Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a vibrant destination brimming with art, culture, history, and culinary delights, making it an ideal spot for a romantic couples getaway. As luxury travel advisor, Kristin Smith discovered during her trip with her husband, Santa Fe offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and culinary indulgence. Follow this guide to plan your own unforgettable escape, complete with where to stay, what to do, and where to eat/drink.

WHERE TO STAY : The Inn of the Five Graces

For an unparalleled luxury experience, book a suite at The Inn of the Five Graces, a Relais & Châteaux and Virtuoso property that exudes charm and character. Kristin fell in love with the rich tapestries, exotic hardwoods, and intricate mosaic tiles that adorn every surface, creating a cozy and unique ambiance. The suites feature private courtyards, fireplaces, and small kitchens, perfect for a romantic retreat.

Start your day with the complimentary made-to-order breakfast, which you can enjoy in your room, on your private courtyard, or in the restaurant. For relaxation, the Inn’s spa is a must-visit, with its thoughtfully curated design of hardwoods, mosaics, and tapestries setting the stage for a dreamy experience. Complimentary wellness activities like yoga and tai chi are offered every morning, adding a rejuvenating touch to your stay. Don’t miss the complimentary historic city tour, offered twice weekly, led by a local guide who brings Santa Fe’s rich history to life.

WHAT TO DO : Unforgettable Activities

Santa Fe is a treasure trove of cultural, natural, and luxurious experiences. Here’s how to make the most of your time with high-end and fun activities:

Explore Bandelier National Monument: Just an hour from Santa Fe, Bandelier is a highlight for couples who love history and nature. Kristin raved about getting up close to the Pueblo cave dwellings, an immersive experience that connects you to the region’s ancient past. Pack comfortable shoes and water for the trails, and consider booking a private guided tour through Heritage Inspirations for a tailored, upscale experience with expert insights into the monument’s history.

Immerse Yourself in the Art Scene: Santa Fe, the third-largest art market in the U.S., is renowned for its vibrant creative community. For a high-end art experience, book a private gallery tour along Canyon Road, where over 100 galleries showcase everything from Native American art to contemporary pieces. Engage with gallery owners at spots like Ventana Fine Art or Nedra Matteucci Galleries for a curated, intimate look at world-class collections.

Shop at Local Boutiques: Santa Fe’s boutique shopping scene is a delight. Kristin recommends Wear Your Grace and High Noon, two standout shops with friendly owners who make the experience special. For a luxury shopping experience, visit Santa Fe Dry Goods on Palace Avenue, known for its curated selection of high-end fashion and accessories from designers like Dries Van Noten and Issey Miyake. Another gem is Keshi, a boutique specializing in authentic Zuni fetish carvings and fine jewelry, perfect for finding a unique keepsake. For a unique, high-end menswear experience, stop by Standard and Strange on Cerrillos Road, offering a curated selection of heritage and artisanal clothing, including Japanese denim, leather jackets, and handcrafted boots. The shop’s minimalist aesthetic and knowledgeable staff make it a must-visit for couples seeking quality, timeless pieces.

Luxury Spa Experience: Santa Fe is renowned for its wellness offerings, with several luxury spas specializing in unique and couples’ massages that enhance the romantic experience. Here are three additional high-end spas to consider for your getaway, each offering distinctive treatments tailored for couples:

Spa Sage at La Posada de Santa Fe: Set in a historic adobe resort near the Plaza, Spa Sage offers a luxurious, Southwestern-inspired sanctuary. The Couples Massage (50 or 80 minutes) features locally inspired elements like rose oil and warm river stones, customizable to your preferences. The Santa Fe Chocolate Chili Wrap, a unique couples’ treatment, includes a cocoa-chile scrub, hydrotherapy soak, and massage, blending indulgence with regional flavors. The spa’s rooftop terrace and saline pool add to the romantic ambiance, making it ideal for a full day of pampering. Book early to secure a private wet spa room.

The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado: Nestled on 57 acres in the Sangre de Cristo foothills, this spa blends indigenous ingredients with modern techniques for a high-end experience. The Couples’ Journeyincludes a 50-minute Chocolate Truffle Body Wrap, an 80-minute Head-to-Toe Massage, and a private 60-minute spa courtyard session with a hot tub, sauna, and rosé with chocolate-covered strawberries. The Sacred Stone Massage, using local basalt stones, is another unique option for couples seeking deep relaxation. The serene casitas and mountain views enhance the romantic retreat. Advance reservations are recommended.

Ride the Sky Railway: For a memorable and luxurious adventure, book a journey on the Sky Railway, a George R.R. Martin-backed experience connecting Santa Fe to Lamy. This short-line railroad offers entertainment-filled rides with live music, fine dining, and craft cocktails. Opt for a sunset or stargazing trip to enjoy New Mexico’s stunning night skies in style, making it a romantic highlight for couples.

