Santa Fe is home to some of the most unique history and cultures in the country. You’ll find something new and exciting around every corner, and that is no different at El Rancho de Las Golondrinas. This site is full of original buildings, historical reenactments, and entertaining festivals and events.
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What Is El Rancho de las Golondrinas?
El Rancho de las Golondrinas is a historic ranch that served as a rest stop for travelers along the Camino Real between Mexico City and Santa Fe in the 18th century. It now serves as a living museum with a collection of original architectures, on-site demonstrations, re-enactors, and more on 200 acres of beautiful land southwest of the City Different. Their festivals and events create a fun and exciting atmosphere that takes you back to the 1700s, when bandits, traders, and farmers roamed New Mexico’s lands. You’ll have the opportunity to peek into the past arts and culture through music, dance, and many other aspects of the Spanish, Mexican, and Territorial periods of the Southwest. This attraction may not receive as much attention as the historic heart of Santa Fe, but it’s well worth a visit if you enjoy living history.
What You’ll See at El Rancho de las Golondrinas
Original Colonial Buildings and Tours
Most of the buildings at the site date back to the 18th century. There is also a handful of reconstructed historic buildings highlighting Northern New Mexico’s architecture and heritage. You can choose to embark on either a self-guided tour or guided tour. The self-guided tours follow a downloadable booklet, but if you would prefer the guided option, you must make a reservation in advance.
El Rancho de las Golondrinas Festivals and Events
An array of annual festivals and events take place at El Rancho de las Golondrinas. You can enjoy anything ranging from a food and beer fest to a celebration of the local New Mexican culture. Take a look at their annual lineup below.
- Spring & Fiber Fest
- The ¡Viva México! Fiesta
- The Santa Fe Renaissance Festival
- Herb & Lavender Festival
- The New Mexico Food and Beer Festival
- The Harvest Festival
- The Santa Fe Wine Festival
- Fiesta de los Niños
- The “Spirit of New Mexico’s Past” (Halloween event)
Weaving Demonstrations
Every Friday, weavers come together to brush up on their skills and learn techniques. Visitors are even welcome to join in and learn local crafts such as Colcha embroidery, washing wool with yucca root, carding, spinning on wheels, and dyeing with vegetable dyes.
Hours, Fees, Other Information
Admission for self-guided tours is $6 for adults and $4 for seniors and teens. Special programs and festivals all have different entrance fees, so be sure to check their website for specific prices and ticket sales. El Rancho de las Golondrinas opens on the first of June and closes in the first week of October. You can visit Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Experience Authentic Santa Fe at Four Kachinas Inn
Four Kachinas Inn offers guests the ultimate Santa Fe experience. Our selection of beautiful rooms and a location that is second to none provide a comfortable and authentic stay minutes away from the heart of town.
Book your stay with us today! We look forward to welcoming you to the City Different.
