Inn of the Turquoise Bear B&B

Located close to the Plaza in downtown Santa Fe, the Inn of the Turquoise Bear occupies the home of Witter Bynner, who for decades was a prominent citizen of New Mexico. Noted as a poet, playwright and essayist, Bynner was a staunch advocate of human rights, including the rights of women, Native Americans and other ethnic minorities.

Bynner's rambling adobe villa, constructed in Spanish-Pueblo Revival Style, is on the National Register of Historic Places and is consider one of Santa Fe's most significant structures. Bynner and Robert Hunt, his companion of more than 30 years, were famous for the parties they hosted in this house. Their celebrity guest list included D. H. Lawrence, Ansel Adams, Igor Stravinsky, Martha Graham, Willa Cather, Edna St. Vincent Millay, Stephen Spender, Christopher Isherwood, Georgia O'Keeffe, Mary Austin, Thornton Wilder, Robert Oppenheimer, Robert Frost, W. H. Auden, Lynn Riggs, Rita Hayworth, Errol Flynn and countless others.

Bynner's home, in its magnificent garden setting, was the center of intellectual and creative activity in Santa Fe. Robert Frost and Ralph Bolton, the owners and innkeepers, have faithfully restored the property. Their goals - as innkeepers and as custodians of the home and land that Bynner loved - are to rekindle the spirit of excitement, hospitality and creativity for which this home was renowned in the past, to protect and extend the legacy of its famous creator, and to provide their guests with the experience of a unique setting that captures the essence of traditional Santa Fe. They are painstakingly restoring the adobe villa and the gardens to their former glory. They look forward to the privilege of serving as your hosts during your visit to Northern New Mexico.

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Here is what guests had to say...

"Truly Memorable!" 11/5/2009
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Stayed On: 10/2009

What a charming place to stay! Really enjoyed the intimacy of the Inn. Fantastic experiences connecting with all the guests at the Wine & Cheese hours. Breakfast was always top notch. Stayed in a room with a shared bathroom and never shared.... read more


"Stay Here!" 10/16/2009
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Stayed On: 9/2009

We stayed here in mid September. From the moment we drove into the parking lot, I fell in love. They really take good care of you. Friendly, caring, thoughful and fantastic people. Perfectly located. I will recommend to everyone! Thank you for a... read more


"Enchanted Stay" 10/10/2009
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Stayed On: 10/2009

You’ll be convinced that New Mexico is the “Land of Enchantment”, when you visit Santa Fe and stay at the historic Inn of the Turquoise Bear. Innkeepers Robert Frost and Ralph Bolton will greet you with such warmth and hospitality you’ll feel you’re... read more


"Finest B&B in Santa Fe" 9/21/2009
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Stayed On: 9/2009

In over 25 years of visiting Santa Fe and staying at many different hotels and B&Bs, the Turquoise Bear provided the best experience. The hosts, historic structure, accommodations, gardens, breakfast and wine/cheese hours and other guests, and... read more


"Wonderful Days in Santa Fe" 8/25/2009
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Stayed On: 8/2009

This is the fifth year we've stayed at the Inn for the Santa Fe Indian Market. The city is wonderfully busy, and I'm so glad I can park the car in the security of the private parking lot and walk easily to the square for sightseeing and shopping.... read more


"Wow the people are as nice as the place" 8/25/2009
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Stayed On: 8/2009

We did not stay, but dropped by to check them out during their wine and cheese one evening. We will be back for a stay!

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"Where Strangers are Friends" 8/15/2009
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Stayed On: 8/2009

The Inn of the Turquoise Bear an old home, as many bed and breakfasts are, converted into a comfortable inn. As with many old buildings this place has its quirky peculiarities, but they make this place far more interesting than the manufactured... read more


"I'll be back!" 8/9/2009
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Stayed On: 8/2009

The Inn of the Turquoise Bear has charm, history, and wonderful interior and architectural design. The gardens are exquisite and very peaceful. Breakfast was a pleasure with a window of two hours to join the meal. Wine tasting before evening... read more


"We'll be Back" 8/9/2009
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Stayed On: 8/2009

This is my second visit to the inn and it won't be my last. The owners continue to raise the bar. If you want to stay in a place that welcomes everyone, where you can meet other guests, this is it. The recently added hot cooked to order breakfast... read more


"Heavenly Haven" 8/8/2009
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Stayed On: 8/2009

This charming and historical B&B keeps us coming back - year after year. We've been at various times during the summer months for opera and are planning a winter visit next; Santa Fe has it all and this Inn is in the right place to 'be where... read more


