Santa Fe , United States

Santa Fe Revisited

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(407 reviews)

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About this experience

Only historical tour of its kind by a true local and bona fide historian. Ana Pacheco's family settled in Santa Fe in 1692 and she was the City Historian of Santa Fe (2015 - 2017). Pacheco is the author of eight books: Legendary Locals of Santa Fe, The History of Spirituality in Santa Fe, Pueblos of New Mexico, Early New Mexico Death Rituals, Los Comidas Cookbook, Saints & Seasons, Early Santa Fe, J. Paul Taylor: The Man from Mesilla.

Information on the tour includes: Santa Fe Opera, Route 66, 109 E. Palace & the Manhattan Project, Pueblos of New Mexico History, Loretto Chapel, San Miguel Mission, Canyon Road & Santa Fe as an Art Mecca, Sunmount Sanatorium, Santuario de Guadalupe, Masonic Scottish Rite Temple, Spirituality in Santa Fe & Cross of the Martyrs, Japanese Internment Camp, History of the Civil War in New Mexico. Billy the Kid's story begins in Santa Fe.

Available options

Santa Fe Revisited

What's included

Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

La Conquistadora the oldest Madonna in the United States. The Santa Fe Plaza, Loretto Chapel, the San Miguel Mission church, the oldest in the country. History of Art and Architecture in Santa Fe. An overview of four hundred years of Native American, Spanish, Mexican and American history in Santa Fe, the oldest capitol city in the United States

The military checkpoint for the Manhattan Project during WWII.

Oldest government building in the U.S. plus the History of New Mexico's 19 Indian Pueblos.

History of the only U.S. government building designed as a Native American symbol.

Stop 5

Loretto Chapel was built in 1878 by Archbishop Lamy to accompany the Sisters of Light Loretto Academy. The Gothic-Revival chapel was inspired by Saint Chapelle in Paris, which was built by architect Antoine Mouly, who did the restoration of chapel that was patterned for King Louis IX in Paris. Legend has it that the 360-degree staircase built in the chapel between 1877 and 1881 had no visible means of support. Today, it is known as the Miraculous Staircase that St. Joseph the Carpenter had built. The Chapel was closed in 1968 and deconsecrated by the Catholic Church and is now run a privately owned museum.

Burro Alley is a small street connecting Palace Avenue and San Francisco Street. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, vendors who sold salt from the Galisteo Salt Basin and firewood from surrounding mountains would tie up their burros there to rest. While the animals recuperated, the vendors would frequent the local saloons and brothels. The gambling hall that was run by María Gertrudis Barceló, known as Doña Tules, was at the corner near Palace Avenue.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

191 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

216 reviews

5★

210

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

In front of the Basilica Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi

About Santa Fe

Santa Fe is the capital of New Mexico and is renowned for its Pueblo-style architecture, vibrant arts scene, and rich history. The city's unique blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo cultures creates a distinctive cultural landscape that appeals to history buffs, art enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.

Top Attractions

Santa Fe Plaza

The heart of Santa Fe, this historic plaza is surrounded by shops, galleries, and restaurants. It's a central gathering place and the site of many festivals and events.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Free

Loretto Chapel

Famous for its miraculous staircase, this chapel is a must-see for its unique architecture and religious significance.

Historical/Religious 30 minutes Small donation

Georgia O'Keeffe Museum

Dedicated to the works of Georgia O'Keeffe, this museum offers a deep dive into the life and art of one of America's most celebrated painters.

Museum/Art 1-2 hours $20 (adults), $10 (students), Free (children under 17)

Bandelier National Monument

This ancient pueblo site offers a glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people. Visitors can explore cliff dwellings and petroglyphs.

Historical/Nature Half day $20 per vehicle

Canyon Road

A scenic and historic street lined with art galleries, boutique shops, and restaurants. It's a great place to experience Santa Fe's vibrant arts scene.

Art/Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore

Must-Try Local Dishes

Green Chile Stew

A hearty stew made with pork, potatoes, and green chiles, a staple of New Mexican cuisine.

Dinner Contains meat, can be made vegetarian

Blue Corn Enchiladas

Enchiladas made with blue corn tortillas, filled with cheese or meat, and topped with a red or green chile sauce.

Dinner Contains dairy, can be made vegetarian or vegan

Posole

A traditional soup made with hominy, pork, and red chile sauce, often served with toppings like lettuce, cheese, and sour cream.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat, can be made vegetarian

Biscochitos

A traditional New Mexican cookie flavored with anise and cinnamon, often served with coffee or tea.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Skiing Rafting Spa treatments Yoga classes Scenic drives Wine tasting

Best Time to Visit

September to October

The fall season offers pleasant weather, beautiful fall foliage, and fewer tourists compared to the summer. It's ideal for outdoor activities and cultural events.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Mountain Time Zone (GMT-7)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Santa Fe is generally a safe city for visitors, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services.

Getting there

By air

Santa Fe Municipal Airport • 10 miles (16 km) from downtown
Albuquerque International Sunport • 65 miles (105 km) from downtown

By train

Santa Fe Depot

By bus

Santa Fe Depot

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and convenient for getting around the city. Buses are equipped with bike racks.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Railyard District Historic Eastside South Capitol

Day trips

Taos

75 miles (120 km) north of Santa Fe • Full day

A charming town with a rich history and vibrant arts scene, offering a mix of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo cultures.

Bandelier National Monument

22 miles (35 km) north of Santa Fe • Half day

An ancient pueblo site offering a glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people, with cliff dwellings and petroglyphs.

Chimayo

30 miles (48 km) north of Santa Fe • Half day

A small town known for its historic church, El Santuario de Chimayo, and its traditional weaving traditions.

Festivals

Santa Fe Indian Market • Second weekend of August Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta • Late September Santa Fe Fiesta • Labor Day weekend

Pro tips

Visit the Santa Fe Farmers' Market for fresh produce, local crafts, and a taste of the city's local culture.
Explore the historic adobe architecture and vibrant arts scene in the Railyard District and on Canyon Road.
Take a day trip to Bandelier National Monument to explore ancient pueblo sites and learn about the Ancestral Pueblo people.
Try local foods and beverages, such as green chile stew, blue corn enchiladas, and biscochitos.
Attend a cultural event or festival, such as the Santa Fe Indian Market or the Santa Fe Opera, for a unique and memorable experience.