Overview

Located midway between Taos and Santa Fe, Espanola is dotted with several Pueblo Indian communities. It is the gateway of New Mexico’s red-rock country. Its lake alone offers activities for fishing, boating, and canoeing. Several hiking and biking opportunities surround the city.  The city in Arriba County was once called America’s first capital city, after it was declared a Spanish state capital in 1598. Often regarded as the Jewel of Northern New Mexico, the city is an excellent base for discovering New Mexico’s natural landscape. 

Exploring the City

Santa Fe is just 20 miles from the city of Espanola. Tourists bringing their own cars into the city will pass by one of the most popular Indian pueblos in the state. Driving is the only way into the city, as there are no rail services or commercial airports near the town. 

Best Hotel Accommodations

Free weekday newspaper, complimentary continental breakfast, and spacious accommodations can be found in Days Inn, which is perfect for value-conscious travelers. Rich traditions of Northern New Mexico surround Santa Claran Hotel’s walls. Santa Claran also offers classy complimentary breakfast to all guests. Tourists can expect to see a lot of hand-carved doors and bed posts in the hotel. The Hilton Santa Fe Golf Resort & Spa at Buffalo Thunder is a classy destination. The course itself is a favorite among golf enthusiasts. Shuttle services to and from the airport are offered for free. Other hotels in the area include The Abiquiu Inn and Comfort Inn. Book your Espanola Hotels with Reservations.com.

Things to Do

Pottery is abundant in the city. Several jewelries and pots can be found in Espanola’s streets. The Santa Clara Pueblo has galleries for shoppers and art enthusiasts. Pueblo art can be bought in its small shop. Several cash fishing tournaments are held in the vicinity of Santa Fe National Forest Espanola ranger District. The area also offers avenues for fishing, hunting, camping, and hiking. Tourists can also join the fishing derbies of the San Juan Lakes. Racing fans will love the New Mexico Desert Racing, which is held six to eight times per year. Activities such as archery, sporting clays, horseback riding, and fly fishing are available in Cow Creek Ranch. Tourists can watch flamenco and ballet dances at the Institute for Spanish Arts, Nick Salazar Center for the Arts, and Cutting Hall. 

Restaurants and Dining

Dandy Burger on South Riverside Drive offers great fried food along with some burgers for just $5-$10. New Mexican cuisine is offered at El Paragua, which serves sizzling stuffed sopaipillas with either green or red chili. Lunch and dinner options are served in what locals call as the best restaurant in town. Another long-time favorite among locals is Angelina’s which serves American and New Mexican fares. Dubbed to have ‘The Utmost in Mexican Food’, El Paragua Restaurant also has the best margaritas in town. Other New Mexican favorites include Leona’s Restaurante de Chimayo, El Parasol Restaurant, Cornelia’s Native Foods, and La Cocina Restaurant. Restaurante Rancho de Chimayo uses only the freshest locally grown products. Recipes have been passed from generation to generation, ensuring each customer that the dishes offered are all top-class.