Calling all movie buffs! Did you know the Santa Fe area boasts a rich film history, including some world class productions? The wild and stunning scenery has become the perfect backdrop for many movies and television shows. Keep reading to take a Sante Fe movie and television tour, and discover some famous locations from your favorite scenes.
Santa Fe Filming Begins
As early as 1898, in what was then the New Mexico Territory, Thomas Edison shot the first film in the area: Indian Day School. At the time, this was truly the Wild West. Big names in the film industry (D.W. Griffith, Romaine Fielding, Tom Mix, etc.) would travel through the area and come to realize that Santa Fe was the real deal.
What Makes Santa Fe the Ideal Film Setting?
One reason is lighting. It’s something so simple, yet such an integral part of the TV and movie industry. Santa Fe’s long, clear days provide ample opportunities for natural, beautiful light. Other factors include the area’s typically clear days and mild weather, allowing for more time to film. Our well-preserved adobe architecture also provides an authentic setting for Native American, Western and Southwestern stories. For example, Bonanza Creek Ranch in Santa Fe has been the set for various movies and television shows for over 60 years, including The Man from Laramie and Blazing Saddles.
Top Movies Filmed in Santa Fe
Here is just a sample of some of the top box office hits and TV series filmed in the Santa Fe area. If you haven’t seen them all, then be sure to watch a few before your next visit to truly make the films come to life.
- Oppenheimer
- Roswell, New Mexico
- No Country for Old Men
- Longmire
- Terminator 2
- Thor
- Godless
- Cowboys & Aliens
- True Grit
- Young Guns
- 3:10 to Yuma
- Lonesome Dove
Take a Tour of Santa Fe’s Film Locations
During your Santa Fe getaway, step into the scenes yourself with a tour of some of the area’s filming locations. Guided tours offer behind-the-scenes features. Santa Fe Jeep Tours take you on a scenic trip through fantastic film history. They offer a variety of tours from which to choose, or you can customize your own. We especially recommend the Bonanza Creek Tour where you’ll walk on the actual sets of such movies as 3:10 to Yuma and Young Guns. They’ll even pick you up here at the Inn. For the more independent types, you can rent a jeep and head out on your own film tour adventure.
Stay at Santa Fe’s Historic B&B
We are grateful to be able to share Santa Fe’s contribution to a legacy of American entertainment. We hope you enjoy the Santa Fe movie experience as you explore the local sets and scenery. As you settle in for the evening here at The Bear and reflect upon your day, you’ll appreciate even more the rich landscape, culture, and traditions that make Santa Fe so special.
