Historic Santa Fe Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour
Traveler rating
4.5/5
Based on 62 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Historic Santa Fe Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour worth booking?
Historic Santa Fe Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour is a 1-hour experience in Santa Fe, United States, from $13 per person. It scores 72 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.5/5 rating across 62 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 72 / 100
- Rating
- 4.5/5 (62)
- Duration
- 1 hours
- From
- $13 per person
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. After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.
What you get
About this experience
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. After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.
What's included
Included
- Support is available via chat, email, or phone if you need help.
- Planning tools, route maps, scenic stops, and area previews included.
- Just bring your phone and headphones; the app guides your walk.
- Lifetime access: use the tour anytime and keep it for future trips.
- Works offline with GPS route guidance and automatic audio stories.
- Flexible tour: start, stop, and pause anytime during your trip.
- Private walking tour experience for your family or group.
- Access your tour in our separate audio tour app after booking.
- Hidden gems and local stories included along the route.
Not included
- No live guide. Entrance fees, parking, food, and car rental are separate.
What you'll see and do
This tour begins outside the New Mexico Capitol Art Collection building at 415 Don Gaspar Ave, Santa Fe. If you're not already there, you should head there now. To get started, stand so the big circular Art Collection building is on your left. Then start walking straight down Old Santa Fe Trail. NOTE: The tour is over 1.2 miles long, with more than 19 audio stories, and takes about 1-2 hours to complete. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want.
Pass by without stopping
Santa Fe Plaza
We’re standing in the middle of Santa Fe Plaza. This obelisk in front of us is the Soldiers’ Monument, erected in 1867 to honor the Union soldiers from New Mexico who fought in the Civil War. It’s actually been a pretty controversial monument for decades. To hear more about that, click on Learn More.
10 minutes here
Loretto Chapel
Pause here and look to our right. Here stands Loretto Chapel, built in 1878. Though it doesn’t have as much history as something like the San Miguel Chapel, it does have its own claim to fame all the same. That would be the so-called “miraculous stair.”
Pass by without stopping
The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi
Pause here. To our right stands the mighty Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, built in 1869. It sits on the site of a much older church which missionaries built back in 1610. That one burned down in 1680, but it might have survived to the present day if not for a fateful decision in 1675.
Pass by without stopping
Santa Fe has long been a pivotal destination along many trails through the American west. That includes the Old Spanish Trail which connects Santa Fe to the California coast and El Camino Real, which extends all the way up from Mexico City. And it’s these ancient trails
10 minutes here
San Miguel Chapel
Pause here and look to the right. See that simple adobe chapel with a cross on top? That’s San Miguel Chapel. And guess what? You’re looking at the oldest church in the United States!
Pass by without stopping
Palace of the Governors
Pause here. That adobe building across from us is the Palace of the Governors, the administrative center of Santa Fe since 1610. From here, the Spanish ruled over New Mexico for decades. And it’s here where Po’pay sets his sights when he leads his Puebloan forces into the city.
10 minutes here
Chocolate + Cashmere
Look up ahead a little, on the left side of the street. Do you see the white sign that says “chocolate + cashmere”? That marks a stylish little boutique selling exactly what it says in the name… but the address itself has a much more surprising history.
10 minutes here
After Otermín’s failed attempt at reconquest, a decade passes in relative peace. That is, until Diego de Vargas enters the scene. In 1692, Vargas marches on Santa Fe with only a few hundred men and a handful of cannons. But he isn’t there to fight. He offers the Puebloans a deal: If they allow Spain to retake control of New Mexico, they will all be granted clemency and will not be punished for their revolt. After much debate, the Puebloan leaders agree.
10 minutes here
Continue walking along the path. Remember to pace yourself if you need to. We’re currently more than 7,000 feet above sea level. That means the oxygen up here is a lot thinner than you might be used to! So if you start feeling out of breath, it’s okay to take a break!
Pass by without stopping
Cross of the Martyrs
Up ahead stands the Cross of the Martyrs, the most iconic feature of this park. This cross honors the 21 Franciscan missionaries and 380 settlers who were killed during the Pueblo Revolt of 1680.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Santa Fe
Start near the New Mexico State Capitol Plaza at 458 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, with the metal art sculpture on a brick base by the sidewalk. This is the suggested starting point. We’re not affiliated with nearby businesses. Audio plays automatically—check your email/text for details.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
This tour will end at "617 Paseo De Peralta, Santa Fe, NM 87501".
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- History with Action
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Easy to use: GPS-triggered audio plays automatically along the route for a hands-free experience.
- Private tour: Follow the route on your phone without an in-person guide or crowded group.
- At your own pace: Start anytime and pause for hikes, picnics, photos, or scenic stops.At your own pace: Start anytime and pause for hikes, picnics, photos, or scenic stops.
- Works offline: Once downloaded, the tour works using GPS without Wi-Fi or cellular service.
- Multi-device access: Use the same password on one device for each traveler included in your booking.
- More ways to save: Choose a single tour, a nearby bundle, or access to 200+ tours.
- Download in advance: Download the Tour Guide app by Action and tour while connected to Wi-Fi or a strong cellular signal.
