Top Santa Fe Historical Tours

There are many Santa Fe tours out there, but this is the only one lead by a homegrown historian and author of eight books on the city. Take advantage of the guide’s deep knowledge of Santa Fe history and culture to gain a new perspective on landmarks like the Loretto Chapel, Canyon Road, Cross of the Martyrs, Route 66, and more. The tour delves into topics not often covered, including the Manhattan Project, spirituality, and Santa Fe’s role in World War II.

Get oriented to Santa Fe’s unique history, architecture, and culture on this top-rated walking tour. Explore the Santa Fe plaza area on foot, passing landmarks like the Loretto Chapel, Palace of the Governors, and Bario de Analco, plus places off the beaten path that most visitors miss. Hear stories not found in any guidebook, and get tips on how to make the most of your Santa Fe vacation.

Discover what makes the city different in Santa Fe, and visit non-touristy sights you’d miss by exploring on your own. On this small-group walking tour of Santa Fe, you’ll learn about the unique history of Santa Fe with your local guide as you head to downtown highlights including the Plaza, Loretto Chapel, the oldest church, San Miguel, and Sena Plaza, one of the city’s oldest homes.

Struggling to make sense of Santa Fe’s vibrant Canyon Road on your own? This guided walk turns that challenge into a rich, immersive experience. Join a local guide to slow down, look closer, and really connect with the fascinating artistic district. Explore a handpicked selection of galleries and a historic site, and learn how Native traditions evolved into today’s dynamic art scene. Enjoy lively conversation and an easy-to-learn method for interpreting art, plus, get an insider understanding of the area's culture and history.

Every day, we offer a leisurely ride through the heart of Santa Fe from our central location at the Santa Fe Railyards / inside the historic Santa Fe Depot. This signature two-hour experience showcases the beautiful culture, art, history, and panoramic landscapes of 'The City Different' as our professional, local tour guides offer an intimate look at the many unique landmarks and local treasures along the route. This ride is enjoyable for all skill levels, and families (riders 4’8” and up) are welcome! Traditional pedal bikes are included; please inquire about E-bike upgrades.

The historic Santa Fe Plaza and downtown area has a 400-year old history filled with the lore and legends of conquistadors, scientists, artists, outlaws, and Pueblo peoples. Access this history on your phone through our GPS-enabled walking tour. Start and stop on your own schedule—access to the tour never expires. Learn about the annual Zozobra celebration, what "Christmas-style" means, and where to find the oldest church in the United States.

Experience the best of downtown St. Louis on a private walking tour led by a knowledgeable local guide. Explore historic streets, scenic plazas, and iconic landmarks as you discover how the city became a gateway to the American West. Walk through the heart of the city and see architectural highlights, historic buildings, and vibrant public spaces while hearing stories of riverfront life, early expansion, and the people who shaped St. Louis’ identity. With a relaxed pace and a personalized approach, this private tour is perfect for first-time visitors, history lovers, families, and curious travelers looking for an engaging introduction to one of the Midwest’s most dynamic cities. * Itinerary may vary depending on pace, weather, and group preferences.

Join Ana Pacheco as she delves into four centuries of Santa Fe history. Through her thirty-one years as a writer and historian Pacheco has created books, articles, blogs, videos, and five-star walking tours of her beloved hometown. In the last three decades she has pieced together the puzzle that makes Santa Fe the most historically significant city in the U. S. Your two-hour walking tour includes a signed copy of one of Ana Pacheco’s books. Ana Pacheco is the only local history tour guide in Santa Fe. Her family settled in the state capital in 1692. She was the Santa Fe City Historian from 2015–2017. Pacheco is the author of eight books on Santa Fe and New Mexico history.

This one of a kind walking tour will help you understand the significance of Our Lady of Guadalupe in the history of our unique city. Following on the research I have done, this walking tour tells the story behind about a dozen art installations, murals, and tiles featuring her image. Have your cameras ready because each stop, planned or not, is an opportunity to capture beautiful images and share them with the hashtag #whereslupita, joining thousands of people worldwide in the documentation of this powerful and iconic image.

