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15 Best Day Trips from Albuquerque

Located in the rugged wilds of the state of New Mexico, Albuquerque is already widely recognised as an artistic and cultural hub, full of museums and restaurants and cultural attractions thanks to its rich history.

It also happens to be perfectly located between a vast array of awe-inspiring destinations that are easily reachable from the city and are perfect for a day trip to either escape the fast pace of life or visit somewhere new and wildly different.

From enormous wildlife refuges to ancient settlements, you’re never far from adventure when you’re in New Mexico and Albuquerque is a stone’s throw away from some of the very best.

Let’s have a look at the best day trips from Albuquerque :

1. Acoma Pueblo

Sitting atop a nearly 400 foot tall mesa in the middle of the desert, you’ll find the small town of Acoma, famous for being the oldest continually inhabited settlement in the whole of North America.

This mind-blowing feat is matched by the views from the pueblo itself, with a panoramic vista across the rocky expanse of land below.

The Acoma people have been living here for nearly 800 years and you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about them and their home on a 90-minute guided walking tour of the town.

To discover the fascinating art and culture of the people here, be sure to visit the Haak’u Museum, whilst the Sky City Cultural Centre offers exhibits and activities concerning Acoma Pueblo itself.

2. Jemez Springs

A trip to Jemez Springs will have you feeling like you’ve just stepped into the true Wild West, surrounded by red rock formations and dusty grasslands that are reminiscent of some of the world’s favourite Westerns.

The highlight of the area is undoubtedly the beautiful network of hot springs that you can visit and spend the day relaxing in.

If you’re looking to do something a little more active, there are also numerous hikes and trails that’ll take you to some truly stunning viewpoints, or to get a feel for the town you can stroll around exploring its many shops, restaurants and galleries.

3. Salinas Pueblo Missions

The Salinas mission is part of a group of missions in the same area that are preserved and run by the National Park Service.

The buildings you’ll find here form part of the fascinating story of Franciscan missionaries that visited the Native American communities that once thrived there.

Expect to be amazed by the various ruins of monasteries and churches built into the rugged desert-scape of the Mountainair region of New Mexico.

If you’re looking to visit a few of these in a single day trip then you can also explore the Quarai, Abo and Gran Quivira ruins which can be found nearby and are just as intriguing.

With a jaded but fascinating past as a former coal boomtown, then a diminishing ghost town, Madrid is experiencing a comeback as an artist’s enclave unknown to most but growing in popularity.

Close to Albuquerque and found on the road to Santa Fe, the tiny town is located in the picturesque settings of the Oritz Mountains, snuggled comfortably into a canyon.

Spend a couple of hours getting to know Madrid’s thriving art scene at one of the many galleries and artisanal exhibits and stalls, or learn more about the town’s history with a visit to the informative and sometimes raucous Mine Shaft Tavern.

5. Valles Caldera National Preserve

One of the most beautiful city escapes in the entire state is the volcanic caldera that forms over 900,000 acres of stunning countryside known as the Valles Caldera National Preserve.

Here you’ll discover the untold beauty of the Jemez Mountains that are surrounded by desert, grasslands and lakes.

As you’d expect, there are various world-class hiking trails here, not to mention fly-fishing and cross-country skiing and snowshoeing when there’s snowfall.

The perfect place to get back to nature, the Valles Caldera National Preserve is an enchanting place for a day trip or a few days camping if you’ve got the time.

6. White Sands National Monument

The ever shifting, surreal landscape of White Sands National Monument is as mesmerising as it is impressive.

Known to be one of the most beautiful vistas in the whole state, the area lies in the Tularosa Basin, surrounded by rugged mountains and constantly changing.

The dunes themselves are made up of white gypsum sand and can reach up to 60 foot in length and are the perfect place to go on a sandy adventure, just be sure to remember to pack plenty of water and sun-screen.

7. Carlsbad Caverns National Park

An almost polar opposite to White Sands, the Carlsbad Caverns National Park is nearly completely underground, giving you an idea of its sheer size and why people flock to explore its many subterranean wonders.

The limestone caverns number almost 120 and there are many more yet to be discovered.

On the list of activities here are bat tours, cave walks through alien-like landscapes or self-guided audio tours.

If you get tired of the underground scenery, the National Park also has a number of hiking and backpacking trails above the surface, meaning there’s something for everyone on this outlandish day trip.

8. Bandelier National Monument

One of the most intriguing and beautiful insights into the land and lives of the ancient people who lived here, the Bandelier National Monument boasts trails, boating and some of the most dramatic landscapes in the country.

With archaeological sites of native settlements carved into the canyon walls themselves and volcanic formations surrounding the area, it’s impossible not to be stunned by the jaw-dropping scenery.

Be sure to visit the various museums to learn about the Pueblo people who lived here and if you’re passing through in October, stop by the Fall Festival to get a chance to get to know the community that lives there today.

9. Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railway

For an all encapsulating journey through the desert and mountainscapes of New Mexico and further afield, one of the best day trips to take is along the Cumbres-Toltec Railway.

Step back in time as you board the steam locomotive and enjoy the plush, comfortable interior and soak up the views outside.

Built in 1880, the train travels through the enormous Cumbres Pass and traverses the majestic Toltec Gorge, both incredibly beautiful and straight out of the nation’s favourite Western movies.

10. Tent Rocks National Monument

Formed over millions of years of geological processes, the Tent Rocks National Monument is made up of bizarre rock formations that have the appearance of tents and tipis.

Sat on top of the Pajarito Plateau, the monument is the perfect place to go hiking and is full of stunning photo opportunities, particularly at sunrise or sunset when the conical rocks cast majestic shadows across the ground.

For the best elevated view, be sure to hike through Slot Canyon.

Famously named as one of the World’s Prettiest Mountain Towns, Taos is a beautiful little settlement located in the Sangre De Cristo Mountains and is bursting with history and culture.

The source of inspiration for a number of artists over the years on account of its beauty, Taos hosts frequent art fairs and is home to the prestigious Taos Art Museum, making it a veritable haven for artists from all over the country.

12. Bosque Del Apache Wildlife Refuge

Home to one of the nation’s most breathtaking natural phenomena, the Bosque Del Apache Wildlife Refuge contains a wild stretch of the Rio Grande and has an abundance of wildlife, particularly migratory water birds.

Each year, thousands of these birds migrate to the refuge during winter, causing a spectacle quite unlike anything most people have ever seen and drawing in crowds from all over the country.

Do your best to visit during the winter months but between the hiking trails and awesome landscapes you’re sure to enjoy your visit at any time of the year.

13. El Malpais National Conservation Area

Coined by Spanish explorers as the “bad country”, El Malpais was once the scene of a volcanic eruption that left a vast expanse of black volcanic rock covering a huge area of land.

The resulting lava field and geological formations left behind now form the Malpais National Conservation Area, a starkly beautiful and fascinating place, bursting with stories of the people that attempted to settle there.

Discover the petroglyphs and wall remnants that they left behind and take advantage of the excellent hikes around El Calderon Cinder Cone that give rise to spectacular views at the summit.

14. Very Large Array

Just over two hours away from Albuquerque you’ll find one of the world’s most impressive feats of technological ingenuity otherwise known as the Very Large Array.

One of the leading astronomical observatories on the planet, the array contains 27 radio antennas that have been responsible for shedding light on groundbreaking celestial activity that would’ve been otherwise imperceptible.

You can get up close and personal with the huge satellite dishes on self-guided tours and you can learn more about the observatory at the Visitor Center.

15. Santa Fe

One of the oldest cities in the United States, Santa Fe is both gorgeous and positively steeped in history.

A former Spanish colony, you can find all manner of fascinating sites here.

From the Palace of Governors to the Georgia O’Keefe Art Museum, the city is the ideal place for those looking to find a bit of everything.

Whether you’re into churches and basilicas or folk-art and traditional ranchos, Santa Fe is one of those places with something new to discover around every corner.

15 Best Day Trips from Albuquerque:

• Acoma Pueblo
• Jemez Springs
• Salinas Pueblo Missions
• Valles Caldera National Preserve
• White Sands National Monument
• Carlsbad Caverns National Park
• Bandelier National Monument
• Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railway
• Tent Rocks National Monument
• Bosque Del Apache Wildlife Refuge
• El Malpais National Conservation Area
• Very Large Array

• Weekend Getaways
• Romantic Trips
• Last Minute

25 Best Day Trips from Albuquerque, NM

Last Updated By VacationIdea Staff on April 4, 2024

Enjoy some great New Mexico cuisine and round off your day with some shopping at a large variety of boutique stores and markets. More Santa Fe shopping and dining ideas.

There are numerous activities to keep children happy and active including rafting, fishing, rope courses and chairlift rides.

Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railway

Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railway, 500 Terrace Ave, Chama, NM 87520, Phone: 888-286-2737

Day Trips from Albuquerque: Acoma Pueblo

Acoma Pueblo, New Mexico, 87034

Bandelier National Monument

Bandelier National Monument, 15 Entrance Rd, Los Alamos, NM 87544, Phone: 505-672-3861

Bosque del Apache Wildlife Refuge

Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, 1001 NM-1, San Antonio, NM 87832, Phone: 575-835-1828

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Carlsbad Caverns National Park, 757 Carlsbad Caverns Hwy, Carlsbad, NM 88220, Phone: 575-785-2232

El Malpais National Conservation Area

Good to know: Best Time to Visit Albuquerque, New Mexico

Day Trips from Albuquerque: Jemez Springs

Jemez Springs, New Mexico

Kasha Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument

Kasha Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, Cochiti Pueblo, NM 87025, Phone: 505-331-6259 , Video

Day Trips from Albuquerque: Madrid

Madrid, New Mexico

Petroglyph National Monument

Petroglyph National Monument, Western Trail NW, Albuquerque NM 87120

Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument

Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument, Mountainair, NM 87036, Phone: 505-847-2585

Valles Caldera National Preserve

Valles Caldera National Preserve, 39201 NM-4, Jemez Springs, NM 87025, Phone: 575-829-4100

Pecos National Historical Park

Pecos National Historical Park, Pecos, NM 87552, Phone: 505-757-7241

Aztec Ruins National Park

Aztec Ruins National Park, 725 Ruins Rd, Aztec, NM 87410, Phone: 505-334-6174

Museum of International Folk Art

Museum of International Folk Art, 706 Camino Lejo on Museum Hill, Santa Fe, NM 87505, Phone: 505-476-1200

Las Vegas, New Mexico

Day Trips from Albuquerque: Gallup

Gallup, New Mexico

Day Trip Near Me: Tucumcari

Tucumcari, NM 88401

Truth or Consequences

More ideas: Things to do in Espanola

Chimayo, NM 87522

Santa Rosa, NM 88435

Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa

Ojo Caliente, 50 Los Banos Dr, Ojo Caliente, NM 87549, Phone: 888-939-0007

Earthship Biotecture

Earthship Biotecture, 2 Earthship Way, Tres Piedras, NM 87577, Phone: 575-613-4409

• 1. Santa Fe
• 3. Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railway
• 4. Day Trips from Albuquerque: Acoma Pueblo
• 5. Bandelier National Monument
• 6. Bosque del Apache Wildlife Refuge
• 7. Carlsbad Caverns National Park
• 8. El Malpais National Conservation Area
• 9. Day Trips from Albuquerque: Jemez Springs
• 10. Kasha Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument
• 11. Day Trips from Albuquerque: Madrid
• 12. Petroglyph National Monument
• 13. Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument
• 14. Valles Caldera National Preserve
• 15. Pecos National Historical Park
• 16. Aztec Ruins National Park
• 17. Museum of International Folk Art
• 18. Las Vegas
• 19. Day Trips from Albuquerque: Gallup
• 20. Day Trip Near Me: Tucumcari
• 21. Truth or Consequences
• 22. Chimayo
• 23. Santa Rosa
• 24. Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa
• 25. Earthship Biotecture

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• Last Updated On
• June 25, 2023

9 Fun Things to Do Near Albuquerque, NM: Best Places to Visit Nearby!

Albuquerque’s surrounding area is a great place to head to in order to experience the southwest’s wilder side, as well as the art that has inspired it for thousands of years.

There are many fun things to do near Albuquerque, NM that visitors with different interests will  surely appreciate. 

1. Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway

30 Tramway Rd NE Albuquerque, NM 87122 (505) 856-1532

This is one of the attractions near Albuquerque, New Mexico that will give you a wonderful opportunity to admire natural landscapes from the point of view of a bird!

Why We Recommend Going Here

You can really look out far and the whole experience does feel dramatic.

From the park, you can look out on a 11,00 square-mile panoramic view.

Bring your camera and take pictures of deep canyons, the Sandia Foothills and all kinds of colorful, diverse nature.

Distance from Albuquerque

This aerial tramway is 16.7 miles away and 22 minutes drive from Albuquerque. 

Recommended Hotel Near Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway: Hampton Inn & Suites Albuquerque Airport

2. Tinkertown Museum

121 Sandia Crest Rd Sandia Park, NM 87047-2415 (505) 281-5233

Originally the many wares that adorn this family-friendly museum used to be part of a traveling exhibit.

Now, you can look through thousands of items that give glimpses into the historical secrets of the world in a circus-like setting.

This is a great place to take the family to admire old collection items like 50,000 glass bottles, wagon wheels, store fronts and all kinds of other western inspired memorabilia.

It’s an interesting, educational experience where you can look through old tools and even a antique sailboat that voyaged the seas for over a decade.

This museum is 25.1 miles away from Albuquerque and it takes 29 minutes to get there by car. 

Recommended Hotel Near Tinkertown Museum: Albuquerque Crowne Plaza

Related: Best Things to Do in Albuquerque

3. Hollywick Farms

503 Frost Rd Sandia Park, NM 87047-9414 (505) 286-1172

Alpaca yarn is some of the softest and most durable materials to make all kinds of things.

At Hollywick you can look into the whole process that entails their implementation.

Meet the Alpacas and then take this great opportunity to find out about all the things that you can do with this yarn, including clothing, accessories and of course, toys to tots!

If you appreciate soft goods, you’ll be pleased to learn all about alpacas! 

These farms are 25.1 miles away from Albuquerque and it takes 29 minutes to get there by car. 

Recommended Hotel Near Hollywick Farms: Isleta Resort & Casino

Related: Restaurants in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Related: Fun Things to Do in Albuquerque with Kids

4. ABQ BioPark Zoo

903 10th St SW Rio Rancho, NM 87102 (505) 764-6200

This is one of the top places to see near Albuquerque and is an immersive way to experience the different environments that make up the natural world.

Kids are sure to love going through different country exhibits and experiencing animals in their natural habitats.

There’s plenty to look forward to as you tour from an aquarium, penguins and polar bears to safari-esquí areas with animals that come from the African plains.

This zoo is 16.1 miles away from Albuquerque and it takes 23 minutes to get there by car. 

Recommended Hotel Near ABQ BioPark Zoo: Home2 Suites by Hilton Albuquerque Downtown/University

5. A Park Above

2441 Westside Ct SE Rio Rancho, NM 87124 (505) 994-6338

There’s one of the cool places to go with little ones to run around than this fully inclusive playground that covers more than six acres!

This is one of the many things to do and see near Albuquerque .

Families can stroll along a loop and pedestrian path, play some basketball at sports areas and explore different installations.

This is also a free place to take a dog as there is an area that’s set up just for them. 

This park is 16.1 miles away from Albuquerque and it takes 23 minutes to get there by car. 

Recommended Hotel Near A Park Above: Quality Inn Rio Rancho

6. Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands

Albuquerque, NM 87113 (505) 346-3900 

This place is huge and great to visit over the weekend!

And offers plenty to beguile the eye.

It encompasses more than 1 and half million acres that are made up to three states!

There’s a good chance that you’ll end up taking many pictures as you make your way along the numerous trails, particularly as there’s something for everyone to admire including an impressive array of gorgeous rocky mountains and breathtaking shrubbery that cover entire ridge sides. 

This forest  is 6.8 miles away from Albuquerque and it takes 13 minutes to get there by car. 

Recommended Hotel Near Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands: Comfort Suites Albuquerque

7. Wildlife West Nature Park

87 N Frontage Rd Edgewood, NM 87015-8095 (505) 346-3900 

Bird watchers visit this lush landscape with great regularity as it has wonderful nature viewing opportunities and is one of the best romantic places to visit in the area.

Nature lovers of all ages are sure to find this thriving wildlife preserve and ¨enhanced zoo¨ to be an intimate experience that delves into the many roles that fauna and flora play in our beloved American ecosystems.

There are a number of interesting animal enrichment cheap activities that will open your eyes to the harmonious relationship that we can share with the natural world.

This park is 30.8 miles away from Albuquerque and it takes 31 minutes to get there by car. 

Recommended Hotel Near Wildlife West Nature Park: Hotel Parq Central Albuquerque

8. Molly’s Bar

546 New Mexico 333 Tijeras, NM 87059-7356 (505) 281-9911 

This fun establishment may be described as funky and eccentric, which in turn has attracted many filmmakers to use it as a set.

It maintains a great ambience both indoors and out, in no small part to the great music that you’ll hear.

There is an interesting selection of beers and you can enjoy pizza festively with friends.

This bar is 18.1 miles away from Albuquerque and it takes 24 minutes to get there by car. 

Recommended Hotel Near Molly’s Bar: The Sheraton Albuquerque Uptown Hotel

9. Sandia Artisans

12418 State Highway 14 N Cedar Crest, NM 87008-9724 (505) 407-2166 

This art gallery along the Turquoise Trail may be small, but it doesn’t mean it isn’t special.

A big reason for its popularity is that it highlights art works from local artists.

This hidden gem offers a little bit of everything, from paintings that exemplify southwestern themes, to sculptures and one.of.a.kind jewelry.

Even if you don’t know much about art, the very friendly staff will be more than happy to converse with you and tell you the story and meaning behind many of the items.

This art gallery is 19.9 miles away from Albuquerque and it takes 22 minutes to get there by car. 

Recommended Hotel Near Sandia Artisans: Marriott Albuquerque

9 Fun Things to Do that Are Near Albuquerque, NM for 2024

• Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway
• Tinkertown Museum
• Hollywick Farms
• ABQ BioPark Zoo
• A Park Above
• Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands
• Wildlife West Nature Park
• Molly’s Bar
• Sandia Artisans

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ALBUQUERQUE: THE ULTIMATE BUCKET LIST

Albuquerque is a hidden travel gem..

It’s under-the-radar, affordable, achingly beautiful, unspoiled and filled with soul. If we had 72 hours in Albuquerque, this is how we would spend it. Here is our list of the must-see, must-do things in the wonderful Duke City. 

Cruise Down Route 66

Cruise up and down Central Avenue to see Americana at it’s best: buzzing neon signs, vintage motels and historic architecture. For a real blast from the past, stop in to the Route 66 Diner, and don’t leave without ordering one of their amazingly delicious malts or milkshakes.

Hike, Tram Or Ski Sandia Peak

Sandia Peak boasts breathtaking views and offers nice sanctuary right outside the city. If you are looking for adventure, hike the La Luz Trail to reach the peak.  If you want an easier, family friendly way to the top, the tram makes a trip every 20-30 minutes throughout hours of operation. And if you there during the winter season, the best way down is on skis or a board.

Attend Balloon Fiesta

Every year in the beginning of October Albuquerque hosts the International Balloon Fiesta. This is an experience like no other and hundreds of colorful balloons paint the sky with the most stunning and picturesque views. It’s an early morning but well worth it. You can even take a ride yourself. Just go extra early to help with takeoff.  

Sample The Local Cuisine

New Mexican cuisine  is hard to describe with words alone; it is something you have to experience. It is not Mexican food or Tex Mex. It is a blend of flavors from Spanish and Native American cultures that has been perfected over the course of 400 years. Sadies is a staple of Albuquerque but you can find authentic New Mexican food at Cervantes, Mary & Tito’s, El Patio, Garcia’s, El Pinto and more. Some standout dishes to try include breakfast burritos (check out where to find the best breakfast burritos  here ), carne adovada, green chile chicken enchiladas, chilles relleños and stuffed sopaipillas.

