New Mexico
Santa Fe Landscapes: Art, Culture and History
Program No. 11009RJ
Get an insider’s perspective on Santa Fe and Taos alongside local artists, exploring several world-class museums, enjoying traditional music and learning about Indigenous cultures.
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800-454-5768
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DATES
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May 12 - May 18, 2025
Starting at
2,649DATES
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Mar 10 - Mar 16, 2025
Starting at
3,169Mar 24 - Mar 30, 2025
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3,339May 12 - May 18, 2025
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7 days
6 nights
14 meals
6B 4L 4D
4
Georgia O'Keeffe, NM Museum of Art, Free time
Santa Fe, NM
6
Pecos National Historic Park
Santa Fe, NM
7
Program Concludes
Santa Fe, NM
At a Glance
Less than 70 miles from one another, Santa Fe and Taos are the jewel cities of northern New Mexico, seemingly enchanted places set amidst the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Adobe pueblos built by ancestral peoples still stand, elegant Spanish colonial plazas serve as meeting places as they have for four centuries and beautiful museums display the work of artist-pilgrims who gathered here to find inspiration in the land. Examine Santa Fe and Taos through the eyes of those who have called them home and discover not only what they share, but also what sets each apart.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to four miles daily over varied terrain. Standing for up to two hours at a time. Getting on/off motorcoach multiple times a day. Elevations up to 7,500 feet.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Learn about artist Georgia O'Keeffe and visit the New Mexico Museum of Art.
- Be moved by the ancient Indigenous traditions and cultures preserved in a local pueblo and gain insight into the enduring nature of the Pueblo people.
- Enjoy a cooking demonstration by a local James Beard Award-winning author and chef and visit the historic village of Chimayó.
General Notes
Select dates are designated for small groups and are limited to 24 participants or less.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Jerry Rightman
Who would have ever thought that a retired veterinarian would become a dedicated art lecturer? Jerry Rightman is just that person and is an active member in the art community of Santa Fe, applying his talents as a docent at the New Mexico Museum of Art and the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum. He has received rave reviews for the many years that he has been teaching for Road Scholar.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Jerry Rightman
View biography
Who would have ever thought that a retired veterinarian would become a dedicated art lecturer? Jerry Rightman is just that person and is an active member in the art community of Santa Fe, applying his talents as a docent at the New Mexico Museum of Art and the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum. He has received rave reviews for the many years that he has been teaching for Road Scholar.
Lois Ellen Frank
View biography
Lois Ellen Frank, PhD, is a Santa Fe-based chef focused on Native American foods. She is also a Native American food historian, culinary anthropologist, photographer and James Beard Award-winning author. She is a featured instructor of the Southwest Indian Nations at the Santa Fe School of Cooking, and is chef and owner — along with Native Chef Walter Whitewater of the Diné Nation — of Red Mesa Cuisine.
Omar Villanueva
View biography
Omar Villanueva holds a master's degree in classical guitar performance from the University of New Mexico. He is a multifaceted guitarist who performs classical, Spanish and popular music. His repertoire includes renaissance, baroque, classical, romantic and Latin music arrangements for solo guitar. He is also an accomplished and awarded singer of music from Latin America and New Mexico. He has been performing in New Mexico and surrounding states since 2004.
Elena Junes
View biography
Elena Ortiz-Junes is a native New Mexican and member of the Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo. She has worked for many years as a study leader and group leader for numerous organizations and universities, and provides a unique perspective on the region and its rich cultural tapestry. She is a writer and board member of the University of New Mexico’s Alfonso Ortiz Center for Intercultural Studies.
Ellen Morris Bond
View biography
Ellen Morris Bond has spent most of her adult years in northern New Mexico, graduating from the University of New Mexico Honors Program. She completed a Master’s Degree in Community Development at University of California-Davis. As a non-profit director, Ellen forged strong collaborations with local and regional organizations such as health councils, community foundations, tribal groups, hospitals, public schools, rural health clinics, and faith groups. She now volunteers with the local acequia/water organization and leads art and architecture groups at La Fonda of Santa Fe.
Katherine Burleigh
View biography
Kate Burleigh and her family moved to Socorro, New Mexico in 2001 and immediately became enthralled with the Land of Enchantment. She earned her master’s degree in art integrated curriculum from Lesley College in Cambridge, MA. Kate loves mountain biking and trail running with her family and volunteers with local trail building crews. Traveling has given Kate compassion for people living far from home, which has led her to support foreign students at New Mexico Technical Institute and sponsor refugee families with Socorro Sponsor Circle.
Suggested Reading List
(16 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Santa Fe Landscapes: Art, Culture and History
Program Number: 11009
Santa Fe, History of an Ancient City
A revised edition of of this classic history of Santa Fe to the mid-nineteenth century, featuring essays by ten scholars and hundreds of archival photographs, drawings and maps.
