New Mexico State Capitol Roundhouse
Discover the only truly round state capitol in the U.S., a vibrant hub of New Mexico art and history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
See art & learn history
New Mexico State Capitol Roundhouse
Best Time
See art & learn history
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the only truly round state capitol in the U.S., a vibrant hub of New Mexico art and history.
"The artwork and architecture are just gorgeous. All free! 3 floors of NM artists, weaving, rugs, glass, pottery, all kinds of painting mediums."
🎯 Free Art Exploration
Wander through three floors of diverse art by NM artists – all for free!
🏛️ Unique Round Design
Marvel at the only truly round state capitol in the USA.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Roundhouse Architecture
The only truly round state capitol in the U.S., its unique design is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.
Rotunda Art
The magnificent rotunda features breathtaking artwork that captivates visitors with its beauty and scale.
Three Floors of Art
Discover a vast collection of paintings, pottery, glass, and weaving by talented New Mexico artists.
Sculpture Garden
Explore the grounds dotted with intriguing sculptures, offering a pleasant outdoor art experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Art and Architecture
Check Visiting Hours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Art Exploration
Wander through three floors of diverse art by NM artists – all for free!
🏛️ Unique Round Design
Marvel at the only truly round state capitol in the USA.
🚶♂️ Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the outdoor sculptures surrounding the building.
⏰ Check Hours Before
Interior access is limited on Sundays. Plan accordingly!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Art Exploration
Wander through three floors of diverse art by NM artists – all for free!
🏛️ Unique Round Design
Marvel at the only truly round state capitol in the USA.
🚶♂️ Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the outdoor sculptures surrounding the building.
⏰ Check Hours Before
Interior access is limited on Sundays. Plan accordingly!
🗣️ Attend a Rally
The Capitol is a hub for public gatherings and protests. +2
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the New Mexico State Capitol for its stunning and diverse art collection, spread across three free-access floors. The unique round architecture is a major draw, making it stand out from other state capitols. While the exterior and grounds are always accessible, interior access is limited on weekends, which can be a drawback for some.
"This state capitol building is shaped like a circle from above. Most other state capitols I've visited are rectangular shaped or look a lot like the U.S. Capitol building. The round shape makes this state capitol building extremely unique.
We visited on a Sunday, so we could not enter the building. But, the exterior is surrounded by statues and there seems to be a sculpture garden to the east of the building along Old Santa Fe Trail."
Francisco Leung
"Wow, the artwork and architecture are just gorgeous. All free! 3 floors of NM artists, weaving, rugs, glass, pottery, all kinds of painting mediums, abstracts, photog, governor's suites on 4th floor has special art.
The rotunda art is unbelievable. Art down every corridor. Do not miss this."
Chris Kowal
"We had the opportunity/honor to visit the New Mexico State Capitol in JUN_FY2024 and it was an amazing experience, a great opportunity to learn more about New Mexico's history and legacy.
We did a plant tour and for sure it's a remarkable building.
Definitely, it's a place that deserves my respect. It was a privilege."
Robertson Souza
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The New Mexico State Capitol, also known as the Roundhouse, is located in Santa Fe, New Mexico. It's easily accessible by car, and parking is generally available. If you're coming from Albuquerque, consider taking the scenic route instead of the interstate for a more enjoyable drive. +1
While specific public transport routes aren't detailed in the provided content, Santa Fe does have a public bus system. It's advisable to check the local Santa Fe Trails website for current routes and schedules that may serve the Capitol area.
Many visitors find driving to the Capitol straightforward. Some creators suggest skipping the interstate for a more scenic approach if coming from further afield.
During public events or protests, roads around the Capitol building may experience temporary closures or increased traffic. It's wise to check local news or traffic advisories if you're visiting on a day with a scheduled event. +2
The Capitol is centrally located in Santa Fe, making it a walkable distance from many downtown attractions, including the historic Plaza.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to the New Mexico State Capitol and its art collection is free. You can explore the building and its grounds without purchasing tickets.
The exterior and grounds are accessible at all times. However, interior access to view the art and exhibits is typically available during weekday business hours. It's best to confirm the exact hours before your visit, as they can vary.
You can visit the exterior and grounds of the Capitol on weekends, but interior access to see the art collection is generally limited to weekdays.
While formal guided tours might not always be advertised, the building is designed for self-exploration. Many visitors enjoy taking their time to walk through the floors and admire the art at their own pace.
All the artwork displayed within the New Mexico State Capitol is free to view. It's a fantastic opportunity to experience a wide range of New Mexico artists' work without any cost.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The most striking feature is its unique circular design, making it the only round state capitol in the United States, earning it the nickname 'The Roundhouse.'
The Capitol houses an impressive collection of art by New Mexico artists, including paintings, pottery, glasswork, weaving, and photography, spread across three floors.
State capitols are generally designed with accessibility in mind. While specific details aren't provided, you can expect ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms to be available.
Yes, visiting the Capitol is a great opportunity to learn about New Mexico's history and legacy. The building itself and the art often reflect the state's rich cultural heritage.
Photography is generally permitted inside the Capitol for personal use, allowing you to capture the stunning artwork and architecture.
🎫 🗣️ Public Gatherings & Events
Absolutely! The Capitol building is a frequent site for rallies, protests, and advocacy days on various issues, from climate action to housing rights.
Following local news outlets, advocacy groups, or checking social media hashtags related to New Mexico politics and events can help you stay informed about gatherings at the Capitol. +2
Rallies cover a wide spectrum of topics, including environmental concerns, social justice, housing, and legislative advocacy.
While rallies can be passionate, they are generally peaceful. It's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and follow any instructions from organizers or law enforcement.
Yes, many advocacy groups invite the public to join them on advocacy days to voice their opinions to legislators. Check with specific organizations for details on how to participate.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
🏛️ History Buffs
Inside, the art often tells stories and reflects the cultural heritage of New Mexico. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of the Roundhouse
Many visitors are surprised by the sheer volume and quality of art available for public viewing, and the best part is that it's all free to experience.
A Unique Architectural Marvel
Its unique shape makes it an iconic landmark in Santa Fe and a point of fascination for visitors. The exterior is complemented by a sculpture garden, adding an artistic dimension to the building's surroundings. This unconventional design sets it apart from the more traditional, often dome-topped capitols found elsewhere. The circular layout allows for a different flow of movement and a unique perspective on the building's interior spaces. For architecture buffs and curious travelers alike, the Roundhouse offers a memorable visual experience and a chance to appreciate innovative design in a governmental setting.
The Capitol as a Public Forum
+8 From climate action and housing rights to legislative advocacy, citizens gather here to make their voices heard and engage with their elected officials. These events highlight the dynamic nature of democracy and the role of public spaces in facilitating dialogue and change. Visitors may witness passionate demonstrations or organized advocacy efforts, offering a glimpse into the current concerns and priorities of New Mexico residents.
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