Take A Walk (Or Ride) On The Bosque Trail

Featured by Sunset Magazine as one of the best bike trails in the west, the Paseo Del Bosque Trail runs from the north to the south edges of the metro area. The 16-mile trail parallels the Rio Grande and runs through the cottonwood forest past Tingley Beach and the Nature Center. It’s a great uninterrupted trail for a long run, bike ride or walk with the family.

Visit The Biopark Zoo

With more than 250 species, the 64-acre Rio Grande Zoo displays animals from around the world in open-air habitats. You can watch animal feedings, attend story time in the Africa Amphitheater, attend a show or ride the train. 

Make A Trip To ABQ's Breweries

If you love local beer as much as we do, make sure to stop by one of Albuquerque’s many breweries for a pint. Check out La Cumbre Brewing Co., Marble Brewery, Tractor Brewing Co. or Ponderosa Brewing.

Grab Sunset Drinks At Hotel Parq’s Rooftop Bar

The Apothecary Lounge sits on the roof of the Hotel Parq and offers some of the best panoramic views of the skyline and mountains in the city.  Go in the early evening for a cocktail and enjoy a breathtaking view of the sunset.

Breakfast Can Be Chile

Packed with delicious fillings, wrapped in a warm tortilla, covered and smothered in red and green chile; it’s hard to beat a good breakfast burrito. And as the originators of the classic breakfast burrito, New Mexicans have been perfecting this southwest staple for decades. So spice up your morning with the king of breakfast foods at one of the numerous locations on our Breakfast Burrito Byway!

Take A Breaking Bad Tour

If you are fan of the hit show Breaking Bad or Better Call Saul, do not miss out on this tour. Relive the series by visiting your favorite film locations from Jesse’s house to Walt’s Car Wash to the Laundromat and more. Stop by the Candy Lady to purchase some “breaking bad candy.” And learn some interesting and entertaining history along the way. You can take your own self-guided tour or opt for one of the trolley tours.

Visit The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

Discover the world of Pueblo Indian culture at this one-of-a-kind museum. Learn about the history and life of the 19 different New Mexican Pueblos, marvel at original artwork and craftsmanship or attend an event with food, native dances, art markets, exhibitions and more. For visitors without their own transportation they offer a free shuttle service from Old Town and the Zoo.

Go Shopping in Historic Old Town

Historic Old Town has been the heart of Albuquerque for over three centuries. With five museums and more than 100 shops, galleries and restaurants; Old Town is a great place to shop, walk about or soak in the distinctive culture. You can find spectacular and uniquely New Mexican jewelry, artwork, housewares, clothing and world-class leatherwork. 

Albuquerque   Travel Guide

16 Fun Things to Do in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque is known as a Southwestern culture hub. It's home to more than a dozen museums and a robust public art program that dots nearly every downtown corner with murals and sculptures. Its sizzling cuisine is often laden with New Mexico'

• All Things To Do

Sandia Peak Tramway Sandia Peak Tramway

For excellent views of Albuquerque and the nearby Sandia Mountains, take a ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway. Cable cars carry passengers nearly 3 miles (about 15 minutes) along a suspended cable between eastern Albuquerque and the 10,378-foot-high summit of Sandia Peak. Once at the top, visitors relish the views of the Rio Grande Valley and the Land of Enchantment – you can see up to 11,000 square miles on a clear day – not to mention some excellent hiking trails. There are a range of trails to suit all skill levels, from the easy 0.3-mile Peak Nature Trail to the more difficult 7.5-mile La Luz Trail. If you'd like to hike up or down, one-way tickets are available. What's more, during most winters, visitors will find snow-covered ski slopes at the summit.

TEN3, the restaurant at Sandia Peak's summit, offers two dining experiences for visitors to choose from. Casual dining in a sports bar setting at the lounge is available for lunch or dinner on a first-come, first-served basis. More formal dining is available by reservation for the restaurant's Fine Dining section. Note that the restaurant is closed Tuesday and Wednesday and tram tickets are not included with your reservation.

Old Town Albuquerque Old Town Albuquerque free

U.S. News Insider Tip: While in Old Town, visit one of the city's quirkiest museums – the American International Rattlesnake Museum, where visitors earn a certificate of bravery for spying the conservation-minded museum's large collection of venomous snakes. – Ashley M. Biggers, Contributor, Travel

For more than 300 years, both Native American and Spanish cultures have been shaping this neighborhood (this is the site of the original city settlement in 1706). Anchored by the central plaza, Old Town's streets are filled with adobe buildings with brightly colored trim that now house galleries, restaurants and souvenir shops. The stunning San Felipe de Neri Church  – Albuquerque's oldest building – can also be found here.

Indian Pueblo Cultural Center Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

Long before the Spanish conquistadors made their way to New Mexico, the region was home to numerous tribes of Pueblo people. Today, the cultures of these Indigenous peoples are preserved at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, which the Pueblos of New Mexico collectively own. Located about 2 miles northeast of Old Town , this educational facility of Pueblo art and history also hosts a variety of cultural events, including lectures, workshops and dances. 

Recent visitors strongly recommended stopping at the center while in Albuquerque, calling it a must-do. If you can, try visiting on a day when Pueblo dancers are performing; according to reviewers, it was a highlight of their visit. Travelers are also quick to recommend the Indian Pueblo Kitchen, which diners praised for its traditional dishes.

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ABQ BioPark ABQ BioPark

U.S. News Insider Tip: While you're visiting the park's botanic garden and aquarium, or Tingley Beach, cross Central Avenue to take a peek inside El Vado, a 1937 motor court hotel restored as a hotel, shopping and dining destination. – Ashley M. Biggers, Contributor, Travel

Sitting along the Rio Grande just southeast of Old Town , the ABQ BioPark is the ideal venue for a relaxing day spent outdoors, according to recent visitors. This massive park is home to four distinct attractions: an aquarium, a botanic garden, a zoo and Tingley Beach. The aquarium is a particular hit with children thanks to its 285,000-gallon shark tank, while the zoo's 250-plus species (snow leopards, kangaroos and polar bears included) are sure to keep their attention. If you're not really interested in the animal kingdom, spend an afternoon exploring the 32-acre botanic garden, which features numerous exotic plant species, meticulously manicured grounds and serene walking paths. You can also enjoy fishing at Tingley Beach during a summertime visit.

Attend the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Attend the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're planning to attend, leave multiple mornings and evenings open. Although Albuquerque's weather is usually mild, inclement weather may mean the balloons can't fly. Allowing yourself backup days should ensure you get to see the big show. – Ashley M. Biggers, Contributor, Travel  

The city's dry climate is ideal for hot air ballooning , and so during the first week of October every year, hundreds of thousands of visitors flock to Albuquerque to experience the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. For a full week, the sky fills with more than 500 brightly colored balloons, which launch en masse many mornings from the 360-acre Balloon Fiesta Park in northern Albuquerque. Festival attendees witness the mass launch just before sunrise and the "Balloon Glows," during which the balloons are illuminated against the night sky.

National Museum of Nuclear Science & History National Museum of Nuclear Science & History

Albuquerque has close ties to the birth of the Atomic Age sitting between Los Alamos to the north, where scientists created the first atomic weapons, and the Trinity Site to the south, where they tested the first nuclear bomb. Dating to 1969, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History tracks nuclear developments from the earliest pioneers in the field to the latest developments, including in the fields of nuclear power and medicine.

The museum takes visitors inside the decision to drop the first atomic bomb and explores the bomb's influence on pop culture. Thanks to a 2019 partnership with the Atomic Heritage Foundation, the museum inherited a trove of oral histories collected from Manhattan Project participants. Outside, the 9-acre Heritage Park stores a collection of rare and historically important aircraft and missiles, such as a B-29 Superfortress like the one that carried the "Fat Man" bomb.

San Felipe de Neri Church San Felipe de Neri Church free

Sitting on the north edge of Old Town 's plaza, the San Felipe de Neri Church, originally founded in 1706, was the first Roman Catholic Church erected in Albuquerque. The structure that stands today was completed in 1793 (one year after the original building collapsed) and has expanded over the centuries to include a rectory, a convent and a school. There is also a museum here that displays religious art and artifacts that once hung on the church's walls.

Recent travelers said that a visit to the San Felipe de Neri Church is a must when visiting the Old Town area, even if you're not religious. Visitors admired its peaceful atmosphere and well-preserved interiors and architecture. 

New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science

Neighboring the Albuquerque Museum on the outskirts of Old Town , this museum educates visitors on billions of years of natural history. Highlights include the display on the Jurassic era that features life-size replicas of dinosaur skeletons, and "The Hall of the Stars," which attempts to explain how the night sky is organized via a tapestry that's equipped with UV reactive thread. Along with several temporary exhibits, the museum is home to a planetarium and a 3D movie theater.

Recent visitors praised the museum's artifacts and exhibits, especially the animatronic dinosaur in the entrance, and said its informative displays have the ability to engage a variety of visitors (even children). 

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The Albuquerque Museum The Albuquerque Museum

For an in-depth look at Albuquerque's rich cultural heritage, take a few hours to explore the Albuquerque Museum. Sitting on the eastern edge of Old Town , this space is home to an impressive collection of historic artifacts detailing the city's past; some of the more notable objects include a circa 1630 Jemez Pueblo jar and armor used by Spanish conquistadors. The museum also features approximately 10,000 pieces of art, including works by renowned New Mexico artists, such as Georgia O'Keeffe and Fritz Scholder.

Both travelers and locals praise this museum for its well-stocked permanent collection, but they also recommend spending some time in the temporary exhibits. Reviewers also suggested visiting the museum on one of your first days in Albuquerque to better understand and make the most of your time at the city's historical attractions, such as Old Town and the San Felipe de Neri Church .

