Exploring Santa Fe

Santa Fe, New Mexico—known as “The City Different”—is a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors can experience Native American heritage, Spanish colonial architecture, and an ever-thriving arts scene. Whether you're visiting for the first time or a seasoned traveler, guided tours offer the perfect way to delve deeper into Santa Fe’s rich story. Here’s a look at some of the best tours to experience when you’re in town.

1. Santa Fe Historical Walking Tour

Step back in time with a historical walking tour through Santa Fe's Plaza area. The Plaza is the heart of the city, surrounded by stunning adobe buildings, museums, and historic landmarks like the Palace of the Governors—the oldest continuously occupied public building in the U.S. Learn about the area’s deep Native American roots, Spanish colonization, and the rise of the Santa Fe Trail. Expert guides offer insight into local legends, architecture, and significant events that shaped the city. Tip: These tours usually start at the Plaza and cover landmarks like the Loretto Chapel, known for its miraculous staircase, and San Miguel Mission, the oldest church in the U.S.

2. Ghost Tours of Santa Fe

For those intrigued by the supernatural, Santa Fe’s ghost tours are a must. Santa Fe is one of the oldest cities in the U.S., which makes it the perfect setting for spooky legends and haunted locations. This eerie evening tour takes you through back alleys, historic homes, and haunted buildings. The guides share ghost stories that have been passed down for generations, ranging from mysterious sightings at La Posada Hotel to haunted happenings at the New Mexico State Penitentiary. Best Time: The experience is most immersive at dusk or after dark, adding to the haunted atmosphere.

3. Georgia O'Keeffe Art Tour

Santa Fe is a world-renowned art hub, and no visit is complete without diving into the world of Georgia O’Keeffe, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. O'Keeffe spent much of her life in New Mexico, capturing its vast landscapes and vibrant colors in her artwork. The Georgia O'Keeffe Museum offers dedicated tours, but you can also take guided trips to Abiquiú, where O'Keeffe lived and worked. On this tour, art lovers will get an intimate glimpse of her personal home, studio, and the striking landscapes that inspired her.

4. Culinary Tours: A Taste of Santa Fe

Santa Fe’s culinary scene is a spicy blend of Native American, Spanish, and Mexican influences, and a food tour is the perfect way to taste it all. These guided walking tours take you through the historic districts to some of the best local eateries and food markets. Try authentic New Mexican fare, including traditional green and red chile, sopapillas, and posole, while learning about the culinary history of the region. Some tours also include stops at local breweries or wine bars, giving you a full taste of Santa Fe’s diverse flavors. Highlights: Stops often include the Santa Fe Farmers Market or local favorites like The Shed and La Plazuela at La Fonda on the Plaza.

5. Canyon Road Art Tour

For art lovers, the Canyon Road Art Tour is an essential Santa Fe experience. Canyon Road is home to over 100 art galleries featuring everything from contemporary sculptures to traditional Native American pottery. A guided art tour gives you insider access to galleries, artist studios, and exhibitions, allowing for a deeper appreciation of the artwork and the history of Canyon Road itself. Many of the guides are artists or gallery owners who offer personal insights into the pieces on display. Tip: Schedule your tour on the weekend to take advantage of the lively scene during Canyon Road Art Strolls.

6. Santa Fe Jeep Tours and Scenic Adventures

Santa Fe’s surrounding landscapes are stunning and diverse, offering desert vistas, forested mountains, and ancient ruins. A Jeep or off-road tour allows you to explore the natural beauty of the region. These tours venture out of the city and into places like Bandelier National Monument, where you can hike to ancient Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings, or up into the Sangre de Cristo Mountains for spectacular views and wildlife sightings. If you're up for adventure, try a guided Rio Grande rafting tour or a hike through Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, a natural wonder with unique rock formations.

7. Native American Pueblo Cultural Tours

Santa Fe is located in the heart of Pueblo country, and visitors have the chance to explore the region’s Native American history and living cultures. A cultural tour to one of the nearby pueblos, such as Taos Pueblo or San Ildefonso Pueblo, offers an unforgettable experience. You’ll learn about the traditions, arts, and daily life of the Pueblo people, many of whom have lived in the area for thousands of years. Some tours even include visits to artisans' workshops where you can see traditional pottery-making or jewelry crafting in action.

8. Santa Fe Railyard District Tour

The Santa Fe Railyard District has transformed from an industrial area into a vibrant hub for art, food, and culture. Take a guided tour through this revitalized part of town, which is home to the contemporary art-focused SITE Santa Fe, farmers markets, and local breweries. The Railyard is also a great place to discover Santa Fe’s newer, edgier art scene, featuring murals, installations, and public art that contrasts with the traditional galleries of Canyon Road. Tip: Visit the Railyard on a Saturday to enjoy the Farmers Market and live performances.

Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or the great outdoors, there’s a tour in Santa Fe for you. These guided experiences help bring the city’s culture to life, giving you an in-depth look at what makes Santa Fe so “different.” With so much to explore, you'll leave with a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage and natural beauty of this enchanting city.

Happy exploring!