Historic Eastside | Great Santa Fe Neighborhoods

Centuries-Old Adobes Meet Luxury in a Thriving Arts Community

In the Historic Eastside neighborhood of Santa Fe, one of its most coveted areas, low-slung adobes in deep earth shades and organic shapes reflect the sun under the ever-blue sky. Bounded by Paseo de Peralta on its western edge, Camino Cabra to the east, Hillside Avenue in the north, and Old Santa Fe Trail to the south, this authentic and hip-feeling residential area harbors charismatic, centuries-old homes.

If you’re searching for a home that embodies the soul of Santa Fe, the Historic Eastside might be your perfect match.

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What to Love About Historic Eastside Santa Fe

Diverse architectural styles
Private, quiet, and exclusive
Proximity to boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and museums

About the Historic Eastside

The Historic Eastside is the heart of Santa Fe, home to some of the city’s oldest areas and most captivating attractions. Here, history and luxury dance in perfect harmony. Traditional adobe homes, steeped in character, boast modern amenities, creating an elegant blend of old-world charm and contemporary comfort.

Many of the homes in this desirable neighborhood date back hundreds of years. Narrow, winding roads bordered by adobe walls, towering trees, and vibrant gardens wind through the neighborhood. The Santa Fe River meanders quietly, offering a serene backdrop to this enchanting locale. Though tucked away in this tranquil neighborhood, the Historic Eastside lies just a short walk from the bustling Downtown area and the Santa Fe Plaza.

Historic Eastside Homes and Real Estate

The Historic Eastside real estate market is defined by the Santa Fe style, which took root in the early 20th century. This aesthetic seamlessly integrates traditional architectural elements, such as vigas, latillas, and nichos, with modern materials and construction techniques, in a style often referred to as Pueblo Revival.

Santa Fe’s Historic Eastside Architecture

This unique architectural style reflects the city’s cultural diversity, with an abundance of well-maintained historic adobe homes, as well as Pueblo Revival-style properties. These typically offer flat roofs, thick stucco walls, and soft, rounded edges that harmonize with the surrounding landscape.

Homes here often combine traditional adobe designs and modern light-filled residences, with luxury amenities, yet still featuring kiva fireplaces, flagstone floors, and hand-carved wood accents. The area also offers a mix of single-family homes, a few condos, compounds, and commercial properties, with many luxury options.

Prospective buyers can choose from various home styles, ranging from adobe compounds with rustic exposed wood interiors to stately territorial estates. Many properties have been thoughtfully upgraded with luxury amenities, offering a lifestyle that blends historic authenticity with contemporary elegance. Whether you’re drawn to cozy, charming hideaways, Craftsman style homes, or grand, expansive estates, the Historic Eastside has something for everyone.

Ready to find your dream home? Contact Santa Fe’s premier real estate agents, Ricky Allen and Tara Earley, to explore these timeless properties and discover the magic of the Historic Eastside.

Community Highlights and Amenities

Residents of the Historic Eastside enjoy unparalleled access to Santa Fe’s best attractions, from cultural landmarks to outdoor adventures and community events.

Outdoor Recreation along the Santa Fe Trail, New Mexico

The Historic Eastside provides easy access to scenic routes for hiking, biking, and exploration. This Santa Fe area neighborhood is also a short drive from Santa Fe Ski Basin, where winter sports enthusiasts can hit the slopes, and Bandelier National Monument, a treasure trove of ancient ruins and natural beauty. For water lovers, the Santa Fe River Park cuts through the historic eastside, offering walking paths and picnic spots along the gentle riverbanks, perfect for a peaceful afternoon.

The neighborhood is near several gorgeous natural landscapes and preserves, including the Sangre de Cristo Mountains foothills and the Randall Davey Audubon Center & Sanctuary. It is a must-see with over 190 bird species to observe, lush and vibrant gardens, and a centuries-old historic home, a center of natural history. From there, one can access its Dorothy Stewart trail for casual walks and its longer loop for more active hiking.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the area’s proximity to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Its peaks dominate the eastern skies and centuries-old trees are bountiful. Nearby, the Atalaya Trail offers a moderately challenging hike leading to stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.

Or, head to the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to begin Dale Ball Trails, named for the Founder of the Santa Fe Conservation Trust. Dale Ball Trails is a stunning, 25-mile-long system of trails with breathtaking views –– ideal for bikers and hikers and is accessible from either the college or Canyon Road.

Monsignor Patrick Smith Park

Need some place with a playground, a little more kid-friendly? Named after Monsignor Patrick Smith, a beloved local figure, this park is a favorite for families and outdoor lovers. Its amenities include a well-maintained playground, a scenic little picnic area, BBQ amenities, a soccer field, basketball courts, and plenty of open space for recreational activities. Dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for furry friends to enjoy too.

Community Gatherings

The Santa Fe summer tradition of Music on the Hill at St. John’s College offers a way to connect with others in the city. Providing free live concerts and music entertainment that spans multiple genres, it draws hundreds of attendees who spread out on the lush green lawn to enjoy the sunshine and good times.

