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Planning a trip to Santa Fe and wondering what’s worth your time? You’re in the right place!
We’ve explored the best of this city, diving into its rich history, vibrant art scene, and incredible food culture. Santa Fe isn’t just another stop on the map—it’s a destination that surprises at every turn.
From hidden courtyards to bustling markets, we’ve uncovered some of the must-do experiences this city has to offer. Whether you’re looking to soak in the culture, enjoy the outdoors, or indulge in top-notch cuisine, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip. Let’s get into the best things to do in Santa Fe!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Santa Fe was this history walking tour. It was the perfect combo of iconic landmarks and hidden gems most visitors miss. Our guide was a true pro and we think this is perfect for anyone visiting Santa Fe!
- Don't Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Santa Fe, New Mexico
- 1. Find hidden gems on an e-bike adventure
- 2. Discover the authentic side of Santa Fe on a history walking tour
- 3. Taste your way around Santa Fe
- 4. Have a gourmet brunch with local New Mexico ingredients
- 5. Take a beginner-friendly abstract painting class
- 6. Learn about Santa Fe’s art culture and visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
- Where to Stay in Santa Fe, New Mexico
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the USA
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Santa Fe, New Mexico
1. Find hidden gems on an e-bike adventure
- Duration: 3.5 hours
- Time: 8:30 am, 10 am, and 2 pm (dates vary)
- Highlights: Explore Santa Fe, learn fun facts and historical trivia from an energetic guide, great for families
- Inclusions: Guide, e-bike rental, bike helmet, bike trunk bag, small group tour
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 200 +reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Riding an e-bike through Santa Fe was an exciting way to explore beyond the plaza without feeling fatigued in the city’s high-altitude climate. This small-group tour took us from quiet parks to lively art districts, all while soaking in Santa Fe’s unique history and culture.
We started at the Cross of the Martyrs, where city views stretched toward the Jemez Mountains. Then, we cruised through the Randall Davey Audubon Center, a peaceful escape once used as a sawmill, now filled with trees, wildlife, and fresh mountain air.
Next was Santa Fe River Park, where the Rio Grande flowed quietly beside us, making the ride almost meditative. Then we reached the Railyard District, bursting with murals, buzzing cafes, and old warehouses turned art spaces. Santa Fe’s creative heartbeat is alive here!
Our favorite stop was Frenchy’s Field Park, home to a handcrafted adobe labyrinth. This hidden gem had an earthy, peaceful feel that made us pause and take it all in.
Our guide, Lezlie, kept the ride engaging by pointing out hidden details in Santa Fe’s architecture and sharing stories that made the city’s history come alive. Her passion and energy turned every stop into a fun little adventure.
This tour was a perfect way to see a side of Santa Fe most visitors miss. From quiet nature spots to lively art districts, every stop felt like a discovery. If you want a fun and unique way to explore the city, don’t miss this tour!
Book this e-bike tour here and see Santa Fe like never before!
2. Discover the authentic side of Santa Fe on a history walking tour
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 9 am
- Highlights: Learn about Santa Fe’s one-of-a-kind history and culture from a local, get insider tips on where to eat, drink, and explore
- Inclusions: Guided tour, all fees and taxes
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 400+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This walking tour through the heart of the city was our favorite experience in Santa Fe! It felt like stepping into a history museum as we explored iconic landmarks and hidden corners most visitors miss.
We started at the Palace of the Governors, the oldest public building in the U.S. We couldn’t believe it had been standing since the early 1600s! The thick adobe walls seemed to hold centuries of stories.
From there, we wandered through Burro Alley, a district with a quirky past. It was once a busy path for burro caravans and later a gathering spot for gamblers and troublemakers.
Barrio de Analco, one of the oldest European settlements in North America, gave us a glimpse into Santa Fe’s early days. Standing in front of the Loretto Chapel, we listened to the story of its miraculous staircase, then stepped into San Miguel Chapel, the oldest church in the country.
Our guide, Victor, was the man! His knowledge of Santa Fe’s history and culture was next-level—I swear he could be on Jeopardy! The way he brought the past to life with humor and fascinating details made this tour unforgettable.
We loved how this tour packed so much history into a few hours, from centuries-old adobe buildings to hidden alleys with stories we never would have known. But don’t just take our word for it—check out the great reviews here and see why it’s the best way to dive into Santa Fe’s past!