Petroglyph National Monument Petroglyph National Monument free

If you're interested in (very) early American history, take a trip to the west side of the Rio Grande where you'll find Petroglyph National Monument – one of the top things to do in New Mexico . This 7,239-acre park is home to more than 25,000 carved images left behind by Native Americans and Spanish settlers. 

Before you head out to interpret the petroglyphs for yourself (the park features three primary hiking areas), stop by the visitor center. Keep in mind: The petroglyph viewing trails are a 1- to to 6-mile drive from the visitor center, so if you're being dropped off at the visitor center by a cab or ride-share, have the driver wait for you to transport you to the trailheads. At Boca Negra Canyon, three short trails lead to a combined 100 petroglyphs. Piedras Marcadas Canyon offers a chance to see the most petroglyphs, with 400 scattered over a 1.5-mile (roundtrip) trail. Staff members can direct you to specific attractions within the park, while on-site educational programs offer further insight into the ancient rock art. As far as the trails go, recent visitors raved about their accessibility and views of petroglyphs. 

Walk along the Paseo del Bosque Trail Walk along the Paseo del Bosque Trail free

U.S. News Insider Tip: While traveling the Paseo del Bosque Trail, take a small side trip to the 53-acre Aldo Leopold Forest, which honors the conservation leader and his ties to New Mexico. – Ashley M. Biggers, Contributor, Travel  

This 16-mile-long, paved walking and biking path traces the Rio Grande through central Albuquerque, passing major sites like the ABQ BioPark and within striking distance of Old Town . It also features public art and the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife. The trail is uninterrupted by road crossings, making it a great option for exploring the city sans traffic.

Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta stakes a claim as being the largest ballooning event in the world, but it only takes flight in October. The Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum chronicles high-flying achievements in the sport year-round. It begins with the history of ballooning and devotes exhibits to the hall-of-flame aeronauts, including the locals from whom the museum takes its name, Maxie Anderson and Ben Abruzzo, whose Double Eagle II is celebrated among the museum's notable aircraft.

Recent visitors compared the museum to the Smithsonian for the sport and said it was worth a visit, even if you're not a hardcore fan of ballooning. They appreciated the museum's historical and global perspectives and interactive exhibits geared toward children, including exhibits on how balloons fly. However, travelers warned that sections of the museum may be closed during the fiesta when it hosts special events.

The Turquoise Museum The Turquoise Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip: After visiting the Turquoise Museum, head across the street to visit Zendo Coffee, a local favorite coffee shop, and the Sanitary Tortilla Factory, a former tortilla factory-turned art gallery. – Ashley M. Biggers, Contributor, Travel    

Open since 1993, The Turquoise Museum is a fantastic place to go and learn all about the history of mining and crafting turquoise. The museum offers information on turquoise from around the world, how to tell different types of turquoise apart, and how to tell fake turquoise from the real thing, along with the history of turquoise. It also showcases some of the rarest turquoise specimens in the world.

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Breaking Bad RV Tours Breaking Bad RV Tours

The critically acclaimed TV show "Breaking Bad" was a pop culture phenomenon during its run from 2008 to 2013. The story of an Albuquerque high school chemistry teacher-turned meth kingpin Walter White, played by Bryan Cranston, and his sidekick Jesse Pinkman, played by Aaron Paul, won so many fans that they continue to travel from across the globe to see the show's Albuquerque filming locations. The Breaking Bad RV Tours whisks passengers across town on a replica Bounder RV, just like the one seen on the show, to local filming spots.

The tour hopscotches to popular locations used for settings in the show like Jesse's house, the Dog House restaurant, Tucco's headquarters, the Los Pollos Hermanos restaurant, the car wash and Walt's house (all meaningful stops to fans of the show). During the tour, guides, who are all industry professionals who worked as actors or crew on "Breaking Bad" or its sequel, "Better Call Saul," offer show insights and trivia. The company recommends booking early as tours often sell out.

Go for a tasting at Casa Rondena Winery Go for a tasting at Casa Rondena Winery

With roots dating to 1629, New Mexico is the oldest wine growing region in the United States. Casa Rondeña is carrying on the tradition today. Although it uses grapes that grow just out its stately front door and from across New Mexico, the winery feels straight out of Spain with stone-block walls and a bell tower. The family-owned winery operates a public tasting room and a private 1629 Wine Club on site.

While recent visitors enjoyed the wine, they raved about the charming ambiance. They recommended breaking out of the tasting room once you have your glass in hand to wander the grounds, particularly the serene gardens and pond. 

Explora Science Center and Children's Museum of Albuquerque Explora Science Center and Children's Museum of Albuquerque

This experiential learning center is set near Old Town Albuquerque. Although it's often described as a children's museum, it offers more than 250 interactive exhibits exploring STEAM  (science, technology, engineering, art and math) appealing to kids and the curious-at-heart of any age. The two-story museum features exhibitions devoted to gravity, moving air, water, chain reactions and bubble play, to name a few.

Most visitors loved the interactive exhibits and found that a variety of ages of children, even teenagers, found plenty to entertain them here. They recommended setting aside several hours, even a full day, to enjoy the exhibits here, which they found numerous for a city of Albuquerque's size. Travelers commented that the museum gets crowded and suggested taking advantage of earlier opening times, like during a time set aside for toddlers to explore, on Mondays from 9 to 11 a.m.

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17 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Albuquerque

Written by Jim O'Donnell and Michael Law Updated Mar 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The largest city in New Mexico, Albuquerque is located right in the center of the state along the Rio Grande . A diverse and cosmopolitan city, Albuquerque's high desert environment offers many fun things to do throughout the year. A great first stop for any visit is Old Town, the most historic part of the city, with a relaxed and inviting atmosphere and access to many other cultural attractions in the area.

The Sandia Mountains that define the eastern edge of Albuquerque are home to interesting outdoor recreation places, such as the Sandia Peak Tramway and the Elena Gallegos Open Space. The ABQ BioPark is also a fun family destination within the city and home to the Albuquerque Aquarium, the Rio Grande Zoo, and the Rio Grande Botanical Gardens.

One of the biggest tourist draws on Albuquerque's events calendar is the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, running for nine days each October. Albuquerque was also used as a location in the TV series Breaking Bad , and tours to the various filming sites are popular.

Discover the city's highlights with our list of attractions and things to do in Albuquerque.

See also: Where to Stay in Albuquerque

1. Sandia Peak Tramway

2. albuquerque's old town, 3. albuquerque international balloon fiesta, 4. albuquerque museum of art and history, 5. abq biopark, 6. indian pueblo cultural center, 7. unser racing museum, 8. kimo theatre, 9. paseo del bosque, 10. rio grande nature center state park, 11. elena gallegos open space, 12. new mexico museum of natural history and science, 13. petroglyph national monument, 14. sandia peak ski resort, 15. explora science center and children's museum, 16. university of new mexico, 17. american international rattlesnake museum, where to stay in albuquerque for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your time in albuquerque, map of attractions & things to do in albuquerque, albuquerque, nm - climate chart.

While not as high as the Colorado Rockies, the Sandia Mountains framing the skyline to the east are no shrinking violets. At 10,378 feet, the rugged summit of the range offers a superb view of sprawling Albuquerque.

The tramway offers a stunning ride along a 2.7-mile suspended cable from the eastern edge of the city to the summit. You can literally see for hundreds of miles around. To add some exercise to the experience, ambitious and prepared hikers can climb the 7.5-mile La Luz Trail to the top and take the tramway back down.

In the winter, the tramway services the Sandia Peak Ski Resort.

Address: 30 Tramway Road Northeast, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Official site: http://www.sandiapeak.com/

Site of the original Spanish settlement, Old Town was shaped for centuries by both the Spanish and Mexican cultures, as well as the Native Americans of the area. Centered on the large plaza, Albuquerque's Old Town retains a relaxing and charming Southwestern feel characterized by giant old cottonwood trees, cobblestone streets, and adobe structures.

Old Town is full of interesting attractions like art galleries, souvenir shops, little museums, and restaurants. It's the perfect place to visit for an afternoon stroll, casual sightseeing, and perhaps a long lunch on a sunny patio.

One of the anchors of Old Town, the San Felipe de Neri Church is a large centuries-old Catholic church featuring a rectory, convent, school, museum, and some impressive historic religious artifacts. It is simply one of the most beautiful and peaceful buildings not only in the city, but throughout the entire state.

Albuquerque's high desert environment makes for one of the best spots in the world for hot air ballooning. Hundreds of balloons and tens of thousands of people come to the city for the International Balloon Fiesta. For more than a week, the cold morning skies fill with hot-air balloons from all over the world.

Sunset finds the balloons inflated again for evening "balloon glows," where the burners are fired into the stationary envelopes to make them shine against the dark sky. Balloon rides and scores of other events round out the celebration. The balloons can be seen from almost anywhere in the city.

Adjacent to Balloon Fiesta Park, where the main part of the fiesta takes place, the Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum is open year-round with a great selection of ballooning history and exhibits. Permanent installations at the museum include a Balloon School, the Weather Lab, and an experiential 4-D theater. The museum offers a wide-assortment of children's programs focused on science and creativity.

Official site: http://www.balloonfiesta.com/

This impressive institution offers visitors an in-depth look into Albuquerque's past. Located at the edge of Old Town , this museum hosts a spectacular collection of cultural items from the past 400 years. It is a place where the visitor not only gains a better understanding of Albuquerque's history but about European settlement in the entire southwest.

Displaying suits of Spanish armor, historic wood carvings, and even art from the likes of Georgia O'Keeffe, the museum also hosts traveling and temporary exhibits.

Not far from Old Town, the ABQ BioPark is home to the Albuquerque Aquarium , the Rio Grande Botanical Gardens, the Rio Grande Zoo , and Tingley Beach . With its expansion and upgrades of the past decade, the zoo has become a premiere destination hosting hundreds of species (many endangered) and one awesome playground.

The aquarium is perfect for kids interested in sharks, while the botanical garden is a lush environment to discover butterflies and other insects. Tingley Beach has three designated fishing ponds open to the public and pedal boats for rent. This is an excellent place for an all-day family outing.