"The Best" 8/5/2009
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Stayed On: 7/2009

Historic Adobe Inn right on Highway 66 within walking distance of Santa Fe. Fantastic breakfaces and wine and cheese in the afternoon. Ambiance is a delight that is filled with the history and culture of Santa Fe. This is an artistic experience!... read more


"Serendipity" 7/6/2009
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Stayed On: 7/2009

Outstanding service; very lovely garden. Location very convenient to Plaza; easy 6 block walk. We ended up here by accident, and were so lucky to do so. Am trying not to be excessive, but really could be 5 STARS in all categories. read more


"The enjoyable experience at the Inn of the Turquoise Bear" 6/21/2009
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Stayed On: 6/2009

The accommodations were very nice and convenient for walking to many places. The staff were fun, nice and helpful. We definitely plan to go again and would gladly give a wonderful recommendation!

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"The Bear is the Best by far!!" 3/10/2009
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Stayed On: 3/2009

We stayed at the Turquoise Bear for the first time about six years ago and have returned many times since. It is one of our favorite inns anywhere and has become a home away from home. The hosts have beautifully restored and decorated a historic... read more


"WONDERFUL & AMAZING" 12/7/2008
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Stayed On: 11/2008

Amazing and Wonderful . My large family and I stayed there over Thanksgiving and could not have asked for a better place to spend the Holiday. The Inn is so beautiful inside and out, are room was so spacious and just perfect. We enjoyed the... read more


"beautiful and cozy" 12/1/2008
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Stayed On: 11/2008

I stayed at the Inn of the Turquoise Bear in November 2008 and had an amazing stay. The property is beautifully kept and so welcoming. The staff was very helpful and charming. I stayed in the Igor Stravinsky room and loved it...beautifully crafted... read more


"Best Bed and Breakfast in Town" 12/1/2008
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Stayed On: 11/2008

I stayed with my girlfriend for three nights and it was perfect it exceeded our expectations, and then some. It is perfect location only 4 blocks from downtown and the property is a perfect layout. Our room was so wonderful perfect for a romantic... read more


"Beautiful B&B in good location" 11/27/2008
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Stayed On: 11/2008

We thoroughly enjoyed our honeymoon visit to Santa Fe and were fortunate to stay at the Turquoise Bear for four relaxing nights. The Georgia O'Keeffe room is light and tastefully decorated, and the bed was the most comfortable we've ever slept in.... read more


"Disappointing" 11/23/2008
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Stayed On: 11/2008

My wife and I do a B&B every year for our anniversary. This was the worst thus far. Not well marked, indifferent host, & cold room. Broken glass on the floor in the room, space heaters for heating and although the fire place was great,... read more


"A warm and welcoming stay" 11/17/2008
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Stayed On: 11/2008

My wife and I, along with 3 other couples, spent a long weekend at the Inn of the Turquoise Bear in early Nov 2008 and found the owners and staff to be outstanding. The Inn itself is very interesting and quaint with a wonderful history. We enjoyed... read more


"Santa Fe Getaway" 10/5/2008
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Stayed On: 9/2008

The Inn of the Turquoise Bear is an excellent place to stay while in santa Fe. Location is ideal. Far enough removed to provide a quiet and tranquil setting, yet close enough to the plaza for easy access. A quick stroll and you are there! Staff... read more


"Wonderful Santa Fe B&B!" 9/17/2008
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Stayed On: 9/2008

My husband and I stayed at the Inn of the Turquiose Bear for only one night, but we definitely plan to return to Santa Fe in the near future so that we can enjoy this wonderful B&B for a few more days! Booking the room was quite easy . . .... read more


"Wonderful Experience" 9/14/2008
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Stayed On: 8/2008

We totally enjoyed our stay and will be back again soon. The service was outstanding with friendly hosts. The food was excellent and the wine event each night was a great chance to unwind and chat before dinner. The location was close to the... read more


"the best of santa fe" 9/2/2008
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Stayed On: 8/2008

Warm atmosphere, great location. It has the unique character of a beautiful rambling villa and serves a delicious breakfast. When i return to Santa Fe, i would not dream of going elsewhere. Rooms are charming, comfortable and homely. It was a true... read more


"Inn of the Turquoise Bear is Heaven" 8/27/2008
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Stayed On: 8/2008

I've stayed at the Inn for the past several years and have enjoyed every visit. Great Breakfasts in a wonderful room. All the rooms are totally different and pleasant. It's within walking distance of the plaza and Canyon Road. It's also close to... read more


"Great stay, love Santa Fe and the Inn" 8/12/2008
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Stayed On: 1/2008

We've stayed here a few times over the last 10 years, and it is always a pleasure. Cody and Colt are our favorite. Wine and cheese hour is great. We are making plans to stay there again in the Winter.

