Historic Sites and Museums

One truly beautiful aspect of Santa Fe is the wide range of places to go. There are an unlimited number of things to do in Santa Fe, New Mexico.  The explorations are endless from the favored O'Keefe Country of Abique to the local museums seeking to catch the history of Santa Fe.  Here are a few of our favorite places to visit.

1. Palace of the Governors. In 1610, this government building was built by the Spanish and is now the oldest continuously used public building in our nation. New Mexico's, Santa Fe's, and the region's history are all documented here.

2. Cross of the Martyrs. Read the plaques as you climb the steps for an overview of the city's history. When you reach the top, pause at the white cross commemorating the 21 Franciscan priests that were killed in the Pueblo Revolt of 1680. Take in the view of the city and surrounding mountains!

3. El Rancho de las Golondrinas. This location is a living history museum dedicated to the history, heritage and culture of 18th and 19th century New Mexico. Early New Mexico comes to life with reconstructed colonial buildings and villagers in period authentic clothes.

4. Puye Cliff Dwellings. Cliff and cave dwellings, early Pueblo architecture, an original Harvey house and beautiful views can all be seen at this National Historic Landmark.

5. San Miguel Mission. Considered to be the country's oldest church, this Spanish Colonial mission church was built by Tlaxcala Indians as part of the Barrio de Analca. The mission is deep in history and even a 1709 carved wooden statue from Mexico is on the premises. Also, portions of the original foundations are visible beneath the existing floor in the inside.

6. Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi. The cathedral remains one of Santa Fe's most celebrated landmarks. Destroyed and rebuilt, the church houses a wooden statue of the Virgin Mary known as Our Lady of Peace, first brought to Santa Fe in 1625. In 2005, Pope Benedict XVI officially elevated the church to a Basilica, meaning a church of particular importance in Rome or abroad.

7. Cathedral Park. Located next to the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, this park has plaques describing Santa Fe history and benches for relaxing.

8. Santa Fe Children's Museum. Kids of all ages will enjoy this museum. An outdoorgarden, interactive exhibits and diverse programs make this a great place where families can learn while playing.

9. Georgia O'Keeffe Museum. Tour the museum then create your own art. A fun hands-on learning experience for any would be artist.

10. Santa Fe Railyard.Shop, eat, ride a train and so much more happens here—making this a great place for everyone.

11. New Mexico State Capitol Building.Also known as "The Roundhouse," the building is the only round state capitol in the United States. When viewed from above, the building was designed to resemble the Zia Sun Symbol and architecturally is a blend of New Mexico territorial and neoclassical styles. Definitely a unique building.

12. New Mexico History Museum.Recently opened in 2009, this museum shows the history of Santa Fe and New Mexico for the last 400 years. Specializing in the early history of the indigenous people, Spanish colonization, the Mexican Period, and travel and commerce on the Santa Fe Trail, this museum is a one stop look into the history of the area.

From living history museums to European style churches—to historic railroads and unique buildings—explore all the "past" Santa Fe has to offer today! If done, one might discover that this list of things to do in Santa Fe, New Mexico, will be history too.

Feel free to email us at broker@cbsantafe.com or call  Office 505-988-7285 | Toll Free 800-775-5550 for more things to do in Santa Fe or to start buying or selling any Santa Fe real estate.