WHERE TO EAT : Culinary Delights

Santa Fe’s dining scene is a cornerstone of its cultural allure, offering a mix of high-end, innovative cuisine and authentic Southwestern flavors. Here are five exceptional restaurants to elevate your couples’ getaway:

The Pink Adobe Restaurant and Dragon Room Bar: Located on-site at The Inn of the Five Graces, this historic venue, housed in a 300-year-old adobe, was a favorite for Kristin and her husband. The Prickly Pear Margarita, dubbed "The Catrina," at the Dragon Room Bar is a must-try, offering a vibrant blend of sweet and tangy flavors with a Southwestern twist. The restaurant serves refined New Mexican dishes like blue-corn enchiladas with red chile sauce, perfect for a romantic evening in an intimate, art-filled setting. Make a reservation for the outdoor patio in warmer months for a cozy, lantern-lit experience.

Geronimo: A Canyon Road legend, Geronimo is set in a historic adobe home dating back to 1756, blending elegance with Southwestern charm. Known for its AAA Four Diamond rating and TripAdvisor’s Top 10 Restaurants in the U.S., it offers dishes like Tellicherry-rubbed elk tenderloin and mesquite-grilled Maine lobster tails with creamy garlic chile sauce. The whitewashed walls, antler chandeliers, and cushioned bancos create a romantic ambiance, especially on the low-slung portal during summer art walks. Book well in advance for this upscale dining experience, ideal for a special date night.
Sazon: This upscale Mexican restaurant, led by 2022 James Beard Award-winning Chef Fernando Olea, is a must for couples seeking sophisticated flavors. The deliberately small menu focuses on locally sourced ingredients, with Olea’s complex moles stealing the show—try the New Mexican Mole, created for Santa Fe’s 400th anniversary. The dining room features a vibrant mural depicting mole ingredients, adding to the intimate, artistic vibe. Pair your meal with an agave-focused cocktail or a selection from their extensive tequila and mezcal list for a memorable evening. Reservations are highly recommended.
Restaurant Martin: Helmed by Chef Martin Rios, a five-time James Beard Award nominee, this fine-dining gem offers a sophisticated blend of Southwestern and global cuisine. Located just off the Plaza, the intimate bistro serves dishes like miso-roasted seasonal vegetables and squid ink capellini, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The outdoor patio is a romantic spot for warm evenings, and the seasonal pop tart dessert (think apple with cardamom frosting) adds a playful touch. Book a table for an elegant, high-end dining experience that’s perfect for couples.
The Anasazi Restaurant, Bar & Lounge: Located at the Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi, this elegant restaurant celebrates Southwestern traditions with contemporary flair. Chef Oliver Cortez’s menu features dishes like local rack of lamb with roasted leeks and vegan options, paired with an award-winning wine list recognized by Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast. The intimate, warmly lit dining room with adobe walls and a kiva fireplace creates a cozy, romantic atmosphere. Reserve a table for a refined dining experience that’s ideal for a special occasion.

Why Margaritas Are Better in Santa Fe

Santa Fe’s margaritas are a cultural institution, elevated by the city’s deep-rooted connection to Southwestern flavors, high-quality agave spirits, and creative twists that make them stand out. Known as the “Margarita Capital of the World,” Santa Fe even boasts an official Santa Fe Margarita Trail, a curated list of over 40 bars and restaurants offering unique takes on this iconic cocktail. The magic of Santa Fe’s margaritas lies in the use of premium tequilas and mezcals, often sourced from nearby Mexico, combined with local ingredients like prickly pear, green chile, or piñon nuts, which infuse each drink with regional flair. The high-altitude desert climate (7,199 feet) enhances the experience, making every sip feel crisp and refreshing under the clear New Mexico sky.

Tips for a Perfect Getaway

Book Early: The Inn of the Five Graces and upscale restaurants like Geronimo and Sazon require advance reservations to secure your preferred dates. Reach out, we can help secure these accomodations.
Plan Around Events: Check Santa Fe’s cultural calendar for art markets, festivals, or opera performances, such as the Santa Fe Indian Market or International Folk Art Market, to enhance your trip.
Pack for Variety: Santa Fe’s high altitude (7,199 feet) and variable weather call for layers, comfortable hiking shoes for outdoor adventures, and elegant attire for upscale dining evenings.
Engage with Locals: Whether it’s the shop owners at Wear Your Grace, gallery curators on Canyon Road, or your Sky Railway guide, chatting with locals adds depth to your experience.

Santa Fe’s blend of luxury, culture, and natural beauty makes it the ultimate destination for a couples getaway. Follow Kristin’s lead and plan your escape to “The City Different” for a trip filled with romance and unforgettable moments.

Reach Out To Kristin