Taos is a town that embraces its artistic spirit, wild west roots, and Native American heritage, making it a perfect place for engaging walking tours. Unlike many tourist traps, Taos offers authentic experiences woven into its streets, galleries, and historic sites. Whether you’re interested in local art workshops, learning about famous figures like Kit Carson, or exploring the red light district, each tour provides a different flavor of Taos’ unique character. These walks are a fantastic way to connect with the town’s soul, all while stretching your legs and soaking in the scenery at a comfortable pace.
If you’re trying to decide which tour fits your interests and schedule, this guide will help. We’ve selected three of the best walking tours based on reviews, content, and what makes each one stand out. Whether you prefer a deep dive into the art scene, a quick historic stroll, or a personalized experience with a storyteller, you’ll find options that suit your travel style.
Quick Overview
This list features three standout walking tours in Taos:
- The Taos Artisan Walking Tour + Chocolate offers a three-hour deep dive into local art workshops, galleries, and a sweet treat at a chocolate boutique. []
- The Taos Walking Tour is a brisk 1.5-hour stroll through downtown, focusing on Taos’ historic figures and murals. []
- The Taos Private Walking Tours provide a customizable experience led by a storyteller, exploring key cultural sites at your own pace. []
1. Taos Artisan Walking Tour + Chocolate
Rated 5.0 out of 5 by 46 reviews, this tour is perfect if you want a comprehensive art-focused experience combined with local tastes. For around $125, you’ll spend about three hours exploring Taos’ lesser-known workshops, galleries, and artisan studios. Your guide takes you beyond the big-name galleries to find hidden workshops tucked into the quirky backstreets, giving you a true sense of what fuels Taos’ reputation as an artist hub.
What makes this tour special is the focus on local artisans, including a visit to the Couse-Sharp Historic Site and Blumenschein Home & Museum, where you’ll learn about early Taos painters. A highlight is meeting Rich Nichlos at Ernest Blumenschein’s studio and seeing the WPA frescoes in Taos Plaza. The tour culminates at Tres Estrellas Design for a weaving demonstration on native textiles, inspired by the region’s traditional patterns. Finish with a tasting at a small-batch chocolate boutique, which delights the senses and adds a sweet ending to your art walk.
This tour is ideal for those wanting a deep culture, with plenty of opportunities to chat with artisans and learn about Taos’ creative roots. Reviewers love the insider access and the combination of art, history, and local flavors. One said, “The chocolate was to die for,” adding a tasty touch to a rich cultural experience.
Bottom Line: If you enjoy art, craftsmanship, and a leisurely exploration with a sweet treat, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable journey into Taos’ artistic spirit.
2. Taos Walking Tour
This 1.5-hour tour is the perfect choice for travelers wanting a quick yet insightful glimpse into Taos’ past. Priced at $50 per person, it covers about half a mile through the historic downtown Taos, focusing on famous figures and murals. The guide leads you through the Taos Plaza, sharing stories about Kit Carson, Padre Martinez, and other local legends.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on public art and murals, including WPA-painted frescoes that symbolize justice and community. You’ll also visit the John Dunn Shops, learning about the outlaw Long John Dunn, adding a dash of Old West flair. The tour includes a visit to the Michael Gorman Gallery, honoring Carl Gorman, one of the original Navajo Code Talkers. It’s a compact but rich experience suitable for history buffs and art lovers alike.
Guests consistently praise the guide, with comments like “Sam’s stories made history come alive,” and “a great way to see the town’s key points in a short time.” This tour is a great option for travelers with limited time or those who want a guided overview before exploring on their own.
Bottom Line: For an efficient and engaging introduction to Taos’ cultural and artistic landmarks, this tour hits all the marks with personable guides and fascinating stories.
3. Taos Private Walking Tours
For those who prefer a more personalized experience, the Taos Private Walking Tours led by storyteller Sam Richardson are a top pick. At around $40 per person, you get about 90 minutes of an intimate, flexible tour customized to your interests. This tour offers a personal narrative covering cultural icons like Padre Martinez and Kit Carson, as well as the wild west Red Light District.
The highlight is the ability to ask questions freely and explore sites most relevant to your curiosity. Sam’s background as a writer, artist, and storyteller means he can share vivid stories about Taos’ vivid past and present. Stops include Taos Plaza, the R.C. Gorman Navajo Gallery, and the Red Light District, each with its own vivid tales. Reviews mention that “Sam’s stories and humor made history fun,” and “You get a behind-the-scenes look you couldn’t find alone.”
This tour is best suited for travelers who prefer a relaxed, conversation-driven experience and want to explore at their own pace. It’s also flexible enough for small groups or solo travelers wanting a tailored journey.
Bottom Line: If you crave a customized, storytelling walk with an insider’s perspective, this tour offers a deep, personal connection to Taos’ culture and history.
How to Choose the Perfect Walking Tour
When selecting your ideal walking tour in Taos, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you’re passionate about art and craftsmanship, the Taos Artisan Walking Tour + Chocolate provides a comprehensive and tasty experience. For a quick but rich historical overview, the Taos Walking Tour offers a focused introduction. Those wanting a more personal and flexible experience should look into the Taos Private Walking Tours.
Consider the duration: if time is limited, the 1.5-hour options are perfect. For those wanting more depth, the 3-hour artisan experience is worth the investment. Also, think about whether you prefer guided storytelling or a self-guided exploration with the option for personalized questions.
Booking early is advised, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot on your preferred tour. Many guides are highly rated and tend to fill up fast.
Final Thoughts
Taos offers a variety of walking tours that reveal its artistic, historic, and cultural layers. For a deep dive into Taos’ art scene and local flavors, the Taos Artisan Walking Tour + Chocolate stands out. If you’re looking for a quick historical overview, the Taos Walking Tour won’t disappoint. And for those who want a tailored experience with a storyteller, the Taos Private Walking Tours are excellent.
Whatever your interests, early booking is recommended to ensure you get the experience best suited to your travel style. These tours are a wonderful way to genuinely connect with Taos’ character and charm on foot.