Santa Fe’s streets, art-filled neighborhoods, and surrounding landscapes make it a perfect city for cycling. Unlike many places where biking feels like a challenge or an afterthought, Santa Fe offers options that highlight its culture, history, and natural beauty—all at a relaxed pace. The city’s compact layout and scenic routes mean you can get a deep sense of its character without breaking a sweat. Whether you’re a casual rider or a more adventurous cyclist, the right bike tour can turn your visit into a memorable experience.
Here, you’ll find options that cover everything from a leisurely historical and artistic exploration to an exhilarating e-bike adventure through Santa Fe’s scenic outskirts. Both options promise expert guides and a chance to see the city from a new perspective. To help you decide, we’ve selected two outstanding bike tours, each offering something unique for different interests and fitness levels.
1. Santa Fe Art and History Small Group Bike Tour
This 2-hour Santa Fe Art and History Small Group Bike Tour combines culture, history, and stunning sights with a relaxed riding pace. Starting from the Santa Fe Railyards inside the historic Santa Fe Depot, this tour is designed for all skill levels, including families with children 4’8″ and taller. The ride includes a visit to La Fonda on the Plaza, where an exclusive guided tour explores its captivating architecture and stories about Fred Harvey and the Harvey Girls. This inside look into one of Santa Fe’s most iconic hotels combines history with art, thanks to its remarkable collection that adorns the walls.
The route then takes you through the city’s core, showcasing Santa Fe’s panoramic landscapes, artistic neighborhoods, and cultural landmarks. The highlight is a leisurely ride down Canyon Road, renowned for its galleries and artist studios, offering an authentic taste of Santa Fe’s rich arts scene. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, this tour offers a friendly, accessible experience of Santa Fe’s essence. Reviewers praise the guide’s local expertise and the ease of the ride, making it perfect for first-timers and families alike.
Bottom Line: This tour hits a sweet spot for those wanting a relaxed, informative introduction to Santa Fe’s art, architecture, and history—all with a light bike ride suitable for most ages and abilities.
2. Santa Fe E-Bike Adventure Half-Day Tour
At number two, the Santa Fe E-Bike Adventure Half-Day Tour offers a more energetic, scenic experience through Santa Fe’s outskirts and natural landscapes. Starting at the historic Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, you’re equipped with an e-bike that makes exploring hills and longer distances effortless. Over approximately four hours, you’ll cover a variety of sights, including the Cross of the Martyrs, a historic monument with panoramic views of the city, and the Randall Davey Audubon Center & Sanctuary, a peaceful spot where nature and art intersect.
This tour stands out for its ability to combine city sights with natural beauty. You’ll follow the Santa Fe River Park West, passing through areas that reveal the city’s agricultural past, and visit the vibrant Railyard Arts District, home to galleries, murals, and lively street scenes. The e-bike’s electric assist means you can enjoy the scenery without feeling worn out, making it ideal for active travelers who want to cover more ground than a standard bike allows. Reviews note the expert guidance and emphasize how the comfortable bikes and scenic stops make for a memorable half-day outing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a bit more adventure, this e-bike tour offers scenic views, cultural stops, and a relaxed pace, suitable for most fitness levels but especially appealing to active explorers.
How to Choose
Deciding between these Santa Fe bike tours depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend riding. If you’re after a relaxed, family-friendly introduction to Santa Fe’s art, architecture, and history, the Santa Fe Art and History Small Group Bike Tour offers a gentle ride with insider access to landmarks like La Fonda. It’s a great way to see the city’s highlights without feeling rushed.
For travelers seeking a more active experience that combines city sights with surrounding nature, the Santa Fe E-Bike Adventure Half-Day Tour provides a longer, scenic route that’s easy on physical effort thanks to the e-bikes. Consider this option if you want to explore beyond downtown and enjoy some of Santa Fe’s most beautiful outdoor spaces.
Booking early is advised, especially in peak seasons, to ensure availability. Both tours are tailored to different interests—whether you prefer a leisurely cultural walk or an energetic outdoor ride—so choose the one that best fits your travel style.
Final thoughts
Santa Fe’s bike tour scene offers options that cater to a variety of interests and abilities. For a gentle, culturally rich experience, the Santa Fe Art and History Small Group Bike Tour is a top pick. If you’re up for a longer, scenic adventure with less physical effort thanks to e-bikes, the Santa Fe E-Bike Adventure Half-Day Tour provides a wonderful way to see more of the area.
Both tours feature knowledgeable guides, scenic routes, and the opportunity to learn about Santa Fe’s artistic and historical heritage. For families, history buffs, or active travelers, these options make exploring Santa Fe on two wheels both practical and enjoyable. Be sure to reserve your spot early, especially during popular travel months, and get ready to see Santa Fe from a fresh perspective.