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"Very accomodating..." 5/12/2008
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Stayed On: 5/2008

Location was good - easy walk to downtown. Service was very good, a full buffet breakfast served elegantly and the room was comfortable. I would book at this inn again. read more


"Spring weekend in Santa Fe" 5/10/2008
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Stayed On: 5/2008

Went to Santa Fe for my daughter's wedding. The staff was great and very attentative to our needs. I will stay there again if in Santa Fe again.

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"Great Place to Stay" 5/3/2008
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Stayed On: 2/2008

Upon arrival, we received an unexpected upgrade. The happy hour was extended, due to lodgers enjoying each other's company. The service was friendly and helpful. We highly recommend the Inn of the Turquoise Bear!

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"we'll be back" 4/1/2008
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Stayed On: 3/2008

I can usually tell we've hit a gold mine when we pay for a nice place to stay for the night, and end up with a beautiful experience that seems to transcend a 24 hour period. This Inn is responsible for my wanting to revisit Sante Fe over and over... read more


"THE reason to stay in Santa Fe" 1/3/2008
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Stayed On: 12/2007

We originally went to Santa Fe to check out the art scene, but we're going back to stay again at the Inn of the Turquoise Bear! What an experience! The inn keepers are wonderful hosts, taking very personal steps to make guests feel welcome. After... read more


"Old Fashioned Santa Fe" 9/24/2007
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Stayed On: 2/2005

My wife and I stayed at the Turquoise Inn on two occasions and I managed to get an extra stay there a few years later. Each of these visits involved different rooms and each was splendid and memorable. The restoration of both the external... read more


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Contact Information


Inn of the Turquoise Bear B&B Bed and Breakfast
Inn of the Turquoise Bear B&B
342 E. Buena Vista Street
Santa Fe, NM 87505
USA
Phone: +1-505-983-0798
Fax: +1-505-988-4225
Toll-free: +1-800-396-4104
Innkeeper(s)
Ralph Bolton & Robert Frost
Rates:
$115 - $235
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Reviews

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Read all 32 reviews
Explanation of our ratings
Review Inn of the Turquoise Bear B&B, Santa Fe, NM

Photo Album

The imposing and unusual 5-sided portal that marks the entrance to the main Salon.The living room of the house is open to all guests for reading and relaxing by the fire.  Complimentary wine and cheese is served nightly.
From a side view of the inn's main entrance, you will notice the private balcony of the Bynner guest room.Santa Fe in winter provides a less crowded atmosphere in which to enjoy the regional traditions of the holidays, including the glowing paper lamps, or "farolitos," that line the rooftops of most buildings.
The fireplace in the Shaman guest room provides an intimate and romantic setting.The Bynner guest room features a king-sized bed, woodburning fireplace, two large sitting areas, and a private balcony overlooking the gardens.
The D.H. Lawrence guest room, located on the second floor of the house, features a queen-sized bed, private sitting area, woodburning fireplace, and private bath with tub and shower.The Georgia O'Keeffe guest room features a king-sized bed, private sitting area, woodburning fireplace, and private bath with tub and shower.
The Shaman guest room features a king-sized bed, two sitting areas, woodburning fireplace, and private bath with shower.The Spud Johnson guest room, our fully ADA-Compliant room, is located in the old carriage house and features a queen-sized bed, wood-burning fireplace, and private bath with a large tiled shower.  Adjacent to the parking area.
The Edna St. Vincent Millay room is a bright, cheery room with views of the gardens and the mountains, a queen bed and small sofa.  A semi-private bath with shower is shared with the Willa Cather room across a common entryway.The Igor Stravinsky room, named for the famed composer who was a house guest here, is true Santa Fe charm and character.  Bright and sunny, there are mountain views.  The queen bed is in a beamed alcove and the bath has the old claw-foot tub and shower combination.
The Willa Cather room has a queen sized bed, large chair and a wood-burning fireplace.  The bath is semi-private and is shared with the Millay room across the hallway.The sun begins it ascent over the Sangre de Cristo mountains.
The Ansel Adams room is a small, but comfortable room, with a queen bed, private bath with claw-foot tub and shower combination.  There is a small courtyard right out the door.An arch of fragrant French lilacs and the sound of flowing water greet you as you enter the garden from the parking area.  These steps are original to the house, circa 1920.
The O. Henry room has a queen bed, fireplace, small sofa and a private bath with a very large Talavera-tiled shower.