve heard, each of these restaurants adds to Santa Fe’s reputation as a culinary destination, offering travelers a diverse range of flavors to explore.
What to Do in Santa Fe – Immersive Activities & Memorable Experiences
Guided City Tour: Exploring Santa Fe’s Historic Treasures
Santa Fe’s rich cultural heritage comes alive during a guided city tour, which offers a deeper understanding of the city’s history and architectural charm.
Hosted by the Four Seasons Resort, the guided tour took me from the hotel to the vibrant heart of Santa Fe, where local artisans display handcrafted jewelry and traditional crafts. My knowledgeable tour guide (who is an art history major) taught me so much about everything we visited – from historical stories cataloging the development of Santa Fe (which dates back to the 1600s) to the highly mystical, religiously-significant, and even chilling ghost tales of the area, she was a wonderful resource of enrichment.
During our 3-hour tour, we visited a variety of notable landmarks and historically significant destinations, including the San Miguel Chapel (pictured below), followed by the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, a peaceful sanctuary with stunning Romanesque Revival architecture.
San Miguel Chapel, often referred to as the oldest church in the United States, stands as a testament to Santa Fe’s rich spiritual and cultural history. Built-in the early 1600s by Tlaxcalan Indians from Mexico under the direction of Spanish missionaries, this modest adobe structure radiates powerful, sacred energy that resonates deeply with visitors.
Inside, the chapel’s rustic simplicity and hand-carved wooden altar transport you back in time, offering a sense of reverence and peace. Its adobe walls and centuries-old wooden beams bear witness to the enduring faith and resilience of the community that built it, and stepping inside feels like entering a timeless space, where past and present converge. San Miguel Chapel offers an intimate and profoundly moving experience, embodying the enduring spirit of Santa Fe.
The Loretto Chapel (pictured below) was a particular highlight, as it’s not only a gorgeous architectural masterpiece, but it’s also home to the miraculous spiral staircase built without visible support—a true wonder that invites reflection on both craftsmanship and faith. The chapel was commissioned by the Sisters of Loretto for their girls’ school, Loretto Academy, in 1873.
As legend has it, when they were constructing this magnificent chapel, they had a challenge figuring out how to design the staircase due to the limited space within the chapel, as the architect died before access to the choir loft was built. So, the Sisters prayed for a solution; and after 9 days, a man arrived with a hammer and a carpenter’s square, and said he could construct the staircase. After building the incredible spiral staircase (which is still an architectural mystery to this day, as it’s crafted from simple tools and wooden pegs), the man was nowhere to be found and left without being thanked or even getting paid. So, they viewed it as a heaven-sent gift from St. Joseph, Patron Saint of Carpenters, and to this day, it’s still regarded as the Miraculous Staircase.
As I continued the tour, we explored Canyon Road, an iconic street lined with over 100 art galleries, showcasing a range of Native, contemporary, and folk art. This beautiful street is an easy 15-minute stroll, taking you from one enchanting gallery to the next. Whether you’re seeking impressive sculptures (of horses, deer, or religious figures), or you’re on the hunt for tapestries, paintings, or drawings – you can surely find all types of rare and captivating treasures on this must-visit road.
In addition to this area, throughout all of downtown Santa Fe, you’ll find a plethora of outstanding art and sculpture galleries, as well as artisanal boutiques featuring hand-made jewelry, pottery, apparel, and more. One of the art galleries we browsed in downtown Santa Fe was called Keshi, “the Zuni Connection” because of the store’s close ties with the people of the Zuni Pueblo.
Established over 40 years ago as a co-op for Zuni arts and crafts, this intriguing gallery prides itself on showcasing artwork from carvers, jewelers, and potters, and they buy directly from the Zuni people, as a way to maintain authenticity and a close personal relationship with the artists. As the tour guide explained to me, Keshi carries one of the largest selections of “Zuni fetishes” on the planet. From what I was told, a ‘fetish’ is generally a small figurine based on an animal, which is designed to represent your connection with an ‘animal spirit’. From lizards and eagles to snakes, rabbits, wolves, and mountain lions – the gallery offers a wide selection of beautiful fetishes, that are said to bring you the luck of the animal(s) you carry with you.
As you can see, taking a guided walking tour through the must-visit destinations and world-renowned landmarks in the city of Santa Fe is truly a fantastic way to learn about the history, culture, and impressive array of bespoke artwork that this captivating city has to offer. Whether you’re interested in delving into the heritage and history of the city, or you’re looking to shop for unique and enchanting collectibles, a visit to “The City Different” is essential when traveling to New Mexico.
EQUUS Cultural Horse Herd Encounter at Buffalo Spirit Ranch
Aside from the city tour, one of the most transformative moments of my journey was the EQUUS Cultural Horse Herd Encounter at Buffalo Spirit Ranch, led by ranch manager, Thunder Bear Yates.
The experiential discovery and learning center doesn’t describe itself as ‘equine therapy’, but rather, its unique approach is to incorporate the wisdom of horses into their practices and is designed to help facilitate authentic leadership training. This is why entrepreneurs, executives, and all types of career-focused people often come to EQUUS to learn how to harness the power of their minds, body, and spirit.
To begin the experience, after taking a leisurely 10-minute stroll along a private desert path from the hotel to the ranch, I was greeted by Thunder Bear, who invited me to sit with him on a covered patio overlooking the horse corral. During the hour-long private session, he shared ancient wisdom from his Native American heritage (from Nambe Pueblo), emphasizing the importance of slowing down, connecting with the magic of nature, and honoring emotions, as a way to tap into our innate abilities that supersede our logical mind and mental faculties. He explained that this intentional way of living is important for all types of people, but especially for those of us who are accustomed to fast-paced, high-pressure lives.
