walking tour santa fe self guided

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Santa Fe Walking Tour: Self-Guided

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Welcome to the santa fe walking tour.

Embark on a captivating journey through Santa Fe with this self-guided walking tour. Start at the historic San Miguel Chapel, the oldest church in the U.S., then wander to the enchanting Loretto Chapel, known for its miraculous spiral staircase. The past comes alive in the Santa Fe Plaza and at the soaring Cross of the Martyrs, offering unparalleled views of Santa Fe. As you wind through the city’s old Spanish streets, you’ll relive the dramatic events of the Pueblo Revolt which forever changed this unique capital.

About the Tour

This self-guided walking tour of Santa Fe offers a deep dive into the city’s rich history and culture, spanning centuries from the Spanish colonial era to the present United States period.

Your journey begins at the San Miguel Chapel, the oldest church in the U.S., where you’ll uncover stories of its past. Next, marvel at the architectural wonder of the Loretto Chapel and its legendary Miracle Staircase. Stroll down E Water St, delving into the tales of Spanish settlers, and stop by the magnificent Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi.

Along the way, you’ll learn about Po’pay and his daring revolt against the Spanish. Hear about the warriors who besieged the Palace of the Governors and find out what happened after the dust finally cleared. Along the way, you’ll stroll through the bustling Santa Fe Plaza, which still looks much like it did during the days of Spanish rule!

Indulge in a delightful detour to chocolate + cashmere in downtown Santa Fe—a building which harbors a secret history you’ll never guess!

Finally, you’ll head toward Fort Marcy Park and hear how New Mexico ultimately became property of the United States. You’ll ascend to the Cross of the Martyrs, offering sweeping views of this mountain capital’s gorgeous downtown. Your tour concludes here.

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Where To Start?

For Best Experience, We recommend Starting From: New Mexico Capitol Art Collection, 415 Don Gaspar Ave, Santa Fe

How Does It Work?

• Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
• Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
• To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
• The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
• Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.

What You'll See

Your tour begins outside the New Mexico Capitol Art Collection building.

San Miguel Chapel

Dating back to 1610, San Miguel Chapel is the oldest church in the United States, surviving despite attempts to destroy it.

Loretto Chapel

Known for its "miraculous stair," Loretto Chapel boasts a unique architectural marvel and a story of divine intervention.

Franciscan Friction

Tensions between Spanish missionaries and Puebloan tribes escalated as traditional practices were suppressed, leading to resistance and conflict.

Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi

Built on the site of an earlier church, the cathedral witnessed a tragic episode of witchcraft accusations and executions.

Po’pay’s Revenge

Po’pay orchestrates a rebellion against Spanish rule, uniting Puebloan tribes and planning a coordinated uprising in 1680.

Santa Fe Trail End Marker

The Santa Fe Trail's end marker symbolizes the city's importance as a historic trade hub and a destination for traders and travelers.

Santa Fe Plaza

Santa Fe Plaza, a historic center since the city's founding, became the scene of chaos as Spanish settlers fled Puebloan retaliation in 1680.

Palace of the Governors

The historic administrative center of Santa Fe since 1610, the Palace of the Governors witnessed a dramatic siege during Po’pay’s rebellion.

Chocolate + Cashmere’s

Amidst World War II, a mysterious figure arrives at 109 East Palace Avenue, leaving a legacy that contrasts with the city's tumultuous past.

Po’pay’s Story Ends

Po’pay’s successful rebellion against the Spanish is marred by internal divisions and struggles to address drought, leading to the decline of his leadership.

Otermín Tries Again

Governor Otermín's failed reconquest attempt and subsequent retreat highlight the challenges of reclaiming Spanish control over New Mexico.

Diego de Vargas

Diego de Vargas offers Puebloans clemency in exchange for Spanish rule, but his harsh suppression of dissent leads to further conflict and bloodshed.

Historic Fort Marcy

Fort Marcy Park, once a strategic military outpost, overlooks Santa Fe and serves as a reminder of the city's tumultuous history.

Cross of the Martyrs

The Cross of the Martyrs memorializes those who perished in the Pueblo Revolt of 1680, offering a panoramic view of Santa Fe as a tribute to their sacrifice.

