Walking tours of Santa Fe get right to the heart of this historic southwestern capital.
The History Walking Tour stands out for its no-nonsense approach to the city’s 400-year story, starting at the Plaza and hitting all essential sites.
Food lovers will find real value in the Food and Culture tour, which combines regional cuisine tastings with smart historical context.
The Architectural tour is especially worthwhile, offering an expert look at Santa Fe’s distinctive adobe style and building methods.
While private tours cost more, they provide flexibility and personal attention for serious history buffs.
For families or groups wanting something more active, the Scavenger Hunt tour keeps everyone engaged with clever clues about the city’s past.
Let’s explore the top walking tours worth your time and money in Santa Fe:
Key Points
-
The Ultimate Santa Fe History Walking Tour offers a comprehensive 3-hour experience covering iconic landmarks with a high recommendation rate of 97%.
-
The Santa Fe Half-Day Food and History Walking Tour provides a moderate-paced journey sampling New Mexican flavors and visiting historical sites.
-
The Santa Fe Architectural Walking Tour explores diverse architectural styles in Santa Fe, including a champagne tasting at Gruet Winery.
-
Private walking tours with local historians offer personalized experiences highlighting Santa Fe’s most beautiful and historic sites.
-
The Santa Fe Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour provides a self-guided, interactive adventure that delves into the city’s rich history and culture.
Ultimate Santa Fe History Walking Tour
Explore Santa Fe’s rich history on the Ultimate Santa Fe History Walking Tour, led by the knowledgeable and engaging guide, Victor Romero.
This 3-hour walking tour takes you through the Santa Fe plaza, including iconic landmarks like the Loretto Chapel and Palace of the Governors.
With a maximum group size of 40, you’ll receive personalized attention and insider stories not found in guidebooks.
The tour is stroller-accessible, and service animals are welcome.
While a moderate fitness level is required, the tour provides tips to help you acclimate to the high altitude.
With a 97% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is a must-do for first-time visitors and those seeking a rundown of Santa Fe’s history and culture.
Read our full review: Ultimate Santa Fe History Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Santa Fe Food and Culture Tasting and Walking Tour
This Taste of Santa Fe Wine and Dine Lunch takes visitors on a captivating 1.5 to 2-mile walking tour that showcases the vibrant food and cultural tapestry of Santa Fe.
Over the course of the tour, participants visit three local eateries, enjoying a variety of New Mexican cuisine, local chocolates, and alcohol pairings.
The knowledgeable guides, such as Peter and Jose, provide insightful commentary on the city’s history and culture, including visits to landmarks like the New Mexico State Capitol and Palace of the Governors.
With a maximum group size of 16 and a minimum of 4 guests, this tour offers a personalized and immersive experience, praised by 95% of travelers.
Read our full review: Santa Fe Food and Culture Tasting and Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Santa Fe Architectural Walking Tour
Travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Santa Fe’s rich architectural heritage will find the Santa Fe Architectural Walking Tour captivating.
Recommended by 97% of visitors, this 3-hour tour guides participants through the city’s diverse styles, from adobe and Victorian to Mission Revival.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour explores residential areas and art districts, culminating in a champagne tasting at the Gruet Winery.
With a minimum age of 21, this moderately paced walking tour is ideal for those interested in history, architecture, and wine.
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a moderate fitness level are recommended.
Read our full review: Santa Fe Architectural Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Santa Fe Half-Day Food and History Walking Tour
The Santa Fe Half-Day Food and History Walking Tour offers an immersive exploration of the city’s vibrant culinary and cultural heritage.
Over the course of a half-day, travelers will sample New Mexican flavors at local eateries, visit iconic landmarks like the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis and Loretto Chapel, and learn about the influences that have shaped Santa Fe’s food scene.
Led by a fun, knowledgeable guide, the tour covers 1.5 miles at a moderate pace, with plenty of stops to savor the experience.
With three food tastings, one wine tasting, and convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off, this tour is a must for food and history enthusiasts visiting Santa Fe.
Read our full review: Santa Fe Half-Day Food and History Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
A Walking Tour of Santa Fes Most Beautiful and Historic Sites
Explore Santa Fe’s most captivating historical sites and architectural gems on this private walking tour. Ideal for first-time visitors and those seeking a deeper exploration, the tour highlights cobblestone streets, colorful alleyways, and the downtown plaza.
Guided by local experts, you’ll gain valuable insights into Santa Fe’s rich history, including its Native American and Pueblo cultures. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
With a 4.5-star rating and a Badge of Excellence, this walking tour offers a personalized and educational experience, starting at $211.50 per person. Confirmed bookings receive meeting point details and easy access to public transportation.
Read our full review: A Walking Tour of Santa Fes Most Beautiful and Historic Sites Review
Book now: Check availability
Santa Fe Historic Downtown Smart Phone Audio App Self Guided GPS Walking Tour
For those seeking a more flexible and budget-friendly option, the Santa Fe Historic Downtown Smart Phone Audio GPS Walking Tour provides an engaging self-guided exploration of the city’s rich history and iconic landmarks.
