Discover the stories behind architect Mary Colter’s design process. Working in the early 20th century, Colter strongly believed that American architects did not have to emulate Europe to create beautiful buildings. Drawing on the materials, landscape, and heritage of the American Southwest, Colter picked regional archetypes like Hopi Pueblos and Spanish Haciendas to guide her designs. Two Catholic patron saints, San Pasqual and San Ysidro, were also selected for La Posada and their imagery was incorporated into the guestrooms and dining room.

View the adaptive reuse of the original 1930 Santa Fe Railway train depot. The railroad station was designed by Mary Colter as part of her plans for the buildings and grounds at La Posada, to which it is attached by a long Spanish Colonial Revival-style arcade. The building has been adapted to house the Affeldt Mion Museum. Nearly everything is original, from the massive beams and Spanish tile roof to the concrete floors and ornate radiator grilles.

Stroll through 12 acres of gardens on a self-guided garden tour. Guests can find the perfect spot to relax, stroll through ornamental vegetable garden beds, or read a book in the sunken garden next to the fountain. The sunken garden and Cottonwood Grove are both original to the grounds and have been restored to their former glory. The garden’s sculpture gallery was designed as an orangerie, and the glass-enclosed space now houses works from artists like John Suttma.