Address: 903 10th Street Southwest, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Official site: http://www.cabq.gov/culturalservices/biopark

For thousands of years, the numerous cultures of the Pueblo people called this area (now New Mexico) home. While dozens of pueblos disappeared with the coming of the Spanish, many remain vibrant. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center , located two miles north of Old Town, celebrates these living cultures and histories with an outstanding museum, as well as cultural events, lectures, workshops, and tours.

Be sure to make time to attend at least one of the traditional dances. Also of interest, the on-site Pueblo Harvest Café is a restaurant and bakery well known throughout the area for their New Native American Cuisine.

Official site: https://indianpueblo.org/

Named after a legacy racing family in the Albuquerque area, the Unser Racing Museum features a wide range of motor vehicles from throughout the last century. While the vehicles look immaculate on the museum floor, many of the cars and motorcycles on display come straight out of the Unser family history and timeline.

This is an engaging experience for both automobile enthusiasts and racing fans, but anyone will enjoy learning about the exciting history behind motor-engine racing. A racing simulator within the facility also allows visitors to get behind the wheel themselves.

Address: 1776 Montaño Road Northwest, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Official site: http://www.unserracingmuseum.com/

One of Albuquerque's best-known architectural landmarks, the KiMo Theatre was originally built in 1927. The somewhat gaudy Pueblo-Revival-Art Deco style incorporates adobe architectural styles with the linear motifs and recessed spandrels more typical of classic Art Deco. Paintings and images of Native American cultures abound.

Through the 1970s, the theater fell into neglect and was barely saved from the wrecking ball. A renovation completed in 2000 has allowed the theater to again become one of the city's premier venues. Oh, and it is reputed to be haunted!

Address: 423 Central Avenue Northwest, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Official site: http://www.kimotickets.com/

Albuquerque isn't just a big city. It also hosts one of the most important environmental corridors in the Southwestern United States. Tracing the forested Rio Grande for 16 miles through the center of town, the Paseo is a perfect walking and biking path. The route offers a break from the city, as well as some great wildlife-viewing opportunities. Detour attractions lining the path include Tinley Beach and Rio Grande Nature Center State Park. The trail can be accessed via multiple points along the river.

Official site: http://www.cabq.gov/parksandrecreation/open-space/lands/paseo-del-bosque-trail

The Rio Grande Nature Center State Park is located on the east bank of the Rio Grande just north of downtown. Exhibits at the Education Center within the park introduce the ecology, geology, and history of the Rio Grande Valley. Outdoor exhibits include gardens, ponds, and wetlands, as well as a great blind for bird watching along the Rio Grande flyway.

A small hiking trail meanders throughout the area, and for more hiking pursuits, the neighboring Rio Grande Valley State Park has other loops to explore. This nature center is a good access point or side adventure stemming from the Paseo del Bosque.

Address: 2901 Candelaria Road Northwest, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Official site: http://www.emnrd.state.nm.us/SPD/riograndenaturecenterstatepark.html

On the eastern edge of the city limits, Elena Gallegos Open Space is a 640-acre park set in the foothills of the Sandia Mountains. This is a popular place for hikers, bikers, and equestrians, and a network of multi-use trails spreads throughout the area, often connecting with other trails that lead deeper into the Cibola National Forest .

Elena Gallegos is a popular gathering place, with seven covered picnic areas that deliver on spectacular views. A wildlife blind, shaded rest stops, and original art also surround the picnic space. The stunning sunsets bring out the pink "watermelon" color that the Sandia Mountains are named for and are another popular reason to visit.

Address: 7100 Tramway Boulevard Northeast, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Located near Old Town and the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History , this institution focuses on the ancient geologic history of the area. Through several life-size dinosaur skeletons and models, a hands-on Naturalist Center, and an inside look at extracting dinosaur fossils, this educational center provides interest for every member of the family.

The Planetarium at the facility features a 55-foot, full dome theater with regular shows concerning space, constellations, and the never-ending world of fractals. Regular programming takes place at the museum, with classes and events catering to children, adults, and families.

Official site: http://www.nmnaturalhistory.org/

Albuquerque is full of history, but here is where you'll find the really old stuff. Located on the western edge of the city, this 7,236-acre national monument is home to nearly 20,000 ancient images hewn into the volcanic rock by some of the continent's earliest inhabitants. This is an outdoor museum, and most of the images are accessed via numerous hiking trails.

A popular area of the park is the Boca Negra Canyon day-use area, with restroom facilities and a drinking fountain, as well as access to three self-guided trails and more than 100 petroglyphs to observe. The visitor center offers excellent interpretive exhibits along with a wide-range of educational programs.

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/petr/index.htm

New Mexico may not be the state that first comes to mind when you think about downhill skiing. That's okay with the locals who like to keep the fact quiet that the city has some great skiing only 30 minutes from town. Sandi Peak Ski Resort is New Mexico's oldest ski resort and the only one in the state with a tram.

Sandia Peak gets an astounding 10 feet of snow each season, and what doesn't fall from the sky is supplemented with a state-of-the-art snowmaking operation spread over 30 acres. The ski hill has 35 runs that are mostly at the intermediate and beginner levels. Three old-school-style double chairs slowly take you back to the top, and a surface lift is used in the lessons and children's area.

One of the highlights of a visit to the resort is lunch at the Ten 3 restaurant located at 10,378 feet, offering spectacular views out over the surrounding mountains and Albuquerque.

Official site: https://sandiapeak.com/ski-area/

Read More: Best Ski Resorts in New Mexico

Just on the outskirts of Old Town, next to the New Mexico Museum of Natural History, the Explora! Science Center is a unique place full of discovery. Catering to the younger minds in the community, Explora features experiential exhibits designed around science, education, and fun.

Permanent exhibits at this two-floor education space include the Shapes of Sounds, a Paradox Café, and a Water Flow Patio. Explora also offers a wide range of camps, classes, and events, all of which encourage a collaborative environment of scientific learners.

Address: 1701 Mountain Road Northwest, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Official site: http://www.explora.us/en/

The sprawling forested campus of the University of New Mexico (UNM) is like one massive park located right in the center of the city. The state's flagship institution, UNM is a public research university founded in 1889. Famed architect John Gaw Meem designed many of the buildings on the central campus, which has a unique southwestern feel. Eight of the buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places.

Here, you will find an arboretum encompassing more than 300 species, the Maxwell Museum of Anthropology , the Geology and Meteorite Museums , the Southwest Biology Museum , and the University Art Museum in the Center for the Arts. UNM is forever hosting art and cultural exhibits and performances and is surrounded by a lively university district.

Official site: http://www.unm.edu/

A few blocks from the ABQ BioPark, this animal conservation museum has one of the largest collections of live rattlesnakes in the country. Striving to educate the public about these sometimes "less desirable" reptiles, the museum displays 34 species of rattlesnakes from around the world, as well as snake-related artwork, photography, and various other memorabilia.

The Rattlesnake Museum encourages visitors who are frightened of snakes to come check them out in this safe and controlled environment and to learn more about these resident animals of the American Southwest.

Address: 202 San Felipe Street Northwest, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Official site: http://www.rattlesnakes.com/

Albuquerque's attractions are clustered around the downtown area, and this is the best place to stay, especially for first-time visitors wanting a true Southwest experience. This is where you'll find Old Town, with its quaint cobblestone streets, old Southwest architecture, unique restaurants and shops, and towering cottonwood trees overhead. Below are some highly-rated hotels in this area:

Luxury Hotels:

• Downtown, near the convention center, the historic Hotel Andaluz dates from 1939 and typifies refined Southwestern charm.
• Said to be slightly haunted, the former hospital turned luxury 74-room boutique hotel, Parq Central , is two miles out from Old Town but offers complimentary luxury SUV shuttle service within a three mile radius.
• Hidden behind the gates of the adobe style compound in Old Town is the Casas de Suenos Old Town Historic Inn , with 21 individual casitas in a lush garden setting, and a cooked-to-order breakfast.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• At the top end of mid-range is the Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town , with a great location in the heart of Old Town.
• Very convenient to both Interstate 40 and only a few blocks from Old Town is the Best Western Plus Rio Grande Inn. Breakfast is included at the restaurant on the property.
• Perfect for convention or trade show attendees is the large DoubleTree by Hilton Albuquerque , across the street from the convention center.

Budget Hotels:

• Across the Rio Grande from downtown, and about 1.5 miles from Old Town, the Sandia Peak Inn Motel is a stand out for its location, with clean and tidy rooms coupled with friendly charm.
• Offering exceptional value, the Econo Lodge is just steps from Old Town and features an outdoor pool.
• On historic Route 66 and easily recognizable by its bright neon sign is the eclectic and unusual Monterey Non-Smokers Motel , offering clean and interesting rooms and an outdoor pool.
• Breaking Bad Tours: For fans of this popular TV series, the Breaking Bad RV Tour is a must. The tour takes guests to several filming locations, including Walter White's home, Jesse's house, the office of Saul, and several others. It also includes a ride in an RV and lunch at the Los Pollos Hermanos restaurant featured in the show.
• Hot Air Balloon Rides: Soar through the skies on an Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Ride at Sunrise . This one-hour flight lets you watch the sunrise and see the stunning vista from the air.

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Nearby Cities: If you are traveling through New Mexico, don't miss an opportunity to see the sites of beautiful Santa Fe , just an hour away. A little further afield, the pueblos and other attractions around Taos are also worth the 2.5-hour trip north. For a complete look at ideas for stop in New Mexico, see our list of top attractions in New Mexico .

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22 Things To Do In Albuquerque

Last updated: February 20, 2023 . Written by Laurence Norah - 46 Comments

Heading to New Mexico, and looking for things to do in Albuquerque? We’ve got you covered! Jess used to live in the city, and we’ve also visited on a number of occasions, both as part of our Route 66 road trip , and also for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta .

As you’re about to discover, there are a lot of things to do in Albuquerque, and most of it has nothing at all to do with Breaking Bad. So, without further ado, here are our favorite things to do in this beautiful New Mexico city.

Things To Do In Albuquerque

This list is not in any particular order – there’s so much good stuff to do in Albuquerque whatever time of year you visit!

