Gay Santa Fe – Ultimate Travel Guide, Hotels, Restaurants, Bars & Activities (Updated 2024)
Gay Friendly Travel Guides 29th Apr, 2023
Gay Santa Fe is the capital of New Mexico in the United States. It is New Mexico’s fourth-largest city. It also serves as the seat of Santa Fe County.
Due to its many art galleries and installations, Gay Santa Fe is widely regarded as one of the world’s major art cities.
Santa Fe Plaza, the Governor’s Palace, the Fiesta de Santa Fe, various restaurants serving distinctive New Mexican food, and performances of New Mexican music are among the city’s cultural highlights.
The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and modern art collectives like Meow Wolf are among the city’s many art galleries and installations.
Gay Santa Fe is one of the best cities in the country to study Native American history and influence, and it also has one of the country’s major art markets, second only to New York City.
Gay Santa Fe offers travellers everything from cozy romance to alpine adventure, with centuries of blended Native American and Spanish culture, unique architecture, international and local cuisine, the art of all genres, kaleidoscope sunsets, and the forested Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
The city welcomes people from all walks of life who are seeking exploration, wonder, and adventure.
Since Gay Santa Fe is also a terrific place to live, you’ll meet others who share your interests throughout your vacation.
If you are thinking about going somewhere else you can try other Gay Travel Guides.
Remember to always check out the latest rules and restrictions before you leave.
Gay Santa Fe – the Scene
Gay Santa Fe is one of the state’s most popular LGBTQ+ attractions, attracting a couple-oriented, arts-minded, and romantic clientele. Travellers will also find a lively summer Santa Fe Pride event and nearby gay-friendly cities to explore.
Although ‘The City Different’ does not offer many pubs or venues dedicated to LGBTQ+ patrons, nearly all of the downtown mainstream bars, restaurants, lounges, and other venues welcome a diverse clientele and are located in a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood.
Gay Santa Fe has a vibrant gay community that hosts events of various sizes. Whether you love Trash Disco dancing, mixing with Dorothy’s friends, or joining in the gay men’s potluck, you will undoubtedly find your social niche to enjoy the gay life in Gay Santa Fe.
While some members of the LGBTQ+ community are pleased to simply visit Gay Santa Fe, many others have decided to make the city their home. It is obvious among locals that there are gays who have permanently relocated to the City Different in all of its neighborhoods, from Aldea to Dos Griegos and everywhere in between.
Others prefer to buy condos as a place to stay when visiting Gay Santa Fe.
Is Gay Santa Fe Safe?
Despite the fact that safety and crime data reveal that Gay Santa Fe is at high risk and is less safe than other cities, you can still visit the city if you use common sense and are cautious enough to avoid unpleasant situations.
Transportation in Gay Santa Fe is generally safe, and there are numerous public transportation alternatives. The Rail Runner Express is a local commuter rail service that runs between Gay Santa Fe and Albuquerque.
The Santa Fe Pic-Up and Santa Fe Trails Transit are also available. When taking public transit, there is minimal cause to be concerned about.
If you’re not vigilant, any area can be dangerous for pickpockets, and Gay Santa Fe and the neighboring districts are no exception. Pickpockets have been reported frequently in and around the Canyon Road neighborhood.
The high-end galleries and restaurants in this area are well-known. Pickpockets hunting for someone irresponsible with their money, wallets, and purses are drawn to areas that are bustling and attract the wealthy, just as they are to most cities.
Best Time to Visit Gay Santa Fe
Between September and November is the best time to visit Gay Santa Fe.
The weather is significantly cooler in the autumn, and the town is a little less crowded. Fall visits also allow you to take advantage of some of the area’s lively festivities at a reduced cost.
If you want to keep your travel costs as low as possible, the best time to visit Gay Santa Fe is between March and May, when you can take advantage of off-peak fares.
On the downside, there are fewer festivals and the ski season is over.
Best Gay-Friendly Hotels in Gay Santa Fe
The Inn Of Five Graces
Located in the heart of Gay Santa Fe, The Inn of The Five Graces is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Situated in the historic Barrio de Analco, the Inn boasts a traditional adobe and stone exterior that perfectly complements its surroundings.
Don’t be fooled by its understated appearance however – inside, you’ll find a feast for the senses.
Each room is decorated with handcrafted artisan pieces and treasures from the historic Silk Road. The Seret style seamlessly blends rustic Spanish and New Mexican Hispanic heritage, creating a truly unique atmosphere.
