Round adobe New Mexico State Capitol building and blooming trees on a private Santa Fe walking tour

Best of Old & New Santa Fe

Explore New Mexico’s State Capitol and Santa Fe’s Historic Heart

A PRIVATE SANTA FE WALKING TOUR

Best of Old & New Santa Fe is a private walking tour in Santa Fe that blends history, art, culture and a statehouse visit in one relaxed two-hour experience. Beginning at the New Mexico State Capitol, you’ll explore its remarkable public art collection and discover the Native American and American symbolism reflected in its distinctive circular design.

From the Capitol to the historic Santa Fe Plaza, we connect centuries-old landmarks with the vibrant spirit of today’s Santa Fe — giving you a rich, well-rounded introduction to the city named #1 Best City in the USA.

If you’d like to see the city’s most meaningful landmarks — and understand why they matter — this tour brings it all together in one engaging walk.

Tour Details

Tour Name: Best of Old & New Santa Fe

Tour Type: Private Highlights Walking Tour

Location: Santa Fe – Historic Downtown

Duration: 2 hours

Distance: About ½ mile

Group Size: Private tour

Price: $129 per person (2-person minimum)

Starting Point: New Mexico State Capitol
Ending Point: Santa Fe Plaza
Scheduling: You choose the day and time when you book

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What You’ll Experience

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

On this private walking tour, you will:

Tour the “Roundhouse” -- our distinctive State Capitol building -- and its remarkable art collection, including the popular “Buffalo” sculpture.
Learn the deeper meaning behind the Capitol’s unique design, inspired by Native traditions and American Territorial themes.
Visit 12 key sights in Santa Fe’s Historic Downtown.
Walk part of the historic Santa Fe Trail route toward the Santa Fe Plaza.
Visit important landmarks including San Miguel Chapel (the oldest church in the USA), Loretto Chapel, the Santa Fe Plaza, and more.
Walk at a comfortable pace tailored to you.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

First-time visitors who want a well-rounded introduction to Santa Fe.
Travelers who love both history and art.
Guests curious about the unique design of the New Mexico State Capitol.
Visitors who want to understand how Santa Fe’s Native, Spanish, and American influences connect.

What Makes This Tour Unique

Combines historic landmarks with the working State Capitol.
Includes art, civic history, and cultural storytelling.
Connects Santa Fe’s early foundations with its modern identity.
Fully private and led by a long-time local.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour good for first-time visitors to Santa Fe?

Yes! This tour is designed as a well-rounded introduction to Santa Fe. You’ll see major landmarks, learn how the city’s Native, Spanish, and American influences connect, and explore both historic and modern spaces — all in one relaxed walk.

Will we go inside the New Mexico State Capitol?

Yes.* We begin at the New Mexico State Capitol (the “Roundhouse”) and explore its remarkable public art collection.

*If the Capitol has an unexpected closure, we will tour the exterior and its sculpture display.

How is this different from the History Alive! tour?

If you’re looking for a broad introduction that blends landmarks, art, and a statehouse visit, Best of Old & New Santa Fe offers a well-rounded overview. If you prefer a deeper dive into dramatic stories and early settlement of Santa Fe, the History Alive! tour is for you. Both are private, both are immersive — they simply shine a light on different sides of Santa Fe’s story.

How much walking is involved?

The tour covers about half a mile over two hours at an easy pace. There are stops along the way for storytelling, questions, and photos. It’s designed to be comfortable, conversational and enjoyable.

Best of Old & New Santa Fe

Explore New Mexico’s State Capitol and Santa Fe’s Historic Heart

Tour Details

What You’ll Experience

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

Frequently Asked Questions

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