Artist-in-Residence Program at a Santa Fe Hotel: Stay & Create

Established in 1922 and honored with numerous awards over the decades, La Fonda on the Plaza in Santa Fe offers an authentic New Mexico experience delivered with refined luxury. The hotel blends regional tradition and contemporary comfort: hand-painted, locally made furnishings, a significant collection of local artwork, and restaurants highlighting Southwestern cuisine create an immersive stay that reflects the spirit of Santa Fe.

La Fonda on the PlazaWith 180 rooms and suites, La Fonda on the Plaza accommodates a variety of travel needs. Among its accommodations is The Terrace at La Fonda, a private concierge level that offers elevated service, private balconies, and luxury amenities designed for travelers seeking extra privacy and personalized attention.

Art is integral to the La Fonda experience. The hotel’s long-running Artists in Residence program invites guests to engage directly with creators from the Santa Fe art community. Through the end of February, the lobby showcases working artists on scheduled days: painter Marla Allison (Feb. 8–10), beadwork artist Hollis Chitto (Feb. 15–17), and basket weaver David McElroy (Feb. 22–24). Guests can observe these artists at work from 4–7 p.m. on each listed date, offering a rare opportunity to watch traditional and contemporary techniques in action.

La Fonda on the Plaza also features special themed escapes available through Feb. 28. These packages are tailored for couples and include luxury guest accommodations for two, complimentary breakfast for two at La Plazuela restaurant, complimentary passes for two to the New Mexico Museum of Art and selected state-run museums, and a copy of La Fonda Then & Now (La Fonda, 2016), a coffee-table book showcasing selections from the hotel’s art collection. These offerings combine cultural access, culinary highlights, and curated art to provide a well-rounded Santa Fe getaway.

Located steps from the historic Santa Fe Plaza, La Fonda on the Plaza places guests within walking distance of galleries, museums, shops, and dining that define the city’s cultural fabric. The hotel’s commitment to preserving regional artistry—through its furnishings, artwork, culinary program, and artist residencies—makes it a noteworthy choice for travelers seeking an authentic, culturally rich stay in Santa Fe.

For visitors who prioritize art, local cuisine, and historic ambiance, La Fonda on the Plaza remains a top destination. Its combination of historic architecture, thoughtfully curated interiors, and active engagement with the local arts community creates an experience that is both welcoming and distinctively New Mexican.