1. Ride the Sandia Peak Tramway

Anyone who has read this blog for a while will know that when I visit a new city or town, one thing I love to do is quickly get high above it, get some gorgeous views and orient myself to my surroundings.

Well, Albuquerque certainly sated my love. The Sandia Peak Tramway , which runs to the top of Sandia Peak, is the world’s longest tramway, and at the top there’s an observation deck which, at 10,378 feet above sea level, certainly gave me quite a view!

From this location we could see the entirety of Albuquerque below us, as well as quite a lot more – on a clear day the view encompasses 11,000 square miles! Certainly a great way to get a feel for Albuquerque and her surrounds.

As well as the tramway and observation platform, there are hiking trails along the ridgeway, and we did a half hour version of one of these, up to Kiwanis Cabin, for even more extensive views.

We can also recommend coming up here for the sunset – it’s definitely one of the best places in the area to watch it!

2. Go to the Balloon Fiesta & Balloon Museum

I’ve already waxed lyrical on the blog about the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Bottom line, if you have the chance, you should go.

For more compelling reasons, see my photo essay , and for all your Balloon Fiesta planning needs and details, see Jess’s extensive guide on planning a trip to the Balloon Fiesta .

Of course, the Balloon Fiesta does only happen over a short period, and for the rest of the year you might think you have to miss out on ballooning goodness. Nothing could be further from the truth!

Ok, so you might not get quite the experience of watching 600 balloons float into the sky together, but the Albuquerque Balloon Museum is definitely the next best thing.

Filled with pretty much everything you could ever want to know about ballooning, from its early beginnings to the modern day sport, we really enjoyed our visit to the balloon museum.

A highlight for me was definitely the balloon simulator, although I have to admit I didn’t exactly cover myself in glory – running out of fuel and crashing in short order! It turns out flying a balloon might be harder than it looks.

Another option is to actually take a flight in a balloon. These are offered year round, and can be booked in advance here or here .

3. Wander the Old Town

A part of Albuquerque that has to be visited is the historic Old Town Centre . Founded in 1706, and home to the oldest building in the city (the San Felipe de Neri Church, dating from 1793), today the historic old town is a hub of shops, restaurants, and museums, housed in beautiful old adobe buildings.

There’s a lot to see and do here (over 100 shops, galleries and restaurants!), so you’ll want to allocate a good amount of time to be sure you get to see everything you want. Our advice would be not to miss the Rattlesnake Museum , the Candy Lady’s store, and the beautiful photos at the Albuquerque Photographers Gallery .

You can also take a guided tour of Albuquerque’s old town if you prefer. There are a number of options, including a walking tour , a private history tour , a food focused tour and even a ghost tour !

4. Sample all the Craft Beer

Who knew Albuquerque had such a thriving beer scene? Well, I didn’t although Jess did. I quickly learnt all about it.

You could actually spend a lot of time exploring all the craft beer locations and sampling the beers, but some of our highlights that we can definitely recommend for a beer or two were:

Marble Brewery – Founded in 2008, Marble Brewery is one of the oldest and largest craft breweries in Albuquerque. They’ve won multiple awards for their beers, and their new rooftop bar on top of their brewery pub is a great place to hang out and sample their brews.

Red Door Brewing Company – Started in 2014 and already with a second city location under their belt, the Red Door Brewing company is obviously not planning on slowing down any time soon. They offer a variety of delicious beers, with the coffee porter a particular favourite!

Rio Bravo Brewing Company – One of the newest breweries in Albuquerque, you’ll find this brewery and pub a little way north of downtown, on 2nd St NW. The venue is pretty funky, with lots of big TV’s, plenty of seating around an enormous bar, plus bar games to play.

5. Eat at the Golden Crown Panaderia

We had an incredible time eating in Albuquerque. New Mexican cuisine is fantastic, so much so in fact that I’m going to have to write a rare food based post just to cover it! In this post though, there were a couple of more unusual food options that I did want to mention.

First of these is the Golden Crown Panaderia . This is, as far as we could tell, the only New Mexican bakery out there, and they are remarkably good at what they do, which is creating delicious baked goods. As soon as you walk in you are treated to a complimentary biscochito (New Mexico’s state cookie!), after which you have to make a decision from a whole range of incredible goodies. Don’t miss the green chile bread!

If you have a chance, we’d also recommend having a chat with owners Chris and Pratt Morales, the father / son team behind the bakery, if they happen to be around. We had the luck to sit down with them and chat for a while about their lives, their passion for baking, and how lucky they feel to be able to have such a wonderful property and product. Pratt has been baking for over thirty years, and his experience and love of the trade shines through in his words and, of course, in the baking! Not to be missed.

6. See the State Fair

A State Fair in the USA is a big deal, and while we were in Albuquerque we were lucky enough that the New Mexico State Fair was in full swing! Usually running for ten day in September, if you have the chance to attend, we’d definitely recommend that you do so.

You’ll find everything from fairground rides through to animal displays, art exhibits and of course, plenty to spend your money on. It’s a fun atmosphere, and if you’re from overseas like me, is a definite cultural experience!

7. Hang out at the Albuquerque Zoo

Part of the Albuquerque Biopark, which includes a number of attractions, the Albuquerque Zoo is a 64 acre park which is home to exotic animals from all over the world.

We really enjoyed wandering the different exhibits – Jess obviously loved the big cats – and we were impressed by how well put together all the habitats were.

It’s a good way to see a large variety of wildlife in a short period of time, covering everything from apes to zebra. Just don’t do what we did, lose track of time and nearly get locked in – the gates are closed at 5pm sharp!

8. Drink Afternoon Tea

When Jess said that Albuquerque was one of her favourite places to take afternoon tea, I had to be doubtful. I mean, I’m British, so obviously somewhere in England should be near the top of the list.

But no, apparently, despite our extensive afternoon tea research across the world, including in London , Paris , San Francisco , and Vietnam , it turns out that Albuquerque is a good place to go for a truly wonderful afternoon tea experience.

The exact location is the St. James tearoom , a truly luxury tea experience, where for a couple of hours Jess and I were whisked away from our every day cares and into a private nook, where we experienced a fantastic Orient Express themed meal (themes change regularly) accompanied of course by piles of tea.

Jess has written about our St. James tearoom experience , in a post which is jam-packed with information and photos from our trip there. Suffice to say, if you like afternoon tea, or are just after a unique experience in Albuquerque, this is a good one to go for!

9. Wander the Rio Grande Nature Centre

If you’re into wildife, and particularly birds, then a visit to the Rio Grande Nature Centre State Park should be at the top of your list. I’m not necessarily a huge bird watcher (sorry Mum!), but even I was mesmerised by the humming birds that we saw at the feeder!

There are trails you can walk, right up to the edge of the Rio Grande river itself, and the centre is informative, with staff on hand to give advice and tips on what you’re likely to see and where. For a bit of nature in the heart of the city, this should make your list.

10. Attend a Festival

I had no idea before I visited, but Albuquerque is a bit nuts about festivals.

On our various visits to Albuquerque, we’ve attended a whole range of festivals, including the Mountain West Brew Fest (beer and wine), the New Mexico Wine & Jazz Festival, the Rio Grande Arts & Crafts Festival and of course, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta!

Whenever you visit Albuquerque you are fairly likely to find some kind of festival going on. Check out the official city events page for information.

11. Seek Out The Public Art

Something else that surprised me about Albuquerque was quite how much public art there is on display. This ranges from giant wall murals to statues, and basically it’s hard to walk for more than five minutes in downtown Albuquerque without finding something.

If you want to be a bit more structured in your wanderings, you can use the ABQ Public Art Map which will lead you to all the public art installations across the city.

12. Visit the Dinosaurs at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History

Turns out there is A LOT to do in Albuquerque, and these were just my favourite things! We did even more than fits on this list. Another highlight for us was definitely the New Mexico Museum of Natural History , which tackles all things, well, Natural History. Which, of course, means dinosaurs.

New Mexico is actually a dinosaur treasure trove, with multiple fossil finds from all around the state. So it makes sense that the Natural History museum has some excellent dinosaur exhibits. It’s more than just dinosaurs though. We went on a journey through a volcano, experienced time travel, and learnt about the cosmos.

We also enjoyed chatting to the staff, who were supremely knowledgeable as well as entertaining. Definitely a museum to visit.

13. Feel Cultured at The Albuquerque Museum

Near the Natural History museum is The Albuquerque Museum , which focuses on the history, art, and culture of Albuquerque. I do have to admit to not always being a museum person, but I did really enjoy both of these museums.

In particular, the Route 66 exhibit that was going on at the museum was very interesting, as were the sections that focused on the history of New Mexico, from it’s native American routes, through to the Spanish settlers. These weren’t always uplifting tales to read, but the information was well presented and I appreciated the learning opportunity!

14. Get hands on at Explora!

If you like your locations of learning to be of the interactive variety, then you’re going to go mad for Explora ! This is, as far as I can best describe it, an adults science adventure playground (ok, it’s great for kids too!), where you’re encouraged to do everything from fly model planes to create giant soap bubbles.

We visited when they were having an adults evening, which basically meant they had wine and beer as well as a number of demonstrations, as well as a number of other activities including a disco. There’s nothing quite like having a beer, listening to some music, and trying to create the biggest soap bubble you can.

15. Learn about Native American Culture at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Centre

There are 19 Pueblos in New Mexico. If you’re not sure what that means, well, a pueblo is basically a Native American community which has it’s own culture, tradition and art, and it’s usually based around a specific location – these aren’t nomadic tribes.

Some of these pueblos are open for visiting, including the Taos Pueblo and the Acoma Sky City Pueblo – two experiences we also recommend. You can visit these yourself or as part of a tour like this one .

However, if you’re in Albuquerque, you can get a great introduction to the Pueblo cultures (and food!) by visiting the Indian Pueblo Cultural Centre .

Here there is an excellent exhibit on the history of the Pueblo people, from their early beginnings and culture, through to their encounters, subjugation, revolutions and somewhat uneasy co-habitation with European settlers.