In addition to discussing spiritual beliefs that have been passed down over many generations within his culture, he also explained that horses, in particular, are a wonderful leadership tool for humans, as they’ve been around for 56 million years. He said they have an incredible ability to use their intuition combined with their nervous system (by emitting EMF waves out into the environment), which they use to detect any danger in the surrounding area. This ability to “read the energy” so to speak, also enables horses to easily sense our (human) energy fields, which is why they’re said to have the power to mirror our emotional states and teach us to embrace vulnerability, which is one of the keys to empowered and authentic leadership.
Prior to connecting with the herd, he explained that many of these horses arrived at the ranch with “broken spirits”, as they had come from challenging or neglectful situations. This refuge was not only a place of tranquility and rejuvenation for them, but it also allowed the horses to fulfill a higher purpose, by using their natural abilities to assist humans in personal growth.
He led me into the corral to meet the horse herd and asked me to set an intention for the horses to assist with, explaining that by mentally sending my intention to them, they’d telepathically receive my message. So, I set an intention to feel safe in romantic and close personal relationships, as it’s been incredibly challenging for me to be vulnerable with those I deeply care for. In addition, since I’ve been processing the grief of losing a few significant and special people in my life over the past couple of years, I took this soulful experience to heart.
As I walked into the corral, the horses welcomed me with warmth and kindness by approaching me and allowing me to embrace them. To Thunder Bear’s surprise, a normally reserved and aloof white mare (the Matriarch of the herd) walked up to me and gently placed her nose up against my chest. At that moment, I felt any sadness or pain melt away, and instinctually felt like she and the other horses were quietly saying: “You are safe to love and be loved.” This experience was a poignant reminder to me to release fear, honor my emotions, and embrace my authentic truth.
As I stood among them, I felt my emotional guard melt away, replaced by a quiet sense of peace and belonging. This encounter taught me that honoring vulnerability is a source of strength and that true courage lies in expressing our deeper selves, which is essential if we want to transmute pain, process grief, and overcome fears to heal and thrive.
The highly moving and transformative encounter reminded me of a wise phrase (“Nothing can break my spirit”) that my late father used to say whenever he experienced challenging moments in life. Since my Dad passed away a few years ago, I have felt him guiding me in inexplicable ways ever since.
After the session, Thunder Bear gifted me with an insightful book titled Flying Lead Change, written by Kelly Wendorf (founder of EQUUS). While intuitively being guided to read a random chapter within the book, to my surprise – I happened to see my late father’s name, which to me, is always a sign that he is with me and is spiritually guiding me ‘from the other side’.
The synchronicities I experienced during my time there confirmed that this journey was about much more than travel. It was a significant and life-altering way to find bravery through vulnerability, to release fear and control of outcomes (even though we’re conditioned to believe that’s what keeps us safe), and to trust in love, even in the face of uncertainty or loss.
Explore the Sangre de Cristo Mountains
In addition to EQUUS and the city tour, if you’re seeking an outdoor adventure or a way to reconnect with nature, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains provide breathtaking hiking trails that offer both physical challenge and spiritual renewal. As I walked through the desert landscape, I felt the stillness of the land invite deep reflection. The name “Sangre de Cristo,” meaning Blood of Christ, eludes to the spiritual significance of these mountains, which mark the southern end of the Rocky Mountains. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, the trails offer stunning views and a sense of peace that reconnects you with nature. In addition to hiking excursions, you can also enjoy bicycle riding and other outdoor activities set in the majestic desert mountains.
Mountain Spirit Purification at the Spa at Four Seasons
Last, but certainly not least, an indulgent and inspiring way to spend time in Santa Fe is through a pampering spa treatment at the Four Seasons Spa, which is situated on a ‘spiritual vortex’, as discovered by a Shaman who visited the spa.
During my trip, I experienced the Mountain Spirit Purification, a 110-minute journey of renewal that combined a full-body exfoliation, purifying clay mask, and therapeutic massage. Prior to the full-body treatment, I enjoyed exclusive access to a private courtyard with a hot tub, sauna, cabana, and outdoor shower, which provided a tranquil space for reflection and relaxation. The entire facility feels like a sanctuary, combining the tranquil beauty of the space with the harmonious sights and sounds of nature, as the property features lush foliage and colorful trees.
To heighten the emotional and spiritual aspect of the experience, the extensive and deeply therapeutic massage and skincare treatment also included a ceremonial sage smudging ritual, designed to cleanse my energy field and help me set a positive intention for personal growth. The final element of the treatment—a therapeutic full-body massage—released tension and restored balance within me.
The entire experience left me feeling both grounded and uplifted, like a powerful reset for body and soul. This immersive spa experience was a reminder to honor self-care and embrace the healing power of stillness.
Santa Fe is more than a travel hotspot —it is a destination for personal transformation.
The city’s blend of luxury, spirituality, and cultural richness creates an environment where you are encouraged to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with your authentic self. From the serenity of the Four Seasons Rancho Encantado to heartfelt moments with horses at Buffalo Spirit Ranch and a healing spa treatment, my time in Santa Fe was filled with experiences that nurtured my mind, body, and spirit.
From hiking through golden cottonwoods and exploring historic landmarks to indulging in world-class cuisine, Santa Fe offers a journey that is as enriching as it is inspiring. This enchanted desert city invites you to embrace your vulnerabilities, honor your emotions, and discover the quiet power within—which is a journey inward that’s as evolving and majestic as the diverse topography and flourishing desert landscape surrounding you.