- Follow the route: Begin at the suggested starting point or join anywhere along the route shown in the app.
- Lifetime access: Preview the tour before your trip and revisit the stories, photos, and details afterward.
- Supported devices: iPhone with iOS 15+, Android with version 9+, or a GPS-enabled iPad/tablet with cellular capability.
- Savings tips: Walking tours: couples can share a tour by using separate earbuds. We recommend using headphones or earbuds for clearer audio and to avoid disturbing nearby guests.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 59 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
4 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
2 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Pace and timing
2 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Traveler reviews
59 verified traveler reviews for Historic Santa Fe Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Review for operators
Enjoyed the tour. Couple suggestions. Make a quick picture stop at top of high road to Taos. Couldn't get a picture of the Rockies driving. We stopped at the gorge park rest stop for picture was nice. Not sure if anything can soften the ride of the van, but the ride in the back is hard and rough.
via Tripadvisor
Very helpful
The tour was very helpful. It gave me a much deeper understanding of the city’s interesting history. And it was just about the right amount of info - not too much or too little.
Response from the operator: Hi Elizabeth, I’m glad the Santa Fe Tour hit the mark for you! If you enjoy historic walking tours, my other self-guided city tours are a great next option. Happy exploring!
via Viator
Great way to tour on your own time.
This was a great way to fill a few hours without having to plan the activity. We liked the convenience of taking the tour when we had a few hours last minute. It is good to start at the beginning as we tried to start it where we already were, but it was easy to piece together the history. The app was so easy to use and I love that it just automatially starts playing when you near the area.
Response from the operator: Hi Jessica, glad to hear the tour did exactly what it is meant to do - gave you an easy and flexible tour that adapted perfectly to your own schedule! If you’re exploring more in New Mexico, check out my White Sands tour! Happy exploring!
via Viator
Santa Fe strolling
You need to download the apps before you begin. Make sure you have your parking app downloaded too, and bring earbuds.
Response from the operator: Robin, thank you for taking my Historic Santa Fe GPS walking audio tour. I’m glad it helped with your Santa Fe stroll, and I appreciate your helpful tips for future travelers to download the app and tour before starting, plan ahead for parking, and bring earbuds for the best walking experience. If you’re interested in more self-guided adventures, check out my New Mexico Bundle featuring Carlsbad Caverns National Park and White Sands National Park!
via Viator
Good choice on your own pace
I like it! It’s a good alternative if you are going to stop a few hours in Santa Fe. You can go on your own pace and make your journey enjoyable.
Response from the operator: Luis, thank you for taking my Historic Santa Fe self-guided walking audio tour. I’m so glad it was a good choice for exploring at your own pace during a short stop in Santa Fe. I’m happy it helped make your journey enjoyable. If you’re interested in more self-guided adventures, check out my New Mexico Bundle featuring Carlsbad Caverns National Park and White Sands National Park!
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 1 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $13 to $15
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 22
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by History with Action, who run 21 experiences we rank across 16 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 59.6.
See everything History with Action runsWhy this scores 72
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Historic Santa Fe Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Santa Fe.
How much does Historic Santa Fe Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour cost?
+
Prices start at $13 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Santa Fe usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Historic Santa Fe Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour take?
+
Plan for about 1 hour from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Santa Fe is not rushed.
Is Historic Santa Fe Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 72 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.5/5 across 62 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Santa Fe, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Historic Santa Fe Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour?
+
Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Historic Santa Fe Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 1-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Historic Santa Fe Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour?
+
Around 22 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Santa Fe can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
+
Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Santa Fe and add a light layer if any part of the 1-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Historic Santa Fe Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour start and how do I get there?
+
The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Santa Fe within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Santa Fe?
+
Santa Fe runs on culture: Canyon Road gallery walks, Georgia O'Keeffe country and Ghost Ranch tours, pueblo visits, green chile food tours and Bandelier hikes. Cultural access and guide expertise matter more than price here. On Outty we rank every Santa Fe experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Santa Fe Revisited, Santa Fe Ultimate History Walking Tour, The ORIGINAL Wander New Mexico "Sip & Savor" Plaza Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Santa Fe?
+
April to June and September to October, with Indian Market in August. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Santa Fe?
+
Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
+
Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Historic Santa Fe Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour?
+
Included: Support is available via chat, email, or phone if you need help; Planning tools, route maps, scenic stops, and area previews included; Just bring your phone and headphones; the app guides your walk; Lifetime access: use the tour anytime and keep it for future trips; and Works offline with GPS route guidance and automatic audio stories. Not included: No live guide. Entrance fees, parking, food, and car rental are separate. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Historic Santa Fe Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour?
+
Start near the New Mexico State Capitol Plaza at 458 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, with the metal art sculpture on a brick base by the sidewalk. This is the suggested starting point. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Historic Santa Fe Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour offered in?
+
It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Historic Santa Fe Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour?
+
Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
What happens to Historic Santa Fe Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour if the weather is bad?
+
It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Santa Fe. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Historic Santa Fe Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour?
+
Across 62 reviews averaging 4.5 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Historic Santa Fe Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour.
Pick your date
