La Fonda on the Plaza: 100 Years of Hospitality

The documentary, “100 Years of Hospitality” shows how La Fonda on the Plaza has set the standard for Santa Fe hospitality since 1922.

La Fonda, as a Harvey House, had a front-row seat on the development of Southwestern tourism. Together, the Fred Harvey Company and the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad, laid the foundation for New Mexico’s hospitality industry.

The hotel offers first-class service at the gateway to one of the most fascinating regions of the world. In the center of the city, La Fonda is the heart of Santa Fe and represents the true spirit of the Land of Enchantment.

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Many of my family members worked at the La Fonda for years. Two of my aunties were Harvey Girls and my mom was the official baker for the La Fonda. My uncle Monte was the Mairte De there forever. It was a wonderful contribution to the culture and employeed many people. In the beginning, it mostly employed locals. I remember working for Sam Ballen when he owned it for a short time and one time Georgia O'Keefe came in to stay at the Hotel. I also ran into Larry Hagman while going in and also Peter Fonda. Lots of celebrities!