Best For
Art lovers and fans of unique architecture.
New Mexico State Capitol
US
Tourist Attraction·Unique, Artistic, Welcoming
The New Mexico State Capitol, affectionately known as 'The Roundhouse,' is a must-visit architectural marvel in Santa Fe. As the only round capitol building in the United States, its design is inspired by the Zia sun symbol. Beyond its legislative function, the building serves as a premier art museum, housing an extensive collection of contemporary and traditional New Mexican art across its four floors. Visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour through the rotunda, which features a beautiful stained-glass ceiling, and explore the sculpture-dotted grounds. It is free to the public and offers a peaceful, educational experience that highlights the state's rich cultural heritage.
The New Mexico State Capitol, affectionately known as 'The Roundhouse,' is a must-visit architectural marvel in Santa Fe. As the only round capitol building in the United States, its design is inspired by the Zia sun symbol. Beyond its legislative function, the building serves as a premier art museum, housing an extensive collection of contemporary and traditional New Mexican art across its four floors. Visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour through the rotunda, which features a beautiful stained-glass ceiling, and explore the sculpture-dotted grounds. It is free to the public and offers a peaceful, educational experience that highlights the state's rich cultural heritage.
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Address
490 Old Santa Fe Trail,Santa Fe, NM 87501, USA
Websitenmlegis.gov
Phone(505) 986-4589
Hours
ClosedMon
7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Tue
7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Wed
7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Thu
7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Fri
7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Sat
Closed
Sun
Closed
Highlights
Unique circular architecture based on the Zia sun symbol.
Extensive collection of contemporary and traditional New Mexican art.
Central rotunda with a beautiful stained-glass ceiling.
Free admission for self-guided tours of the galleries and chambers.
Sculpture-dotted grounds with native landscaping.
Occasion Tags
Tourists, Locals, Family, Solo
Reviews
4.5
Excellent283 reviews
The New Mexico State Capitol, known as 'The Roundhouse,' is highly praised for its unique circular architecture and its dual role as a premier art museum. Reviewers frequently note that the interior feels more like a world-class gallery than a government office, featuring an extensive collection of contemporary and traditional local art. The building's design, based on the Zia sun symbol, and the stunning stained-glass ceiling in the rotunda are cited as visual highlights. Visitors appreciate the accessibility of the site, mentioning that it is free to enter and offers a welcoming environment for self-guided tours. While the atmosphere is often described as peaceful and quiet, it can become lively and energetic when the legislature is in session. Overall, it is considered a hidden gem in Santa Fe that provides a rich cultural experience for both tourists and locals.
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Location
Santa Fe, New Mexico, United States
