Have you heard of ‘Meow Wolf’? We hadn’t until recently, when we saw a friend’s Instagram post about their visit to the Santa Fe, NM location called ‘House of Eternal Return.’ It looked so interesting and unique, so we added it to our bucket list. And in April 2025, our family finally got to see what it was all about.
Meow Wolf features unique exhibit blends of art, storytelling, and is interactive. Wondering what to expect? Get ready to discover a mysterious, multi-sensory world crafted by local artists. We want to tell you why we think Meow Wolf Santa Fe’s House of Eternal Return is a must-see attraction.
A quick overview of MeowWolf, Santa Fe:
- The House of Eternal Return is an immersive art exhibition in Santa Fe that combines storytelling, visual arts, and interactive elements, where visitors will follow a narrative centred around the mysterious Selig family.
- Meow Wolf Santa Fe emphasizes community involvement, collaborating with local artists to create a dynamic and multi-dimensional art experience, including interactive installations and hidden realms that will blow your mind.
- Plan and purchase your ticket online in advance for the date and time of your visit, and arrive at least 15-20 minutes before your entry time. Make sure you plan your trip based on the dates and times they are open (unlike us – we didn’t realize their hours and days they are open vary).
Discover the House of Eternal Return
The House of Eternal Return is not just an art exhibition; it’s a living, breathing narrative that invites visitors of all ages to step into a parallel universe. Yes, it does sound quite “out there”, but it is truly an immersive experience for all ages. Santa Fe, New Mexico’s location was the original Meow Wolf, and it features a family home entwined with a mysterious tragedy, setting the stage for an immersive experience that combines storytelling, visual arts, and interactive elements. As you wander through the house, you’ll encounter a myriad of artistic styles and media, all meticulously crafted by local artists who have collaborated to create this unique experience.
What makes the House of Eternal Return particularly captivating is its emphasis on collaboration and community. Meow Wolf works closely with a diverse range of artists, including those from underrepresented communities, to build an experience that is not only visually stunning but also deeply rich in narrative.
This collaboration results in a multi-dimensional art experience that engages all your senses, inviting you to explore and interact with the public art in ways you never imagined in the multiverse form. And don’t worry – if you don’t fully understand all of the narrative as you explore, you will still be amazed by the captivating art that takes up every inch of this immersive experience.
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The Mystery of the Selig Family
At the heart of the House of Eternal Return is the enigmatic story of the Selig family. This narrative revolves around their mysterious disappearance after an experiment within their home, which is central to the overall theme of the exhibition. As you explore the house, you’ll uncover clues and pieces of their story, each room and object offering a glimpse into the lives and secrets of the Seligs.
The Selig family’s tale is intricately woven into the very fabric of the house, transforming it into a dynamic and immersive narrative. This story is not just a puzzle to be solved but an experience to be lived, with overlapping timelines and characters that draw you deeper into the mystery.
The more you explore, the more you uncover, making each visit to the House of Eternal Return a unique adventure.
Our Family’s Experience at MeowWolf Santa Fe
Our visit to Meow Wolf Santa Fe was nothing short of magical. The experience is entirely self-guided. We were encouraged to “get lost” as we carved our own path through the house and its myriad of exhibits. As a family, we found that our interests varied – our oldest was fascinated by the unfolding story of the Selig family, while our younger boys were more captivated by the art installations and the freedom to explore. To make the most of our time, we decided to let each child guide us for ten minutes in turn, which added a playful and democratic element to our adventure.
Initially, we moved quickly through the house, eager to see what lay beyond. It wasn’t until we looped back that we realized many of the installations were reflections of pieces within the Selig house, like the elephant skeleton in Lex’s room and the fish tank in the living room. This realization added a new layer of depth to our experience, making us appreciate the intricate connections and storytelling even more.
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Interactive Art Installations
One of the most exciting aspects of Meow Wolf Santa Fe is the variety of fun, interactive art installations. Art is brought to a new level as you engage with the exhibits and find the fun in interacting with them. From light and sound installations to elements like slides and tunnels, each exhibit invites you to explore and interact in new and imaginative ways.
A standout installation for us was a room filled with light-up buttons that correspond to constellations. As we pressed each button, the room transformed, creating an enchanting display of lights and sounds. These interactive elements not only captivated our boys but also allowed us to experience the art on a deeper, more immersive level.