Beyond the Inn’s walls, there’s much to explore in the vibrant city of Santa Fe. From art galleries to local cuisine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
| Activities | Spa Fitness Center Business Center |
| Price | $$$ |
| Location | The Inn Of Five Graces 150 E De Vargas St, Santa Fe, NM 87501 |
| Contact | Call 505 992 0957 GuestServices@FiveGraces.com |
| Website | Five Graces Hotel in Santa Fe | Luxury Hotel in Santa Fe |
Inn On The Alameda
Nestled in the heart of Gay Santa Fe, Inn on the Alameda offers a prime downtown lodging location between the historic Plaza and the art galleries of Canyon Road.
Whether you’re wanting to explore the city’s rich history or immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene, Inn on the Alameda puts you right in the heart of all the action.
With comfortable and well-appointed rooms, excellent amenities, and personalized service, Inn on the Alameda is the perfect place to rest and recharge after a day of adventure in Gay Santa Fe.
| Activities | Picnic Area Trails Meeting Rooms Spa |
| Price | $$$ |
| Location | Inn On The Alameda 303 E. ALAMEDA ST., SANTA FE, NM 87501 |
| Contact | Call (800) 289-2122 reservations@innonthealameda.com |
| Website | That Enchanting Small Hotel in Santa Fe (innonthealameda.com) |
Lodge At Santa Fe
Nestled on a hilltop overlooking downtown Gay Santa Fe, this Southwestern-style lodging offers guests a warm and relaxed atmosphere with stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
With a focus on quality accommodations and friendly, approachable staff, this hotel strives to provide its guests with the best possible value for their stay in Santa Fe.
| Activities | Swimming Fishing Picnic Area Meeting Rooms Golf |
| Price | $$$ |
| Location | The Lodge at Santa Fe 750 N. St Francis Dr. Santa Fe, New Mexico 87501 |
| Contact | Call 888-563-4373 nmreservations@hhandr.com |
| Website | The Lodge at Santa Fe | Santa Fe Hotel | Best Value Hotel in Santa Fe |
Gay-Friendly Dining in Santa Fe
Gay Santa Fe has been a genuine melting pot of gourmet delights for centuries, thanks to a mix of Indigenous American, Spanish, and Anglo influences.
There are over 400 restaurants in The City Different, ranging from fine dining to uber-casual, and the scene is still growing, with restaurants embracing artisan and farm-to-table specialty foods and beverages.
Gay Santa Fe is home to a world-class, award-winning year-round farmers’ market where visitors can discover the secrets of local cooks, among many more attractions that will delight any palate.
1. Harry’s Roadhouse
For over 29 years, Harry’s Roadhouse has been serving customers the best comfort food with a unique Southern twist.
Harry’s Roadhouse serves excellent vegetarian and carnivore meals, as well as great margaritas and an eclectic, fun-loving atmosphere.
| Types of Food | Eggs, Bread, Seafood, Meat, Salads, Burgers, Sandwiches |
| Price | $$ |
| Location | 96 Old Las Vegas Hwy, Santa Fe, NM 87505 |
| More Information | Home – Harry’s Roadhouse | Santa Fe, NM (harrysroadhousesantafe.com) |
2. Casa Chimayo Restaurant
Casa Chimayo, which opened in 2011, has created a name for itself by showcasing recipes developed by their grandmothers through generations utilizing a traditional method with fresh local ingredients.
New Mexican cuisine, or “Comida de Nueva España,” as Don Timoteo calls it, is the product of a fusion of Spanish and Native American culture, ingredients, and traditions, resulting in a culinary experience unlike any other.
| Types of Food | Mexican Plates, Desserts, Meat, Chicken |
| Price | $$ |
| Location | 409 W Water St, Santa Fe, NM 87501 |
| More Information | Home (casachimayosantafe.com) |
3. Restaurant Martin
Restaurant Martin serves innovative American cuisine made by Martin Rios, New Mexico’s most well-known and award-winning chef, at an affordable price.
Restaurant Martin is Santa Fe’s sole chef-driven and owned restaurant.
| Types of Food | Salads, Seafood, Chicken, Desserts |
| Price | $$ |
| Location | 526 Galisteo St, Santa Fe, NM 87501 |
| More Information | Dinner + Dinner To-Go – RESTAURANT MARTIN |
4. Coyote Cafe
The Coyote Cafe, which opened in 1987, has garnered a devoted global following.