Secure your spot on our favorite tour today with FREE cancellation!
3. Taste your way around Santa Fe
- Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours
- Time: 10:45 am (dates vary)
- Highlights: Taste the highlights of Santa Fe during this food-themed walking tour, enjoy enough samples to add up to a generous meal (plus drinks), see landmarks like the San Miguel Chapel and the Palace of the Governors.
- Inclusions: All food, drinks, and dessert, guide, gratuity for your servers, small group tour
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 390+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: No
- Price: Check price here!
Exploring Santa Fe’s history is even better when you can taste it along the way! This small-group food tour combined city sightseeing with generous tastings of local food and drinks, making it the perfect introduction to New Mexican flavors.
With plenty of stops and a lively guide leading the way, we got to experience Santa Fe’s rich culture one bite at a time.
We started in the heart of the city at Santa Fe Plaza, where we learned about its history before strolling past landmarks like the Palace of the Governors, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, and the Loretto Chapel. As we walked, our guide, Peter, shared fascinating stories about the city’s food, people, and architecture, keeping things fun and engaging.
Of course, the real highlight was the food! We sampled local favorite dishes packed with bold, smoky flavors, each stop offering something deliciously different. From spicy New Mexican chiles to rich and flavorful tamales, every bite was a new discovery.
With about 1.5 miles/2.4 kilometers of walking, this tour was a fantastic way to work up an appetite and enjoy Santa Fe like a local. Delicious food, great company, and an incredible guide—this is one experience you don’t want to miss!
Book this top-rated food tour now and taste the best of Santa Fe in every bite!
4. Have a gourmet brunch with local New Mexico ingredients
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: 11 am
- Highlights: Enjoy a gourmet meal prepared by a professional chef duo, avoid a long wait for brunch and guarantee your table, special touches include freshly cut flowers and artistic tableware
- Inclusions: Professional chef, table in the garden (May-Oct only), 3-course chef’s choice brunch menu, small group tour
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Dining options in Santa Fe can seem endless, so why not remove the guesswork and start your day with something special? This small-group brunch was a celebration of Santa Fe’s bold flavors, crafted with the freshest locally-sourced ingredients.
From the moment we arrived, it was clear this was no ordinary meal. The attention to detail was impeccable, from the elegant presentation to the warm hospitality. Chef Carolina, a Le Cordon Bleu-trained culinary master, served everything homemade—even the butter and jam.
The meal was served in a lush garden full of blooming flowers and stunning greenery. With fresh-cut arrangements and artistic tableware, the setting felt like something out of a storybook.
We started with fresh bread, homemade jams, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola, each bursting with flavor. Every detail, down to the hint of lavender in the granola, was exquisite. Then came the main course, which changes daily. Ours was a vibrant Mexican brunch with perfectly spiced meats and handmade tortillas—a dish worthy of a five-star restaurant!
Just when we thought it couldn’t get better, dessert! Every bite was rich, made with fresh strawberries, and mouthwateringly good.
This was hands down the best food experience of our entire trip! Every bite was packed with flavor, every dish was crafted with care, and the setting made it feel like we were dining in a secret garden. A meal like this isn’t just something you eat – it’s something you remember!
This gourmet brunch sells out fast—reserve your spot now so you don’t miss out!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
5. Take a beginner-friendly abstract painting class
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: Between 9 am and 1:30 pm (Confirm time before your experience)
- Highlights: Learn how to paint abstractly, no experience needed, experiment with unique acrylic techniques, customize your painting, take home a finished canvas
- Inclusions: Paint, brushes, canvases, aprons
- Rating: 5 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Santa Fe is known as a hotspot for artists, and there’s no better way to tap into that creative energy than with this private abstract painting class. Whether you’re a complete beginner or someone looking to refine your skills, this experience makes painting approachable, fun, and completely stress-free.
We started with a walk down Canyon Road, soaking in the inspiration from Santa Fe’s famous galleries and vibrant art scene. By the time we arrived at the studio, creativity was already flowing.
Our instructor, Andrea, wasn’t just talented—she made painting feel effortless and exciting. She walked us through her step-by-step method, breaking it down in a way that made every brushstroke feel natural. With her guidance, we created stunning textures and effects, turning blank canvases into something we were truly proud of.