A History of Spirituality in Santa Fe: The City of Holy Faith
Santa Fe city historian Ana Pacheco documents the rich religious and spiritual history of this high-mountain metaphysical community.
New Mexico, A History
This cooperative effort between three native New Mexicans is the first complete history of New Mexico. It charts the state’s development from 16th-century Spanish colony to frontier province, from its 1912 American statehood to a hub of (often classified) scientific research. A vital source for anyone seeking to understand the complex history of the West.
A Land Apart: The Southwest and the Nation in the the Twentieth Century
Discusses how Indigenous, Hispanic and non-white people have established their place in the land that is rightfully theirs.
The Great Taos Bank Robbery
Nine indelible tales of life in New Mexico by the great newspaperman and author of the terrific series of mysteries set on the Navajo Nation.
Seed to Plate, Soil to Sky: Modern Plant-Based Recipes using Native American Ingredients
This enriching cookbook celebrates eight important plants Native Americans introduced to the rest of the world: corn, beans, squash, chile, tomato, potato, vanilla, and cacao—with more than 100 recipes.
Edge of Taos Desert, An Escape to Reality
First published in 1937, this story reveals the spiritual awakening the New York socialite experienced through Taos, the Pueblo Indians and Indian Tony Luhan, whom she later married.
An Indigenous People's History of the United States
From the perspective of Indigenous People, this book demonstrates how policy against Native people was designed to displace and eliminate them and how they fought back, resisting the expansion of the West.
American Indian Myths and Legends
An illustrated collection of 180 traditoonal stories from all over North America.
The Spell of New Mexico
A selection of 12 thoughtful essays on the New Mexico state of mind by great writers, including C.G. Jung, Mary Austin, D.H. Lawrence and Lawrence Clark Powell. Hillerman succeeds in communicating the lure of the desert Southwest in this wonderful, literate introduction to the state.
Roots of Resistance: A Land of Tenure in New Mexico
Details the history of land ownership from 1680 to present and how Indigenous and Mexican communities preserved their way of life despite losing their land to Capitalism.
The Art of New Mexico: How the West Is One
An illustrated compendium of New Mexico art from the 1880s to the present that considers historical and cultural significance with a wealth of information about the artists and their pieces. Written for a broad audience.
Ancient Peoples of the American Southwest
This illustrated introduction provides an in-depth look at the ancient cultures that first inhabited the pueblos and cliff dwellings of the American Southwest. Organized chronologically, it features hundreds of maps, mostly black-and-white photographs and site diagrams.
Talking With the Clay, The Art of Pueblo Pottery
With color photographs throughout, this 20th anniversary edition of Trmible's portrait of the Pueblo people as revealed through pottery traditions includes interviews with a new generation of artists.
New Mexico's Stolen Lands: A History of Racism, Fraud and Deceit
This book begins with the end of the Mexican-American War and the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo guaranteeing land to Spanish, Mexican and Native people. It details how organized crime rings lead to decades of poverty for these people. Then the Tierra Amarilla Courthouse Raid in 1967 brought this struggle over land to the national spotlight.
Indian Arts of the Southwest
Featuring color photographs of the basketry, pottery, weaving, jewelry, and carvings of 200 noted artists, this book is both a collector's guide and cultural history of the Navajo, Hopi, Zuni, Pueblo peoples and other native peoples.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
7 days
Program Begins
Santa Fe, NM
Program Concludes
Santa Fe, NM
Meals
14
| 6B |
4L |
4D |
Activity Level
Less than 70 miles from one another, Santa Fe and Taos are the jewel cities of northern New Mexico, seemingly enchanted places set amidst the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Adobe pueblos built by ancestral peoples still stand, elegant Spanish colonial plazas serve as meeting places as they have for four centuries and beautiful museums display the work of artist-pilgrims who gathered here to find inspiration in the land. Examine Santa Fe and Taos through the eyes of those who have called them home and discover not only what they share, but also what sets each apart.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Learn about artist Georgia O'Keeffe and visit the New Mexico Museum of Art.
- Be moved by the ancient Indigenous traditions and cultures preserved in a local pueblo and gain insight into the enduring nature of the Pueblo people.
- Enjoy a cooking demonstration by a local James Beard Award-winning author and chef and visit the historic village of Chimayó.
General Notes
Select dates are designated for small groups and are limited to 24 participants or less.
Featured Expert
Jerry Rightman
Who would have ever thought that a retired veterinarian would become a dedicated art lecturer? Jerry Rightman is just that person and is an active member in the art community of Santa Fe, applying his talents as a docent at the New Mexico Museum of Art and the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum. He has received rave reviews for the many years that he has been teaching for Road Scholar.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Elena Junes
Elena Ortiz-Junes is a native New Mexican and member of the Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo. She has worked for many years as a study leader and group leader for numerous organizations and universities, and provides a unique perspective on the region and its rich cultural tapestry. She is a writer and board member of the University of New Mexico’s Alfonso Ortiz Center for Intercultural Studies.
