Route 66 Driving Tour, The Mother Road Revealed

Santa Fe , United States

Route 66 Driving Tour, The Mother Road Revealed

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About this experience

Tour ran by 12th Generation New Mexican and tour company Vigilante Guides.

Explore the heart of Route 66 on this immersive tour led by local experts Owner Jerard Vigil and lead guide Willie Lambert, who has dedicated over 22 years to uncovering the hidden treasures of the iconic highway. Travel in comfort as you visit forgotten landmarks, historic churches, and breathtaking vistas. Enjoy an included lunch at Pecos National Historic Monument, where you can walk through ancient history dating back 12,000 years. This all-day adventure from 9am to 4pm is perfect for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike, offering hands-on experiences and stories that breathe life into this legendary road.

- Immerse yourself in the authentic history of Route 66 with a local guide
- Discover hidden gems and original Route 66 relics along the way
- Enjoy an included lunch at Pecos National Historic Monument
- Experience a full day of exploration with multiple stops for hands-on interaction

Available options

Route 66 Driving Tour, The Mother Road Revealed

What's included

Guests will be contacted directly by us to place a box lunch order of their choice for the trip.

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Since this is a Route 66 tour of the original Route 66, many of the places we see and ride along are not on any map. That's why this is such an authentic tour because guests are going to be able to ride along the original Route 66 that many people don't even know exists. We go alongside the current I-25 where we cross under over 10 times weaving our way finding hidden fragments and alignments of the original Route 66 pre 1937. Some places we will stop and get off the van, but none of these are located on any map.

Here we will stop and get off the van to see a Veterans Memorial called AL's Place which is also what we refer to as the Gettysburg of the West. Guests will have the choice to see where the original Route 66 came through which is now covered by grass and weeds. We will talk about the battle of Apache Canyon and show them some areas of the road that continue to melt.

Here we will see parts and fragments of the original Route 66 along with where the battle of Glorieta pass took place.

We will be stopping for lunch at Pecos National Park where guests will have the option to walk the park led by lead guide, shop at the visitors center, and enjoy a box lunch that they will choose before the trip. Guests will be able to enjoy the park at their leisure taking photos and taking in the ruins of the Pecos Pueblo people who lived there from 800AD to early 1800s.

Here we will go through a really old town that was once a booming community with the arrival of the railroad. Now slowly dying. However we will get off the van and see the original Route 66 and Truss Bridge where guests can walk on and take amazing photos of the Pecos River.

Towards the end of the trip we will go through another old community that again was once a booming town. Here we will see another bridge no longer in use. This was 1 of 3 bridges and guests will be able to see first hand the various alignments and how the Route has changed over time.

What's not included

Gratuity is not included

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We will pickup outside of La Fonda on E. San Francisco St.

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.