Hidden Realms and Secret Passages
The House of Eternal Return is filled with hidden realms and secret passageways that you’ll find as you explore each exhibit closely. These concealed areas enhance the sense of adventure, making each exploration feel like a quest into the unknown. From secret doors that lead to fantastical dimensions to hidden passages that open up new worlds, every corner of the house holds a surprise waiting to be uncovered.
For our family, these hidden realms were a highlight of our visit. The thrill of finding a secret passage and stepping into another world added an element of excitement and wonder that kept us engaged throughout our exploration. This sense of adventure is a core part of the Meow Wolf experience, making it a memorable journey for visitors of all ages.
Plan Your Visit to Meow Wolf Santa Fe
Plan ahead of time for your visit to Meow Wolf Santa Fe House of Eternal Return and purchase tickets online. This immersive art experience spans 20,000 square feet, combining interactive storytelling with a multi-dimensional art experience. To fully appreciate the intricate details and interactive elements, it’s best to choose a day when you will have a minimum of 3-4 hours to explore Meow Wolf.
Visiting during weekday mornings will likely be the best option, allowing you to explore the exhibits at your own pace without the crowds. We want to give you some information based on our experience to help guide you through the practical aspects of your visit, from ticket information to accessibility, so that you have all the details you need for a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Ticket Information and Entry Times
Check the Meow Wolf Santa Fe website for the ticket options and entry times that are available as you plan your visit. General admission tickets start at $40, with discounts available for New Mexico residents at $25. For those who need a bit more flexibility, Flex tickets allow you to choose a date and arrive at any time, starting at $50. Annual Portal Passes are also available, ranging from $69 to $99, providing unlimited visits throughout the year.
The best option is to reserve a time slot in advance by purchasing your tickets online. Arriving early can help avoid lines and ensure you can start your adventure right on time. We arrived 15 minutes before our entry time and waited in a small line outside before being let into the building at our assigned time.
Best Days and Times to Visit
For the best experience, you’ll want to plan your visit during less crowded times. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends, making them an ideal time to explore the House of Eternal Return without large crowds. Check their schedule online for special adult-only events that offer a unique opportunity to enjoy the exhibit in a more intimate setting.
Visiting during their quieter times will allow you the best experience, as you will be able to take in the intricate details and interactive elements at your own pace. Consider adding this visit to your bucket list for a memorable adventure any time of the year.
Accessibility and Visitor Guidelines
Meow Wolf Santa Fe is committed to ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the House of Eternal Return. The venue offers various accessibility options for individuals with mobility challenges, ensuring that everyone can navigate and experience the exhibits comfortably.
Note that guests under 21 years of age must leave before 6:00 PM, as the venue is restricted to 21+ visitors after this time. Additionally, for safety and space reasons, items such as strollers, large backpacks, and professional recording equipment are not allowed inside. Lockers are available for storing bags if you aren’t comfortable with leaving these items in your vehicle.
Engage with the Local Artists and Community
We love that Meow Wolf Santa Fe is more than just an art installation; it’s a vibrant community that supports and engages with local artists. Regional creators get to showcase their work in Meow Wolf, and there is a sense of community through various events and workshops that are held here.
You will be immersed in a diverse range of artistic styles and perspectives, all contributing to the rich tapestry of the House of Eternal Return. Engaging with local artists and participating in community events can deepen your appreciation of the art and the creative processes behind it.
Meet the Artists
The artists behind Meow Wolf come from varied backgrounds, including traditional fine arts, animation, and architecture. Their collaboration results in a cohesive and immersive narrative that captivates visitors of all ages. Many of these artists have strong ties to the local art scene in Santa Fe, bringing regional flair and cultural depth to their work.
Meeting these artists, whether through events or workshops, is a great way for visitors and locals to gain insight into their creative processes and the inspiration behind their installations. Look at the schedule on the Meow Wolf Santa Fe website for these events so that you can have a personal connection with the artists, which will enhance your overall experience, making it more meaningful and engaging.
Community Events and Workshops
Keep an eye out for a variety of community events and workshops Meow Wold hosts throughout the year. They offer visitors the opportunity to engage creatively, from silversmithing to collaborative art projects. These events cater to all ages and skill levels, encouraging community participation and creativity.
They also host special events, including concerts and artist talks. Attending these events can make your visit to Meow Wolf even more memorable, as you connect with the art, music, and artists on a deeper level.
Supporting Local Art
Did you know that every visit to Meow Wolf Santa Fe helps support the local arts community? By purchasing a ticket, you’ll be contributing to the sustainability of Santa Fe’s local art scene, providing fair compensation for the artists involved.
