The top 5 Santa Fe Tours

Santa Fe is a city begging to be explored, with centuries of history etched into its adobe walls, world-class art down hidden alleyways, and a unique cultural blend around every corner. While wandering solo has its charms, joining a guided tour is often the best way to unlock the secrets of the City Different, ensuring you don't miss hidden gems or fascinating stories. But with options ranging from breezy trolley rides and in-depth historical walks to delicious food adventures and spooky ghost hunts, choosing the right tour can seem daunting. This Santa Fe Insiders guide highlights some of the top-rated and most popular city tours to help you find the perfect match for experiencing Santa Fe's magic.

1. Loretto Line Historic Trolley Tours:

   • Why it's popular: This is a classic Santa Fe experience. The open-air trolleys (weather permitting) offer a great overview of the city's main historic sites, architecture, and history in about 75 minutes. It's less strenuous than walking and covers more ground quickly. They provide narrated tours highlighting key landmarks like the Plaza, Loretto Chapel, Canyon Road, and more.
   • Good for: First-time visitors, those with limited mobility, getting a general orientation.

2. Santa Fe Walks (Various Companies):

   • Why it's popular: Several companies offer excellent walking tours focusing on different themes. These allow for a more intimate exploration of the historic downtown area. Popular themes include:
     • Historic Plaza/Downtown: Covering the main historical sites, architecture, and stories around the central Plaza. (e.g., Santa Fe Discovery Walking Tours, Wander New Mexico)
     • Canyon Road Art Walk: Focusing specifically on the famous art galleries, history, and artist studios along Canyon Road. (e.g., Santa Fe Art Tours)
     • Ghost Tours: Exploring the spooky legends, haunted locations, and darker history of Santa Fe, usually offered in the evening. (e.g., The Original Santa Fe Ghost Tour, Historic Walks of Santa Fe)
   • Good for: Deeper dives into specific interests (history, art, ghosts), those who enjoy walking and exploring details up close.

3. Santa Fe Food Tours:

   • Why it's popular: These tours combine sightseeing with tasting the unique culinary flavors of Santa Fe. Participants typically walk to several restaurants or specialty food shops to sample signature dishes, often focusing on New Mexican cuisine. (e.g., Santa Fe School of Cooking's Restaurant Walking Tours, Wander New Mexico Food Tours)
   • Good for: Foodies, experiencing local cuisine efficiently, combining history/culture with eating.

4. Private Tours:

   • Why it's popular: For those wanting a customized experience, private tours (walking or driving) can be tailored to specific interests, pace, and schedule. Many guides offer specialized knowledge in areas like history, art, culture, or photography. (Operators vary, often independent guides or smaller companies).
   • Good for: Visitors with very specific interests, families or groups wanting flexibility, those seeking a premium, personalized experience.

5. E-Bike Tours:

   • Why it's popular: A newer option that allows visitors to cover more ground than walking but still access areas trolleys might not. E-bikes make navigating Santa Fe's hills easier. Tours often combine historic sites with scenic views. (e.g., Heritage Inspirations)
   • Good for: Active visitors, covering more distance than walking, enjoying the outdoors.

Here at Santa Fe Insiders we have many tours we recommend. Click on the button below and check them out.