This brings us to the end of our tour.

Preview The Tour

  what is the santa fe self-guided walking tour.

The Santa Fe self-guided walking tour is a DIY exploration of the historic city of Santa Fe, New Mexico, allowing you to discover its rich culture, history, and architecture on foot.

  How long does the self-guided walking tour of Santa Fe typically take?

The duration of the tour can vary depending on your pace and the number of stops you choose to make, but it usually takes around 2 to 4 hours to cover the main sights.

  Are there specific points of interest or attractions included on the tour?

Yes, the tour often includes landmarks such as the Santa Fe Plaza, Loretto Chapel, San Miguel Mission, Palace of the Governors, and Canyon Road, among others.

  What is the best time of day to start a self-guided walking tour of Santa Fe?

Mornings are typically a great time to start the tour when the weather is cooler and attractions are less crowded. However, the city is charming to explore at any time of day.

  Are there any admission fees for the attractions included in the self-guided walking tour?

Many outdoor attractions on the tour are free to visit, but some indoor museums and cultural sites may have admission fees.

  Can I customize the self-guided walking tour to fit my interests and pace?

Absolutely! The beauty of a self-guided tour is that you can tailor it to your preferences, choosing the sights and attractions that interest you the most.

  What makes Santa Fe a unique destination for travelers?

Top attractions include the historic Plaza, the Palace of the Governors, Canyon Road art galleries, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, and the Loretto Chapel with its mysterious staircase.

  Are there any scenic outdoor areas near Santa Fe for exploration?

Yes, nearby attractions like the Santa Fe National Forest, Bandelier National Monument, and Tent Rocks National Monument offer stunning landscapes.

  What culinary experiences should visitors not miss in Santa Fe?

Don’t miss sampling New Mexican cuisine, including green and red Chile dishes, sopapillas, and traditional Native American fare like fry bread.

  Are there any historical sites or landmarks to explore in Santa Fe?

Yes, visitors can explore historic sites such as the San Miguel Mission, the oldest church in the United States, and the Santa Fe Opera, known for its stunning outdoor performances.

  Is it safe to walk around Santa Fe at night?

Yes, Santa Fe is generally safe for pedestrians, especially in well-lit and populated areas like the downtown Plaza. Although, it’s always wise to exercise caution in your surroundings.

  Are there any special events or festivals happening in Santa Fe during my visit?

Check the Santa Fe events calendar for special events, festivals, and cultural celebrations happening during your visit, such as the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta or the International Folk Art Market.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Nearby tours.

New Mexico Tours Bundle: Self-Guided Drive and Walk

$ 46.97 $ 29.99 / Person save 36%

Carlsbad Caverns Self Guided Tour (Walking)

$ 16.99 / Person

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New Mexico , North America , Western US & Canada · June 17, 2019

First Time Guide to Old Town Santa Fe

Santa Fe is the second oldest city in the United States. As you stroll through the downtown historic district you’ll discover an Old World charm. You’ll be quickly drawn in with the Pueblo-style architecture, vibrant colors, towering steeples of ancient churches, and the aroma of Native American-infused cuisine.

It’s no wonder Travel+Leisure voted Santa Fe as one of the top 15 cities to visit in the US in 2018. It also happens to be one of the most photogenic cities in the US.

Santa Fe is an intimate walkable city. With so many sites to see within a small radius. In order to make the most of your time in Santa Fe, we’ve put together a self-guided walking tour .

(You can also download Santa Fe’s Wayfinder App for more helpful guides.)

Historic Old Town Santa Fe Walking Tour

Table of Contents

Santa fe plaza, the palace of the governors, cathedral park and st francis basilica, loretto chapel, oldest house museum, san miguel chapel, canyon road.

Start your tour at the Santa Fe Plaza. This public square is a national historic landmark. Centered at the heart of Santa Fe, this was and still is, the central gathering place of the town.

The Plaza is a lively square with tourists milling about and music from local musicians filling the air.

The square is lined with markets, museums, and restaurants. The old streets also fan out from this point, making it the perfect starting point.