Ellen Morris Bond
Ellen Morris Bond has spent most of her adult years in northern New Mexico, graduating from the University of New Mexico Honors Program. She completed a Master’s Degree in Community Development at University of California-Davis. As a non-profit director, Ellen forged strong collaborations with local and regional organizations such as health councils, community foundations, tribal groups, hospitals, public schools, rural health clinics, and faith groups. She now volunteers with the local acequia/water organization and leads art and architecture groups at La Fonda of Santa Fe.
Katherine Burleigh
Kate Burleigh and her family moved to Socorro, New Mexico in 2001 and immediately became enthralled with the Land of Enchantment. She earned her master’s degree in art integrated curriculum from Lesley College in Cambridge, MA. Kate loves mountain biking and trail running with her family and volunteers with local trail building crews. Traveling has given Kate compassion for people living far from home, which has led her to support foreign students at New Mexico Technical Institute and sponsor refugee families with Socorro Sponsor Circle.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to four miles daily over varied terrain. Standing for up to two hours at a time. Getting on/off motorcoach multiple times a day. Elevations up to 7,500 feet.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(16 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
Year
- 2025
Date
- Mar 10 - Mar 16
- Mar 24 - Mar 30
- Apr 07 - Apr 13
- Apr 21 - Apr 27
- May 05 - May 11
- May 12 - May 18
- May 19 - May 25
- Jun 02 - Jun 08
- Jul 07 - Jul 13
- Sep 08 - Sep 14
- Sep 15 - Sep 21
- Sep 22 - Sep 28
- Oct 20 - Oct 26
- Oct 27 - Nov 02
- Nov 03 - Nov 09
- Nov 17 - Nov 23
Please Note: The program differs on certain dates.
Please Note: The program differs on certain dates.
Select trip year and date
- 2025
- Mar 10 - Mar 16
- Mar 24 - Mar 30
- Apr 07 - Apr 13
- Apr 21 - Apr 27
- May 05 - May 11
- May 12 - May 18
- May 19 - May 25
- Jun 02 - Jun 08
- Jul 07 - Jul 13
- Sep 08 - Sep 14
- Sep 15 - Sep 21
- Sep 22 - Sep 28
- Oct 20 - Oct 26
- Oct 27 - Nov 02
- Nov 03 - Nov 09
- Nov 17 - Nov 23
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
7 days
6 nights
What's Included
14 meals | 6B | 4L | 4D |
2 expert-led lectures
9 expert-led field trips
1 performance
An experienced Group Leader
6 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
Check-in, Program Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Santa Fe, NM
Meals:
D
Stay:
Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 4:00 p.m. Remember to bring your Road Scholar name tag (sent previously).
Afternoon:
Program Registration: 3:00-5:00 p.m. After you check in and have your room assignment, join us at the Road Scholar table to register with the program staff, get any updated information, and confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived. Orientation: 5:00 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. We will learn from the Group Leader and a series of local experts who will give lectures and lead field trips. Transportation for program-related activities will be via motorcoach unless specified otherwise. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
In our private hotel meeting room.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night's rest for the day ahead.
Day
2
History & Culture, Santa Fe Plaza, Music Performance
Location:
Santa Fe, NM
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza
Activity Note
Walking up to 4 miles over paved and uneven terrain with inclines; standing for a few hours; elevations of 7,000–7,500 feet above sea level. Walking and other free time activities according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Our Group Leader, who is also a local expert, will lead a discussion in the meeting room about the history of the area that is now New Mexico, from its earliest Ancestral Puebloan inhabitants to the Spanish and American soldiers and settlers who followed. We'll also hear about Santa Fe and why it's called “The City Different.” We'll then head out on foot with the Group Leader to explore Santa Fe's Plaza area, the historic heart of the city. We'll visit the impressive Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, the Palace of the Governors, the Loretto Chapel, and other sites as time permits.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. There are a number of museums, colorful galleries, and shops within walking distance of the hotel. Museums include the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum (advanced reservations recommended), the New Mexico History Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Native Art. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Please note that the period scheduled for free time is subject to change depending on local circumstances and opportunities for independent exploration
Dinner:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to have what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Not to be confused with "Tex-Mex," New Mexico's unique cuisine has been influenced by ingredients and techniques used in Native American and Spanish cooking. Santa Fe is known for the breadth and depth of its culinary offerings. There are a number of fine restaurants within walking distance of the hotel and the Santa Fe Plaza.
Evening:
In the meeting room at the hotel, we will enjoy a performance by a local musician that showcases the music of the Southwest.
