Hello, Adventurers!
The first day of my 56-week journey across the United States has officially begun, and where better to start than the enchanting state of New Mexico? My big sister Saffron, always up for an artistic adventure, has joined me as we explore the Land of Enchantment. Our mission? To soak in the culture, history, and natural beauty, all while navigating life as pint-sized travelers.
Welcome to Santa Fe!
Our day started in the heart of Santa Fe. Upon arriving, we checked into The Inn of the Five Graces, a boutique hotel that’s like stepping into a vibrant Southwest dream. The place is a feast for the eyes with its colorful tiles, woven textiles, and cozy nooks. It is known for its beautiful fusion of art, culture, and history, embodying the spirit of Santa Fe's artistic and cultural heritage.
The Inn of the Five Graces is housed in a collection of historic adobe buildings that date back to the 17th century. The inn’s name reflects its focus on the five senses, with each room offering a sensory experience through textiles, sounds, sights, smells, and touches, with intricate, global-inspired designs that blend traditional Southwestern elements with Eastern influences. The inn was originally constructed as a home and was later transformed into the elegant retreat it is today. The design elements often feature Persian rugs, handcrafted furniture, and vibrant colors, bringing an eclectic and international flair to its luxurious accommodations.
The best part? A snug little hideaway behind a cabinet—perfect for a mouse looking for privacy!
Tip for Tiny Travelers: Bring a small flashlight for exploring those hidden mouse-friendly spots in fancy hotels.
Lunchtime Delight at The Shed
Santa Fe’s culinary scene is no joke, and we kicked things off with a visit to The Shed. The Shed is a Santa Fe institution, renowned for its New Mexican cuisine, particularly its red chile enchiladas and sopaipillas. Established in 1953, this family-owned restaurant is set in a charming adobe building that has stood for centuries. The restaurant’s location was once part of a long-standing Native American settlement, and the building itself reflects the traditional adobe style typical of Santa Fe.
The Shed has become an iconic dining destination for those seeking to experience authentic New Mexico flavors in a welcoming and rustic setting. It’s celebrated for its deep connection to local food traditions and the unique way it embraces both the regional and broader Southwestern culinary influences. I couldn’t resist trying their blue corn enchiladas, swimming in a rich, spicy red chile sauce. It was a fiesta for the taste buds!
A Masterclass in Desert Art
After lunch, Saffron and I made our way to the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. Saffron, ever the art connoisseur, explained how O’Keeffe’s work captures the spirit of the desert. Opened in 1997, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum is dedicated to the works of one of America’s most iconic modern artists. O’Keeffe, known for her bold, large-scale depictions of flowers, desert landscapes, and abstract forms, spent much of her later life in New Mexico, where she found inspiration in the state's unique natural beauty. The museum houses over 3,000 works by O'Keeffe, along with her personal belongings and memorabilia, offering insight into her creative process and the profound influence New Mexico had on her art.
The museum is not only a celebration of her work but also a cultural treasure, showcasing the fusion of modernism with the stark beauty of the New Mexican landscape. It is a must-see for those interested in art history and the unique connection between artists and their environment.
I was particularly inspired by O’Keeffe’s paintings of bleached animal skulls—so dramatic! I snuck into a tiny gap in one of the display cases for a closer look, much to Saffron’s exasperation.
Rodent-Size Perspective: Museums are fantastic for us small folk, but watch out for overzealous security guards. Blend in by sticking close to shadows and displays.
Dinner & Art on Canyon Road
Dinner at Geronimo was the perfect mix of elegance and indulgence. Geronimo is a fine dining restaurant located in a historic adobe house dating back to the early 1800s, originally built as a family home. The building itself has a rich history, once serving as a private residence before being converted into a restaurant. Named after the legendary Apache leader Geronimo, this restaurant exudes both elegance and history.
Known for its gourmet New American cuisine and exceptional service, Geronimo has earned recognition as one of Santa Fe’s premier dining experiences. The menu blends global influences with local ingredients, offering a refined take on traditional Southwestern flavors. Its ambiance, housed in a beautifully restored adobe home, creates an intimate and memorable dining experience.
I had a nibble of Saffron’s elk tenderloin (delicious!) before we headed out to Canyon Road for an evening stroll. The galleries here are brimming with creativity, and many offer outdoor displays, which made it easy for me to window-shop without sneaking inside.
Canyon Road is a historic street in Santa Fe known for its concentration of art galleries, some of which date back to the early 20th century. It is considered one of the top art destinations in the United States, offering everything from contemporary pieces to classic Southwestern and Native American art. The area began as a quiet residential neighborhood, but by the mid-1900s, artists began to settle in the area, turning it into a bustling hub of artistic expression.
The galleries along Canyon Road showcase a wide variety of art, from Native American pottery and jewelry to contemporary sculptures, paintings, and mixed media. Strolling down Canyon Road is like walking through an open-air museum, and many galleries offer live demonstrations or artist receptions, creating an interactive experience for visitors. Canyon Road is often seen as the soul of Santa Fe’s art scene, embodying the city's rich artistic traditions and its modern creative energy.
We ended our night in the hotel’s courtyard, sipping on Saffron’s herbal tea under a canopy of stars. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on our first day.
Collectible of the Day
Today’s memento? A tiny turquoise bead from a Canyon Road gallery. It’ll remind me of Santa Fe’s vibrant art and culture.
Final Thoughts: Santa Fe has set the bar high for this journey. Tomorrow, we’ll dive into the surreal world of Meow Wolf and explore the dynamic Railyard District. Adventure awaits!
Until tomorrow,
Sonny
Big Adventures for a Little Mouse
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