Willa Cather's Walking Tour in Santa Fe
Overview
On this 2.5-hour walking tour, we’ll explore how author Willa Cather was inspired to write her "best book" (her words), "Death Comes for the Archbishop" by retracing her steps through Santa Fe in 1925 and 1926.
Our walking route covers about 1.5 miles, mostly on sidewalks, but also climbs a hill to the Cross of the Martyrs with its outstanding view of the city below. During our time together, we'll explore aspects of the novel, such as Kit Carson, Padre Antonio José Martínez, and of course Archbishop Jean-Baptiste Lamy, New Mexico's first Catholic archbishop and the real-life inspiration for the fictional Bishop Latour in Cather's book. We will learn about Sister Blandina Segale who helped set up a hospital in Lamy's house, and visit the last remnant of Lamy's six-acre garden behind the St. Francis Cathedral in the peaceful Stations of the Cross Prayer Garden.
What's Included
- Charming guide
Meeting Location
99 Old Santa Fe Trail
Santa Fe, NM 87501, USA
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
131 Cathedral Place
Santa Fe, NM 87501, USA
We conclude the tour by the Lamy statue in front of the St. Francis Cathedral.
What To Expect
Book Online
Safe & secure • Easy breezy • Hassle-free
Santa Fe Plaza
45 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Cross of the Martyrs
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions
(7)Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Willa Cather’s Walking Tour in Santa Fe?
Cancellation Policy
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Activity code: C-422163P1
Traveler Photos

Reviews
Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 10 adventurer reviews collected by Top10Adventures® and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
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