This evening stroll will give an entirely different take, look and feel to the oldest Capital City. “The absolute best tour we've ever taken and we travel the world” “Great way to start the day and visit to Santa Fe” This is performance and experience NOT to be missed and an absolute must do tour. Get one of the most in-depth understanding of Santa Fe, the surrounding area, and the state of New Mexico at large. Victor Romero has deep family roots to northern New Mexico dating back before the arrival the of Spanish over 400 years ago. A truly outstanding New Mexican storyteller of his people, their culture and experience of New Mexico Victor will leave you in awe and laughing as you make your way through this historic and culturally packed city. Victor is a true gem and ambassador of the city of Santa Fe. This tour is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED *A high paced tour as to help acclimate our guest to the 7,200 ft elevation. Drink plenty of WATER the week of travel to help.

Discover the world of J. Robert Oppenheimer and Soviet spies on this engaging two-hour walking tour in Santa Fe. Led by museum-trained docents from the New Mexico History Museum, this tour illuminates key locations related to the Manhattan Project and Cold War espionage. Explore the back-room office for the Manhattan Project, learn about vital spy craft techniques, and hear compelling stories tied to this historic period. With insights into the motivations of spies and the secrets exchanged, this tour provides a rich educational experience in a captivating setting. Private, customizable tours are available by request and docent availability. - Two-hour walking tour led by museum-trained docents - Discover key sites of the Manhattan Project and Soviet espionage - Hear true stories and anecdotes from a pivotal historical era - Tours available on select dates throughout the month from April to November

Discover the Santa Fe you won't find on any other tour, through three unforgettable experiences which you can choose from. The Indigenous History of Santa Fe takes you beyond the plaza to the Pueblo communities whose presence predates the city by centuries. Hear the stories and perspectives too often left out of the standard narrative. The Women Who Built Santa Fe centers the figures whose work shaped and sustained this city, yet rarely make it into guidebooks. Walk the same streets, but hear a different story about who truly made Santa Fe what it is. The Ghost History Tour uncovers the haunting side of the city. Explore the eerie legends, restless spirits, and dark chapters hidden beneath Santa Fe's beautiful surface. Every 90-minute tour is intimate, walkable, and pay-what-you-can, because this history should be accessible to everyone. Your storytellers don't just recite dates, they share connection and context that makes the past come alive in ways guidebooks never capture.

Explore Santa Fe’s rich tapestry of art and history on this self-guided walk through the city’s iconic landmarks. Wander between adobe structures, vibrant plazas, and renowned galleries as you uncover tales of cultural exchange and conflict that have shaped this unique high desert capital. Discover the blending of Pueblo traditions, Spanish colonial influences, and modern artistic expressions along the way. With each stop, learn about significant events like the Pueblo Revolt and the city’s evolving identity, creating a deeper understanding of Santa Fe's distinct character and heritage. — Self-guided walk through Santa Fe’s historic and artistic sites — Discover the influence of Pueblo, Spanish, and Anglo cultures — Learn about the city’s history, including the Pueblo Revolt — Uncover stories that make Santa Fe a unique cultural destination

Explore downtown Santa Fe's best eateries on a half-day walking tour led by an informative guide. Get a taste of new developments in Santa Fe’s food scene and sample classic New Mexican flavors as you explore the historic downtown Plaza area. Your guide shares commentary about the city’s history and the mix of Native, Hispanic, and Anglo cultures that have shaped its food culture.

Discover the rich history of chocolate on this immersive 3-hour tour in Santa Fe, the oldest capital city in the United States. Explore the evolution of chocolate from ancient elixirs to modern delights. Sample unique offerings at four local chocolate shops, each showcasing a distinct aspect of Santa Fe's culinary scene. Delve into the stories of chocolate’s cultural significance while enjoying a flavorful journey through time. - Explore four local chocolate shops with unique specialties: Kakawa Chocolate house, Chocolate En La Plaza, Chocolate and Cashmere and Senior Murphy's. - Learn about chocolate’s history from ancient Central America to modern treats - Tour duration of 3 hours with a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 12 participants - Comfortable shoes and a bottle of water are recommended for this walking tour

With so much to explore, it can be hard to know where to begin in Santa Fe. This private walking tour removes the guesswork for an ideal introduction to the city’s historic plaza, charming adobe buildings, parks, and art galleries. Finish at the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, with included admission so you can explore the life of this artist who immortalized northern New Mexico landscapes.

