Santa Fe Plaza

Much of the history of Santa Fe, New Mexico, the Southwest, and even the West has some association with Santa Fe's central Plaza which New Mexico governor, Don Pedro de Peralta, laid out in 1607. The southeast corner of the Plaza was the official terminus of the famous Santa Fe Trail and the American flag was raised over the Plaza in 1846, during the Mexican War, which resulted in Mexico's loss of all its territories in the present southwestern United States.

Over it’s 400 year history, the Santa Fe Plaza has seen freight wagons unloaded here after completing their arduous journey across the Santa Fe Trail, a place for live stock to graze, a gathering spot for town meetings, a tree-shaded park form with a white picket fence, uniform bands playing in an ornate gazebo, families establish abutting homes, and merchants set up shop.

Today, Santa Fe Plaza is still the heart and soul of Santa Fe.  Local bands perform under the new gazebo in the summer, festivals and markets buzz with artisan activity, the Christmas holidays mark an occasion for the plaza to be lined with farolitos, locals and visitors take in the rich culture and activities, and many enjoy relaxing and people watching. 

There are many museums, shops, restaurants, and sights in downtown Santa Fe.  A few stops of note on a walking tour of the Plaza include:  

Palace of the Governors
Museum of Fine Arts
Delgado House
Sena Plaza
Institute of American Indian Arts Museum
St. Francis Cathedral
Loretto Chapel