The Cafe’s unique menu of eclectic, modern Southwestern cuisine has set the bar for fine dining in Santa Fe and across the country, making it one of City Different’s most beloved and iconic restaurants.
| Types of Food | Salads, Seafood, Chicken, Soups |
| Price | $$ |
| Location | 132 W. Water Street Santa Fe, NM 87501 |
| More Information | Coyote Cafe & Cantina, Santa Fe, NM |
5. Geronimo
For the past 18 years Geronimo has earned a reputation as Santa Fe’s best restaurant. Tradition and innovation collide at this Canyon Road institution, where understatement and simplicity reign supreme.
The AAA Four-Diamond and Mobil/Forbes Four-Star Awards have been bestowed upon Geronimo.
| Types of Food | Salads, Seafood, Meat, Dessert |
| Price | $$ |
| Location | 724 Canyon Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87501 |
| More Information | Home | geronimo (geronimorestaurant.com) |
6. TerraCotta Wine Bistro
TerraCotta Wine Bistro is a sophisticated, casual food and wine restaurant housed in a gorgeous 19th-century adobe building near the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum in downtown Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Their one-of-a-kind Santa Fe restaurant serves globally inspired cuisine, wine, and beer made with local and regional ingredients.
| Types of Food | Soups and Salads, Desserts, Seafood, Steak |
| Price | $$ |
| Location | 724 Canyon Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87501 |
| More Information | Home • TerraCotta Wine Bistro |
Gay-Friendly Bars and Clubs in Santa Fe
There are several spots in Gay Santa Fe where you can have a craft beer or Spanish wine while listening to live music, taking in the views, and people-watching.
1. Secreto Lounge
This lounge, in the Hotel St. Francis, helps visitors unwind. It creates a peaceful environment in which customers can enjoy its extensive beverage menu.
Secreto Lounge has also been recognized for its skill and precision in mixology, as well as for crafting some of Santa Fe’s best drinks.
| Price | $$ |
| Food and Drinks | Both Offered |
| Location | 210 Don Gaspar Avenue Santa Fe, New Mexico 87501 |
| Contact | 505-983-5700 |
| Website | Santa Fe Bar | Santa Fe Lounge | Hotel St. Francis (hotelstfrancis.com) |
2. Low ‘n Slow Lowrider Bar
This distinctive hotel bar is the perfect place to unwind with a drink and some Hawt Pizza.
The diamond-tuck cushioned seats, hubcaps, and imaginative pictures all reflect the lowrider design, while tables made of chromed chain-link steering wheels adorn both the outdoor patio and the indoor eating space.
To compliment your unique car-themed experience, try a specialty drink created by their experienced mixologists.
| Price | $$ |
| Food and Drinks | Both Offered |
| Location | 125 Washington Ave Santa Fe, New Mexico 87501 |
| Contact | (505) 988-4900 |
| Website | Downtown Santa Fe Restaurants & Bars Near the Plaza (hotelchimayo.com) |
3. Box Car
Box Car is Gay Santa Fe’s premier sports bar and serves delectable food. From conventional wings to their most famous Reuben sandwich, their menu has something for everyone.
Weekly activities are also held at Box Car, and live music is performed on Saturdays.
| Price | $$ |
| Food and Drinks | Both Offered |
| Location | 530 S Guadalupe St, Santa Fe, NM 87501 |
| Contact | (505) 988-7222 |
| Website | The Best Sports Bar in Santa Fe | Boxcar (boxcar-restaurants.com) |
4. Tonic
Tonic is a neighbourhood pub in Santa Fe, New Mexico that serves cocktails, live jazz, and light fare.
Tonic is a first-come, first-serve establishment that does not accommodate parties larger than six people because of its small ambiance and intimate atmosphere.
| Price | $$ |
| Food and Drinks | Both Offered |
| Location | 103 E Water St, Santa Fe, NM 87501 |
| Contact | (505) 982-1189 |
| Website | Tonic Santa Fe |
Gay-Friendly Activities and Attractions in Gay Santa Fe
Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a wonderful city in the American Southwest. This village, rich in history and local tradition, is also recognised for attracting artists from all over the world due to the peculiar quality of light found in this area of New Mexico.
