San Felipe Pueblo

San Felipe (Katishtya)

Known traditionally as Katishtya, San Felipe Pueblo sits along the Rio Grande at the foot of Black Mesa (not to be confused with the black mesa of San Ildefonso Pueblo) between Albuquerque and Santa Fe. The Pueblo is a Keres-speaking community known for its protection of tradition, language, and ceremonial life. Visitors most commonly encounter San Felipe through Black Mesa Casino or the Pueblo’s annual May 1 Feast Day.

Black Mesa Casino

Black Mesa Casino is an entertainment and gaming destination at San Felipe Pueblo. Visitors can enjoy a variety of casino games, dining options, and live entertainment. The casino is a key point of interaction for tourists visiting the Pueblo. Black Mesa Casino takes its name from the Black Mesa on San Felipe Pueblo land.

Feast Days & Public Ceremonies

Some events may be open to visitors, while others are private, restricted to community members, or closed without notice. Access, schedules, and photography rules can change, so visitors should confirm directly with the Pueblo before attending.

• Easter Sunday — Easter Dances
• May 1 — Annual feast day, Green Corn Dance
• December 24–28 — Christmas Dances (times and locations vary)

Getting There

San Felipe Pueblo sits along the Rio Grande roughly halfway between Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Take I-25 to Exit 252 and follow the road west toward the Pueblo.

Its location makes San Felipe easy to combine with Kewa Pueblo, Cochiti Pueblo, Santa Ana Pueblo, or a drive between Albuquerque and Santa Fe.

Visiting Respectfully

New Mexico’s pueblos are living communities, not museums. They are sovereign tribal nations with their own governments, laws, and traditions. When visiting, remember that you are a guest on tribal land.

• Obey all posted signs and respect areas marked as private or off-limits.
• Do not photograph people, homes, religious activities, or ceremonies without permission.
• During dances and ceremonies, remain quiet and avoid crossing ceremonial areas.
• Do not remove pottery shards, artifacts, plants, or other objects from pueblo lands (you will be cursed).
• Observe all posted speed limits and traffic laws. Going 5 mph over can get you a ticket.

Explore More Tribal Communities

Want to visit more of New Mexico’s pueblos and tribal lands? See our ranking of the best tribes and pueblos to visit in New Mexico, based on public access, cultural attractions, recreation, lodging, and other visitor amenities.