With a $9.75 per person price tag and no entry tickets required, the tour allows visitors to learn about over 400 years of Santa Fe’s past at their own pace.
While the app’s navigation has received mixed reviews, the majority of users found it easy to use and praised the informative and engaging narration.
With an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5, this self-guided tour offers a convenient and affordable way to discover Santa Fe’s historic downtown.
Read our full review: Santa Fe Historic Downtown Smart Phone Audio App Self Guided GPS Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
85 Railyard Sip, Savor, & History Walking Tour in Santa Fe
Although the Santa Fe Historic Downtown Smart Phone Audio GPS Walking Tour offers a budget-friendly and flexible way to explore the city’s rich history, the Railyard Sip, Savor, & History Walking Tour promises a more immersive and guided experience.
For $135 per person, this 3-hour tour takes small groups of up to 10 through Santa Fe’s Railyard district, offering craft beer, cocktails, and local snacks at popular spots and hidden gems.
The knowledgeable and personable guides share the area’s history and personal stories. Reviewers praise the tour’s informative nature and the guide’s hospitality, making it an excellent introduction to Santa Fe for first-time visitors.
Read our full review: 85 Railyard Sip, Savor, & History Walking Tour in Santa Fe Review
Book now: Check availability
85 Plaza Sip, Savor, History Guided Walking Tour in Santa Fe
The Plaza Sip, Savor, & History Walking Tour in Santa Fe offers a delightful blend of culinary delights and historical insights, providing an immersive experience for visitors.
This 3-hour tour starts at 10:30 am, meeting at 63 Lincoln Ave, and takes guests on a journey through the city’s vibrant plaza. Travelers can savor local cuisine and craft beverages at three stops, while an engaging guide shares stories about Santa Fe’s rich heritage.
Wheelchair-accessible and suitable for moderate fitness levels, the tour earns glowing reviews for its personalized experiences and knowledgeable hosts.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, this walking tour promises an enjoyable and enlightening way to explore the heart of Santa Fe.
Read our full review: 85 Plaza Sip, Savor, History Guided Walking Tour in Santa Fe Review
Book now: Check availability
Our Lady of Guadalupe Walking Tour in Santa Fe
Commencing at the striking Lupita Mural honoring Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, the Our Lady of Guadalupe Walking Tour in Santa Fe immerses participants in the city’s rich religious and cultural heritage.
Led by the extensively knowledgeable and passionate guide Gustavo, the private tour explores the historical and spiritual significance of the Guadalupe devotion through visits to churches, neighborhoods, and contemporary art.
Travelers rave about the tour’s engaging storytelling and ability to connect the artistic, historical, and spiritual elements.
With a 5.0 rating, this immersive experience offers an enriching glimpse into Santa Fe’s cultural identity, making it a must-do for visitors seeking to deepen their connection to the city.
Read our full review: Our Lady of Guadalupe Walking Tour in Santa Fe Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Walking Tour With Local Santa Fe Historian
Enjoy Santa Fe’s rich history on this private walking tour led by local historian Ana Pacheco.
With a perfect 5.0-star rating from 7 reviews, this 2.5-hour experience takes you through the city’s most iconic landmarks.
For $625 per group (up to 5 participants), you’ll explore the Cathedral Basilica, San Miguel Chapel, and more, while learning fascinating insights from your knowledgeable guide.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and your experience includes a complimentary signed book by Ana and bottled water.
Secure your spot with a flexible reservation, and enjoy a personalized exploration of Santa Fe’s captivating past.
Read our full review: Private Walking Tour With Local Santa Fe Historian Review
Book now: Check availability
The Best of Santa Fe Walking Tour
Santa Fe’s “The Best of Santa Fe Walking Tour” offers an engaging exploration of the city’s rich history and cultural landmarks. Priced from $209 per person, this private tour takes visitors on a journey through the heart of Santa Fe, led by knowledgeable guides.
Highlights include the iconic La Fonda on the Plaza and the New Mexico State Capitol, with opportunities to learn about Pueblo history and adobe architecture.
While most travelers can participate, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
With an overall rating of 4.0 from 5 reviews, this tour provides a comprehensive and insightful experience for those seeking to discover the best of Santa Fe.
Read our full review: The Best of Santa Fe Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Santa Fe Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game
For those looking to explore Santa Fe’s landmarks and hidden gems in an engaging, interactive way, the Santa Fe Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game provides an exciting opportunity.
Offered by Scavenger Hunt Walking Tours, this private tour allows participants to embark on a self-guided adventure, accessible through a smartphone. Along the way, they’ll encounter a series of thought-provoking challenges that bring the city’s history and culture to life.
Priced from $24.50 per person, the tour is flexible in duration and available daily, making it a convenient option for visitors.
With wheelchair accessibility and the ability to accommodate service animals, this scavenger hunt tour ensures an inclusive experience for all.
Read our full review: Santa Fe Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game Review
Book now: Check availability
Break Down
Santa Fe offers a variety of walking tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. Whether you’re interested in food, history, or sightseeing, there’s a tour to suit your interests. With so many options, you’re sure to find the perfect way to experience the best of Santa Fe on foot.