What made this experience even better was how personal it felt. Andrea tailored the workshop to our group, encouraging us to experiment and find our own artistic style while guiding us with her expertise. By the end, we had each created a one-of-a-kind piece to take home—a truly special souvenir from Santa Fe!
This is the kind of experience that stays with you long after the paint dries. Read the glowing 5-star reviews here, and see why this workshop is a must for anyone looking to get creative in Santa Fe!
Don’t miss out—grab a spot in this top-rated painting class here!
6. Learn about Santa Fe’s art culture and visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 8:30 am, 9 am, 9:30 am, 1 pm (not available Tuesday and Wednesday)
- Highlights: Learn about Santa Fe’s multicultural history and modern art scene on this private tour, visit highlights like the Palace of the Governors and central plaza, explore the work of Georgia O’Keeffe
- Inclusions: Private guide, Georgia O’Keeffe museum ticket, time to take photos of your favorite places
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
With so much to see, knowing where to start in Santa Fe can be tough. This private walking tour made it effortless, blending history, architecture, and art into one incredible experience. We strolled adobe-lined streets, explored Santa Fe’s multicultural roots, and finished at the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum—all at a relaxed pace.
We began in Santa Fe Plaza, where history surrounded us. Standing among centuries-old adobe buildings, we heard stories of Spanish, Native American, and Mexican influences, from ancient trade routes to modern vendors selling turquoise jewelry.
From there, we admired the Palace of the Governors, a historic adobe landmark since 1610. As we wandered through the streets, we saw Santa Fe’s oldest adobe home, stumbled upon a hidden drop-off point used during the Manhattan Project, and soaked in the vibrant energy that makes this city unique.
The final stop was the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum—a highlight for any art lover! After hearing stories about her life and influence, we wandered through the exhibits, admiring her bold, vibrant interpretations of the landscape.
Our guide, Lorraine, made the tour even better. She kept things engaging, answered all our questions, and made sure we didn’t miss any details. She was truly passionate about sharing the city’s culture.
This tour gave us a deeper appreciation for Santa Fe, blending history, culture, and art into one memorable experience. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning to explore more, this private tour is the best way to connect with the city’s rich heritage.
Check out all the incredible stops and reserve your private Santa Fe tour here!
Where to Stay in Santa Fe, New Mexico
Now that you’ve planned your New Mexico adventure, it’s time to find the perfect place to stay! Whether you’re immersing yourself in Santa Fe’s rich history, exploring the stunning landscapes, or indulging in the local food scene, where you stay can make all the difference.
To help you out, I’ve rounded up the best hotel options in Santa Fe for every budget!
Luxury – $$$
Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi is a fantastic choice for an upscale stay in the heart of Santa Fe! This boutique hotel blends Southwestern charm with modern elegance, offering beautifully designed rooms featuring handcrafted furnishings, fireplaces, and luxurious bathrooms. Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant serving regional cuisine, a cozy library lounge, and a prime location just steps from Santa Fe Plaza and historic landmarks.
Room rates vary by season and suite, typically ranging from $600—$1000 USD per night. Check availability and book your stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
For a cozy and authentic stay in Santa Fe, Las Palomas is a fantastic mid-range option. Located just a short walk from the historic Plaza, this charming hotel blends Southwestern style with modern comforts. Guests can enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast each morning, free WiFi, and an on-site fitness center. Some accommodations even feature private patios and full kitchens for those who prefer to cook their own meals!
Prices typically range from $250—$350 USD per night. Check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For an affordable stay in the heart of Santa Fe, El Sendero Inn is a solid choice. This budget-friendly hotel sits in a prime location near the historic Plaza, making it easy to explore the city’s top attractions on foot. Rooms are simple but comfortable, and guests have access to an outdoor swimming pool and on-site parking (both a rarity in downtown Santa Fe!). It’s a great option for travelers who want a convenient and budget-conscious place to stay!
Rooms start as low as $140 USD per night. Visit Booking.com to check availability and book!
For more options, see all of Santa Fe’s hotels listed here!
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
I hope our guide to Santa Fe has you excited for your time here! Whether you’re wandering through centuries-old streets or sampling authentic New Mexican flavors, there’s a lot to discover in this city. We really enjoyed our last visit and it was fun reliving it to put together this blog!
If you’re planning more travels around the U.S., check out our blogs on America here or I’ve picked out a few below that you might like!
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