The site is also home to a restaurant which is going to make it into my food post, but, as a spoiler, you need to visit here for breakfast, and in particular, try the blue corn pancakes, which are unbelievably good.

16. Watch a Sunset on A Rooftop Bar

Whilst Sandia Peak is a great place to watch the sunset from, it’s notably lacking in having a wide-ranging selection of cocktails. It’s also a bit of a trek from downtown. For these reasons, we can recommend heading to the Apothecary Lounge at the Hotel Parq Central .

Formerly a psychiatric hospital, the Lounge has taken on board some of the themes of the hospital for it’s furnishings and beverages. Most impressive though is the view – Albuquerque is not a city with a lot of high buildings, so even being a few floors above ground can result in a panoramic viewpoint.

This is a great place to watch the sunset, and we’d recommend trying the green chile margarita for something a little different!

17. Reminisce about a Route 66 Adventure

In 2015, Jess and I drove the entirety of Route 66 , which just happens to pass right through downtown Albuquerque. In fact, because Route 66 changed route a few times over its lifetime, Albuquerque happens to be the only place where you can stand on the intersection of Route 66 and Route 66, which is pretty cool!

That’s not all of course. There are a number of Route 66 attractions in Albuquerque, the majority of the food variety. One of our highlights was the Dog House Drive In, a hotdog spot which has been serving up staples like hot dogs smothered in chilli for over sixty years. It’s also worth checking out the Route 66 Diner. See more of our Route 66 experiences in New Mexico right here .

18. Eat at the Food Trucks

Another food option I have to mention. Food trucks have become a big deal across the US (and the world!), and Albuquerque is no exception to this rule. A good place to start is the Civic Plaza on a Tuesday, where some of the cities best food trucks congregate to offer you a range of delicious lunchtime dining options.

You’ll find everything from BBQ to frozen yogurt, and you can eat by the fountain, or in the shade. Something for everyone, and at a great price too!

19. Drink Pinon Coffee

Locally roasted in Albuquerque, Pinon coffee is a New Mexico classic. It’s a bit of an acquired tasted, because it’s flavoured with the Pinon Nut, an edible pine nut which has been a part of the staple diet in this part of the world for a very long time.

It adds a distinct flavour to the coffee which can be a bit of an acquired taste, but I absolutely loved it, and it’s definitely something I miss about Albuquerque and New Mexico!

20. Eat Something With Green Chile

New Mexico has what could best be described as an obsession with the Chile – so much so that it is the state vegetable! It comes in a variety of styles, with the most common being the red or green chile sauce that you can add to pretty much everything you eat in New Mexico – even at McDonald’s.

In the Fall season, the green chiles are roasted, and the streets come alive with the smell of delicious roasting chiles.

My favourite way to eat it chile has to be on top of a cheeseburger in the form of the famous Green Chile Cheeseburger! You’ll find plenty of places serving these up all around Albuquerque and New Mexico (there’s even a Green Chile Cheeseburger Trail ) – just make sure you try it somehow.

We have a guide to the best restaurants in Albuquerque , many of which feature fantastic authentic New Mexican cuisine, so definitely check that out if you need some inspiration!

21. Visit the Petroglyphs

Just to the west of the city you’ll find the Petroglyph National Monument . This is a National Monument, and is the location of one of the largest petroglyph sites in the USA.

What is a petroglyph you ask? Well, it’s basically rock art. The designs all over the rocks here are around 400 to 700 years old, and were created by both Spanish settlers and the Native American people of the area.

There are a number of trails at the National Monument, three of which offer good opportunities to see the petroglyphs up close.

Boca Negra Canyon is probably the most popular, as there’s a large expanse of petroglyphs that are accessible from a flat trail, as well as a short and steep hike up to an overlook with an excellent view across the city.

There is also a visitor centre, where you can learn more about the petroglyphs and get information on the trails. However there aren’t any petroglyphs at the visitor centre – you have to drive to one of the trail areas, which are Boca Negra Canyon, Rinconada Canyon and Piedras Marcadas Canyon.

22. National Museum of Nuclear Science

Those of you familiar with military history will know that the development of the atom bomb in World War 2 took place in New Mexico, in the town of Los Alamos.

Today you can visit the town and tour the informative museum to learn all about the people and science that went into making these terrifying weapons.

However, if you aren’t heading to Los Alamos, you can also learn about the history of all things nuclear at the National Museum of Nuclear Science in Albuquerque .

This has information on all kinds of things related to nuclear science, including nuclear energy, nuclear weapons, the cold war and even nuclear medicine. There’s also an excellent outdoor exhibit which includes a number of rockets, aircraft and other military hardware.

Map of Things to do in Albuquerque

To help you visualise where all the above are, and to aid in your route planning, we’ve put together a map of all the above attractions. You can also see these on Google Maps here .

Where to Stay in Albuquerque

There’s no shortage of places to stay in Albuquerque, so for most of the year you shouldn’t have any problem finding somewhere to suit your budget. The only exception to this rule is if you visit during the Balloon Fiesta, when accommodation becomes much more expensive, and harder to find.

For tips on finding accommodation during the Balloon Fiesta, check out Jess’s comprehensive guide to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta .

Otherwise, our go-to option for accommodation when we travel is Booking.com. They have an extensive selection of properties, which range from hotels to hostels and even apartments. Many have no-fee cancellation policies, and often run discounts and special offers. Here are some options to consider for your trip.

• Motel 6 Albuquerque South – If you are on budget, this is a good no-frills budget chain motel. It gets good reviews and has great prices.
• El Vado Motel –  a fully restored and refurbished Route 66 era motel, offering lovely accommodation in classic surroundings. There are also a range of food options on site, provided by local food businesses.
• Monterey Non-Smokers Motel – Next door to El Vado, this is another classic Route 66 era motel. This one has more of a traditional classic motel feel.
• Hotel Parq Central – This hotel is where we had our sunset drinks. It’s a modern 4-star hotel found in a historic 1926 building, which was originally a hospital.
• Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm – Found in quiet Los Ranchos, a short drive from the city centre, this is a wonderfully peaceful 4* hotel offering a range of room types. We had dinner here and it was excellent.
• Bottger Mansion –  This is a wonderfully romantic and historic B&B, just three minutes walk from the old town. With only seven rooms, you are guaranteed the personal touch.
• Hotel Andaluz (125 2nd Street NW) – A 4-star luxury hotel located just off Central Avenue A modern hotel with New Mexican and Mexican influenced decor.

You can see the full listings for Albuquerque on booking.com here .

We also like to use vacation rentals when we travel. Check out all the Albuquerque listings on Vrbo here .

How to Get Around Albuquerque

You have a number of options for getting around Albuquerque. Our recommended way is to drive yourself – the attractions can be a bit spread out, and I have to admit, cities in the US tend to be biased somewhat towards people who drive!

If you need a rental car, We usually recommend and use Enterprise Car Rental when we’re traveling in the USA, we find they have some of the best prices, particularly on weekly rentals, and a great choice of locations. We also find they’re really competitive for the type of one-way trips that we often do.

Of course, there’s a bus service in Albuquerque, which you can use to get around the city. You can find details on pricing, tickets and timetables on the official website .

Day Trips From Albuquerque

As you can see, there’s no shortage of things to do in Albuquerque. But if you do want to head out of the city and explore the surrounds, there are a number of options for day trips from the city. Here are some of our favourite options.

• Santa Fe . Just an hours drive, or 90 minutes by direct train, the town of Santa Fe is well worth a visit. It’s home to lovely old buildings, a vibrant artistic community, and plenty of places to dine. See our guide to things to do in Santa Fe for more inspiration.
• Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument . Around 50 minutes drive north of Albuquerque, this beautiful national monument features a scenic trail offering everything from slot canyons to stunning vistas. Definitely worth a visit for outdoor lovers.
• The Turquoise Trail . This driving route links Albuquerque with Santa Fe, following a 50 mile scenic national byway. It passes through some lovely old mining towns and villages, and there are a number of attractions along the route, from a singing road to historical attractions and craft stores.
• Acoma Pueblo . One of the oldest inhabited places in North America, this pueblo is found atop a large rock mesa and is home to the Acoma Pueblo tribe. You can visit this yourself with a vehicle, or you can take a tour like this .

Further Reading for What to Do in Albuquerque

Well, that seemed like quite a lot to get you started, and we’ve shared some of our favourite things to do in Albuquerque in this post. Obviously there is a lot more to do in both Albuquerque and New Mexico than I have covered above. With that in mind, here are some resources to help you plan your trip:

• Our guide to the best restaurants in Albuquerque , which covers everything from food trucks to fine dining, as well as some of the best spots for excellent New Mexican cuisine
• If you’re visiting for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, check our our detailed guide to visiting Albuquerque for the Balloon Fiesta , as well as our photo essay from the Balloon Fiesta
• While you’re in the area, you might want to visit Santa Fe, in which case check out our guide to things to do in Santa Fe
• The official Visit Albuquerque website, which has information on what’s going on year round, as well as tips and advice on things to do, places to eat, and accommodation.
• For more on Route 66, which passes through Albuquerque, see our guide to planning a Route 66 trip , as well as our detailed Route 66 itinerary .
• Beyond Albuquerque, we also written guides to many other cities and locations in the USA.  including visiting New Orleans for Mardi Gras , a guide to visiting Baton Rouge ,  things to do in Savannah ,  things to do in San Antonio ,  things to do in Albuquerque , things to do in Cambria , things to do in Santa Fe  and things to do in Santa Cruz , to name but a few. See our complete USA content here .
• The New Mexico Nomad travel blog – a fantastic resource for all things New Mexico
• The Moon Spotlight pocket guide to Albuquerque
• This guide to 30 Walking Trails in Albuquerque

That should certainly prepare you for your trip! And that just about sums up our favourite things to to in Albuquerque.

Stay tuned for lots more New Mexico content over the coming months as we share our adventures from our five week visit!

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There are 46 comments on this post

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jackcole says

10th January 2024 at 2:05 pm

Big thanks for the insightful Albuquerque guide! Your detailed recommendations promise an amazing visit. Excited to explore Sandia Peak Tramway, Old Town, and savor the local cuisine!

