Follow in the footsteps of famed artist Georgia O’Keeffe
Story and photos by Lonnie Tucker
Deep in the heart of Rio Arriba County along the Rio Chama River, about 53 miles north of Santa Fe, is the small town of Abiquiu , a town associated with Georgia O’Keeffe, the mother of American modernism.
The town was established in 1742 by Tewa Pueblo families under the leadership of Roman Catholic priest Francisco Delgado. In 1830, Abiquiu was recognized as the starting point for the Old Spanish Trail. Abiquiu gained worldwide notoriety in 1949, when Georgia became a resident. Art lovers and historians can visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Welcome Center annually and see special exhibitions. Guests can buy tickets to tour the O’Keeffe Home and Studio from March through November. This National Historic Landmark offers individuals a chance to visit and see the garden where Georgia drew inspiration and the studio where she created some of her most iconic works of art. The 2024 tour season begins March 7.
When visiting Abiquiu, there is never a shortage of things to do and see. Whether hiking and exploring the red and yellow cliffs of the Piedra Lumbre at Ghost Ranch, enjoying the pristine blue waters of Abiquiu Lake or rafting in the Rio Chama River, Abiquiu is close to several outdoor recreational areas and destinations.
Abiquiu is home to many restaurants. Café Abiquiu & La Terraza is next to the Georgia O’Keeffe Welcome Center inside Abiquiu Inn. Chef Ray Melton oversees a menu rivaling any restaurant in Albuquerque, Taos and Santa Fe , with a variety of dining options for everyone.
“Our guests love the Copper Canyon,” says Cafe Abiquiu Food and Beverage Manager Raelynn LaRue. “It is our amazing version of an eggs Benedict, featuring two poached eggs sitting on polenta smothered with creamy red chile sauce.”
A popular lunch is the trout tacos with blue corn taco shells made in house . The shrimp and salmon combo is a hit at dinner.
“My favorite item on our menu is the enchilada/ chile relleno combo, with the local ground lamb from El Rito, smothered in delicious New Mexico red and green chile,” Raelynn says.
Café Abiquiu offers a casual dining experience where customers can dine indoors among the walls highlighted with paintings by local artists Michelle Chrisman, Barbara Clark and Lori Faye Book and photography by Kirt Kempter.
Customers can also dine outside on the patio featuring a large, wood-burning fireplace.
Need a place to stay while you are in the area? Look no further than Abiquiu Inn , next to the Georgia O’Keeffe Welcome Center. Designed by the world-renowned architect Hasan Fathy, the facility was built in 1982. Abiquiu Inn is a gateway for exploring some of the most pristine panoramas in the nation.
Abiquiu Inn offers 30 casitas and two houses finished in the regional Southwestern design. The lodging experience at Abiquiu Inn features a local art gallery and an on-site restaurant.
The staff goes out of its way to ensure guests enjoy a first-class experience. The Shop at Abiquiu Inn offers a wide selection of books highlighting the region, local pottery and lavender products, seasonal apparel and fashion accessories.
Georgia O’Keeffe fans find a selection of books, cards, prints and gift items to enhance their visit and memories.
Café Abiquiu is open every day and serves breakfast from 7 to 11 a.m., with lunch and dinner from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Call 505-685- 4378 for information, reservations and to place carry-out orders. Be sure to tell them you read about Café Abiquiu in enchantment!
Abiquiu Inn is at 21120 Hwy 84, Abiquiu, NM 87510. Call 505-685-4378 for information and reservations.