Explore Santa Fe's Old Town & the Museum of Art: Private Tour
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3h
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About this experience
Discover Santa Fe’s rich blend of history, culture, and creativity on this private walking tour, including tickets to the renowned Museum of Art. Begin near Santa Fe Plaza, the city’s historic heart, and explore key landmarks like the Palace of the Governors, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis, and San Miguel Mission—America’s oldest church. Walk through De Vargas Street, visit Loretto Chapel to hear the legend of its “miraculous staircase,” and learn about the city's ties to the secret Manhattan Project. Enjoy vibrant desert views, traditional adobe architecture, and the colorful energy of local markets. Your tour ends at the Museum of Art, where your guide will introduce its history and highlights before you explore independently. With works spanning styles and centuries, this tour offers a perfect introduction to Santa Fe’s unique character—ideal for art lovers and curious travelers alike.
Available options
Explore Santa Fe's Old Town & the Museum of Art: Private Tour
What's included
Entrance to Loretto Chapel
A friendly, professional English-speaking tour guide for your own private group
Plenty of time to take photos of your favourite places
Entrance to the Museum of Art
Detailed itinerary
1
Begin your private tour near Santa Fe Plaza, the historic gathering place and a National Historic Landmark.
2
Admire the Palace of the Governors, the old capitol building built in 1610 with traditional adobe (mudbrick in Spanish).
3
Visit the imposing Cathedral Basilica of St Francis of Assisi, a French Romanesque revival style building dedicated to the city’s patron saint.
4
Stroll along De Vargas Street and see the city’s oldest house, turned small free museum.
5
Visit the San Miguel Mission (If open at the time of the tour) - the oldest church in America dating back to 1610 dedicated to the Archangel Michael.
6
Discover a hidden gem on Palace Avenue and learn all about the top-secret Manhattan Project at the nearby research centre Los Alamos.
7
Learn about the history of New Mexico, and its amalgamation of Spanish, Native American, Mexican and American cultures that influenced its art, culture, and cuisine. Admire the desert views and mountain scenery, soak up the vibrant colours and atmosphere of the city, and end outside the Museum of Art where your guide will give you tickets and tell you all about this famous art gallery, so you can enjoy the museum at your own pace!
What's not included
Gratuities
Transportation
Hotel pickup/drop-off
Food and drink
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Your guide will meet you at the entrance to 'Five & Dime General Store' at 58 E San Francisco St, Santa Fe, NM 87501, United States.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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