Santa Fe Plaza, Santa Fe (must see)

When Santa Fe was established around 1609, its layout followed Spanish colonial town-planning laws, resulting in a central plaza with the Palace of the Governors along its northern side. This charming square, with its shady, radiating walkways, remains the city’s social hub and is surrounded by blocks rich in history. Throughout the year, it hosts numerous arts, music, and cultural events, including the Santa Fe Fiesta, usually held during the second week of September.

Beneath the portal of the Palace of the Governors, Native American artisans from across New Mexico sell their crafts—a tradition dating back to the 1930s. More than 500 vendors are licensed to sell here after passing a strict application process that evaluates their technical skills and verifies the authenticity of their work. Each morning, the 69 selling spaces, each measuring 12 bricks wide, are allocated by lottery. Items range from silver bracelets and pottery to heishi shell-bead necklaces and freshly harvested piñon nuts. This is an excellent opportunity to buy directly from skilled artisans and learn about the techniques and traditions behind each piece.

With you facing the Palace façade, turn left and follow the portal toward Lincoln Avenue. Cross the avenue to reach the New Mexico Museum of Art at 107 West Palace Avenue. Opened in 1917, it was the first building in New Mexico created specifically as an art museum. Near the museum entrance, at the corner of Palace and Lincoln Avenues, stands the Spitz Clock. Shaped like an enormous gold pocket watch, it recalls the Spitz Jewelry Store, which placed its first advertising clock near the Plaza in 1881.

Return to the Plaza and cross diagonally toward its southeastern corner. Here, a small stone monument marks the end of the Santa Fe Trail, the commercial route that connected New Mexico with Missouri during the 19th century. Erected in 1910 by the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Territory of New Mexico, its inscription records the trail’s operating years as 1822–1879. Beyond the marker, across East San Francisco Street at number 82, is Maya Gallery, which displays original paintings and sculptures by established and contemporary artists.