Santa Fe’s reputation as a city steeped in history, vibrant art, and compelling architecture makes it a standout destination for those interested in learning about the Southwest’s past. Unlike many tourist spots that rely solely on guidebooks, Santa Fe offers guided tours that bring the stories behind its adobe walls and historic landmarks to life. Whether you’re interested in walking through the downtown area, exploring art districts, or cycling past key sites, Santa Fe’s tours give you a deeper understanding of its unique cultural fabric. For a rundown, consider the Santa Fe Ultimate History Walking Tour, which is a great way to start your journey into Santa Fe’s past.
From museums and historic churches to art districts and culinary stops, these tours highlight the city’s diverse offerings. Many tours focus on specific themes, like art on Canyon Road or the city’s early European settlements, giving you options tailored to your interests. The wide range of walking, biking, private, and food-and-drink tours means you can find an experience that fits your schedule and style.
Quick Overview
Our list of the best Historical Tours in Santa Fe covers a variety of experiences. You’ll find comprehensive walking tours that introduce you to the city’s main landmarks, such as the Santa Fe Ultimate History Walking Tour, and art-focused explorations like the Canyon Road Art & History Walking Tour. For those wanting to combine history with food, the Plaza Sip, Savor, & History Walking Tour offers tastings at local eateries. Bike lovers can opt for the Santa Fe Art and History Small Group Bike Tour, which covers more ground with less effort. And if private, curated experiences appeal to you, then the Canyon Road Art & History Private Tour offers a personalized look at Santa Fe’s art scene.
For a more immersive experience, consider the Discover Santa Fe: Driving Journey, which combines scenic views with local stories and cuisine. Lastly, a wine and tapas tour provides a relaxed way to soak in Santa Fe’s flavors and history in just a few hours. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each, helping you decide which tour best suits your interests.
1. Santa Fe Ultimate History Walking Tour
At number 1 on our list, the Santa Fe Ultimate History Walking Tour stands out for its comprehensive approach to Santa Fe’s story. This 3-hour walking adventure takes you through the Santa Fe Plaza, passing iconic landmarks like the Palace of the Governors, the oldest public building in the U.S., and the Loretto Chapel with its miraculous staircase. The tour explores not just the obvious sights but also some offbeat spots like Barrio de Analco, the oldest European settlement in North America.
What makes this tour special is its local guide, who shares stories not found in guidebooks, adding depth and personality to the experience. Guests praise the guide’s humor and knowledge, making the time fly by. For $130, you get an engaging introduction to Santa Fe’s architecture, culture, and history, along with insider tips on eating, drinking, and exploring. The tour is especially good for first-timers or anyone wanting a solid foundation before diving deeper into Santa Fe’s many attractions.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a thorough, well-organized introduction to Santa Fe’s core historical sites and local lore.
2. Santa Fe: Canyon Road Art & History Walking Tour
Number 2 offers the Canyon Road Art & History Walking Tour, a fantastic choice for art lovers who also want a taste of Santa Fe’s past. This 2-hour tour covers the street famous for over 80 galleries and studios, giving you a curated walk through Santa Fe’s vibrant art scene. Your guide, an art historian, will point out the nuances of the works, introduce you to local artists, and explain how Canyon Road became a hub for contemporary and historic art.
This tour’s intimate size—limited to just 10 participants—ensures personalized attention. Reviewers highlight the guide’s wealth of knowledge and engaging presentation, with many noting how they gained a new appreciation for Santa Fe’s artistic heritage. Visiting multiple galleries in a short period allows you to see a broad spectrum of styles, from outdoor sculptures to traditional paintings, and even meet artists along the way.
Value: For $70, you gain a deep appreciation for Santa Fe’s art scene with expert insights. It’s ideal for art aficionados or travelers who prefer a small-group experience.
Bottom line: A concise, art-focused tour perfect for those who want to understand Santa Fe’s artistic identity while exploring Canyon Road’s galleries.
3. Plaza Sip, Savor, & History Walking Tour in Santa Fe
Number 3 combines history, food, and drink into a 3.5-hour experience for around $90. The Plaza Sip, Savor, & History Walking Tour takes you through Santa Fe’s historic downtown, with stops at the Santa Fe Plaza, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, and three local eateries. Each stop offers a tasting—ranging from craft beer and wood-fired pizza to cocktails and local specialties—while your guide shares stories about Santa Fe’s cultural evolution.
This tour is tailored for foodies who want a relaxed, tastings-focused journey through Santa Fe’s history. Guests appreciate the small-group setting, which allows for conversation and questions. The tour’s highlight is the combination of cultural storytelling with culinary delights, making it a great way to experience the city in a social, flavorful way.
Practicality: All food and drinks are included, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the surroundings. Reviewers commend the guide’s ability to blend history with food without rushing.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those who appreciate local cuisine and want to learn Santa Fe’s story through its flavors.
4. Santa Fe Art and History Small Group Bike Tour
The Santa Fe Art and History Small Group Bike Tour hits the mark for travelers who enjoy active exploration. This 2-hour ride showcases Santa Fe’s art, architecture, and panoramic landscapes from the seat of a comfortable bicycle. Starting at the Santa Fe Railyards, the tour includes a guided walk inside La Fonda on the Plaza, a historic Pueblo Deco hotel with stories about Fred Harvey and the Harvey Girls.
