Others said it serves as a great jumping-off point for exploring Santa Fe's top attractions, many of which spool out from the plaza.

Recent travelers also suggested taking time to browse the various shops around the plaza, but do warn things seemed a little overpriced.

Visitors say you have to make a point to stop by the Santa Fe Plaza to experience the lively atmosphere, noting that there always seems to be something going on, whether it's a parade, a market or a festival. Save a little money to do some shopping while here: Santa Fe Plaza is full of vendors selling authentic Native American items like jewelry, textiles and pottery (just be wary of the plaza's inflated prices).

Any night of the week, the plaza is buzzing with activity with people enjoying restaurants, perusing galleries and checking out souvenir shops. The plaza, which is a National Historic Landmark, hosts Indian and Spanish markets yearly, in addition to concerts and community gatherings. Today, surrounded by numerous centuries-old buildings like the Palace of the Governors, the plaza continues to be the epicenter of Santa Fean affairs, from live music to September's Santa Fe Fiesta. Since the city's founding in 1610, the Santa Fe Plaza has been its cultural hub.

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