A portion of the revenue generated by Meow Wolf is also allocated to support local non-profit organizations and art initiatives, ensuring that the impact of your visit extends beyond the exhibition itself. This support helps nurture a thriving creative community in Santa Fe.
Enhance Your Experience at Meow Wolf Santa Fe
To make the most of your visit to Meow Wolf Santa Fe, you’ll want to be prepared. We have created a list of some practical advice on what to wear, where to dine and shop, and info about some of our favorite exhibits so that you have a fun-filled visit.
What to Wear and Bring
You will want to be comfortable on your feet for a few hours as you explore Meow Wolf Santa Fe. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that allow easy movement for crawling, climbing, and walking through the exhibits. You can even wear a costume or outfit that glows under black light – creative attire and costumes are encouraged and add an extra layer of fun to your visit.
Avoid bringing large bags or strollers, as they are not permitted inside the venue for safety and space reasons. Instead, use the available lockers to store your belongings if you aren’t comfortable with leaving these items in your vehicle.
Dining and Shopping
Meow Wolf Santa Fe has a small cafe in the lobby with a variety of snacks, drinks, and lunch options for you to refuel during your exploration. You’ll also find food trucks in the parking lot that offer local dining options.
Additionally, you can find unique souvenirs and art pieces to take home in their huge gift shop, so be sure to plan time to browse their shop before you leave.
Kid-friendly, Favorite Exhibits
‘Portals Bermuda’ was our 11-year-old’s favorite section because you had the option to choose an area to explore by looking at a list on a digital screen, which helped guide you to the doorway to walk through to see that dimension. This room was accessed by walking into a refrigerator, which ended up being a secret passageway. Sound confusing? You’ll need to experience it to understand just how fun and unique it is!
Moving between the normal-looking house exhibit and the alternate dimensions, even though he didn’t fully grasp the storyline, was what made Moew Wolf Santa Fe most interesting for our 13-year-old. He found it exciting to get lost in the ‘maze’ of passageways that would lead to unique, new places to explore.
Our 16-year-old enjoyed following the storyline as he explored each exhibit because he felt like he was experiencing the story first-hand as he followed the clues to piece everything together. The Asian-looking town exhibit was one of his favorite areas to explore, and he recommends not missing this part of Meow Wolf Santa Fe.
Summary
In summary, Meow Wolf Santa Fe’s House of Eternal Return immerses you in an unparalleled art experience that captivates all ages. From the mysterious narrative of the Selig family to the interactive installations and hidden realms, every aspect of this exhibition will inspire you. Plan your visit, purchase your tickets online, and participate in special events such as meeting the artists or attending community events so that you will have a memorable adventure.
We hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights and practical tips for your visit. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or simply a curious traveller like us, Meow Wolf Santa Fe promises a journey that will leave you inspired and enchanted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I park an RV at Meow Wolf Santa Fe?
Free parking is available on-site. Parking an RV is not recommended. We camped with our travel trailer on free, public land about 15 minutes north of Meow Wolf Santa Fe and drove into the city the day of our visit without our trailer.
What is the House of Eternal Return?
The House of Eternal Return is a captivating immersive art installation in Santa Fe, NM, designed by Meow Wolf, where a family home intertwines with a mysterious tragedy through interactive storytelling and art. This experience offers visitors a unique blend of narrative and creativity.
What is the story behind the Selig family?
The Selig family’s story is marked by their enigmatic disappearance after a home experiment, which is a key element of the immersive experience at the House of Eternal Return. This mystery invites exploration and engagement with the family’s intriguing tale, so we won’t share anything more to avoid spoiling it.
What are the ticket prices for Meow Wolf Santa Fe?
Ticket prices for Meow Wolf Santa Fe start at $40 for general admission, with New Mexico residents eligible for a discounted price of $25. Flex tickets begin at $50, and annual Portal Passes range from $69 to $99.
When is the best time to visit Meow Wolf Santa Fe?
The best time to visit Meow Wolf Santa Fe is on weekday mornings for a quieter experience, as weekends are typically more crowded.
Are there any restrictions on what I can bring to Meow Wolf Santa Fe?
There are restrictions on what you can bring to Meow Wolf Santa Fe, including strollers, large backpacks, and professional recording equipment. Lockers are provided for storing prohibited items in case you end up needing to bring these items with you.