Day
3
School for Advanced Research, Museum Hill, Red Mesa Cuisine
Location:
Santa Fe, NM
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 45 miles, 1.5 hours total riding time. Walking up to 3 miles, standing up to 2 hours at a time; uneven brick sidewalks, unpaved dirt (mud if there is precipitation).
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
This morning we'll board our coach and travel to the School for Advanced Research, where we'll be allowed into the vaults of the Indian Arts Research Center. We'll see wonderful collections of pottery, weaving, baskets, jewelry, paintings only seen by the public via special invitation. The School for Advanced Research provides a dynamic environment for the advanced study and communication of knowledge about human culture, evolution, history, and creative expression. SAR draws upon its century-deep roots in the American Southwest, anthropology, and indigenous arts to present programs, publications and initiatives that impart the learning of social scientists, humanists, and artists.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant
Afternoon:
Next, we’ll board the coach and ride to Museum Hill where we'll explore the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture and the Museum of International Folk Art. The Museum of Indian Arts and Culture features pottery, jewelry, sculpture, baskets, and other objects made by Native Americans from the earliest times to modern day, scrupulously documented and beautifully displayed. The Museum of International Folk Art focuses on indigenous populations from around the world through their art – ranging from ceremonial dress and masks to furniture. The museum hosts the largest collection of international folk art in the world, including wings featuring some of the 106,000 pieces donated by collectors Alexander and Susan Girard and Lloyd Cotsen's Neutrogena collection. We’ll return to the hotel for some time to freshen up before departing for dinner. Late afternoon, we’ll gather at the hotel, board our motorcoach and travel a few miles south of Santa Fe to Red Mesa Cuisine in Eldorado. Before dinner, we will hear from local chef Lois Ellen Frank, Ph.D., a Native American foods historian, culinary anthropologist, photographer, and James Beard Award-winning author.
Dinner:
At Red Mesa Cuisine, we'll enjoy a meal featuring regional cuisine prepared by Dr. Frank and Chef Walter Whitewater.
Evening:
Returning to the hotel, the remainder of the evening is at leisure.
Day
4
Georgia O'Keeffe, NM Museum of Art, Free time
Location:
Santa Fe, NM
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza
Activity Note
Walking up to two miles and standing up to 2 hours during field trip. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We’ll start the morning in the meeting room with an expert-led presentation about the life and art of Georgia O’Keeffe. She was one of the most influential artists of the 20th century and a pioneer of American modernism. Although best known for the work she produced in New Mexico, O’Keeffe was a prolific artist with over 3,000 works over the course of her career and was the first female artist to have a museum dedicated solely to her work. After the lecture, we’ll walk four blocks to the New Mexico Museum of Art. Since its opening in 1917 the New Mexico Museum of art has been an iconic architectural landmark in downtown Santa Fe. It has demonstrated that the heart of a people is reflected in the art of place. The museum was launched with an open-door policy that invited New Mexico-based artists to exhibit their works. This progressive policy inspired a vibrant museum environment where the art of established and emerging artists shared space and conversation while engaging viewers in their distinctive cultural expressions. In showcasing a broad range of art and artists, from Native American to Hispanic to European, the museum made every piece and every person welcome.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy the cuisine of your choice.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
5
Centinela Weavers, Taos Pueblo, Millicent Rogers Museum
Location:
Santa Fe, NM
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 150 miles, approximately 3 hours total riding time. Walking up to 3 miles, standing up to 2 hours during field trips; varied terrain, uneven sidewalks and unpaved dirt (mud if there is precipitation).
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We’ll board the motorcoach and ride 30 miles north to the village of Chimayó where we will visit the Centinela Traditional Arts Weaving Gallery. Many local families have been carrying on the traditions of Hispanic-style weaving for generations. We’ll have an opportunity to see some beautiful pieces by an award-winning, seventh-generation weaver, whose work is on display in a number of museums, including the Smithsonian. Back on the motorcoach, we will ride to Taos Pueblo (if the Pueblo is open; it sometimes closes with little to no advance notice for private Pueblo events). This picturesque Pueblo at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains is one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in North America. The multiple-storied adobe dwellings reflect an ancient culture. Approximately 100 Pueblo residents still live much as their ancestors did 1,000 years ago, without electricity or running water. Taos Pueblo is the only living Native American community designated both a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and a National Historic Landmark. At the Pueblo, we'll enjoy an expert-led walk through the community. We will board the motorcoach and ride to the Taos Plaza area for some time for independent explorations and lunch.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
Before leaving Taos, we'll visit the Millicent Rogers Museum. Established in 1956, the museum's holdings include more than 7,000 objects documenting the arts and cultures of the Southwest, including the largest publicly held collection of Maria Martinez pottery in the world. Other significant collections on display include Hispanic Santos, Apache baskets, Southwest textiles including Northern Rio Grande Hispanic weavings, colcha embroideries, and Southwest jewelry. Departing for Santa Fe, we will stop briefly at San Francisco de Asís Mission Church en route (viewing the exterior only). Located in the historic district of Ranchos de Taos, this Spanish Colonial adobe building is one of the best-known and most photographed churches in New Mexico.
