For serious collectors, history enthusiasts, and treasure-seekers, antiquing is not an amateur sport. Fortunately, the vintage heirlooms and hand-curated displays found in New Mexico's best antique stores have appeal for even novice collectible hunters. Or even those just in the market for a one-of-a-kind piece! Whatever your budget or décor style, if the "thrill of the hunt" is beckoning you this season, New Mexico's capital city has some incredible local shops to dive into that are positively brimming with age-old relics and global finds. In fact, we had such an impossible time choosing the best antique shop in Santa Fe that we chose five! In no particular order:

1. Shiprock Santa Fe

When it comes to Native American art, rugs, and gorgeous Navajo creations, New Mexico has a number of premier shops to choose from. But as one of the top Native American galleries in the entire country, and run by a Navajo Nation local, there's no denying that Shiprock Santa Fe is the real deal. From the moment you step foot inside the heavy, historic wood doors of the Santa Fe Plaza, the vibrant colors and tribal textures will envelop you in the richness of New Mexico's indigenous culture. Meanwhile, the vast selection of magnificent pottery, historic art pieces, and stunning handmade jewelry is second to none.

2. House of Ancestors

Inspired by a love of travel and new cultures, House of Ancestors is overflowing with exquisite and unexpected cultural pieces that make a statement - all authentically sourced and rich with history. Be sure to ask the owners about their travels! This charming clay home-turned-antique store is not your ordinary local shop; every item here is hand-picked, carefully placed, and boasts an incredible story straight from the source. Décor, knick-knacks, art, and even ornately carved furniture all have a place here - each item just waiting for its new home!

3. Sal Hamdy Antiques

For a jaw-dropping selection of luxury, European, and pre-19th-century furnishings, Sal Hamdy is hard to beat. Stepping foot inside is a glamorous treat for every sense! Whether it's a new dining set, a swoon-worthy crystal chandelier, hand-carved armoire, or an ornate sculpture, you're sure to find the perfect finishing touch for your space!

4. Mediterrania

Global and eclectic, the rich, warm tones here are soothing to the soul and as inspiring as their native countries. Lose yourself in the textures of the ornate tapestries, find the perfect vintage bowl for your Moroccan coffee table, or scoop up as many mahogany candlesticks as you can carry - there's no shortage of incredible, worldly finds to take home!

5. The Raven Fine Consignments

Funky, modern, and chic with just a touch of rustic, The Raven Consignment is truly a have-your-cake-and-eat-it-too gem of a shop. Once multiple individual shops, the Raven combines each former space into a fantastic buffet of treasures and must-have accessories for every taste. No matter if it's a whimsical, nautical finishing touch or a knotty abstract carving, you'll find it here!

New Mexico is chock full of history and culture, so it makes sense that our small town shops and galleries would be as well! Whether you spend an hour browsing or a weekend, these three incredible antique stores won't disappoint (although they might just get you warmed up to visit some of our other favorites... including this massive antique mall!)