Get a taste of Santa Fe, and explore the Railyard Arts District by foot, on this small-group guided walking tour. Follow your local culinary expert guide through the neighborhood, then sit down for a three-course lunch showcasing the difference between Mexican and New Mexican flavors at a local favorite restaurant, complete with margarita pairings.

Journey along the legendary High Road to Taos, where you’ll discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Northern New Mexico. This self-guided tour allows for an immersive experience as you explore ancient pueblos, historic churches, and picturesque mountain villages at your own pace. With the WalknTours app guiding you, enjoy fascinating stories behind each breathtaking stop, from the sacred El Santuario de Chimayó to the artistic community of Truchas. Perfect for families and travelers seeking both adventure and cultural depth. - Self-guided audio tour with GPS navigation for easy exploration - Visit historic sites like Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage site - Plan for 5-8 hours to fully enjoy the scenic route and attractions - Family-friendly experience suitable for all ages, blending culture and nature

Discover the scenic highlights of Santa Fe’s Old Town, and learn about the New Mexico capital’s centuries of history, on this private walking tour. Choose from several convenient daily tour times, and meet your guide in Santa Fe Plaza. You’ll see landmarks like the Palace of Governors and San Miguel Chapel, will learn about the city’s characteristic adobe buildings, and will even enjoy a taste of local delicacies.

On this 2.5-hour walking tour, we’ll explore how author Willa Cather was inspired to write her "best book" (her words), "Death Comes for the Archbishop" by retracing her steps through Santa Fe in 1925 and 1926. Our walking route covers about 1.5 miles, mostly on sidewalks, but also climbs a hill to the Cross of the Martyrs with its outstanding view of the city below. During our time together, we'll explore aspects of the novel, such as Kit Carson, Padre Antonio José Martínez, and of course Archbishop Jean-Baptiste Lamy, New Mexico's first Catholic archbishop and the real-life inspiration for the fictional Bishop Latour in Cather's book. We will learn about Sister Blandina Segale who helped set up a hospital in Lamy's house, and visit the last remnant of Lamy's six-acre garden behind the St. Francis Cathedral in the peaceful Stations of the Cross Prayer Garden.

Taste the highlights of Santa Fe during this food-themed walking tour. Meet your guide in the centrally located Santa Fe Plaza, and come hungry: you’ll visit multiple local food businesses, where you can enjoy enough samples to add up to a generous meal (plus drinks on the side). As you go, you’ll also see landmarks like the San Miguel Chapel and the Palace of the Governors.

Download GuideAlong’s self-guided audio walking tour of Santa Fe and uncover the hidden history of this desert city. Visit San Miguel Chapel, the oldest church in the U.S., see the famed “Miraculous Staircase” at Loretto Chapel, and unearth the city’s spiritual center at the Cathedral Basilica. Along the way, hear stories of figures like Po'pay and Diego de Vargas, the Pueblo Revolt and the Spanish reconquest play automatically as you explore the heart of New Mexico’s capital. Stories, tips, and directions play automatically based on your location Travel at your own pace Tour offline using GPS. No cell service or WiFi is needed Suggested itineraries for half, full, or multi-day use No time limits or expiry, and free updates Like having a personal guide by your side on every step Purchase one tour per person, or listen together by sharing headphones or a speaker.

Discover Santa Fe’s must-try bites—and learn about the city’s history and culture—on this decadent walking tour. Meet your guide before lunch at Santa Fe Plaza, and come ready with an appetite: you’ll visit three local eateries, where you can enjoy everything from spicy New Mexican fare to tasty local chocolates. As you go, you’ll also see landmarks like the New Mexico State Capitol, Palace of the Governors, and more.