The Palace of the Governors is located just north of the Plaza. This building was constructed in 1610 and is considered to be the oldest government building in the US.

It has since been turned into a museum that chronicles the history of New Mexico. Entrance to the museum is $12, kids 16 and under are free.

For the past 60 years, Native American vendors have been gathering under the awning of the Governor’s building to sell their work.

Each of the handcrafted goods has a stamp of authenticity. It is the best place to purchase genuine Native American merchandise directly from the artisans who crafted them.

However, if you’re looking for cheaper souvenirs for kids, the Original Trading Post located west of the Plaza will be your best bet.

From the Palace of the Governors, head east along Palace Street. You’ll walk under a colorful portal and pass The Shed . This 17th-century house turned restaurant is widely known for its flavorful local cuisine.

Tucked away through a small alley, guests will enjoy an intimate dining experience on the beautiful patio.

The smothered blue corn enchiladas are their specialty. They also have a generous kid’s menu that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Cafe Pasqual’s is another popular dining choice in the area. It came highly recommended for serving up local organic dishes with only the freshest ingredients.

Just past The Shed, you’ll see the manicured lawns of Cathedral Park.

This city park plays an important role in the history of Santa Fe. Several plaques can be found along the park detailing the history.

Cathedral Park is also the home of St Francis Basilica, arguably the most beautiful cathedral in Santa Fe.

It is free to enter this active church and admire the exquisite architecture and details.

Religion has been a vital part of the city since its origins. I loved the opportunity to expose my kids to the regional culture, history, and religion. It really was one of my favorite things to do in Santa Fe with kids.

However, the crowning jewel can be found in the chapel of La Conquistadora to the back right. Here you’ll find on display the oldest statue of the Virgin Mary in the western hemisphere.

You’ll also see the altar screen from the old parish church that once stood on this spot, along with other historical religious relics.

Loretto Chapel is located southwest of Cathedral Park. Not only is the chapel stunning, but it is also the site of a legendary miracle.

Legend has it that when the Sisters needed a solution for reaching the choir loft from the chapel, they sought divine intervention.

On the ninth day of prayer and petition to St Joseph, the Patron Saint of Builders and Carpenters, a mysterious carpenter showed up at the church.

He arrived with only a few basic tools and worked behind closed doors. When he was finished he disappeared without payment, leaving behind this beautiful and mysterious floating staircase.

Referred to as the “Helix to Heaven”, the original staircase had no railings. With no obvious means of support, many were baffled by its construction.

Whether you believe the legend or not, it is still a beautiful and fascinating place to visit. Admission to the chapel is $7/adults and $3/kids.

An audio recording broadcasting from speakers retells the story, although it can be hard to hear.

You might also want to consider booking a guided walking tour of the city.

This tour is considered one of the best tours in Santa Fe as it is led by a local historian that will delve deep into the history of many of Santa Fe’s landmarks, such as the Loretto Chapel.

Head south along the Old Santa Fe trail for a few blocks and you’ll come to the Oldest House Museum.

You’ll see what remains of an ancient adobe structure claiming to be the oldest house in the US.

The home was built on the foundation of an ancient Indian Pueblo that dates back to around 1200 CE. It is believed that construction on the home began around 1646 AD when the Spaniards took over.

The home has undergone renovations, but there is a portion of the original home that can be toured free of charge. The home features crudely constructed thick adobe walls, ceiling beams, and low doorways.

Your kids will be fascinated to see household items on display that would have been used during that time period.

There is also a gift shop attached to the home. They sell arrowheads for $1.50 which makes for a great inexpensive souvenir.

And if you’re traveling with kids, they might enjoy a Scavenger Hunt around Santa Fe where they can explore the city and complete different tasks.

The San Miguel Chapel is located right next to the Oldest House Museum. Coincidentally, this happens to be the oldest church in the US.

It is believed that the original chapel was constructed around 1610. It has undergone significant renovations over the past 400 years, but parts of the original structure still remain.

As you walk into the chapel you’ll notice a large bell. Gently tap the bell with the mallet and it is believed that all who hear the beautiful echo will one day return to Santa Fe.

