Where can you find four world-class museums, a breathtaking botanical garden, and a café all in one location? Right here in Santa Fe at Museum Hill. Whether you’re a passionate art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about different cultures, Museum Hill provides an extensive array of historic and cultural art and artifacts on display for your viewing pleasure, as well as native New Mexico flora and fauna. Here are 10 reasons to explore Museum Hill in Santa Fe during your next getaway.
#1 Convenience
There aren’t too many places in the world where you can find so many museums and gardens of this caliber all in one location. Bypass the travel time by parking once and spending the day exploring the fascinating nuances of New Mexico’s past and present in a multitude of shapes and forms. Only one mile from our historic Inn of the Turquoise Bear.
#2 Diverse Museums
Museum Hill is home to four renowned museums featuring diverse themes and insightful exhibits.
- Explore Native American art and material culture at the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture. Each year, over 65,000 visitors see and hear stories of Southwestern people from the distant past to today’s contemporary art through changing exhibitions, public lectures, field trips, artist residencies, and other educational programs.
- The Museum of International Folk Art offers an extensive collection of traditional art from around the world. What is folk art? It’s art that reflects the cultural life of a community. This museum not only expands our understanding, but also encourages dialogue about traditions, cultural identity, and community, and provides important connections between the past, present, and future
- Learn about Spanish Colonial art and its influence on New Mexico at the Museum of Spanish Colonial Art.
- The Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian highlights Native American arts and crafts.
#3 Artistic Masterpieces
If you’re an art lover, you’ll appreciate the impressive collection of artistic masterpieces, from traditional Native American pottery and textiles to contemporary art installations. The exhibitions also provide insight into the history, culture, and creative spirit of the Southwest and beyond. What’s more, the museum gift shops offer some of the finest items in Santa Fe.
#4 Cultural Insight
Exploring Museum Hill gives guests a special opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage of Santa Fe and the surrounding region. All of the museums provide historical context, storytelling, and educational programs that shed light on the diverse cultures that have shaped this intriguing area.
#5 Beautiful Setting
The 5th reason to visit Museum Hill is the location. Surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the Hill offers stunning views of the natural landscape. Plus, the architectural design of the museums blends harmoniously with the environment, creating a visually pleasing experience. One of the popular features is the Milner Plaza Labyrinth, a seven-circuit pattern with distinctive acoustics due to the surrounding wall and graduated elevations.
#6 Botanical Gardens
The Santa Fe Botanical Garden is an outdoor oasis where you’ll discover thousands of flora and fauna beautifully cultivated and native to New Mexico. This unique green space allows visitors to stroll at their own pace while appreciating nature in a serene environment.
#7 Events and Festivals
Throughout the year, Museum Hill hosts various events and festivals that celebrate art, culture, and heritage. These events often feature live performances, demonstrations, and interactive activities, providing an immersive and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
#8 Museum Hill Café
When hunger strikes, and it will, take a break from browsing and head to the Museum Hill Café. Menu items include savory dishes like Beef Bourguignon, Bison Burger, Enchiladas Suizas, soups, salads, and more.
#9 Nearby Attractions
Museum Hill is conveniently located near other attractions in Santa Fe, including the historic Santa Fe Plaza, renowned art galleries, the Santa Fe Railyard, and Inn of the Turquoise Bear.
#10 Inn of the Turquoise Bear
These 10 reasons to explore Museum Hill in Santa Fe are just the tip of the iceberg. Come experience an enriching and inspiring experience, where you can immerse yourself in New Mexico art, culture, and history. Book your Santa Fe getaway.
