Top Santa Fe Culture

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.

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.

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.

Walk through the vibrant city of Santa Fe while discovering its long, dramatic history against a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty. Native tribes, Spanish colonists, and the young United States all vied for both territory and cultural supremacy here. This was a world of proud Indigenous peoples and zealous Catholic missionaries, of ancient stability and modern expansion. In its history, Santa Fe tells the story of America like few other cities can. On this tour, we’ll trace the city’s journey from Pueblo homeland to Spanish colony to the capital of the American Southwest. We’ll also meet the creative minds who made Santa Fe’s art scene one of the most distinctive on Earth. And we’ll explore the rich architectural gems of the city, from adobe homes and studios to a mysterious Gothic staircase and the oldest church in the continental U.S. NOTE: This is a self-guided outdoor walking tour. Your purchase does not include entrance to any attractions highlighted on the tour.

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.

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.

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

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

Explore acres of monumental works at the ancestral home to over seventy monumental works by Allan Houser spanning various forms of sculpture including unique stone and casted bronze depicting the love, culture, religion and shared plight of Native Americans. The Apache Ethnographic Exhibit at the Allan Houser Foundation showcases the intricacies of the ancient arts of quilled beading and embroidery featuring pieces curated from generations of family artifacts, baskets, bone jewelry, hand crafted musical instruments and traditional weaponry. The Allan Houser Gallery at Haozous Place offers an expansive selection of unique pieces for sale and casted editions of bronze sculpture, charcoal drawings, and an extremely rare collections of watercolor work from his earlier periods. Guests may visit the outdoor "Walkabout" exhibit featuring work by Bob Haozous including work dedicated to the ongoing pursuit of political progress and judicial equity for Native Americans.

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.

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.

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.

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.

NEW!!! From the #1 traveller ranked tour/activity operator in Santa Fe. Explore Santa Fe’s renowned Margarita Trail on this guided walking tour, where history and flavor come together in the country’s Margarita capital. Join the ONLY tour in SF that earns you 3 passport stamps in 2 hours while checking out some The Trail’s most beloved participants. Sample some of the city’s best expertly crafted margaritas featuring local spirits and fresh ingredients paired with yummy bites. Along the way, your guide will share stories of Santa Fe’s rich culture, tequila traditions, and the lore around the origins of New Mexico’s iconic state cocktail. PLEASE NOTE: We are unable to make dietary substitutions on this tour.

Enjoy all the beauty New Mexico has to offer on our Scenic Train ride! New Mexico is known around the world for its beautiful landscapes. So why not take in those gorgeous views from the comfort of our beautifully restored passenger cars. You and your family can enjoy first class service and amazing vistas while our train takes you out across the high desert to the views overlooking the Galisteo Basin. The Santa Fe Scenic Train departs and returns to the Santa Fe Depot. Each ticket includes a seat in our enclosed train cars, a complimentary champagne welcome as the adventure begins, and live entertainment! Additional snacks and drinks can be purchased. This train has no depot stop, you are onboard the duration of the ride. Outside food and drink are prohibited.

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.

Discover the soul of northern New Mexico on a full-day, luxury tour from Santa Fe to Chimayó, Taos Pueblo, and the Rio Grande Gorge. Travel in comfort aboard a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with a local guide who brings the region’s culture, history, and landscapes to life. Visit the sacred Santuario de Chimayó, explore the living history of Taos Pueblo with a Pueblo guide, and stand in awe at the dramatic Rio Grande Gorge. Enjoy a locally sourced lunch in Taos and relax with small group service, all-inclusive convenience, and unforgettable views along the way.

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.

Meeting point is across from the Plaza Cafe. Hosted by tour company Vigilante Guides. We provide a local experience and help travelers and locals alike see all the main attractions in and around the Plaza and Downtown Santa Fe including the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Laredo Chapel, San Miguel Chapel, Oldest House, Plaza, etc. If you are a history buff or wanting to take a deep dive into the millennial old city, this is the tour for you!

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.

If you’re drawn to Santa Fe for its arts scene, get a fantastic introduction on a private tour of Canyon Road, the city’s the most famous art district. With dozens of galleries to choose from, it can be intimidating to know where to start, but an artistic guide removes the guesswork and takes you to the most essential galleries. See the best pieces, and get tips on how to interpret both historic and contemporary art.

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.