Whether that is true or not, my kids loved having permission to ring the bell!

As you walk up to the alter you can also view portions of the original floor and alter displayed under plexiglass.

Admission to the chapel is $2 per person.

Canyon Road is located about 3/4 mile east of San Miguel Chapel. It is about a 15-minute walk, but we chose to drive.

This area of Santa Fe is a mecca for artists. The street is lined with galleries and shops from both local and world-renowned artists.

What drew us to the area was the beautiful old adobe homes that can be found tucked away on the narrow side streets.

You can also book a private Canyon Road Art Tour that is led by an art historian. They will take you to the best galleries and give you tips on what to purchase while sharing the history of the area.

There are so many other hidden gems to discover in Santa Fe, hopefully, this guide will be a great starting point!

And if you’re visiting Santa Fe with kids, be sure to check out our guide 5 Awesome Things to do in Santa Fe with Kids !

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About Jamie

Family travel expert and content creator who has been inpsiring millions with her travel guides since 2018.

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October 18, 2019 at 11:13 pm

Actually, no modern carpenters are baffled by the staircase in the Loretto. A quick search of “how the miraculous staircase it’s supported” will clear this up. It’s privately owned and the owners benefit greatly from keeping this myth alive.

October 23, 2019 at 4:08 am

Very interesting, thanks for sharing!

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Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour of Historic Santa Fe

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Santa Fe's Historic Gems, A Self-Guided Walking Tour

Action Tour Guide

Experience the best the Land of Enchantment has to offer with this walking tour through historic Santa Fe, bursting with old Spanish architecture, Native history, and so much more.

Loretto Chapel

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Start by downloading the Action Tour Guide app, which will function as your personal tour guide, audio tour, and map. This self-guided walking tour of Santa Fe offers a deep dive into the city's rich history and culture, spanning centuries from the Spanish colonial era to the present United States period. Your journey begins at the San Miguel Chapel, the oldest church in the U.S., where you'll uncover stories of its past. Next, marvel at the architectural wonder of the Loretto Chapel and its legendary Miracle Staircase. Stroll down E Water St, delving into the tales of Spanish settlers, and stop by the magnificent Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi. Along the way, you’ll learn about Po'pay and his daring revolt against the Spanish. Hear about the warriors who besieged the Palace of the Governors and find out what happened after the dust finally cleared. Along the way, you’ll stroll through the bustling Santa Fe Plaza, which still looks much like it did during the days of Spanish rule! Indulge in a delightful detour to chocolate + cashmere in downtown Santa Fe—a building which harbors a secret history you’ll never guess! Finally, you’ll head toward Fort Marcy Park and hear how New Mexico ultimately became property of the United States. You’ll ascend to the Cross of the Martyrs, offering sweeping views of this mountain capital’s gorgeous downtown. Your tour concludes here.

Free cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Reserve now & pay later

Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.

Valid 365 days

Check availability to see starting times.

Audio guide included

About this experience

What to do in loretto chapel.

OTHER EXPERIENCE

Santa Fe, Historic Downtown Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour

Santa Fe New Mexico

Recommended

GUIDED TOUR

Downtown Plaza "Sip and Savor" Half-day Food Tour

Santa Fe Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game

WATER ACTIVITY

Santa Fe, Canyon Road Arts District Walking Tour

PRIVATE TOUR

Santa Fe Family Treasures, A Historical Adventure

Santa Fe, City Highlights Guided Walking Tour for Seniors

Santa Fe Scavenger Hunt

Hotels in santa-fe-new-mexico.

Fox Hollow Inn

Martonys Zen Garden

San Francisco

Coyote Bluff Estate

Aldrich Guest House

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Santa Fe Historic Downtown Smart Phone Audio App Self Guided GPS Walking Tour

Set out on a journey through Santa Fe’s history with the Santa Fe Historic Downtown Smart Phone Audio App Self-Guided GPS Walking Tour. As the saying goes, ‘The past is a foreign country.’

Imagine wandering the cobbled streets, guided by the whispers of the past through your smartphone. The immersive experience offers a modern twist to exploring centuries-old tales and hidden gems .