Local art galleries are among Santa Fe’s most popular attractions. The dry climate and beautiful scenery make it a popular tourist destination, and many visitors return to live there.
1. Canyon Road
With over 100 galleries open to the public, Canyon Road is the epicentre of Gay Santa Fe’s illustrious art scene. Restaurants and boutiques surround the picturesque boulevard, which entices visitors with its sophisticated ambiance and diverse collection of artworks.
From Native American and Hispanic art to internationally acclaimed modern art, there’s something for everyone. In addition, the route serves as a picturesque trail leading to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
| Activities | Sightseeing, Shopping, Dining |
| Location | Canyon Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87501 |
| Price | Free |
| Availability | All Year Round |
| More Information | Canyon Road Santa Fe – Over a hundred galleries, boutiques and restaurants in one half mile (visitcanyonroad.com) |
2. Santa Fe Plaza
Santa Fe Plaza is a large gathering spot in the heart of the city with shops, a bandstand, and a park. An arts stage and an American Indian War Memorial statue are located in the square’s centrepiece.
The vibrant square hosts many musical concerts and political gatherings. Restaurants, boutiques, and galleries surround the plaza. You can have a picnic on the benches and tables as this is a grassy haven.
| Activities | Sightseeing, Shopping, Dining, Picnic |
| Location | 100 Old Santa Fe Trl, Santa Fe, NM 87501 |
| Price | Free |
| Availability | All Year Round |
| More Information | TOURISM Santa Fe Plaza and Downtown |
3. Santa Fe National Forest
The Santa Fe National Forest is a beautiful green space in Santa Fe where you may enjoy the great outdoors.
Discover the acclaimed art scene and top-notch restaurants in this walkable neighborhood.
| Activities | Sightseeing, Dining |
| Location | 11 Forest Lane, Santa Fe, Nm 87508 |
| Price | Free |
| Availability | All Year Round |
| More Information | Santa Fe National Forest (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov) |
4. Loretto Chapel
More than a century after its construction, the origin of the helix-shaped stairway of the 19th-century Loretto Chapel continues to perplex historians. The perplexing creation of the stairs is considered a miracle by the Sisters of Loretto and the countless visitors to the place.
Others have more practical reasons. The Gothic Revival-style former church is currently largely utilised as a wedding chapel and a museum for the staircase.
| Activities | Sightseeing |
| Location | 207 Old Santa Fe Trl, Santa Fe, NM 87501 |
| Price | Free |
| Availability | All Year Round |
| More Information | Loretto Chapel Miraculous Staircase | Loretto Chapel |
5. Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi
The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi is a Romanesque Revival-style church built in the nineteenth century. Its design contrasts sharply with the surrounding clay adobe constructions from a previous age.
The arches, pediment, rose window, and towers on either side of the façade’s centre are its most notable elements. You can thoroughly observe the stained-glass windows within the church.
| Activities | Sightseeing |
| Location | 131 Cathedral Pl, Santa Fe, NM 87501 |
| Price | Free |
| Availability | All Year Round |
| More Information | The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi: Welcome! (cbsfa.org) |
How to get there?
From Canada
When traveling to Santa Fe from Canada, the most common airport is Santa Fe (SAF). Several airlines provide flights from Canada to Santa Fe, but if you prefer, you can book a flight with United Airlines or American Airlines, which both have a fair cancellation policy.
Consider taking one of the most common routes from Canada to Santa Fe: Toronto Pearson Intl-Santa Fe, Montreal Pierre Elliott Trudeau Intl.-Santa Fe, or Edmonton-Santa Fe.
From the United Kingdom
If you are traveling to Santa Fe from the United Kingdom, you can depart from any city in the country, including London, Edinburgh, Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool, Southampton, Newcastle, and Doncaster, with one or two stops.
United Airlines, American Airlines, and British Airways are among the airlines that fly to Santa Fe Airport (SAF) with 1-2 stops.
From Australia
There are various departure cities in Australia from which you can go to Santa Fe. You may fly with American Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Qantas from Sydney, Canberra, Cairns, Adelaide, Brisbane, Auckland, Melbourne, Perth, and the Gold Coast.
From Italy
If you’re coming to Santa Fe from Italy, there are numerous cities from which to choose, notably Rome. You can fly from Rome to Santa Fe with American Airlines, which makes two stops from Fiumicino-Leonardo da Vinci International Airport and takes 19 hours and 17 minutes to arrive at Santa Fe Airport.
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