

Look for the buttons on either side of the wheel across from the portal to get it spinning and then put on your glasses so your eyes can play tricks on your brain. Drawing on the artist’s Asian-American heritage, the room is like a psychedelic prayer room with a portal entry from the main room. My tip: Get those 3-D glasses they offer before you enter so you can really appreciate the neon space by artist Lauren YS, aka Squidlicker. The immersive and interactive art experience (with a complicated backstory) differs significantly from location to location, so even if you’ve been to the Denver location, it’s worth a visit here. That means the experience can be fresh for repeat visitors. Although I’ve been to this original location before, as well as the one in Denver, I was happy to return because, although the original exhibition and story inside are constant, the space allows for new artists and their installations. The phenomenon that is Meow Wolf started in a former bowling alley in Santa Fe. From art to a transformational retreat, there are many mind-altering - or trippy - options to consider on your next excursion to Santa Fe.

Yet this small city is like a world away from the Front Range in terms of the vibe and activities. Less than six hours by car from Denver, Santa Fe is close enough for a weekend away or for spring break without a long flight. Santa Fe calls itself “The City Different” in New Mexico’s Land of Enchantment, but could it change you into a different person while visiting?