But what we love about this tour? Stay tuned to uncover how this innovative blend of technology and tradition reshapes your perception of Santa Fe’s vibrant downtown.

• Explore Santa Fe Plaza and downtown’s 400-year history at your own pace.
• GPS-enabled tour with narrator’s voice for enriched historical insights.
• Flexibility to start at San Miguel Chapel and end at Santa Fe Plaza.
• User-friendly smartphone app providing a comprehensive self-guided experience.

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• New Mexican Flavors Food Tour of the Santa Fe Plaza
• Ultimate Santa Fe History Walking Tour
• Santa Fe Half-Day Food and History Walking Tour (Mar )
• Santa Fe Revisited

Tour Overview

Set out on a captivating journey through Santa Fe’s historic downtown as you explore the city’s rich heritage and architectural gems on a GPS-enabled walking tour accessible through a smartphone app.

Discover the allure of historical landmarks such as the San Miguel Chapel and the Santa Fe Plaza while engaging with interactive technology that brings the past to life.

As you follow the path of the Santa Fe Trail, the narrator’s voice will enrich your experience with fascinating details about the area’s 400-year history.

This well-paced tour offers flexibility , allowing you to explore attractions at your own pace and learn about the vibrant tapestry of Santa Fe’s past.

User Experience Feedback

Upon exploring the User Experience Feedback for the Santa Fe Historic Downtown Walking Tour, numerous visitors have shared their insights and critiques on the tour’s interactive smartphone app and historical narration.

App download :

• Some users found the download process time-consuming.
• Variability in signal strength affected download speed .

Narration quality :

• Criticism of excessive music over historical information.
• Voice narration positively enhanced the tour experience for most visitors.

Pricing and Support Details

For those interested in the Santa Fe Historic Downtown Walking Tour, pricing details and support information are readily available to ensure a seamless and enriching experience. The tour, operated by Viator , Inc. since 1997 , is priced at $7.75.

Users can access the tour through a smartphone audio app, utilizing GPS for a self-guided experience. The product code for this tour is 222222P42, with terms and conditions in place. Should users require assistance, Viator offers support through their Help Center.

This comprehensive tour of Santa Fe’s historic downtown provides visitors with a wealth of information and insights into the area’s rich history. With customer support available and pricing details transparently presented, embarking on this tour promises a rewarding journey through Santa Fe’s past and present.

Host’s Responses and Tips

Users seeking further insights into the Santa Fe Historic Downtown Walking Tour can find valuable responses and tips from the tour host, shedding light on common queries and enhancing the overall tour experience. The host’s responses include:

Signal Strength : Acknowledges the impact of signal strength on download speed .

Download Early: Suggests downloading the tour in advance to prevent delays.

Audio Duration: Clarifies that the tour’s audio content spans over an hour.

Tour Popularity: Mentions the tour’s popularity among thousands of visitors.

Tour Logistics and Highlights

Set out on a captivating journey through Santa Fe’s historic downtown as you learn about a 400-year-old legacy with the aid of a GPS-enabled walking tour accessible via a smartphone app.

The tour boasts impressive GPS accuracy , ensuring you never miss a beat as you explore the rich historical landmarks dotting the city. From the iconic Santa Fe Plaza to the historic San Miguel Chapel, the tour guides you seamlessly through key points of interest.

Engage with fascinating facts and anecdotes along the way, enhancing your understanding of Santa Fe’s vibrant past. With a well-structured itinerary and informative narration, this experience offers a perfect blend of exploration and education for those seeking to explore the heart of Santa Fe’s history.

Recommendations and Final Thoughts

Enjoy the captivating blend of historical insights and self-paced exploration offered by the Santa Fe Historic Downtown Walking Tour with Smart Phone Audio App as you uncover the vibrant tapestry of Santa Fe’s past.

Flexibility: Enjoy the freedom to explore attractions at your own pace.

User Satisfaction : Visitors appreciate the informative narration and historical insights.

Download Process: Some users found it time-consuming, suggesting early downloads to prevent delays.

