Deals celebrate Santa Fe's 400th

By Clara Bosonetto Maerz

For ajc.com

Fall may be the best season of all for a visit to Santa Fe. The city's charm, romance, and appeal mix with clear, crisp weather, the Rocky Mountains' beautiful fall colors, and some special savings.

What's more, on Labor Day Santa Fe kicked off a year-long celebration of its 400th anniversary with special festivals and concerts. Check out the special events calendar.

Here are a few lodging offers to fit any budget:

The Eldorado Hotel and Spa offers a "Super Saver" offer on stays through Dec. 30. Book a two-night stay and get a third free (a $219 value; blackout dates may apply). Refer to code PROSTA when booking. The hotel is adjacent to Santa Fe's historical plaza and within an easy walk to top attractions such as the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum. On-site is the Nidah Spa.

If you visit Santa Fe this month, The El Rey Inn offers a 15 percent discount on any room or suite priced at $99 per night or higher on stays completed by Oct. 31. The inn features unique Southwestern decor and guest rooms with private patios. Some of the inn's suites feature a fireplace and kitchenette. The gardens are peaceful and relaxing.

The Lodge at Santa Fe offers its guests 18-hole play at the Black Mesa Golf Course or Marty Sanchez Links de Santa Fe along with deluxe room accommodations from $219 per night. The Black Mesa course is 20 minutes from the lodge, and the Marty Sanchez course is even closer.

Santa Fe is in northern New Mexico, an hour's drive north of Albuquerque.

Through Oct. 8, Frontier Airlines offers one-way rates from $129 to Albuquerque. Sale rates are based on a 7-day advance purchase notice and are valid for travel only on Tuesday or Wednesday. Rates from $149 are valid daily, except Sundays, when regular rates apply.

Trips at these rates must be finished on or before March 10. Sale prices do not apply Nov. 24-25, 28-30; Dec. 18-19, 22-24, 27-29, 31; Jan. 2- 3 and Feb. 11- 12 and 15.

USAirways matches the $129/$149 offers with varying blackout dates. Other booking rules are matched.