I've stayed at these properties in/around Santa Fe:
* La Posada de Santa Fe (Marriott/Tribute)
* Hilton Santa Fe on the Plaza
* Homewood Suites Buffalo Thunder

They each presented unique experiences... Out of those, I kind of prefer the Homewood Buffalo Thunder. I like being outside and not hearing any noise, being able to look around and see the mountains. While the Opera doesn't happen in winter, for those going when it does, it is extremely close. Plus it is even closer to Gabriel's restaurant, which I'd highly recommend (great, but without the Plaza prices). Uber/Lyft were pretty easy to catch and not crazy expensive. Plus you don't have to worry about parking, there's tons.

I stayed at La Posada for a work event; I was part of the organizing group and they upgraded me to a cottage. It was really nice, but I wasn't in it long enough to really enjoy it, nor much of the property. I think I posted a review in the thread in the Marriott forum.
The Hilton was fine; it is an older property, but that is part of the charm. It was a quick walk to the Plaza (La Posada is a little further).
Parking at both was kind of a mess, but that's how it is in the Plaza area.