Welcome to Galisteo
Where History Meets the Horizon
Tucked away in the vast, gentle expanse of the Galisteo Basin, an area inhabited since ancient times (7500–6000 B.C.), lie the timeless villages of Galisteo and Lamy. These two intimate communities, each with fewer than 300 residents, offer a profound step back in time, surrounded by breathtaking natural serenity and rich railroad history.
Galisteo: An Ancient Oasis
The village of Galisteo was officially founded in 1816, just preceding the legendary Santa Fe Trail era. Today, you can wander among historic adobe homes and marvel at the tranquillity of the Galisteo Creek, lined with towering cottonwoods. The village is set against sweeping grasslands that stretch to the horizon, offering stunning, unobstructed views of the Ortiz Mountains. This peaceful, historic setting has long attracted a creative community and has served as the backdrop for numerous famous films.
Lamy: A Railroad Legacy
Adjacent to Galisteo, the village of Lamy (originally Galisteo Junction) was born in 1880 when the Santa Fe Railroad unexpectedly bypassed the city and established its major hub here. Named after Santa Fe's first Archbishop, Jean-Baptiste Lamy, the village quickly became a vital New Mexico gateway.
Lamy's history lives on today:
- The Legal Tender Saloon, on the National Register of Historic Places, is housed in the former Annexe Saloon (est. 1884), which was part of the original Pflueger General Merchandise Store.
- The Mission Revival-style Lamy Depot (built 1909) continues to serve as a daily stop on the Amtrak line between Los Angeles and Chicago.
- Historically, Lamy was the first New Mexico stop for many travellers, including the scientists bound for Los Alamos during the 1940s.
While the rise of the automobile and Route 66 capped its growth, Lamy remains a beloved destination for artists, history enthusiasts, and anyone seeking vast space and quiet contemplation.
Highlights of Basin Living
- Profound History: Explore historic adobes and landmarks that predate the Santa Fe Trail.
- Artistic Retreat: The area is a haven for renowned artists, designers, and authors, including Agnes Martin and Cormac McCarthy.
- Vast Outdoors: Access over 41 miles of hiking and biking trails, including the Santa Fe Rail Trail, which ends at the Lamy Depot.
- Train Adventures: Experience the scenic Sky Railway, an arts and adventure train service (founded by George R.R. Martin) that runs from Santa Fe to Lamy.
Local Lifestyle
Life in Galisteo and Lamy is characterised by serenity, wide-open space, and a deep connection to nature and history. This rural wonderland appeals to those who prioritise privacy, peaceful living, and artistic pursuit. The communities maintain an intimate feel, allowing residents to immerse themselves in the surrounding beauty and mystique that has inspired people for centuries.
Dining and Entertainment
Despite their small size, the villages offer unique, historically significant spots for dining and entertainment:
- The Legal Tender Saloon: A truly historic landmark serving food and drinks in an atmosphere that channels the Old West railway era.
- Nucholls Brewing: A seasonal microbrewery (open spring to fall) that pairs its schedule with the popular Sky Railway excursions.
- Sky Railway: Offers unique, themed journeys and scenic adventure rides between Santa Fe and Lamy.
The Movie Set Landscape
The unique natural beauty of the Galisteo Basin is so striking and versatile that it has served as the filming location for numerous iconic movies, including The Cowboys, Silverado, There Will Be Blood, 3:10 to Yuma, and Thor.
