If you’re looking for a hotel centrally located on the Plaza, that is full of both history and art, look no further than La Fonda on the Plaza in Santa Fe, New Mexico. La Fonda on the Plaza takes 4th place on the list of Top Hotels in the Southwest and the ‘Best Historic Hotel’ in its class. What makes this hotel so historic? It was established in 1607, literally making the foundation of La Fonda on the Plaza the oldest to house a hotel in America. With the current property being built in 1922, walking through it still feels like new. Since this gorgeous hotel was founded by the Spaniards before America declared Independence, La Fonda on the Plaza is proud of their rich history and a gifted member of Historic Hotels of America.
Lobby
Art
One of my favorite design elements of the hotel were the handcrafted chandeliers of tin, glass, and copper and the tin sconces. On a tour I was told that they were made from recycled material.
Chandelier
Tin Sconce
The Rooms:
With 180 guest rooms and about 20 unique luxury rooms on their private concierge level, The Terrace at La Fonda, you’re not only in for a treat, but a truly unique experience as well.
During my stay I checked into a Tradition King Room. It was super spacious and the bed was incredibly comfortable. To me, balance is important, especially with ambiance and the room nailed it perfectly! The bathroom had gorgeous tiles and luxurious amenities, there was a work space in the room, TV, coffee maker, fridge, plenty of bottled water, and local touches throughout. Each headboard on the beds is unique and handmade.
Did I mention that there are also dog friendly rooms? Unfortunately, I don’t travel with my furry best friend, but I know that there are people who can’t leave home without them. Luckily for those individuals, La Fonda on the Plaza comes equipped with puppy friendly hotel rooms and dog parks nearby.
Terrace
Dining:
At the very top of the hotel, guests can enjoy the Bell Tower Bar with cocktails and canapes while watching sunsets or simply reflecting on the vacation before or behind you. The hotel also has an outdoor bar, an outdoor patio that serves food buffet style with a side of live entertainment, and of course their famous restaurant: La Plazuela which serves delicious Mexican cuisine.
Rooftop Guac
Margaritas
Restaurant
AMENITIES
- Free Wi-Fi
- USB Ports
- Pet Friendly Gift Bags
- No Resort Fees
- On-Site Parking, (there are height limitations)
- Concierge Services
- Fitness Center and Steam Room
- Kids Scavenger Hunt
- Heated Outdoor Pool and Hot Tub, (open all year)
- Room Service
- Charging Cables
If you’re not quite sure how to start your stay in Santa Fe, NM, La Fonda on the Plaza provides history and art tours within their establishment. Tours are about 1 hour in length and are complimentary to guests. However, they fill up fast, so it’s highly recommended to sign up early with the concierge desk. The tour does go fast and there is limited time for photos, so prepare to take everything in quickly.
Beautiful Doors
Sitting Area
History and art not your thing? Well, you can relax after your long flight at The Spa at La Fonda on the Plaza. Massages can also be given in your room if you’d rather have more privacy.
Enjoy your time in this beautiful hotel and surrounding areas!
Overall:
This hotel is a must stay if not a must see. Its architecture and history alone is worth the sightseeing during your stay in Santa Fe. However, if you stay, definitely take advantage of the history lessons and art appreciation within its walls. And remember, you’re standing in an establishment that was founded prior to American Independence. Amazing, right?
**I want to note that the elevation is about 7,200 feet in Santa Fe. Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated, don’t over exert yourself if you aren’t used to this elevation, wear chap-stick and lotion because it is very dry, and remember that alcoholic beverages are 2-1. So for every 1 drink you have, it is like drinking 2. If you are having a hard time adjusting to the oxygen, there is an oxygen bar right down the street.
Additional Information:
- Address: 100 E San Francisco St, Santa Fe, NM 87501
- Phone: 505-982-5511
- Parking: available on site
- Distance from Albuquerque: 64 miles. ~ 1 hour 5 minutes
- Distance from Santa Fe Regional Airport: 12 miles. ~21 minutes
**Disclaimer: I was hosted by the Santa Fe Tourism Board, but as always, opinions are entirely my own.
NIce photos, Nikki!
Author
Thank you!