Recommendation: Despite minor challenges, most reviewers recommend the tour for its ease of use and wealth of information learned about Santa Fe.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Small-Group E-Bike Adventure Tour Through Hidden Santa Fe
• 2-Hour Photography Class While Touring Downtown Santa Fe, Smart Phones Welcome!

Common questions

How Long Does the Santa Fe Historic Downtown Smart Phone Audio App Self Guided GPS Walking Tour Typically Take to Complete?

The Santa Fe Historic Downtown Smart Phone Audio App Self Guided GPS Walking Tour typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. The best time to embark on this journey is during the day to fully appreciate landmark surprises .

Are There Any Specific Landmarks or Attractions Along the Tour Route That Are Not Mentioned in the Highlights Section?

Some hidden gems along the tour route include lesser-known historical sites and unique architecture that hold rich local legends and hidden history . Explorers can uncover fascinating tales and intricate details beyond the main highlights.

Can Visitors With Limited Mobility or Accessibility Needs Still Enjoy and Participate in This Self-Guided Walking Tour?

Visitors with limited mobility or accessibility needs can still enjoy the tour. Accessibility options and inclusive experiences are available, including mobility assistance and adapted routes . This ensures that all participants can fully engage in the self-guided walking tour.

Is There a Recommended Time of Day to Take the Tour for the Best Experience, Considering Factors Like Crowds or Weather?

For the best experience, visitors should aim for early mornings or late afternoons to avoid peak crowd times and harsh weather conditions. This timing allows for a more enjoyable and comfortable self-guided tour experience.

Are There Any Optional Add-Ons or Upgrades Available for the Tour, Such as Additional Guided Tours or Exclusive Access to Certain Sites?

When exploring the Santa Fe tour, users can enhance their experience with optional upgrades like exclusive access or additional guided tours. These add-ons provide deeper insights and unique perspectives, enriching the overall journey.

Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• 2 Hour Pottery Experience (Wheel or Hand-Building)
• A Walking Tour of Santa Fes Most Beautiful and Historic Sites
• The Best of Santa Fe & The Georgia OKeeffe Museum: Private Tour
• Viator Exclusive: Alfresco Gourmet Brunch in Santa Fe With a Chef
• Santa Fe Haunted Spirits Tour
• Wander New Mexico Food Tour – Railyard Arts District
• Adventurers Ready To Jump Into the Void Santa Fe Style Wanted
• 2-Hour Sunset Serenade by Train
• Canyon Road Arts District Tour
• Santa Fe Food and Culture Tasting and Walking Tour (Mar )
• Santa Fe Architectural Walking Tour

Experience the magic of Santa Fe’s historic downtown with the Santa Fe Historic Downtown Smart Phone Audio App Self-Guided GPS Walking Tour.

This innovative tour seamlessly combines technology with tradition, offering a captivating journey through the city’s iconic landmarks.

With a narrator guiding your exploration, you’ll uncover hidden gems and centuries-old stories that bring Santa Fe’s rich history to life.

Don’t miss out on this immersive and unforgettable experience in one of America’s most charming cities.

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THE 10 BEST Santa Fe Walking Tours

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1. Santa Fe Revisited

2. New Mexican Flavors Food Tour of the Santa Fe Plaza

3. Railyard Sip, Savor, & History Walking Tour in Santa Fe

4. Savor Santa Fe: Wine Pairing Dinner

5. Santa Fe Deep Dive History Walking Tour

6. Wander New Mexico Food Tour - Railyard Arts District

7. The Best of Santa Fe & The Georgia O'Keeffe Museum: Private Tour

8. Canyon Road Arts District Tour

9. 2-Hour Photography Class While Touring Downtown Santa Fe, Smart Phones Welcome!

10. Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour of Historic Santa Fe

11. Santa Fe Art and History Small Group Bike Tour

12. Downtown Santa Fe Walking Wine & Tapas Tour

13. Santa Fe Architectural Walking Tour

14. Private Canyon Road Arts District Tour

15. Welcome to Santa Fe: Private 2.5 hr Introductory Walking Tour

16. Explore Santa Fe's Old Town & the Museum of Art: Private Tour

17. Private Walking Tour with Local Santa Fe Historian

18. Photo Creative Workshops-Half-Day to Chimayo

19. Santa Fe Haunted Spirits Tour

20. Taste of Santa Fe Wine and Dine Lunch

21. Our Lady of Guadalupe Walking Tour in Santa Fe

22. A Walking Tour of Santa Fe's Most Beautiful and Historic Sites

23. Enchanted Eats of Santa Fe Half-Day Tour

24. Santa Fe Farmers Market & Railyard Food Tour

25. The best of Santa Fe walking tour

26. Santa Fe E-Bike Adventure Half-Day Tour

27. Santa Fe Puzzling Adventure

28. Golden Years in Santa Fe: A Senior’s Cultural Journey

29. Santa Fe’s Romantic Whispers: A Love-Filled Journey

30. Santa Fe Family Treasures: A Historical Adventure

What travelers are saying.

• Santa Fe Historic Downtown Smart Phone Audio App Self Guided GPS Walking Tour
• Ultimate Santa Fe History Walking Tour
• Santa Fe Revisited
• Railyard Sip, Savor, & History Walking Tour in Santa Fe
• New Mexican Flavors Food Tour of the Santa Fe Plaza
• Wander New Mexico
• Santa Fe Art Tours
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Walking Tour 1 in Santa Fe

The Plaza Area

Start: The plaza.

Finish: Loretto Chapel.

Time: 1 to 5 hours, depending on the length of visits to the museums and churches.

Best Times: Any morning before the afternoon heat, but after the Native American traders have spread out their wares.

1. The Plaza

This square offers a look at Santa Fe's everyday life as well as many types of architecture, ranging from the Pueblo-style Palace of the Governors to the Territorial-style row of shops and restaurants on its west side.

Facing the plaza on its north side is the:

2. Palace of the Governors

Today the flagship of the New Mexico State Museum system, the Palace of the Governors has functioned continually as a public building since it was erected in 1610 as the capitol of Nuevo Mexico. Every day, Native American artisans spread out their crafts for sale beneath its portal.

Take a Break -- Even though you're only two stops into this walking tour, you might want to fortify your strength for the rest of the walk. I recommend the carnitas (grilled meat and chile in a tortilla) or tamales from the street vendor on the plaza.

If you stopped at Lincoln and Palace avenues for a carnita, you're now in front of the:

3. Museum of Fine Arts

Located at 107 W. Palace Ave., this museum holds works by Georgia O'Keeffe and other famed 20th-century Taos and Santa Fe artists. The building is a fine example of pueblo revival-style architecture, and it's home to the renowned St. Francis Auditorium.

Virtually across the street is the:

4. Delgado House

This Victorian mansion (at 124 W. Palace Ave.) is an excellent example of local adobe construction, modified by late-19th-century architectural detail. It was built in 1890 by Felipe B. Delgado, a merchant most known for his business of running mule and ox freight trains over the Santa Fe Trail to Independence and the Camino Real to Chihuahua. The home remained in the Delgado family until 1970. It now belongs to the Historic Santa Fe Foundation.

If you continue west on Palace Avenue, you'll come to LewAllen Contemporary, where you'll find an array of paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and work in other media that may make you stop and ponder.

Nearby, you'll see a narrow lane -- Burro Alley -- jutting south toward San Francisco Street, with an interesting burro sculpture.

Head back to Palace Avenue, make your way north on Grant Avenue, and turn left on Johnson Street to the:

5. Georgia O'Keeffe Museum

Opened in 1997, this museum houses the largest collection of O'Keeffe works in the world. The 13,000-square-foot space is the only museum in the United States dedicated solely to one internationally known woman's work. You might also want to stop at the O'Keeffe Café for a creative lunch or dinner.

Head back to Grant Avenue, and continue north to 136 Griffin St., where you'll find the:

6. Oliver P. Hovey House

Constructed between 1857 and 1859 in Territorial style, this adobe (located at 136 Griffin St.) is unique because it is actually painted brick. It's not surprising that a flamboyant man like Hovey would go to the trouble to dress up a home in such a fancy style (red brick was a rare commodity in this outpost town back then), but such stunts might be what made people call him the Great Lord Hovey, when he was no lord at all.

