Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza

Once holding the hacienda of Padre Ramon Ortiz, this destination hotel has roots that date all the way back to 1625. The handsome lobby certainly looks the part, with heavy wood-beamed ceilings, an iron chandelier, and a kiva fireplace. Plush sofas and plaster walls are appropriately accented with colorful Southwestern-style art, rugs, pottery, and pillows. The dark, carved-wood front desk makes an impressive statement, but it contributes to the overall darkness of the lobby. Thankfully, those seeking a sunnier spot can  find a cozy retreat on the front patio, which is furnished with cushy wicker armchairs and outdoor heaters (although this space is right by the parking lot). This adobe-style property hosts tourists and business travelers alike, drawn by a stellar location and a historic look that's classic Santa Fe.

The Hilton has a great location for anyone who wants to explore the heart of Santa Fe without the hassle of driving into town. It’s located on two blocks (a four-minute walk) from Santa Fe Plaza, the city's cultural center. Other downtown landmarks like the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, New Mexico Museum of Art, and Sweeney Convention Center are equally close. It’s about 10 minutes driving to Santa Fe Municipal Airport and Canyon Road and its dozens of shops and art galleries. It takes 15 minutes by car to reach the iconic Santa Fe Opera House and the slopes at Ski Santa Fe. Albuquerque International Airport is approximately 90 minutes away. 

The classic Santa Fe style on display in the lobby extends into guest rooms. Heavy carved wood headboards, drawers with nailhead trim, and pillows in a sunburst pattern are typical touches. Contemporary Southwestern art continues the theme and brings in more vibrant color. But on the whole rooms can feel a bit dark, with tan colored walls and gray carpeting sporting a gold damask pattern. Traditional furniture in an espresso finish can also leach brightness from the room. Still, rooms are stylish and spacious. The Deluxe King we visited had enough space to accommodate a sofa, two chairs, and a broad work desk that could double as a dining table. Bathrooms are roomy as well and nicely finished, with wide vanities and large walk-in showers fronted by clear glass doors. (A few rooms have soaking tubs instead.) Peter Thomas Roth toiletries and hairdryers are provided. Other amenities include robes, safes, irons and ironing boards, mini-fridges, coffeemakers, 42-inch flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Suites with separate living rooms and access to the Executive Lounge are available, as are one- and two-bedroom Casitas in a private wing. The 1,500-square-foot Casitas feature kiva fireplaces in separate living rooms as well as dining tables that seat four people. Rooms are generally quiet, although some ambient noise from other rooms can be heard on occasion. Many rooms overlook the lovely pool area, while others have views of the parking lot or surrounding streets. 

As a full-service, upper-middle-range property, this Hilton has all the amenities travelers would expect from the brand. Arguably its top feature would be its spacious outdoor pool. It’s only open seasonally, but it is heated. Next to that is a whirlpool that's open year-round, plus a handful of loungers to sunbathe. The fitness center is less impressive. It's a smallish room with a single window, but it's fairly well-equipped with free weights and several pieces of modern Precor cardio equipment including three treadmills. For dining, the Ortiz restaurant and bar is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It features Santa Fe-inspired cuisine and has a daily breakfast buffet (for a fee) including fresh-baked pastries from the in-house pastry chef. Room service is available 24/7, too, and the Pavilion Pantry, selling snacks, soft drinks, and sundries, stays open around the clock. The hotel’s large inventory of event space includes a ballroom that can host up to 360 people. A much smaller space is the hotel's petite business center, which is in a quiet corner holding two computers and a printer. Valet dry cleaning and laundry are among the concierge services, and free newspapers and Wi-Fi are available. Parking is plentiful and on site, but it’s a bit expensive. Pets are welcome with a surcharge.