If you’re visiting Santa Fe and have a love for margaritas, there’s a trail that should be at the top of your list – the Santa Fe Margarita Trail! This unique and flavorful experience invites locals and travelers alike to explore the city through its signature drink, the margarita. But what exactly is the Santa Fe Margarita Trail, and why has it become such a popular attraction to all who come to visit?
What is the Santa Fe Margarita Trail?
The Santa Fe Margarita Trail is not your ordinary hiking trail—it’s a spirited journey through some of the best margaritas Santa Fe has to offer. Launched in 2016 by the Santa Fe Margarita Society, this trail showcases the creativity and craftsmanship of local mixologists. Participants can collect stamps in a passport-like booklet by ordering margaritas at participating locations across the city. Each margarita on the trail is unique, with bartenders incorporating local flavors and ingredients to create a diverse range of tantalizing drinks.
How It Came to Be & Why Santa Fe?
Santa Fe, with its rich cultural heritage and vibrant culinary scene, is a natural fit for such a trail. The idea emerged as a way to celebrate the city’s love for margaritas while highlighting its renowned hospitality and culinary innovation. It quickly gained popularity among both residents and visitors, becoming a beloved tradition that continues to evolve each year.
Santa Fe’s allure lies in its blend of tradition and modernity, where centuries-old adobe buildings coexist with contemporary art galleries and gourmet restaurants. The city’s laid-back atmosphere and stunning desert landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for sipping margaritas and immersing oneself in its unique charm.
Top Spots on the Trail
- Secreto Lounge at Hotel St. Francis: Known for its award-winning “Smoked Sage Margarita,” Secreto Lounge offers a sophisticated twist on the classic drink, featuring locally sourced ingredients and innovative techniques.
- The Shed: A Santa Fe institution, The Shed serves up a legendary “House Margarita” that perfectly complements its renowned New Mexican cuisine. Enjoy it in the restaurant’s vibrant and historic setting.
- Coyote Cantina: Located on the historic Plaza, Coyote Cantina boasts a lively atmosphere and a delightful “Coyote Margarita,” crafted with fresh-squeezed lime juice and top-shelf tequila. It’s the ideal spot for margarita enthusiasts looking to soak in Santa Fe’s culture.
- La Reina at El Rey Court: This retro-chic hotel bar offers the “La Reina Margarita,” a refreshing blend of tequila, orange liqueur, and house-made sour mix. Sip your margarita poolside and enjoy the relaxed ambiance of this Santa Fe gem.
- Maria’s New Mexican Kitchen: Known for its extensive tequila selection and flavorful margaritas, Maria’s is a must-visit on the trail. Try the “Milagro Margarita” or explore their famous list of over 200 tequilas while enjoying traditional New Mexican dishes.
Exploring the Santa Fe Margarita Trail isn’t just about sampling drinks—it’s about discovering the heart and soul of Santa Fe through its vibrant culinary scene and hospitality. Whether you’re a margarita aficionado or simply curious about the city’s cultural offerings, this trail promises an unforgettable experience filled with flavor, history, and Southwestern charm.
So grab your passport booklet, hit the trail, and raise a glass to the spirited essence of Santa Fe—one margarita at a time!