Across the street (135 Griffin St.) is the:

7. Bergere House

Built around 1870, this house (135 Grant Ave.) hosted U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant and his wife Julia during their 1880 visit to Santa Fe.

Proceed north on Grant and turn right on Marcy. On the north side of the street is the city's new convention center.

Three blocks farther east on Marcy, through an office and restaurant district, turn left on Washington Ave. Walk a short distance to 227-237 Washington Ave., where you'll see the:

8. Padre de Gallegos House

This house was built in 1857 in the Territorial style. Padre de Gallegos was a priest who, in the eyes of newly arrived Archbishop Jean-Baptiste Lamy, kept too high a social profile and was therefore defrocked in 1852. Gallegos later represented the territory in Congress and eventually became the federal superintendent of Native American affairs.

Reverse course and turn south again on Washington Avenue, passing en route the public library.

Take a Break -- This is a good time to stop for refreshments at Anasazi Restaurant at the Inn of the Anasazi (113 Washington Ave.; tel. 505/988-3030 ); during the summer, you'll find a variety of drinks served on the veranda, and in the winter, the atmospheric bar inside can be quite cozy.

Leaving the Anasazi, you'll notice the entrance to the Palace of the Governors Museum Shop, across the street, a good place to purchase quality regional memorabilia. As you approach the plaza, turn left (east) on Palace Avenue. A short distance farther on your left, at 113 E. Palace Ave., is:

9. Prince Plaza

A former governor's home, this Territorial-style structure, which now houses the Shed (a great lunch or dinner spot), had huge wooden gates to keep out tribal attacks.

Next door is:

10. Sena Plaza

This city landmark offers a quiet respite from the busy streets, with its parklike patio. La Casa Sena restaurant (a great place to stop for lunch or dinner) is the primary occupant of what was once the 31-room Sena family adobe hacienda, built in 1831. The Territorial legislature met in the upper rooms of the hacienda in the 1890s.

Turn right (south) on Cathedral Place to no. 108, which is the:

11. Institute of American Indian Arts Museum

Here you'll find the most comprehensive collection of contemporary Native American art in the world.

Across the street, step through the doors of the:

12. St. Francis Cathedral

Built in Romanesque style between 1869 and 1886 by Archbishop Lamy, this is Santa Fe's grandest religious edifice. It has a famous 17th-century wooden Madonna known as Our Lady of Peace .

After leaving the cathedral, walk around the backside of the illustrious La Fonda Hotel -- south on Cathedral Place and west on Water Street -- to the intersection of the Old Santa Fe Trail. Here, in the northwest corner of the Hotel Loretto, you'll find the:

13. Loretto Chapel

This chapel is more formally known as the Chapel of Our Lady of Light. Lamy was also behind the construction of this chapel, built for the Sisters of Loretto. It is remarkable for its spiral staircase, which has no central or other visible support.

Take a Break -- By now you may be tired and hungry. I recommend heading straight back to the plaza to a small store called Five and Dime General Store (58 E. San Franciso St.; tel. 505/992-1800 ), where F. W. Woolworth's, the now-defunct, legendary five-and-dime store, once stood. Like Woolworth's, the store serves a cherished local delicacy called Frito pie: a bag of Fritos smothered in chile con carne, served in a plastic bag with a spoon and a napkin.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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Historic Tours

In a city famous for spirited creativity, it's only natural to find an amazing range of creative tours. Knowledgeable, fun and friendly guides can enhance your experience of Santa Fe and its surroundings. Take a guided walking tour and discover Santa Fe's compelling history, treasured art and architecture and even some spine-tingling ghost stories. If you'd rather ride, take a tram for a driving tour that covers similar ground. We’ll take good care of you once you get here; after all, we appreciate our renown as the cultural hotspot of the Southwest. And that means lots of locals make their living by welcoming with open arms and minds full of fascinating facts the visitors who want to enjoy our historic city. Why not leave the selections, explanations, and driving to us?

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