A trip to the City Different requires visitors to experience some of the incredible history and culture that makes this one of the most fascinating towns in the country. One of the best ways to explore this side of our city is to visit at least a handful of the top museums in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Whether you want to gaze at Native American art or uncover an interactive mystery, you’ll find an incredible collection of museums here!
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8 of the Top Santa Fe, New Mexico, Museums
Museum of Indian Arts and Culture
The Museum of Indian Arts and Culture provides a unique look into Southwest Native American heritage. Their extensive collection of Native art and material culture ranges from pre-historic times to contemporary works of art. You won’t want to miss out on one of the top museums in Santa Fe, New Mexico!
Upcoming 2020 Exhibits: Diego Romero vs. the End of Art
Wheelwright Museum
The Wheelwright Museum possesses another one of the top collections of Native art in Santa Fe. Here you can discover the most comprehensive showcase of Pueblo and Navajo jewelry in the world in addition to rotating art solo shows featuring living Native American artists. Its location on Museum Hill allows visitors to explore the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture, the Museum of Spanish Colonial Art, and the Museum of International Folk Art all in one trip.
Upcoming 2020 Exhibits: Laughter and Resilience: Humor in Native American Art, Conversations: Artworks in Dialogue
Spanish Colonial Art Museum
Over 3,700 pieces of historical and contemporary works of art call the Spanish Colonial Art Museum home. The building and its exhibits pay homage to the Spanish roots of New Mexico and the ties to its original heritage. There is always a new and exciting showcase to discover every year!
Upcoming 2020 Exhibits: Robin Gabin – Guest Curator
Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum is one of the most popular museums in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Renowned for encapsulating gorgeous depictions of Northern New Mexico, O’Keeffe’s works of art are among the most popular in all of the American Southwest. The building is only a couple of blocks from the Santa Fe Plaza, so it’s within walking distance of El Farolito.
Upcoming 2020 Exhibits: Seeing Beyond, The Natural World
New Mexico History Museum
The New Mexico History Museum calls the beautiful and iconic Palace of the Governors building home. Rotating displays and exhibits highlighting the culture and history of the Land of Enchantment are the main attractions here. Its location on the Santa Fe Plaza makes it the ideal place to walk through during your tour of the historic city center.
Upcoming 2020 Exhibits: Working on the Railroad, Atomic Histories: Remembering New Mexico’s Nuclear Past, We the Rosies: Women at Work, The Massacre of Don Pedro Villasur
New Mexico Museum of Art
The New Mexico Museum of Art offers one of the most complete collections of art in the state. Taos Society artists and the Santa Fe Art Colony are just a couple of the local groups featured here. The museum lies on the corner of the Santa Fe Plaza, with easy access to the rest of the town.
Upcoming 2020 Exhibits: Picturing Passion
Museum of International Folk Art
The Museum of International Folk Art is one of the most fascinating museums in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Artwork from around the world is the main highlight here. Toys, textiles, beadwork, household goods, and religious art from over 100 countries offer an educational and viewing experience like no other all visitors. This is a must-see when visiting the City Different.
Upcoming 2020 Exhibits: Music Buena: Hispano Folk Music of New Mexico, Yokai: Ghosts & Demons of Japan, Dressing with Purpose: Belonging and Resistance in Scandinavia
Meow Wolf
While this may not be a traditional museum, Meow Wolf’s interactive art and technology exhibit provides a one-of-a-kind experience. Visitors can explore The House of Eternal Return in an attempt to uncover the mystery of a family that disappeared after performing a secret science experiment. The Float Cafe & Bar also serves up an interesting mix of drinks and cocktails in an innovative space. This is an incredible attraction for all ages and is a must-visit during your trip.
Upcoming 2020 Exhibits: Check the upcoming schedule of events.
Plan Your Trip to the City Different
El Farolito Inn offers an incredible stay for those escaping to Santa Fe. Our beautiful Inn has a selection of Southwestern-themed rooms with locally crafted furnishings and decor. We are also a short walk from the heart of town, making it easy for you to get out and explore all that our city has to offer!
Start planning your trip today by booking one of our rooms! We look forward to welcoming you to the City Different.
