Best things to do in Santa Fe

Loretto Chapel, a former Roman Catholic church, is known for its unusual spiral staircase. Called the Miraculous Staircase, it makes two 360-degree turns and is 6 m (20 ft) tall--but has no visible means of support. It's not only an engineering mystery; no one knows for certain who built it. The Sisters of Loretto credit St. Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters, with its construction. After examining the staircase, give yourself enough time to appreciate the Gothic Revival architecture of this late 19th-century building. It features imposing spires, buttresses, and stained-glass windows imported from France.

With more than 1,000 different pieces of art, Georgia O'Keeffe Museum represents the largest collection of her artwork in the world. Originally opened in 1997, the museum today collects her works and also displays information about her life, artistic development, and the rise of American Modernism. Its temporary special exhibitions often display works of other contemporary Modernist artists. A guided museum tour given by a docent is included in the price of admission.

Nestled in the heart of the city's historical quarter, Canyon Road hosts more than 100 art galleries, shops, studios, and restaurants in addition to traditional Pueblo-style adobe homes. The district's origins date to the Spanish colonization of the Southwest and the surrounding area more than 1,000 years ago. Despite its archaic architecture, the neighborhood is a popular hot spot. You'll discover traditional Hispanic crafts, modern art, and sculptures intermingled with storefronts, courtyards, and cafes. Pick up a piece of regional Native American handiwork, such as pottery or a handmade rug.

Recognized as a basilica by Pope Benedict XVI in 2005, The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi was founded as a parish the same year as the city was founded, in 1610. The current building featuring Romanesque revival architecture was dedicated in 1887. Note the round arches and Corinthian columns. The rose windows in the front of the church depict the twelve apostles. The best view of the windows is from the chapel where services take place. In the exterior porticos, several statues commemorate saints. The statue of Kateri Tekakwitha pays homage to the first Native American to be beatified. Notice the bronze doors leading back inside the church. The panels on the outside tell the story of the church in Santa Fe history.

One of the oldest gathering places in the United States and the city's cultural epicenter, Santa Fe Plaza dates back to the first decade of the 17th century. Originally constructed by Spanish colonial authorities, the square is now on the National Register of Historic Places and remains one of the city's most popular areas. Wander the tree-lined walkways, or explore the many restaurants, shops, galleries, and historical buildings surrounding the square. Take note of the nearby basilica, which is a shining example of the adobe architectural style. Check local listings for information on events, such as the concerts and markets frequently hosted at the site.

Set at 1,700-2,060 m (5,570-6,760 ft) elevations, Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument features tall, cone-shaped rock formations, canyons, and hiking trails. The geological formations--the tent rocks or hoodoos--have been created by volcanic ash accumulation and sculpted by wind, water, freezing, and thawing, through millions of years of erosion. Take the 1.9 km (1.2 mi) trail, through canyons and overlooking the tent rocks, which can stretch as high as 27 m (90 ft). Another trail passes along the base of the rocks, on a 2 km (1.3 mi) loop; hike it to see them up close.

At Bandelier National Monument the dwellings and territory of the Ancestral Pueblo people are preserved along the Rio Grande River. At elevations between 1,500 m (5,000 ft) and 3,000 m (10,000 ft), the park has over 110 km (70 mi) of hiking trails, abundant wildlife, forests, and caves. See the remains of the houses, pottery, and the tools that the locals used. Learn about their community structure, farming practices, and trading techniques. Many trails interconnect villages of the area, as Pueblo people liked to trade, hold ceremonies, and socialize. Learn about their history and culture at the visitor center.

Home to more than 130,000 objects and artifacts, Museum of International Folk Art displays the history and heritage of materials, crafts, and cultures from around the world. Opened in 1953, the museum is recognized as having the largest collection of international folk art in the world. In addition to exploring the permanent collections dedicated to African, Spanish-Colonial and Hispanic, European, and Eastern art, don't miss the frequent traveling exhibits, which make up a large part of the museum's repertoire. If you'd like to join a docent-led tour, call in advance to confirm the times as they're subject to change.

It's not a railroad legacy that gives New Mexico Legislature the nickname "the Roundhouse." The moniker works because building is the only round state capitol building in the United States. Dedicated in 1966, the building's design resembles the Zia Sun Symbol, which also appears on the flag of New Mexico. This symbol is central to the beliefs of the Zia indigenous group and features a circle with four sets of lines extending out from it, forming a T-shape. Most of the capitol building is open to the public for self-guided tours on weekdays. From galleries above the House and Senate chambers, you can catch state government in action. Visit the fourth floor for special art exhibits in the Governor's Gallery.

The steel bridge stretching across the Rio Grande Gorge, known as Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, is the seventh-highest bridge in the United States. This bridge has been featured in several motion pictures, including "Natural Born Killers" and "Terminator Salvation." Capture sweeping images on your camera, and get a close-up look at the gorge from the ideal vantage point of this bridge. If you have any last-minute shopping to do, several nearby vendors cater to visitors.

Established in 1981 as a co-op for Zuni arts and crafts, Keshi has always maintained personal relationships with individual carvers, jewelers, and potters. We continue to buy directly from the Zuni people. Our reasonable prices and complete authenticity reflect this.

We host one of the largest selections of Zuni fetishes in the world and we feel honored to be involved with these kind and generous people. We welcome you to call or visit Keshi and experience a Zuni connection for yourself.

Elah'kwa (thank you in Zuni)

Taos Pueblo represents the ancient tribe of the Taos people. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the United States. This World Heritage Site is internationally recognized for its multi-storied residential pueblos and the residents' private lifestyle. The tribe welcomes visitors in its public places, but asks visitors to respect its culture. For example, do not take photos of the tribal residents and inside the San Geronimo Chapel. Shops and businesses open to the public are clearly marked with signs. The stream that runs through the village is the community's sole source of drinking water, so do not enter the water.

Nirvana is Sanskrit, meaning a place or condition of sublime happiness or fulfillment. Absolute Nirvana Spa was created to provide just such a sanctuary. The treatments at this Balinese-inspired spa are inspired by the Asian philosophy of using fresh and natural plants, fruits, and spices, for inner and outer beauty. Indulge your senses with an authentic Javanese Lulur treatment. The Lulur was developed in the 17th century for Javanese princesses as a ritual in preparation for marriage. The treatment begins with a foot bath followed by a full body massage using aromatic jasmine oil, followed by a scrub with turmeric, sandalwood, and brown rice powder. You are then slathered with a masque of yogurt and honey before relaxing in your own private stream room. After rinsing off, slip into a luxurious bath in a hand-carved granite tub, surrounded by the petals of a dozen red roses as you nibble on a plate of tropical fruits and handmade chocolate truffles, sipping hot Javanese ginger tea.

We also offer therapeutic, hot stone & Thai massage, along with a variety of facials. All of our staff are master therapists, with most having from 16-30 years of experience.