Santa Fe is a city that practically invites cycling. Its compact layout, artistic neighborhoods, and scenic landscapes make it an ideal place for exploring on two wheels. Unlike many other destinations, Santa Fe offers a mix of historical sights, cultural attractions, and natural beauty all accessible via bike. We particularly love Small-Group E-Bike Adventure Tour through Hidden Santa Fe because it combines exercise, insider knowledge, and easy access to spots most travelers miss—like the Santa Fe Railyard and River Park along the Rio Grande. Plus, the electric bikes make it accessible to all fitness levels, and the guide’s insights make it a richer experience.
If you’re short on time but want a well-rounded taste of Santa Fe’s art, history, and scenery, the Santa Fe Art and History Small Group Bike Tour is a fantastic choice. It covers iconic landmarks like La Fonda on the Plaza and Canyon Road, all in about two hours. For those seeking an extended, scenic ride, the Santa Fe E-Bike Adventure Half-Day Tour offers a more in-depth look at the city’s landscapes, including stops at the Cross of the Martyrs and Randall Davey Sanctuary. Each of these options offers a different way to experience Santa Fe’s unique character on two wheels.
1. Small-Group E-Bike Adventure Tour through Hidden Santa Fe
At number one, the Small-Group E-Bike Adventure Tour through Hidden Santa Fe is a standout thanks to its blend of scenic routes, local stories, and accessible e-bikes. This 3.5-hour tour covers ground that would be tough on foot, making it perfect for those who want a more athletic experience without overexerting. Riders visit less-traveled spots like the Santa Fe Railyard, River Park, and Paseo de la Loma Hill, where the 25-foot cross sits atop Fort Marcy Park. The guide shares insider history that you won’t find in guidebooks, adding depth to the experience.
What sets this tour apart is its high-tech electric bikes, which mean family groups with varied riding abilities can enjoy the same route comfortably. The reviews emphasize the knowledgeable guides and the fun, informative stops. One traveler said, “Lezlie was a wonderful guide! She moved at a good pace and showed us parts of the city we never would have seen.” The price of $180 per person is excellent for a personalized, small-group experience that balances exercise, education, and fun. If you enjoy a mix of history, scenic views, and light adventure, this tour earns its top rating of 5.0 from over 200 reviews.
Bottom Line: This tour is a fantastic choice for active travelers wanting an in-depth look at Santa Fe’s hidden corners with a knowledgeable guide and electric bikes.
2. Santa Fe Art and History Small Group Bike Tour
Number two on our list is the Santa Fe Art and History Small Group Bike Tour. This 2-hour ride offers a relaxed yet rich experience of Santa Fe’s cultural landmarks and artistic neighborhoods. Starting at the Santa Fe Railyards, the tour features a guided visit inside the historic La Fonda on the Plaza, where you’ll learn about Fred Harvey and the Harvey girls while admiring its striking Pueblo Deco architecture and art collections.
The route then takes you through the city’s core, including the famous Canyon Road, where dozens of galleries and studios line the street. The guide’s local expertise shines in the stories and details about Santa Fe’s art scene and historic sites. Reviewers mention how riding allowed for more ground coverage than walking, with one noting, “It’s a perfect way to get introduced to the beauty, charm, and history of Santa Fe.” Priced at $125 per person, it provides excellent value considering the guided access to key sights and the inside look at La Fonda.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors wanting a short, informative, and leisurely introduction to Santa Fe’s art and historic core, perfect for families or newcomers.
3. Santa Fe E-Bike Adventure Half-Day Tour
The third choice, Santa Fe E-Bike Adventure Half-Day Tour, offers a more comprehensive exploration of Santa Fe’s landscapes and landmarks over about four hours. The tour kicks off at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, where you’ll get fitted with electric bikes. From there, the route includes stops at the Cross of the Martyrs for panoramic city views, the Randall Davey Sanctuary with its peaceful trails, and Santa Fe River Park West which traces the city’s agricultural past.
This tour is particularly special because it combines urban sights with natural scenery and visits several outdoor spaces. The guides share insights into each location, such as the significance of the Cross of the Martyrs and the ecological role of the sanctuary. While the reviews are limited—only four mention this tour—the experience is noted for its scenic stops and educational value. At a higher price point (~$488), it’s best suited for travelers looking to immerse themselves more fully in Santa Fe’s landscapes and history with an active outdoor experience.
Bottom Line: Best for visitors who want a fuller day on two wheels, experiencing both city sights and natural vistas, ideal for those on a flexible schedule and willing to splurge.
How to Choose Your Santa Fe Bike Tour
Picking the right bike tour depends on your budget, fitness level, and interests. If you want a comprehensive, insider experience with a focus on Santa Fe’s lesser-known spots, the Small-Group E-Bike Adventure is an excellent choice. For a short, art-focused introduction, the Santa Fe Art and History Tour offers a relaxed pace and cultural insight. Those eager for a longer, scenic ride that covers both outdoor and city highlights will find the Half-Day E-Bike Tour appealing.
Consider your fitness level—the electric bikes make challenging terrain manageable, but check the tour details for route difficulty. Also, think about your schedule: if you have only a few hours, the two-hour tour maximizes your time, while those with a full afternoon might prefer the half-day experience. For families or first-time visitors, tours with smaller groups and storytelling guides make for memorable outings. Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons or holidays.
Final Thoughts
Santa Fe provides a diverse range of bike tours that suit different interests and schedules. Whether you’re after an active, scenic adventure, a cultural and artistic overview, or an in-depth exploration of historic sites, there’s a perfect ride waiting. The top-rated Small-Group E-Bike Adventure Tour offers a full day of discovery, ideal for those who want to see Santa Fe’s secret corners. Meanwhile, the Santa Fe Art and History Tour is perfect for a short, engaging introduction to the city’s artistic soul.
For travelers who want a more immersive outdoor experience, the Half-Day E-Bike Tour combines city highlights with scenic landscapes in a longer outing. No matter which you choose, booking early will ensure you secure a spot for your ideal ride through Santa Fe. With options tailored for different interests and fitness levels, you’ll find your perfect way to explore this storied city—on two wheels.