Meow Wolf: The House of the Eternal Return

Santa Fe's Most Immersive, Family-Friendly Art Experience

Meow Wolf in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is at the top of my list for FAMILY-FRIENDLY activities!  It's an interactive playground for all ages created by a collective of over 200 local artists.  The 20,000-square-foot space encourages exploration and discovery at every turn and each room is a portal to another dimension - literally! Filled with vibrant colors, whimsical creatures, and mind-bending installations that defy conventional logic.  For example, one of the installations features a refridgerator that you walk through into a whole different room. 

Interactive Exploration

One of the coolest things about Meow Wolf is the interactive nature of the exhibits.  Unlike traditional art museums where touching is forbidden, here, visitors are encouraged to engage with their surroundings. Open drawers, crawl through secret passageways, and play musical instruments built into the walls—every element is designed to be touched and explored.  

And at the heart of the House of Eternal Return lies a mysterious narrative waiting to be uncovered. Visitors enter through the facade of a Victorian house, which serves as the starting point for an intriguing mystery. The house appears to belong to the Selig family, who have mysteriously vanished. By exploring each room and following hidden clues, visitors are encouraged to piece together the story behind their disappearance.

 For those who love a good challenge, the House of Eternal Return offers numerous puzzles and mysteries to solve. As you navigate through the various rooms and environments, you'll encounter cryptic messages and hidden compartments that require keen observation and critical thinking. This element of interactivity not only adds depth to the experience but also makes each visit unique.

A Feast for the Senses

Beyond its visual wonders, Meow Wolf's installation is a sensory delight. Soundscapes fill the air with ethereal music and ambient noises that enhance the atmosphere. The tactile nature of the artwork invites visitors to feel different textures and materials, while strategically placed scents transport you to otherworldly realms. It's an experience that engages all senses, making it truly unforgettable. 

Some of the standout exhibits include:

Fancy Town: An Old West-style ghost town crafted from upcycled materials. It combines nostalgia with playful design, showcasing the vision of co-founder Matt King, whose work often emphasizes immersive and surreal environments.

Glowquarium: A vivid underwater dreamscape, illuminated by neon lights and filled with marine-inspired sculptures. This piece highlights Matt King’s ability to merge bright, imaginative visuals with engaging storytelling.

The Forest: This glowing, otherworldly woodland invites visitors to wander through luminescent trees and discover secret pathways. It represents the collaborative spirit of Meow Wolf, bringing together the talents of sculptors, lighting designers, and narrative artists.

The Cave of Illumination: A stunning space featuring glowing crystals and dynamic lighting effects. This exhibit encourages sensory engagement and was crafted by artists skilled in combining sculpture with interactive lighting.

The Music Room: A hands-on exhibit filled with unconventional musical instruments and sound installations, where visitors can create their own sonic compositions. This space reflects the expertise of Meow Wolf’s sound designers and musicians who aim to blend art with audience participation.

The House of Eternal Return is also home to live performances and events throughout the year. From concerts and dance parties to workshops and lectures, there's always something happening within its walls. These events provide an opportunity for visitors to engage with the art in new and exciting ways, further enriching their experience.

A Must-Visit Destination

Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply seeking a unique adventure, Meow Wolf's House of Eternal Return promises an experience like no other. It's a place where creativity knows no bounds and where every visit offers something new to discover. As you step back into reality, you'll carry with you the magic and mystery of this enchanting world.

So, if you're planning a visit to Santa Fe, make sure to add this extraordinary destination to your itinerary. With its captivating blend of storytelling, art, and interactivity, the House of Eternal Return is what core memories are made of!