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The structure is known for its unique helix-shaped wooden staircase that appears to defy the laws of physics. This exquisite staircase, built without a central support beam or visible means of construction, leaves visitors wondering about its origins and engineering. According to legend, the staircase was built by a mysterious carpenter who appeared after the Sisters of Loretto prayed for assistance in reaching the choir loft. After completing his work, he vanished without taking any payment, adding an air of mystique to the chapel and its staircase.

Days 3-5 Santa Fe, NM

This was the furthest stop on our Route 66 trip, where we enjoyed 3 days of exploring this historic, cultural, and artsy city. It is the capital of New Mexico at an elevation of 7199 feet making it the highest state capital. Founded in 1610 as the capital of Nuevo México, a province of New Spain, Santa Fe is the oldest state capital in the United States and the earliest European settlement west of the Mississippi River. Blending indigenous, Spanish, and American influences, Santa Fe is considered the cultural capital of the Southwestern United States, and is widely regarded as one of the country's great art cities due to its vibrant art scene.

The De Vargas Street House, often referred to as the Oldest House, is a historic building in Santa Fe, New Mexico, which is often said to be one of the oldest buildings in United States. The original date of construction is unknown but the majority of the building is believed to date to the Spanish colonial period. One archaeological study also concluded that some sections of the walls are characteristic of Pueblo architecture and may be pre-Spanish in origin.

San Miguel Chapel, is a Spanish colonial mission church in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Originally built around 1610, it is often referred to as the oldest church building in the continental United States. The church was rebuilt twice, once in the mid to late 17th century, and again in 1710 following the Pueblo Revolt.