What makes this tour unique is its ability to cover more ground than walking, with easy routes suitable for all skill levels. Guests rave about the knowledgeable and friendly guide, Valen, who shares insights about Santa Fe’s culture and history while biking past key sites, including Canyon Road. Reviewers mention that biking allows for more to see in less time and provides a fun, light exercise option.
Value: At $125 for two hours, it’s a great way to combine sightseeing, light activity, and education. Plus, it’s family-friendly and accessible.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers who want a mix of history, art, and a bit of health-conscious fun.
5. Santa Fe: Canyon Road Art & History Walking Tour (Private Tour)
Number 5 offers a private, tailored experience of Santa Fe’s famous art district. The Canyon Road Art & History Private Tour is ideal if you prefer a custom itinerary. Over roughly 2 hours, a knowledgeable guide takes you through four or five galleries, including a stop at El Zaguan, a historic site with stunning architecture.
What sets this apart is the personalized approach—your guide can adapt to your specific interests, whether focusing on contemporary art or historic paintings. Reviewers appreciate the guide’s extensive art background and personable style, which makes the experience engaging and educational. This tour is perfect for art connoisseurs or those wanting a deeper dive into Santa Fe’s artistic roots.
Cost: For $138 per person, this private tour offers flexibility and a focused experience. It’s well worth the extra investment if you prefer exclusivity and tailored insights.
Bottom line: A top choice for art lovers who want a private, curated tour that fits their interests perfectly.
6. A Walking Tour of Santa Fe’s Most Beautiful and Historic Sites
Number 6 combines architecture, history, and culture on a 2-hour private walk. For $227.57 per person, you’ll explore key sites like La Fonda, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis, and Sena Plaza, with a guide sharing stories about Santa Fe’s past and present. The tour emphasizes the city’s architecture styles, Native influences, and stories from its early days.
Guests highlight how their guide’s detailed knowledge of buildings and local history made the walking experience rich and engaging. The personalized approach ensures you see what interests you most, making it suitable for families or groups looking for a flexible, educational outing.
Practical: This tour excels at providing a broad overview in a relatively short period, making it good for a quick but meaningful immersion.
Bottom line: A great option if you want a tailored, comprehensive look at Santa Fe’s most iconic and beautiful sites.
7. Discover Santa Fe: Driving Journey- History, Culture, and Cuisine
Number 7 delivers a luxury private experience for 3 to 4 hours, ideal for travelers who like to sit back and enjoy the scenery. The Discover Santa Fe: Driving Journey is led by a local guide who is also a 12th-generation New Mexican, offering insider stories and tastings. This tour includes stops at the Cathedral, the Cross of the Martyrs, and the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, along with a delicious included lunch.
What makes this tour special is its combination of sightseeing, storytelling, and cuisine. The luxury vehicle allows you to comfortably see areas that might be harder to access on foot or bike. Guests love the personalized service and the depth of local knowledge provided.
Best suited for: Travelers wanting a comprehensive, relaxed introduction that includes cultural insights and cuisine, especially if mobility is an issue.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those seeking comfort, expert storytelling, and a full-day overview.
8. Downtown Santa Fe Walking Wine, History, & Tapas Tour
Rounding out the list, the Downtown Santa Fe Walking Wine, History, & Tapas Tour combines history and relaxation. For about 3 hours, you’ll visit three local venues—Gruet Winery, Hervé Wine Bar, and VARA Santa Fe—sampling wines and Spanish wines, with tapas included at each stop.
This tour is perfect for wine lovers who want to explore Santa Fe’s local beverage culture while learning about the city’s history. Reviewers mention the fun, inclusive environment and the knowledgeable guide, Gerard Vigil. The tour is best for adults who enjoy tasting and a casual pace.
Considerations: With a price of $234, it’s on the higher end, but the included tastings and intimate setting add value. Note that the tour has fewer reviews but consistently positive feedback.
Bottom line: Ideal for wine enthusiasts and those seeking a leisurely, educational evening in Santa Fe.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a historical tour in Santa Fe, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. For a comprehensive introduction to Santa Fe’s landmarks, the Santa Fe Ultimate History Walking Tour offers excellent value. If art is your passion, the Canyon Road Art & History Walking Tour or the private Canyon Road Art & History Private Tour give you tailored insight into Santa Fe’s artistic heart.
Food and local flavors come alive on the Plaza Sip, Savor, & History Walking Tour, which pairs history with culinary treats. For active travelers, the Bike Tour combines sightseeing with enjoyable exercise, while those seeking comfort and comprehensive coverage may prefer the Discover Santa Fe Driving Journey.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours during peak seasons. Think about your interests—art, history, food, or a mix—and choose a tour that fits your style and schedule.
To sum it up, Santa Fe offers a variety of well-curated tours that bring its history, art, and culture vividly to life. Whether you prefer exploring on foot, by bike, or from the comfort of a vehicle, there’s an experience suited to your interests. For first-time visitors eager to understand the city’s roots, the Santa Fe Ultimate History Walking Tour is hard to beat. Art lovers should consider the Canyon Road Gallery Tour, while foodies will enjoy the flavors and stories of the Plaza Sip, Savor, & History. Whichever you pick, early reservation ensures a spot in these memorable excursions.