Dinner:
On our way back to Santa Fe, we will stop for dinner at a popular local restaurant.
Evening:
Returning to the hotel, the remainder of the evening is at leisure.
Day
6
Pecos National Historic Park
Location:
Santa Fe, NM
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 80 miles, approximately 1.5 hours riding time. Walking up to 3 miles, standing up to 2 hours at a time during field trips; varied terrain with inclines, unpaved dirt. Walking and other free time activities according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We’ll ride on the motorcoach to Pecos National Historical Park, to explore a Pueblo ancestral community and remains of a Spanish colonial church. Once called the Gateway to the Plains, this area served as a trading center and linked the ancestral Puebloans with the Plains tribes who came to trade. The site, once part of the Forked Lightning Ranch, was owned by the late Greer Garson and her husband, Buddy Fogelson. The land was donated with the hope that it would be preserved for future generations. A mile-long, paved hiking trail circles the site, which has remains of pueblo dwellings, kivas and a mission church, all located on remarkably beautiful land in the Pecos valley 35 miles northeast of Santa Fe. Boarding the coach, we will return to Santa Fe.
Lunch:
Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Enjoy some free time for independent explorations.
Dinner:
Dinner at the hotel. Share favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
7
Program Concludes
Location:
Santa Fe, NM
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out 11:00 a.m.
Breakfast:
At the hotel. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
14 Meals
6 Breakfasts
4 Lunches
4 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Nov 17, 2025 - Nov 23, 2025
- Mar 10, 2025 - Mar 16, 2025
- Mar 24, 2025 - Mar 30, 2025
- Apr 07, 2025 - Apr 13, 2025
- Apr 21, 2025 - Apr 27, 2025
- May 05, 2025 - May 11, 2025
- May 12, 2025 - May 18, 2025
- May 19, 2025 - May 25, 2025
- Jun 02, 2025 - Jun 08, 2025
- Jul 07, 2025 - Jul 13, 2025
- Sep 08, 2025 - Sep 14, 2025
- Sep 15, 2025 - Sep 21, 2025
- Sep 22, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025
- Oct 20, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025
- Oct 27, 2025 - Nov 02, 2025
- Nov 03, 2025 - Nov 09, 2025
- Nov 17, 2025 - Nov 23, 2025
Participant Reviews
Based on 60 Reviews
Sort By:
Awesome art- and history- filled experience. Excellent expert presentations by leader and local guides. Immersive and perspective changing!
— Review left October 13, 2024
A great tour! Santa Fe deserves to be on the map as a vibrant and welcoming place to visit.. A week is barely enough time to explore all that the city has to offer.
— Review left September 27, 2024
There is a lot to see in New Mexico. Be prepared with other diversions if you do not like visiting museums though.
— Review left September 27, 2024
This amazing trip will give you an understanding of the history, people and culture of this part of New Mexico. Santa Fe is a great place to visit and the weather was perfect in early September.
— Review left September 10, 2024
Colleen was wonderful! My sister and I enjoyed every minute! The hotel was amazing. The speakers were just the best. I think the highlight of the trip was dinner at the home of Dr. Lois Ellen Frank and Chef Walter Whitewater. I appreciate their kindness and the excellent information that I learned. I was overwhelmed by the deliciousness of the meal that was prepared and appreciated the blessing at the end of our time.
This trip was a mixture of planned and "free" time so that individuals could choose to see what interested them most. I would warn people who have allergies that we were there at the height of cottonwood blooming time (end of April) which really negatively impacted both my sister and I. If you have asthma, please check with your doctor before you go, and make sure you take the appropriate medication!
I would do this trip again. I really enjoyed it.
— Review left July 17, 2024
Loved this program; wonderful adventures every day and I learned so much on
this trip.
— Review left June 4, 2024
The Santa Fe/Taos tour was excellent. While we had visited the area previously,we were introduced to many new areas and concepts. Loved each days adventures.
— Review left June 2, 2024
As always, New Mexico does not disappoint. Santa Fe is an incredible city, warm and inviting, interesting and fun. This program is a great way to either start your New Mexico journey or continue it! Whether it's the arts, the landscape, food or Native history, you can find it all with this Road Scholar southwestern trek.
— Review left March 28, 2024
This was a fantastic trip in every way. The leader was fun, knowledgeable and very familiar with the area. The local experts were also excellent. The itinerary was very well chosen, with very interesting museums, and the Taos pueblo particular standouts. Also enjoyed the local restaurants.
