Eric and I spent our Anniversary in Santa Fe, the most perfect place for a little weekend getaway. I cannot say enough good things about Santa Fe. If you’re a person who loves art, wine, and beautiful scenery, this is a place for you. With the gorgeous adobe structure & designs, turquoise abundant stores, mild weather, and desert mountain backdrop, there is no shortage of beauty in Santa Fe. We spent three days there and did not hold back with our food and wine. We tracked our steps on Saturday and walked over 10 miles together. There was just so much to see and do. Among our adventures, Eric and I made our first art purchase: a gorgeous abstract painting. I describe that artist and her gallery down below. Eric and I have been fortunate to see and visit so many neat places. Santa Fe ranks pretty high on our list. Might even be a favorite trip right after our honeymoon….

 Here are our recommendations! Enjoy!

Places to Eat:

Cafe Pasqual– Every local recommended this place. Order the HUEVOS MOTULEÑOS :) Two eggs on corn tortillas with roasted tomato jalapeño salsa, feta, peas, and sautéed banana. You won’t be disappointed. If you like something a little spicier, Eric loved the Griddled polenta :)

Terracotta Wine Bar: Wine & Charcuterie Board, Seabass, Grilled pear and walnut salad

Il Piatto: And had a pre-dinner drink & sampled Bay “Rockefeller” Scallops. Best damn scallops I’ve ever had.

El Meson: Listened to Jazz and enjoyed Pistachio Goat Cheese Crusted Cheesecake with Pomegranate. Yes you heard that right. To die for. 

Plaza Cafe: The oldest restaurant in Santa Fe that serves traditional Mexican breakfast while maintaining a diner like feel.

La Casa Sena: We shared wine & mussels here. This cafe has a backyard patio which is in a secluded courtyard. Lots of dried chili peppers line the walls and provide a beautiful backdrop for your dining bliss. Loved this spot.

Pink Adobe: We were attracted immediately by the fact that they serve a “Steak Dunigan”… obviously. Gotta love a meal that shares your name! I ordered Seafood Enchiladas. They were outstanding! Plus the piazza lights and beautifully decorated walls set the scene with quite a relaxed ambiance.

Dragon Room: Located right next door to the Pink Adobe. We grabbed a night cap here. Cool spot.

Tia Sophias: Classic breakfast restaurant in Santa Fe that has been around since 1975. Adorable.

The Cowgirl: This is a hip-happening bar & restaurant in Santa Fe. We made it our last stop and sipped a beer while listening to a Neil Young cover band. The restaurant is vibrant and even serves an “Ice Cream Baked Potato”… It looks like a baked potato, but it’s not, I promise. Just a little replica made of ice cream. Delicious.

Places to See:

Canyon Road: A mile and a half road filled with beautiful art galleries and neat architecture.

Brigitte Bruggeman Gallery: German artist. I absolutely LOVED her work. I bought my first painting from her and am eager to become a collector of her work. She does stunning ‘lyrical organic abstraction’ pieces.

Plaza/Market: What everyone in Santa Fe stumbles upon. It’s in the center of town and is a fun area to walk around. There are many open market vendors serving beautifully designed turquoise jewelry. I did not purchase this time around but I have bought a turquoise ring from them in the past. It’s awesome!

Georgia O’Keeffe Museum: If you’re a fan of Georgia’s, you must check it out. $12 General Admission. Totally worth it.

Cathedral of Assisi: Beautiful church located near the plaza.

Bandelier National Monument: This is an incredible National Park to see. Caves & Beautiful Ancient Ruins. Short or long hikes, depending on your drive.

There you have it! I hope these tips either help you plan your visit or inspire you to get yourself out there! :) Happy Hump Day.

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