Santa Fe Haunted Spirits Tour

If you’re thinking about exploring Santa Fe’s darker side, the Santa Fe Haunted Spirits Tour might just be your ideal evening. Though I haven’t taken this tour myself, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a unique way to combine history, ghost stories, and some of the city’s best drinks—all in a relaxed, small-group setting.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it’s praised for knowledgeable guides who make the stories come alive and for the carefully curated cocktail stops that enhance the storytelling. Second, it offers a balanced mix of sightseeing and entertainment, making it perfect for those who want a fun, laid-back evening with a touch of spooky storytelling.

One thing to consider before booking is that the tour is priced at $250 per person, which might seem steep for some. It’s a pretty full three hours, but you get several stops at notable locations and drinks along the way—so if you enjoy history with a side of spirits (literally), it could be well worth it.

This tour is best suited for adults who appreciate history, ghost stories, and good cocktails. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who enjoys a lively, story-rich night out, it’ll likely hit the mark. It’s not really aimed at families with young children, given the drinking component, but for mature travelers looking for a fun and slightly spooky experience, it’s a good pick.

Key Points

• Small Group & Personal Touch: Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Expert Guide: The reviews highlight Victor’s storytelling skills and extensive knowledge.
• Mix of History & Haunting: Stopping at iconic Santa Fe sites, each with its own spooky tale.
• Drinks Included: Enjoy crafted cocktails at select spots, making the tour both fun and flavorful.
• Flexible Cancellation: Full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Convenient Meet & End Points: Starting at a favorite local spot and finishing at La Posada, a historic hotel.

What to Expect on the Santa Fe Haunted Spirits Tour

This three-hour adventure kicks off at As Above, So Below Distillery, a fitting starting point for a night that promises spirits of all kinds. Your guide, Victor, greets the group with enthusiasm, setting a friendly, relaxed tone, and begins with a bit of magic—probably a fun touch to get everyone in the mood for a night of stories.

The tour then takes you through a series of Santa Fe’s most iconic locations, each with its own haunting or mysterious tale. You’ll wander through Burro Alley, learn the history and quirky stories behind this tiny but significant spot, and explore The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, where secrets like missing priests and local spiritual practices are discussed.

Next, the Santa Fe Plaza offers a glimpse into the city’s oldest public space. Here, the guide shares darker stories from its past, giving you a sense of the contrasts that make Santa Fe so compelling—light and dark, past and present. The Palace of the Governors follows, standing as the oldest public building in North America, echoing stories of controversial governors and pivotal events.

From there, the focus shifts to the Santa Fe Railyard, where tales of haunted trains and lost passengers add a ghostly flavor to the historic train depot. The tour wraps up at the Loretto Chapel, famous for its mysterious staircase, which inspires both awe and speculation about forces that might be beyond our understanding.

Throughout the experience, you’ll enjoy crafted cocktails and drinks at select stops, adding a spirited element that makes the stories more memorable. Our review quotes praise the “great stories” and the “amazing drinks,” emphasizing how well the drinks complement the storytelling.

The Stops in Detail

Jean Cocteau Cinema kicks off the tour with a dose of magic and possibly a story or two about the artsy side of Santa Fe’s haunted reputation. It’s a fun, lighthearted start that sets the tone for the rest of the night.

Burro Alley, with its charming, historic feel, is a perfect example of Santa Fe’s quirky character. The guide shares the incredible story behind this alley’s nightlife and its connections to local legends. Reviewers have noted that this is a delightful part of the journey, giving a peek into Santa Fe’s lesser-known tales.

The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi reveals some of the spiritual and mysterious aspects of Santa Fe’s religious history. Discussions about missing priests and local spiritual practices offer a glimpse into the city’s spiritual mosaic—something many find fascinating and revealing.

Santa Fe Plaza, the heart of the city, has seen many changes over the centuries. The guide shares stories of darker moments, adding depth to what might seem like a bustling tourist spot. It’s a reminder that history isn’t always sunny, and the stories often lie beneath the surface.

Palace of the Governors offers a historical glimpse into governance and controversy, with stories of controversial figures and pivotal events. It’s a place where history feels alive, especially when paired with the ghostly tales.

Santa Fe Railyard is where the stories of haunted trains come into play. The depot’s long history, combined with ghost stories of lost passengers and haunted locomotives, make for a lively finale.

Loretto Chapel is perhaps the most iconic stop, thanks to its mysterious staircase. The guide’s storytelling here leaves you pondering whether it’s a miracle or something more supernatural, adding a memorable twist to the tour.

The Experience and Value

The tour’s price of $250 per person might seem high, but the reviews suggest it offers good value, especially considering the drinks, stories, and exclusive location access. The small group size means you get more personalized attention, and the knowledgeable guide, Victor, is frequently praised for his storytelling skills.

Included in the ticket are alcoholic beverages, which are thoughtfully chosen to match each stop, enhancing the overall experience. The tour’s 3-hour duration strikes a good balance—long enough to explore the city’s stories but not so long that it drags.

The cancellation policy is flexible, allowing for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which is a nice perk if your plans change. Plus, the meeting points are central and easy to find, starting at a local distillery and ending at a historic hotel.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adults who enjoy history, ghost stories, and good drinks. If you’re looking for a fun, social experience that combines storytelling with sightseeing, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s well-suited for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want a lively night out.

While not specifically designed for kids, the focus on spirits and spooky stories makes it less suitable for families with young children. However, if you’re a history buff or a fan of paranormal tales, you’ll find it engaging and entertaining.

Final Thoughts

The Santa Fe Haunted Spirits Tour offers a charming blend of ghost stories, historic sites, and cocktails—all curated with a storytelling style that keeps things lively and engaging. The small group size and experienced guide ensure an intimate experience, making it feel like a night out with friends rather than a generic tour.

If you’re in Santa Fe and want a memorable evening that’s equal parts spooky and sociable, this tour is worth considering, especially if you appreciate a good narrative paired with a well-crafted drink. Just be prepared for a few spooky tales, some historical insights, and plenty of spirited fun.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not really. It’s designed for adults since it includes alcoholic beverages and spooky stories that may not be appropriate for kids.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, covering several key downtown locations with stops along the way.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 25 days ahead, especially during peak times, to secure a spot since it’s limited to 10 guests.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts, which gives you some flexibility.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since the tour involves walking around Santa Fe’s historic streets. The tour takes place in the evening, so dress appropriately for the weather.

Are drinks included?
Yes, alcoholic beverages are included and thoughtfully selected to enhance each stop’s story.

If you’re craving a night that combines Santa Fe’s historic charm with tales of spirits—both ghostly and liquid—this is definitely a tour to consider. It’s a fun way to learn about the city’s mysterious side while enjoying some of its best cocktails.