— Review left March 17, 2024
Although I usually opt for European travel, this trip was wonderful. I highly recommend this great overview of the Santa Fe area which is both very scenic and interesting on many levels. The Group Leader, Sherry Moon, did an outstanding job and really showed her passion for the area. The excellent special speakers were an added bonus. So many beautiful museums, visiting a Pueblo with the former Governor of the Pueblo explaining it to us, and the special chef's dinner were highlights. This is a trip well worth taking!
— Review left March 14, 2024
I discovered so much more about Santa Fe & Taos along with New Mexico!
The field trips and the presentations provided a stellar education and experience!
— Review left March 11, 2024
This was a great program. Easily paced but still filled with interesting things to learn about.
— Review left December 19, 2023
This was an outstanding program about a diverse cultural experience. I gained understanding about the culture and people of New Mexico
— Review left December 5, 2023
i would have written more but when i returned home i fell and badly fractured my left arm.
CJ was terrific leader and the trip was excellent! Jane
— Review left November 7, 2023
The Santa Fe area lived up to its reputation in terms of the Arts and History. I loved the clean air and beautiful sky and surrounding
natural spaces.
— Review left November 1, 2023
THe Santa Fe program was very well planned and organized with just the right combination of (very good) lectures, field trips and free time. Bein there during the exlipse was frosting on the cake!
— Review left October 15, 2023
What a great adventure Bev and I experienced on our trip out west to Santa Fa and Taos. Leadership was outstanding with Scott as our mentor. Museums, authentic foods, great lectures followed by pleasant scenery and adventurous walks. We first ventured in 1989 and look forward to more adventures in LEARNING.
— Review left October 9, 2023
I was a first-time Road Scholar on a trip to Santa Fe and Taos. The variety of our program exceeded expectations on every level: tours, walks, lectures, meals, free time.
— Review left October 1, 2023
I had a wonderful time getting to know New Mexico on this well-organized and run trip. We saw beautiful cities and small towns, experienced wonderful activities, had great lectures, and dined on delicious food. I loved our hotel, our tour leader and everything we did. Extremely nice travelers were on this trip, and I felt so supported on my first Road Scholars trip.
— Review left July 25, 2023
I loved the Road Scholar tour of Santa Fe and Taos. Our tour director Sherry Moon was excellent. All the activities and presentations were interesting and engaging especially the Taos Pueblo and Chimayo. The dinner at Red Mesa Cuisine was a highlight. Road Scholar hits all the bases for a first class trip.
— Review left July 4, 2023
This trip was fantastic! I loved pretty much everything about it, but I do think it was especially enhanced by Colleen, our tour guide, and by the individuals in our group. Santa Fe met all my expectations and then some. The art galleries, the architecture, and the cathedrals were magnificent. Our lodging and food were also very good. An experience I will never forget is going to the home of Lois Frank and Walter Whitewater for a delicious meal and entertainment. I will say that the least appealing meals we had were at the Hilton with the exceptions of breakfasts which were excellent. The lecturers were interesting and informative so I appreciated how well they prepared us for our excursions. Taos was beautiful and fascinating, as well. Touring the Pueblo was very moving, and I felt a new appreciation for the strength and values of the indigenous inhabitants. I would most definitely recommend this trip for anyone wanting to expand their knowledge of this area for its history, art, and beauty.
— Review left June 4, 2023
If you are interested in learning about our beautiful land, her history and arts, this program is for you.
— Review left May 29, 2023
Road Scholar has done it again! The program, Tale of Two Cities: Santa Fe & Taos, was an absolutely amazing experience. The group leader was perfect and the instructors were outstanding. At this age, we don't need more stuff - we need experiences, and this program is an experience I will treasure forever!
— Review left May 29, 2023
Overall I enjoyed this program very much. The many museums, the lectures, the guitar concert, the guided walks, the welcoming and fun group of fellow participants, our amazing dinner with Red Mesa Cuisine, the evening guitar concert, the visit to the weaving studio in Chimayo. and even the surprise morning snow -- all were outstanding. Scott was an amazing guide, definitely one of the best I have had on my more than fifty RS programs. He provided so much information during the bus rides, the guided walks in Santa Fe and Taos, and his morning introductory "lecture." We appreciated his enthusiasm and sense of humor. He also tried to get to know each of us as individuals as he joined us for dinner each evening and chatted with us during the day. Unfortunately we were not able to see the Taos Pueblo as it closed unexpectedly. However, just a few days after the program ended, Scott emailed a great list of resources, including links to two videos of the pueblo, so we were able to do the visit virtually. Thank you so much, Scott.
It is important to note that even though the web site has the words "Small Group" on the main program page, only a minority of the dates are actually Small Groups. We had 28 participants for our week. Scott did a great job of keeping us organized, but I found it harder to get to know people well in the larger group. I will definitely recommend this program to my friends, but I will also suggest that they consider choosing a small group section.
