new mexico state capitol (roundhouse)

If you enjoy seeing state capitols (which I do), you should stop by this capitol and visit. Free tours by lots of docents at non-scheduled times. The art work throughout the roundhouse is absolutely beautiful and so varied that it is definitely worth enjoying as you stroll through the building. Also take a peak at the House and Senate.

This beautiful building is an art gallery and a governmental building. Walk the different floors to see the great art.

For being the state capitol, it sure isn't impressive. The Texas capitol and grounds scream Texas. Even the door hinges have Texas on them. This looked like any government building in any city in America. I thought there would be a little more state pride in it than what there was.

A must for Santa Fe travelers! See NM lawmakers in action. The Round House is beautiful with georgeous artwork displayed thoughout the Capitol.

We really enjoyed the art in the State Capitol, as well as the architecture. We even enjoyed stopping into the Senate and House chambers. We had a private tour (offered free upon request) which helped point out some of the more important artwork. A very nice, FREE museum!!

We visited the Roundhouse as part of a walking tour led by Jerry Rightman that leaves from the Sage Inn. It was a Saturday morning, and we walked right in and wandered the halls without the least interference from the minimal staff on duty. There is a wonderful collection of visual art, and Jerry gave us a history of New Mexico, Santa Fe, and Southwestern architecture that was fun and informative. A wonderful, laid back experience. A warm, welcoming atmosphere will make you wish you were Santa Fean.

The Capitol art display is amazing (primarily Native American and Western art). The art is open to the public on floors 2 and 3. The parking is free in the Capitol parking lot. Enjoy!

By sheer dumb luck we decided to visit the State Capitol on the first day of the 2015 legislative session and arrived just before the Senate was being called in. We were astounded that there was zero security entering the building. No metal detectors, no one inspecting purses and backpacks. In fact there was a rowdy gathering of teachers just outside the main entrance, rallying against union-busting legislation. Inside the building's enormous lobby we found chaos and what looked like a trade show. Booths representing medical care for autism, mental health, occupational therapy, as well as MEA supporters were all represented.The building's walls are adorned with magnificent art - all gifts to the State of New Mexico by individual artists. You can spend hours just absorbing the artistic treasures on display.We walked right into the Senate legislative session and observed for awhile. Fascinating, and plenty of comfortable seating.The Capitol is only a 5-6 block walk from the central plaza downtown. If you drive, parking is free in the lot across from the main entrance.

This was my first time stepping foot into a state capitol and I was pleasantly surprised. Inside the capitol is beautiful as there is artwork. We walked in all the public areas of the capitol and it was interesting to see where state officials conduct business. There is free parking to visit the capitol (across the street). We visited for about an hour. We are glad we decided to stop here. (And we are not museum or art fanatics).

Don't bother with the museum of fine arts, there is so little there. if you want to see a lot of beautiful southwest art, this is the place to go.

Be sure to take in the wonderful art exhibit on the 2nd & 3rd floor! Legislature was not back in session, so we took a leisurely stroll throughout the building.

Amazing collection of art; so much it was hard to see it all. The Capital building is beautiful itself, as are the grounds. Even the lighting and seating alcoves are pleasing.

Was a quiet day in the roundhouse giving you a chance to wander around. The artwork on the wall is worth the trip alone. The staff was all very friendly trying see if they can help you. The uniqueness of the building will impress you.

This is a very open, modern and laid back capitol building. The architecture and art are the main reasons for visiting. Of course, if you are trying to visit all of the state capitols, that works too. This building is an easy walk from the rest of historic old town Santa Fe.

The term Roundhouse may be related to the different architecture for state capitol.I went to this building to learn about New Mexico and I liked the artwork, paintings, wood art...