There are museums, and then there are "living museums" that the kids (and mom and dad) will surely find interesting. El Rancho de las Golondrinas is such a place. See attractions like original colonial buildings on this site that date back to the early 18th century as well as other buildings that have been reconstructed to reflect the style of that time period. The buildings and other items presented here tell the fascinating story of the early settlement of New Mexico. The museum is closed from November through March.
The Museum of Contemporary Native Arts prides itself in presenting "Indian art through Indian eyes." To rightfully accomplish that mission, this museum presents a dazzling collection of artwork by artists who have attended or taught at the College of Santa Fe's Museum of Contemporary Native Arts. The resulting collection that is housed here adds up to a staggering 6,500 original pieces created by over 3,000 artists.
The fact that the New Mexico Museum of Art has been around for 90 years says quite a bit about the timeliness and importance of the work it has consistently presented. Focusing primarily on New Mexico artists that include Georgia O'Keeffe, Maria Martinez and Luis Tapia, this venue features a rich yet relaxing atmosphere that you and your partner will enjoy as you stroll from one gallery to the next on a romantic date. The museum is housed in a Santa Fe-styled building, and the two of you will no doubt enjoy escaping the everyday pressures to relax and take in some truly memorable art.
Santa Fe's the Palace of the Governors is a museum truly built on history. The building was constructed in 1619 by Governor Pedro de Peralta and it stands as the oldest continuously used public building in the United States. Revisit the Spanish colonial period or the Mexican American War when you view the stunning collection of over 17,000 objects that are housed in this dramatic and interesting venue.
The Santa Fe Children's Museum encourages your kids to express their creativity and learn at the same time through its many exhibits and attractions. This highly popular venue offers plenty to keep visitors busy from the moment they arrive. The hands-on policy is highly encouraged, as visitors can reach out and touch animals like parrots, snakes, lizards and spiders. There's also a climbing wall, a make-your-own art project, weaving, giant bubbles, puppet shows and even fun makeup to put on! There's also an outdoor theater and an exhibit that features various sundials. The kids will never forget their visit to this fun and educational museum.
The various aspects of the American Indian experience are sharply presented in the many pieces and exhibits that are housed in the Wheelwright Museum Of The American Indian. This museum was built in 1937 by Mary Cabot Wheelwright to study the spiritual ceremonies of the Navajo Indians. After fifteen years of careful study, Wheelwright obtained permission to perform these rituals for historical and educational purposes. The museum also frequently presents Native American art exhibitions as well as an excellent gift shop that features pottery, paintings and rugs, as well as books and other items that colorfully tell the story of the Navajo tribe.