Additionally, the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market and the Spanish Market are nearby annual events that celebrate the area’s rich artistic and cultural heritage, attracting visitors and residents alike. And of course, the world-famous Santa Fe Indian Market is held here, easily walkable from the historic Eastside Santa Fe neighborhood.

Explore the Historic Eastside

Not a typical neighborhood, the Historic Eastside is within walking distance of several notable sites, including the Santa Fe Plaza. Home to a thriving arts community and a gorgeous New Mexico landscape, it is the premier and highly coveted gateway to Santa Fe’s history, culture, and natural beauty.

Proximity to the Santa Fe Plaza

Living in the Historic Eastside means being just minutes from the vibrant Santa Fe Plaza, the heart of the city’s social and cultural life. This historic square hosts festivals, concerts, and markets throughout the year and is also home to landmarks like the Palace of the Governors and the New Mexico Museum of Art.

During the holidays, the Plaza transforms into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights and festive decorations, making it a magical place to celebrate the season.

This historic square is the city’s cultural hub, hosting festivals, concerts, and markets throughout the year. From local boutiques and prestigious art galleries to award-winning restaurants, the plaza buzzes with activity year-round. Its free Music on the Plaza is held throughout the soft summer evenings, featuring well-known local and regional musical artists, and draws enthusiastic local crowds.

Nearby are hidden treasures, like the Loretto Chapel, with its famous spiral staircase, and the renowned Canyon Road, a mecca for art lovers featuring over 100 galleries, studios, and boutiques. Not far away, one may explore the newly burgeoning Railyard District, with its many cultural and entertainment events, art markets, museums, galleries, boutiques, theaters, and bountiful restaurants.

People & Lifestyle

Santa Fe’s Historic Eastside is a place made for exploring, attracting residents looking for something wholly different and unique. This coveted exclusive neighborhood lies near the pulse of everything Santa Fe and attracts residents with its sunny climate, rich cultural heritage, urban appeal, and laid-back, unassuming, yet luxurious, lifestyle.

The neighborhood’s blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo influences is reflected in its vibrant art, architecture, and community spirit. Historic Eastside homes, many hidden behind high adobe walls along narrow, unpaved roads, offer unparalleled privacy and opulence. Residents often describe their homes as peaceful retreats, with lush gardens, historic charm, modern amenities, and breathtaking views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Attracting people who wish for renewal and inspiration, this neighborhood boasts many art galleries on both Lower and Upper Canyon Road. Other residents rate highly the many opportunities here to delve into various cultures’ music, cuisine, and history, conveniently near home. Those who choose to live in the Historic Eastside have an undeniable advantage of easy access to some of Santa Fe’s most exciting entertainment.

Schools

The Historic Eastside neighborhood offers access to some of Santa Fe’s top educational institutions.

Acequia Madre Elementary School

A highly rated public school serving K–6, known for its strong academic programs and close-knit community, Acequia Madre Elementary School stands out for its commitment to academic excellence and creative arts integration. The school is ranked in the top 10% of public schools in New Mexico, with 40–44% of students proficient in math and 60–64% proficient in reading, far exceeding state averages.

In 2022, the school received the prestigious National Blue Ribbon School Award, recognizing its exceptional academic achievements and dedication to fostering a vibrant learning community. With a small student body and a student-teacher ratio of 12:1, the school offers a personalized educational experience enriched by programs in the arts and environmental awareness.

Rio Grande School

Rio Grande School, a private institution offering PreK–6 education, is celebrated for its innovative curriculum and emphasis on creativity and critical thinking. Its curriculum fosters academic growth and personal development in a nurturing environment, preparing students for lifelong learning and success.

Santa Fe Preparatory School

The #1 private high school in the area, providing rigorous academics and excellent college preparation, Santa Fe Preparatory School is a top-rated private middle and high school serving grades 7–12.

The school blends traditional and modern teaching methods, emphasizing intellectual curiosity, ethical leadership, and a strong sense of community. Its graduates are well-regarded for their readiness to excel in higher education and their ability to contribute meaningfully to society.

St. John’s College

A nationally recognized liberal arts college offering a unique, discussion-based curriculum that draws students from across the country, this distinguished institution offers an undergraduate curriculum centered on the study of great books and discussion-based learning. Known for its unique approach, the college emphasizes critical thinking, Socratic dialogue, and interdisciplinary studies.

Students engage deeply with philosophy, literature, science, and the arts, drawing learners from across the country who value intellectual exploration and personal growth. Its equally renowned sister college is located in Annapolis, Maryland.

Getting Around

The Historic Eastside’s prime location makes it easy to navigate Santa Fe. The neighborhood is pedestrian-friendly, with downtown destinations just a short walk away. Cycling enthusiasts can take advantage of nearby trails and bike-share programs. For those who drive, the area offers convenient access to major highways and ample parking options. Public transportation is also readily available, making it simple to explore other parts of the city.

Call the Historic Eastside Home

The Historic Eastside of Santa Fe offers an unmatched blend of history, culture, and luxury. From its timeless adobe homes to its vibrant arts scene and outdoor adventures, this neighborhood truly has it all.

Looking for your dream home in the Historic Eastside? Contact Ricky Allen and Tara Earley today to explore exclusive listings and start your journey to Santa Fe living!

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