Plaza and Downtown

Spend some time in the original city center! From the historic Plaza to the oldest church in the United States to the Palace of the Governors, downtown Santa Fe is full of stories and classic architecture, much of which is now inhabited by eclectic restaurants, galleries, boutiques, bookstores, museums, and world-class hotels. Walk along the Santa Fe River, peek in on the unique New Mexico State Capitol—the only circular state capitol building in the United States—known as the Roundhouse, and take a tour of the New Mexico Capitol Art Collection. Be sure to visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, a testament to the 20th century artist’s enchantment with Northern New Mexico, and Santa Fe’s with her. 

Just a Few Sees & Dos

Sena Plaza: Named after the original owners, this historic courtyard still features its enchanting hacienda, now a restaurant called La Casa Sena, as well as shops and a beautiful garden. If you like jazz, check out Club Legato.

New Mexico Museum of Art: Opened in 1917, the state’s first building dedicated to art. Marvel at the Pueblo-Revival style and wander the many exhibitions.

Cathedral Park: Amble down the leafy walk amid vendors selling local goods on the cool green grass. Or enjoy some solitude.

Lensic Performing Arts Center: A cornerstone of downtown Santa Fe since 1931. Catch a performance or a show in this beloved, renovated historic space.

Burro Alley: A nod to the beasts that bore the city’s wood on their backs, this pedestrian-only street features a selfie-worthy mascot at the West San Francisco entrance, where once the fuel was sold. These days, eateries and a gallery modernize the historic street.