— Review left May 18, 2023
Great option for a solo traveler.
— Review left April 12, 2023
Great trip! Good leader. It had a nice mix of art museums, and the highlight for me was a fascinating trip to the Taos Pueblo. Our guide was wonderful.
— Review left April 11, 2023
If you have never been to the Southwest, you will enjoy this well organized and thoughtful, culturally enriching tour through Northern New Mexico
— Review left December 15, 2022
A truly wonderful trip!
— Review left December 14, 2022
This program was an outstanding introduction to southwestern history and culture. I learned so much about the native people and what life was like before and after contact from the Spanish colonists. And the food is amazing! Dinner at Red Mesa Cuisine was an absolute highlight and exclusive to Road Scholar groups only
— Review left December 12, 2022
Loved our leader Vanetta Perry and our entire crew. Learned a great deal from the morning lectures which were a wonderful introduction to the days activities!
Would like to see more of Taos, the small city area looked interesting. Also, a walking tour of Canyon Road would be a great addition to the Santa Fe portion of the trip.
Highlights for me…the evening and meal at Chef Frank’s home, the chance to see Michael Martin Murphy’s Cowboy Christmas Show at the St. Francis auditorium and the visit to Taos Pueblo.
I would recommend a different hotel in Santa Fe. The location was excellent but the support services were really sub par! Without Vanetta’s constant attention to our needs we would have been a hungry and uninformed group.
— Review left December 8, 2022
Pick a place, any place, you would like to visit and sign up for a Road Scholar tour! The sooner, the better. Nothing beats being introduced to the history and culture of place by natives and experts before setting out to see it for yourself.
— Review left November 9, 2022
The art, the history and lots of it, the museums and churches, the food! were all just right. The group leader, the driver, the hotel and staff were just as nice as could be. I can't think of a thing I would change.
— Review left September 21, 2022
June 3, 2022
Scott Aarestad is an amazing person. He put such great thought, care, and feeling into every event, that we all shared his enthusiasm and joy for what the Santa Fe/Taos group was doing. Scott Aarestad is a natural leader and a natural teacher. Scott 'dug deep' and gave his Road Scholar job "all he had". Scott Aarestad was so knowledgeable and insightful about the Santa Fe and Taos landscape that group members were able to put each adventure (learning lesson) in a multi-dimensional and multi-contextual framework.
Scott’s lessons (lectures) were far superior to those of any college or university classroom, .... though I suspect his lectures consisted of content he gleaned from Road Scholar, as well as his own great personal readings and experiences.
Thank you for my amazing first Road Scholar trip. Please let me know about future Road Scholar southwestern trips Scott Aarestad will lead in the future. I would be lucky and blessed to go on another Road Scholar trip with him in the future.
As I said, I feel grateful and blessed to have had Scott Aarestad as my instructor, traveler-guide, and memory-maker on the Road Scholar Santa Fe and Taos trip.
Dr. Laura Gaudet
4 Sommerset Vale
Monterey, CA 93940
lgaudet@csc.edu
lauralattagaudet@gmail.com
— Review left June 3, 2022
WHat was promised was delivered!
— Review left June 2, 2022
I like the website, especially when looking for a trip that is going to a specific country or area. It's well laid out. Information for upcoming trips gives detailed information, account information, resources, etc.
— Review left May 29, 2022
The program was educational and fun! It was well organized and we had an excellent leader. New Mexico is a beautiful state, especially Santa Fe and surrounding areas. We also had an exceptionally nice group of people on our trip!
— Review left May 11, 2022
I prefer to not write a public evaluation, Thank you
— Review left April 11, 2022
Great trip to New Mexico. You can visit unique places with Road Scholar and know about the art and places from the talks and lectures earlier in the day.
— Review left April 6, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed my recent trip with Road Scholar. It was informative, active and, fun. Our group leader engaged all in our group to enjoy our time together and experience Santa Fe, New Mexico.
— Review left March 16, 2022
I love art and history, and this program in filled with both. And you will really enjoy the food as well. Great adventure into the culture of northern New Mexico.
— Review left February 14, 2022
Road Scholar programs provide an amazing array of educational experiences, especially for older adults, and they provide an exceptional value for both couples and singles. We will continue to participate in Road Scholar programs in the future.
— Review left November 22, 2021
What an amazing trip! It was my first Road Scholar trip but won't be my last. Scott was an EXCELLENT leader. Very knowledgeable, paid attention to details (including staying on schedule and making sure solo travelers were included) and had a great sense of humor. And our guest speakers. Wow! They really knew their stuff and prepared us for what we would see after their talks. When we were out and about, the individual listening devices were a big help. You didn't need to be next to the leader to hear -- especially nice in museums and on walking tours. I really enjoyed getting to know the other people on the trip. We were from all over the country, but all very friendly and all life-long learners.
