Top Selfie Spots in Santa Fe: Iconic Locations for Unforgettable Photos
Despite what critics say, selfies are the perfect way to capture and remember unique destinations by placing yourself at the center of the experience. Santa Fe, an iconic city brimming with photogenic landmarks, offers endless opportunities for memorable shots. We surveyed our photo-loving followers and friends to compile this guide to the best selfie spots.
Strike a Pose on the Plaza
Just as visitors to Washington, D.C., frame selfies with the Washington Monument, recreate the magic at Santa Fe's historic Plaza with the obelisk as your backdrop. The Palace of the Governors, largely unchanged for 400 years, provides a stunning historical setting. If including Native American artists selling under the portal, always ask permission first. Nearby, the New Mexico Museum of Art features vintage self-portraits for inspiration.
In the past, artistic self-portraits required great effort. (Photo Credit: Self-Portrait, Emil Bisttram, 1935, Collection of the New Mexico Museum of Art)
Capture Timeless Beauty at the Cathedral Basilica
The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi—Santa Fe's tallest structure—offers prime selfie locations. Outdoors, the Bishop's Garden bursts with blooming trees and forsythia, framing your shot beautifully. Capture the unfinished Romanesque bell towers against the azure sky, a legacy of Bishop Lamy. Inside, the glow of red votive candles dedicated to La Conquistadora adds a mystical touch.
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Add intrigue to your selfie with Santa Fe's rich history. (Photo Credit: @santafered)
Embrace Your Artistic Side on Canyon Road
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Canyon Road is ideal for selfies any time of day. (Photo Credit: @fx_cordero)
A stroll along Canyon Road, lined with hundreds of renowned galleries, sculptures, and vibrant paintings, is a must in the City Different. Keep your phone charged for inspired shots amid this artistic haven.
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Artist Dawn Chandler features her studio mascot. (Photo Credit: @taosdawn)
Sculpt the Perfect Shot at Shidoni
After Canyon Road, drive five miles north to Shidoni Sculpture Garden. Its expansive lawn showcases modernist steel works and whimsical folk art—ideal for creative selfies. Reward yourself with wood-fired pizza at nearby Tesuque Village Market.
Imagine enjoying wood-fired brick oven pizza at Tesuque Village Market. (Photo Credit: Tesuque Village Market)
Freshen Up at the Farmers' Market
Santa Fe Farmers' Market, one of the nation's best, tempts with farm-fresh produce perfect for foodie selfies. Capture the photogenic farmers and their goods—ask them to join your shot.
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Chef Rocky Durham selfies at the market. (Photo Credit: @santafeculinaryacademy)
Frame Your Portrait in the Botanical Garden
For nature lovers, the Santa Fe Botanical Garden delivers with ramadas, stonework, rotating sculptures, the red bridge, and views of the Sun and Moon Mountains—proving you're a Santa Fe insider.
Be Your Own Muse at Museum Hill
Across from the garden, Museum Hill's Milner Plaza hosts four world-class museums: Museum of Spanish Colonial Art, Museum of Indian Arts and Culture, Museum of International Folk Art, and Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian. Enjoy panoramic views, art, and props from gift shops.
Bring your camera; Santa Fe provides the vibrant backdrop.
Star in Your Santa Fe Adventure
Whether using a selfie stick or not, Santa Fe's backdrops—from quirky film locations to high-country hikes—ensure epic photos. The City Different has inspired images for centuries; now it's your turn.
