TripAdvisor's Top 10 Things to Do in Santa Fe: Traveler-Recommended Must-Sees
Planning a trip to Santa Fe? Start at santafe.org for the latest event listings, itinerary ideas, special deals, and more. We also recommend the Santa Fe TripAdvisor page. As the world's largest travel site with over 60 million members and 170 million reviews, it offers authentic insights from fellow travelers on the "Top 10 Things to Do in Santa Fe."
10. Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum opened to the public in 1997. (Photo courtesy of the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum)
“Don’t miss this tiny little gem right near Santa Fe's plaza.” – DedMC123, Princeton, NJ
No trip to Santa Fe is complete without visiting the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. Dedicated to one of the 20th century's most influential artists, it houses over 3,000 works, including paintings, drawings, and sculptures dating back to 1901. Prepare to gain fresh inspiration and appreciation for Northern New Mexico.
9. Museum of Indian Arts and Culture
More than 65,000 visitors come to the museum each year. (Photo courtesy of Museum of Indian Arts and Culture)
“There's so much to learn about Native American culture in New Mexico that this is like a general introduction to the pueblo people in the present and with a view of their past.” – megkstone, Brewster, Massachusetts
The Museum of Indian Arts and Culture boasts an outstanding collection of classic and contemporary Southwestern Indian art, including paintings, sculpture, pottery, jewelry, basketry, and weaving. Its permanent exhibition, "Here, Now and Always," was curated with input from Native American elders, scholars, and tribal members. Don't miss exhibitions like Frank Buffalo Hyde: I-Witness Culture, where the artist (Onondaga/Nez Perce) blends street art techniques with sharp social commentary.
8. New Mexico State Capitol (Roundhouse)
https://youtu.be/8uklW3XyvxM?list=PLEC9D7BA46F00A798
“Probably the most unique state capitol building in the U.S. Well worth walking to and around. Nice to see that it reflects Native American traditions in construction, layout, and artwork.” – Robert N., Monterrey, California
The New Mexico State Capitol, known as the Roundhouse, is the nation's only round capitol building. Blending New Mexico Territorial style, Pueblo adobe architecture, and Greek Revival elements, it hosts the renowned New Mexico Capitol Art Collection. Established in 1991, this collection features nearly 600 artworks—including paintings, photography, sculpture, textiles, ceramics, and more—displayed throughout the Capitol complex.
7. The Plaza
Find a park bench on the plaza, have a seat and watch the world go by! (Photo courtesy of TOURISM Santa Fe)
“So much history and art and shopping...so little time! The Natives selling their hand-made goods, the Palace of the Governors, and the New Mexico Historic Museum are a must-see!” – kathykoehle5044, Durango, Colorado
For nearly 400 years, the Santa Fe Historic Plaza has been the city's heart, hosting Indian and Spanish Markets, community gatherings, concerts, and more. As a National Historic Landmark, it remains the central gathering spot in town.
6. Loretto Chapel
Visit Loretto Chapel and find out more about the revered miraculous staircase. (Photo courtesy of Loretto Chapel)
“I was in awe of the Loretto Chapel and the Stairway. It is mind boggling how anyone could have constructed this stairway. Awesome.” – patsybuse, Robstown, Texas
Completed in 1878 in Gothic-Revival style, modeled after Paris's Sainte-Chapelle, this chapel served the Sisters of Loretto's school. Legend credits St. Joseph the Carpenter with its Miraculous Staircase, featuring two 360-degree turns without visible support. Now a private museum, it's a favored wedding venue.
5. New Mexico History Museum
The New Mexico History Museum tells New Mexico's story from prehistoric times to the present. (Photo courtesy of New Mexico History Museum)
“This museum covers all of New Mexico's history with well written displays. We learned a lot. My husband took the free docent tour and it was great. I visited the governors palace which was interesting as well. Fabulous gift shop.” – Red Bubble, Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania
The New Mexico History Museum chronicles the state's history through exhibitions and programs. It preserves collections tied to New Mexico and Southwest heritage. Past highlights include Voices of Counterculture in the Southwest, exploring the 1960s-70s cultural shifts.
4. Canyon Road
Stroll this magical half-mile in the historic district of Santa Fe. (Photo courtesy of Visit Canyon Road)
“Fantastic galleries - beautiful southwestern art, exquisite works in all types of media - take the car because you'll want to take something home if you don't have it shipped!” – lonestartraveler3, Fort Worth, Texas
Santa Fe’s Canyon Road is a premier arts destination. This historic half-mile stretch along the river has drawn artists since pioneer days. Stroll under brilliant blue skies amid galleries showcasing Southwestern masterpieces.
3. Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi
This cathedral is the crowning achievement of Archbishop Lamy. (Photo courtesy of TOURISM Santa Fe)
“Lovely cathedral and basilica, one of only two in the USA. Nice artwork within as well. The carved entry doors are remarkable works of art in their own right.” – Patrick H.
Admire the stunning Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, Archbishop Lamy's masterpiece. Deepen your visit with Willa Cather’s Death Comes for the Archbishop, a fictionalized account of his life and Santa Fe legacy.
2. Santa Fe Opera House
Stunning sunsets, mountain views and incredible performances can be found at the Santa Fe Opera. (Photo courtesy of TOURISM Santa Fe)
“This was definitely memorable. Even if you're not into opera, I'm sure you will find a story that might spark your interest in giving this venue a try. The theater is partially open to the outdoors and you can see the sunset while the performances begin.” – ladc2001, Hesperia, California
Founded in the 1950s by John Crosby, the Santa Fe Opera nurtures American talent. Its open-air theater offers breathtaking sunsets and mountain views. Check the season lineup and buy tickets here.
1. Museum of International Folk Art
There are over 136,000 objects from 100 nations at the Museum of International Folk Art. (Photo courtesy of TOURISM Santa Fe)
“My wife and I recently toured this museum and enjoyed our visit. The collection is outstanding and there are pieces that should interest every age group. It a thoroughly impressive collection from all over the world and it is well displayed.” – DallasTraveler49, Dallas, Texas
On Museum Hill, the Museum of International Folk Art holds the world’s largest collection of folk art from over 100 countries. It's also home to the annual International Folk Art Market in July. Explore interactive spaces like Lloyd’s Treasure Chest in the Neutrogena Wing.
Santa Fe offers endless adventures. Check out great offers and order your Santa Fe Travel Guide to start planning!
