Natural hot springs and waterfalls can be found in and around Santa Fe.

Visiting a hot spring in Santa Fe comes with many benefits. The gradual increase of your body temperature kills harmful germs and viruses, and it also helps to increase blood circulation and oxygenation, which eliminates toxins from the body. Other benefits of bathing in hot springs include an increase in body metabolism, as well as aiding in digestion. Those suffering from skin diseases also benefit from hot springs, and some mineral thermal waters can be used to help the healing of wounds and other skin injuries. If you’re interested in seeing the benefits of hot springs for yourself, check out these local Santa Fe hot springs and spas.

Faywood Hot Springs
This rustic resort in southwestern New Mexico is the spot to be for a natural geothermal experience.  Come for a quick dip or spend the night at one of the camping or RV sites. You can also rent one of the private cabins for overnight lodging. The resort offers many outdoor public and private soaking pools to help rejuvenate the guests. If you’re feeling adventurous, Faywood offers a clothing-optional bathing area as well.
Where: 165 Highway 61, Faywood, NM 88034

Ten Thousand Waves
Modeled after the great hot spring, or onsen, of Japan, the hot baths at Ten Thousand Waves are luxurious and relaxing. You have the option of being indoors or out, and some outdoor tubs come with great views of the pinon trees. This is primarily a day spa, but there are luxurious overnight suites designed to resemble Japanese-adobe esthetic. In addition to the baths, you can opt for massages, body treatments or facials.
Where: 3451 Hyde Park Road, Santa Fe, NM 87501

Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort
Located in the foothills of the Carson National Forest just outside of Santa Fe, Ojo Caliente offers five different springs with varying temperatures and mineral content. It is the only hot springs in the world with four different types of mineral water including Lithia, iron, soda and arsenic. The waters are sulfur-free and have flowed from a subterranean volcanic aquifer for thousands of years. After soaking in the healing waters at Ojo, indulge in the ultimate relaxing experience with a treatment from the spa. Ojo Caliente also offers lodging accommodations to continue your relaxing day.
Where: 50 Los Banos Drive, Ojo Caliente, NM 87549

Montezuma Hot Springs
These public hot springs are located on a hill, feeding a variety of rustic rock and cement tubs. The pools and tubs range in size and temperature, which allows the guest to experiment to find the perfect soak. With great views along the Gallinas River, Montezuma hot springs are a popular destination. However, don’t let that prevent you from visiting the springs, as a little patience could earn you your own tub.
Where: Highway 65, Montezuma, NM 87701

McCauley Hot Springs and Jemez Falls
You have to take a nice 1.5 mile hike in order to treat yourself to the hot springs, but it is worth it. To get there, start at the Battleship Rock trailhead and head about 1.5 miles to the Jemez Falls. You’ll be rewarded with crystal clear, warm water. The top pool is about 30 feet wide and 2-3 feet deep. An added bonus to the hot springs is the Jemez Waterfall, which you can get to from the trail, which overlooks the top of the falls.
Where: Battleship Rock Trailhead (Lat:35.82889 Lon:-106.64417)

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/sjlayne

Grab a martini at one of these Santa Fe hot spots.

As the capital of New Mexico and the fourth-largest city in the state, there’s no shortage of things to do in Santa Fe. Known as “The City Different,” this eclectic Southwestern city offers visitors and residents a fun mix of nightlife and cultural activities. If you find yourself in Santa Fe with nothing to do during the evening hours, head to one of these unique bars and lounges.

La Fiesta Lounge & Bell Tower Bar

Offering one of the best sunset views of any bar in the city, La Fiesta Lounge & Bell Tower Bar is a Santa Fe mainstay. As such, make sure to arrive early to catch a good table, as the place fills up fast. Order up one of their stellar margaritas at this fifth-floor bar and enjoy the beautiful colors of a Southwestern sunset. If you’re hungry, head back down to the lounge and chow down on delicious Tex-Mex favorites like chips and salsa or pork carnitas tacos.

Where: La Fonda Hotel, 100 E. San Francisco St., Santa Fe, NM 87501

The Dragon Room Bar

Housed in a 300-year-old pink adobe house, the Dragon Room Bar was named the top bar in Santa Fe by the Santa Fe Reporter as well as being named one of the top 19 bars in the world by International Newsweek. Throw back a couple of Rosalitas, the bar’s famous margarita mixed with cranberry and a float of Gran Gala, while enjoying a number of tasty bar bites, like fried calamari or pulled duck nachos. The ambiance can’t be beat.

Where: 406 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, NM 87503

The Underground at Evangelos Cocktail Lounge

Located underneath Evangelos, a funky dive bar that often hosts live music performances, the Underground has a hidden, speakeasy feel, with low ceilings and great DJs spinning music until the wee hours of the night. The Underground draws a younger, hipper crowd than its above-ground counterpart, although the delicious and refreshing cucumber coolers at Evangelos merit a taste. Luckily, you don’t have to choose between these great Santa Fe establishments.

Where: 200 W. San Francisco St., Santa Fe, NM 87501

The Matador

Tucked away in a busy area of Santa Fe, the Matador is a seedy little dive bar where you’ll get a true taste of the city. Once one of Santa Fe’s speakeasies, its dark, dingy interior channels the old Southwest, and its patrons are fun and eclectic. You won’t find anything fancy within its graffiti-covered walls, but what you will find are cheap drinks, good company and a great vibe.

Where: 116 W. San Francisco St., Santa Fe, NM 87503

Del Charro Saloon

Although connected to a hotel, Del Charro Saloon is definitely a locals-only place, without the pretentious vibe. The large brick fireplaces keep things cozy and warm as you settle into a worn leather booth or saddle up to the bar. Order a giant margarita for only $6, and tempt your taste buds with the chicken, corn and green chili chowder. You won’t be disappointed.

Where: 101 W. alameda St., Santa Fe, NM 87501

Photo credit: iStockphoto/ivanmateev