10 Santa Fe Museums to Visit

An Incredible Trip to Santa Fe

People visit Santa Fe for a variety of reasons, not least of which is the incredible natural beauty found in northern New Mexico. As beautiful as it is outdoors, you'll find just as much waiting for you indoors at the incredible variety of Santa Fe museums.  

Santa Fe truly is a city like no other, filled with undeniable charm, plenty of rich arts and cultural attractions, an award-winning foodie paradise, and an eclectic and diverse range of experiences that never cease to amaze.  It's long been a cultural and artistic hub in the Southwest, with influences from Native American Tribes, Nations, and Pueblos, through its days as a Spanish colony in the 1600s, and into the modern era. 

In 2005, Santa Fe was named a Unesco Creative City, which is reflective of the creativity that flows in this part of the world. Artists first began to migrate to the city in the 1800s, often coming for the natural beauty and unique blend of culture.  Santa Fe's establishment as a powerhouse in the artistic world was cemented in 1917 with the establishment of one of the most significant Santa Fe museums, the New Mexico Museum of Art. 

Today, the city is home to an incredible array of Santa Fe museums, 250+ art galleries, and some truly incredible art markets and festivals. Whether you're new to the world of art or an avid enthusiast, Santa Fe is an absolute "must." There are multiple exceptional Select Registry Santa Fe Bed and Breakfasts located in the heart of the city, too. Here, you'll be free to embrace the true artistic roots of the city, while experiencing the very best of northern New Mexico. 

10 of the Best Santa Fe Museums

There's so much to do and see in northern New Mexico, but visiting one or more of the Santa Fe museums should be near the top of your list of things to do while here. Santa Fe museums perfectly showcase the region's blend of history, arts, and cultural heritage.

Depending on what you're interested in, there's a museum you're sure to find fascinating.  Here we've focused on 10 of the most popular Santa Fe museums. 

1. The oldest of the Santa Fe museums is the New Mexico Museum of Art, which houses a sensational collection of works from Southwestern artists, including major pieces by Georgia O'Keeffe, along with new exhibits of contemporary artists. 
2. The Georgia O'Keeffe Museum is the single largest repository of O'Keeffe's work in the world and is an absolute must during your time in Santa Fe. 
3. IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts not only has the most comprehensive collection of contemporary Native art in the world, but the Museum Store offers an incredible selection of contemporary Native arts and gifts.
4. El Rancho de las Golondrinas is a living history museum located just south of Santa Fe, which provides an authentic glimpse into life during the 18th and 19th centuries in New Mexico.
5. The Museum of Indian Arts & Culture is the perfect place to gain a deeper understanding of the artistic, cultural, and intellectual achievements of the area's Native populations.
6. Folk art lovers won't want to miss the Museum of International Folk Art, which represents the largest and most diverse collection of folk art around the world.
7. The Museum of Spanish Colonial Art houses a stunning collection of Spanish Colonial Art, with more than 3,000 objects rounding out the collection dating from the Middle Ages to the modern era. 
8. Gain a new appreciation for the City Different at the New Mexico History Museum, which covers Santa Fe's history over the last 400 years. 
9. If you're a fan of contemporary art, head to SITE Santa Fe. It's here that you'll encounter an always-changing selection of new art by some of the most influential artists of today. 
10. The Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian is your go-to destination for unique exhibitions of contemporary and historic Native American art. Their museum shop, the Case Trading Post, is one of Santa Fe’s oldest and most popular galleries of Native American art, vintage and antique jewelry, ceramics, and textiles.

Explore Northern New Mexico

While visiting one or more of these Santa Fe museums should certainly be at the top of your list when visiting, there's so much more to northern New Mexico than art and culture. 

To start, there are the beautiful landscapes that serve(d) as inspiration to the thousands of artists that have moved through this area.  Getting outside and enjoying a bit of adventure is worth every ounce of effort. From exploring Kasha Katuwe Tent Rocks to hiking and biking amongst the landscapes that inspired artists like Georgia O'Keeffe, you'll never run out of amazing things to do in Santa Fe. 

Santa Fe is also a world-renowned foodie paradise, with a delectable blend of Indigenous American, Spanish and Anglo influences making their way into a variety of tantalizing dishes. The city is home to more than 400 restaurants, with more openings all the time.  They range from fine dining to uber-casual, with a healthy mix of farm-to-table craft foods and beverages. Restaurants aren't the only places foodies delight in Santa Fe. The city is also home to an award-winning year-round Farmers Market and cooking classes. 

There's so much more to love about Santa Fe and northern New Mexico than we've covered here.  From shopping to spa days and everything in between, we have little doubt you'll love every second of your time in beautiful Santa Fe - especially when you choose to stay at the finest accommodations the city has to offer. Browse our Select Registry properties near Santa Fe below, and start planning an unforgettable adventure in Santa Fe!

New Mexico Bed and Breakfasts

El Farolito Bed and Breakfast

Experience the richness of New Mexico's art, culture, and history in this traditional Santa Fe adobe compound.  This Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast is located in the historic district and offers eight guest rooms, each of which is furnished with locally crafted furniture and local art. Filled with modern amenities including private entrances, fine linens, rich fabrics, AC, quiet patios and gardens, and more, you'll want for nothing during your time in Santa Fe. 

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Four Kachinas Inn

With the perfect blend of Southwestern charm and all the modern amenities you crave from luxury travel, you'll have everything you need during your time at this Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast. Each of the six guest rooms features private entrances, New Mexican architecture, quality linens, and original Native American, Spanish Colonial, and regional art, and the perfect balance between hospitality and privacy throughout your stay.  

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Inn of Turquoise Bear

Nestled in the heart of Santa Fe, New Mexico — just a 15-minute walk from the city's historic Plaza — the Inn of the Turquoise Bear is a true gem. This historic adobe estate exudes Southwestern charm, offering a unique blend of comfort and cultural richness. The rooms are a testament to the inn's character, each one thoughtfully designed with a blend of modern amenities and traditional adobe elements. With lush gardens and stunning mountain views, this oasis provides a tranquil escape. Mornings start with a hearty breakfast featuring local flavors, setting the perfect tone for exploring Santa Fe's vibrant arts scene or simply relaxing in this serene sanctuary.

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Bottger Mansion of Old Town

Discover the timeless charm of Bottger Mansion of Old Town, where history meets luxury in the heart of Albuquerque. This meticulously restored 19th-century adobe-style mansion welcomes guests with a blend of elegance and Southwestern character. The innkeepers, dedicated to providing an exceptional experience, offer personalized touches and a wealth of local knowledge. Enjoy a gourmet breakfast prepared with locally sourced ingredients and unwind in the serene courtyard garden. With its central location, guests can easily explore the vibrant culture and attractions of Old Town Albuquerque, creating lasting memories of a truly authentic Southwestern escape.

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The Grand Hacienda

Perched majestically above Abiquiú Lake, The Grand Hacienda invites guests to experience the pinnacle of Southwestern luxury in the heart of New Mexico. This tranquil retreat seamlessly marries modern style with authentic adobe architecture, offering a stay that is both lavish and culturally immersive. Each suite is a haven of comfort and style, boasting handcrafted furnishings, kiva fireplaces, and private balconies with awe-inspiring views of the lake and surrounding mesas. Its location allows guests to easily explore the renowned landscapes immortalized by Georgia O'Keeffe or embark on outdoor adventures in the rugged terrain.

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