— Review left November 18, 2021
Our leader, Vannetta was tops!
— Review left November 7, 2021
Excellent trip. Learned a lot about the history of New Mexico as well as the various peoples who have created that history. My knowledge about the Pueblos and indigenous culture grew a great deal. Wonderful museums and beautiful landscape. Food was good too and group leader excellent. Highly recommend this trip.
— Review left November 7, 2021
This trip covered New Mexico's art and culture, as seen in two art-focused cities. The group leader Vannetta's NM history talk was very informative and we also toured several historic structures and museums. The lectures on art by Jerry were extremely interesting as well. I especially enjoyed the tour of the Poeh Museum (a substitute because all pueblos are closed due to covid) and the International Folk Art Museum on Museum Hill - that had an amazing collection of folk art from around the world and even a 'ghost experience' from Japanese folklore (it was close to Halloween). One tip: Reserve tickets online for the Georgia O'Keefe Museum at least a month ahead. It is a few blocks from the hotel and well worth seeing. (That Museum doesn't allow groups at this time due to covid.)
— Review left November 5, 2021
Our trip to Santa Fe and Taos was so interesting and enjoyable. Our guide, Scott, was great, informative, and a good group leader. This was our first Road Scholar trip and we've already signed up for another.
— Review left November 4, 2021
I really enjoyed Santa Fe and Taos. The program activities and meals were high quality. The director, Colleen, was friendly and knowledgeable and easy going. The program pace was relaxed. The hotel was wonderful and had a fabulous buffet breakfast. The other participants were pleasant and friendly. I would highly recommend Road Scholar.
— Review left October 13, 2021
Great trip! A word of caution: ground transportation from Santa Fe Airport into Santa Fe is unreliable and expensive. Cheaper and easier to fly into Albuquerque and use Groome Shuttle.
— Review left October 5, 2021
Road Scholar provided an excellent program on the trip to Santa Fe and Taos. Focused on art and history of the area. Instructors were knowledgeable and interesting. Locations chosen were excellent.
— Review left September 29, 2021
This program is dynamite! The tour includes so many unique finds in the area that you will be blown away by the magical experiences that happen - special lecturers, dining experiences, unusual museums and historical settings, free time options to explore, and a group leader with an amazing personality and knowledge of the area.
— Review left September 20, 2021
If you have never been to the area, it is an informative and interesting experience. There were some organisational issues that, if fixed, could make the program a better experience. The bus sound system was unsatisfactory. A couple of the field trips could be better done or eliminated. The dinner at the home was truly outstanding. Overall a good trip but certainly could be made better with a bit of interest and organisation on the part of the provider.
In this age of technology and information, the Hilton Hotel's internet system was unsatisfactory.
— Review left October 8, 2019
An educational and interesting program with several unexpected and enjoyable surprises. There was diverse material and it is an area that invites additional exploration on one's own.
— Review left June 24, 2019
"A Tale of Two Cities' was a rich exploration of the area and I learned so much about the history of place, the courage and diversity of the people, and the extreme beauty of New Mexico. I felt friended and welcomed by the leader and many of the individuals on the tour! ~ Twyla Olsen
— Review left May 27, 2019
This was my first trip .I was immediately convinced I'd go on another.
— Review left May 20, 2019
An enriching experience of non-Eurocentric history, art, music, museums, pottery, sculpture, weaving and cuisine. Our group leader and docents were outstanding. It's very worthwhile to read at least a few of the recommended books beforehand.
— Review left May 15, 2019
Great diversity of learning experiences.
— Review left April 29, 2019
It was a good first-time experience with a Road Scholar group. We were all approximately in a similar age group, we were from across the country, we all had had similar work-related experiences, and we were all interested in learning about something new!
— Review left April 28, 2019
You can use what I have already written.
— Review left April 25, 2019
We had a very enjoyable and rewarding trip to Santa Fe and Taos Pueblo and Taos with Road Scholar. I highly recommend this program and organization.
— Review left April 22, 2019
I found this trip was a little too crowded with scheduled activities, and would have preferred a little more "on your own" time. That said, most of the destinations were interesting. The one major exception was the wacky museum, which could have been in any city anywhere and was only "kinda sorta" fun in a childish sort of way.
Our guide was fairly good - a bit flippant at times, but generally quite knowledgeable. She was a little too casual about shepherding the group at first, when about 8 or 10 of us were left behind at the designated meeting point as she took the rest to a restaurant, leaving at least 5, and maybe 10 minutes before the announced departure time. We had some words about this, and she was defensive rather than apologetic, which I thought was not a good attitude. However, I have to say she was more careful during the rest of the trip.
On the bright side, the meal put on by Lois Ellen Frank and the Red Mesa group was totally wonderful, a real highlight. And I got the impression this might have been made possible by a personal connection between Ms Frank and our guide.
— Review left January 22, 2019