Jessica Norah says

18th January 2024 at 7:58 pm

Glad you found our Albuquerque guide helpful and do let us know if you have any questions!

Enjoy your visit to ABQ! Laurence & Jessica

Mrs Linda A Galloway says

16th January 2023 at 1:00 pm

Hello again – at last! You were kind enough to reply and send me lots of wonderful information and suggestions when I contacted you in February 2020 about our trip planned for September that year (Roadtrip from Scotland via Denver Airport). Well, we all know what happened that year, do we not?? We’re just now planning that trip for late August/early September 2023 (only 3 years late), so I thought I’d check in to see if you’ve survived these past strange, scary times, and if anything has changed with regard to Roadtripping New Mexico. We’re going to have to cut the intended mileage to allow us to stay a couple of nights in places we really want to see (increasing age and mobility problems mean we don’t do things so quickly any more). We’re going to cut out the trip across to 4 Corners, I think, but still really want to do Route 66 and Better Call Saul, if that’s still a “thing”. Any other tips on your “not-to-be-missed” list, please? Hope the last couple of years haven’t been too unkind to you and yours, and that there are still plenty of things to see, visit, and do in your beautiful State. Sincerely, Linda Galloway

Laurence Norah says

19th January 2023 at 2:01 pm

It’s great to hear from you and I am delighted to hear that you are finally getting your trip together! I certainly do know what happened in 2020, and we are more than happy that that is starting to fade into the rear-view mirror (fingers crossed). So for the most part I would say that everything is similar as to when you were planning originally. Some of our favourite restaurants are sadly no more, but we have kept our content as up to date as we can so everything should be similar. Better Call Saul / Breaking Bad is definitely still a thing. I can highly recommend stopping at the Garden of the Gods in Colorado, we actually did a trip recently where we flew into Denver and drove down to Albuquerque, and we stopped overnight near the Garden of the Gods at the Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort which was very nice. Another good stop on the way down is the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad. You can do either a half day or full day ride and the scenery is stunning as it wends between Colorado and New Mexico. It’s a lovely steam train and a heritage railway, well worth it if you have the time.

Otherwise for New Mexico there is so much to see! White Sands, Carlsbad Caverns, the scenery that inspired Georgia O’Keefe around Abiquiu, Tent Rocks, the art of Santa Fe, the Pueblos, the desert landscapes, the aliens of Roswell… the list goes on! My suggestion is to check the website New Mexico Nomad which focuses a great deal on visiting the state and should have lots of tips for you as well.

New Mexico is a really lovely state to road trip and I know you are going to have an amazing time. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any more questions. I really must get on with writing a suggested itinerary for visiting!

Safe travels

Stacey Wittig says

1st June 2020 at 5:21 pm

great photos! I was in ALB in November – did a balloon ride, but not the tram. Your post makes we want to do it! Next time!

1st June 2020 at 5:27 pm

Hey Stacey – thanks so much. It’s a lovely city for sure! I can definitely recommend the tram for the next time you visit, the views are spectacular and there’s some nice walking on the ridge as well 🙂

25th February 2020 at 4:13 pm

Planning a road trip for September 2020. Travelling from Glasgow Airport, Scotland via Iceland to Denver, then down through Colorado; across to the Four Corners Monument; on to Albuquerque; down through New Mexico, and back up to Denver to fly home. Many of your suggestions for things to do/see have been added to my (very loose) itinerary – some were already there. I have often, on past trips, emailed Visitor Information Centres in cities we plan on visiting, and have always received “home-grown” tips and recommendations. People are so nice and helpful, I find. New Mexico sounds like an amazing State, which may have to be our last long road trip. We’ll go out on a high, then. Thanks for all your suggestions.

25th February 2020 at 4:17 pm

That sounds like a wonderful trip! I’m delighted that our sites have been able to help you 🙂 We have quite a lot of content across our two sites that should help out, including content on Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado and lots on New Mexico (and the section of Route 66 that goes through NM and ABQ). New Mexico is one of my favourite states in the USA – the food, scenery and people are amazing, and there’s so much to see and do. It’s also not exactly on the radar, so isn’t that busy (except in October for the annual balloon festival!).

If you have any questions we’re happy to help of course. When you get back home, we also have lots of content on Scotland if you’re planning a road trip closer to home 😉 We lived in Edinburgh for four years and did a lot of exploring.

Safe travels, and thanks for stopping by and leaving such a lovely comment,

Linda Galloway says

25th February 2020 at 6:17 pm

Hi, Laurence.

Thanks for taking the time to reply.

I,too, was in Edinburgh for 4 years – as a student at the University (many, many years ago!). It’s still one of my favourite cities, though I’m a Fifer by birth.

We now live in Stirling, so right in the middle, as my husband’s paternal family came from round here. His mother was born in Nashville, Tennessee, though, and he still has family in Arizona. I tell him that’s what made him interesting – I was studying American Literature when I met him!

I travelled much of Scotland as a child – usually with my nose in a book in the back of the car, and have never been much interested in any of it except the East Neuk of Fife, where I go (alone) for a holiday every Spring. Maybe I’ll have to rein in my travels soon, though – age, health, and finance – so may well be back looking for your ideas for trips.

Back now to my planning.

Doreen Camero says

19th June 2019 at 8:57 pm

You mentioned there is a Junction for Rt. 66 and Rt. 66 in Albuquerque. Can you tell how to find it? I tried googlemaps without success. Thanks

19th June 2019 at 11:54 pm

Sure thing! It’s the intersection of 4th and Central. If you’d like to know more about Route 66 in Albuquerque, Jess put together a really comprehensive guide of all the sights 🙂

https://independenttravelcats.com/finding-historic-route-66-in-albuquerque-new-mexico/

Doreen Cameron says

20th June 2019 at 3:27 pm

Wow! Not only do I now have the location as 4th and Central, your link gave me, not only more information about the intersection, but so much more on the history and location on a plethora of places all along both Rt. 66s in Albuquerque! It even includes other information I had been trying to find such as the locations of the street art. Thank you so much! The information is complete and over the top!

20th June 2019 at 10:10 pm

Ha, yes, Jess does like to provide all the information! She has more posts on Route 66 in general, as well as a guide to the ALbuquerque Balloon Fiesta if you’re going to that. Let us know if you have any more questions 🙂

Marty & Cindy White says

5th January 2019 at 9:50 pm

Hi Laurence and Jessica, We are planning a Western States (US) vacation this summer June 8-22. Our first stop is in Albuquerque for 2 days. I was wondering if your insight would let us know the “must see” places to see and eat at while there for those days. We love history and culture, so things along those areas would be appreciated.

5th January 2019 at 10:35 pm

Hi Marty and Cindy 🙂

Thanks for stopping by! It’s hard to pick favourites as so many of these are good to do 🙂 I’d say Sandia Peak is great for a view, the old town is a must, and the Albuquerque Museum (in the old town) is excellent. Food wise, I’d say anything with Green Chile (definitely check out our guide to restaurants in Albuquerque here: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/best-places-eat-albuquerque/ )

From that list, I’d say Sadie’s, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center and El Pinto should make the shortlist 🙂

Have a great time!

Dalton says

27th January 2019 at 8:24 pm

Word of advice, don’t stay near the airport. Look for a hotel near “Uptown” or the northern part of Albuquerque. Those hotels are a bit more expensive, but it’s well worth it. Albuquerque is at the top of the list for car thefts. Even better, rent a house in the Northeast or Northwest or on the east side of the mountain. Something else cool to see is the Sandia cave. It’s a bit of a rocky road to get to, but I’ve seen compact sedans there. From the road it’s only about a half mile walk to get to the entrance. Bring a headlamp if you want to go inside.

27th January 2019 at 8:36 pm

El modelos is good new Mexican food. Griff’s is a good burger. Dion’s is probably the best pizza, but pizza definitely isn’t a forte of New Mexico. New Mexico beef jerky co has a great breakfast burrito. Just be sure to lock your doors everywhere you go.

28th January 2019 at 12:31 am

Thanks for your input and advice. We are in the habit of locking our car doors whenever we get out of the car.

Sue Rowland says

27th November 2018 at 8:55 pm

Hello, my son is currently doing a year studying abroad at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque from the U.K. He doesn’t drive over there so is very reliant on public transport which seems to be very sporadic. He’s getting rather down at feeling trapped at not being able to get out of the city and explore more. I wonder, in your experience of Albuquerque, whether you have any advice on how best to get around and to explore the surrounding area without a. car? Thanks for reading, any help appreciated.

28th November 2018 at 12:05 am

Certainly, coming from the UK, the US will be a bit of an adjustment in terms of transport, as so many cities just assume you have a car, and Albuquerque is no exception. However, there are a lot of options, particularly for students. The main options are going to be the UNM Shuttle Service (free), public transit (buses are free for UNM students with pass), bike, Enterprise Carshare Program, and then Uber and Lyft. Although Uber and Lyft are more expensive, the costs are minimal if sharing with others or in comparison to the costs of owning a car. Most of these are described here: http://pats.unm.edu/alternative-transport/index.html

I think a mix and match of these options should get him to most places in Albuquerque, but I think it can take a while to figure out which option works best and when! I hope he enjoys his year 🙂

28th November 2018 at 8:50 am

Hello Laurence, Thank you so much for your reply. I know my son has already explored some of those but will certainly pass on your reply to him in the hope that it will help further.

Thank you once again for taking the trouble to reply, much appreciated.

Many thanks Sue

28th November 2018 at 11:20 am

My pleasure! I hope he has a great year 🙂

Tracy Smith says

19th November 2018 at 3:55 pm

Awesome list and so informative! I’m curious about your first photo (small stone building). What is it called and is it part of the tram experience or a different hike?

20th November 2018 at 12:10 pm

So that is Kiwanis Cabin 🙂 It is a short walk along the trail from the top of the tramway, and was a stone shelter built in 1936 as a shelter by the Civilian Conservation Corps!

Hope this helps and that you get up to it, it’s pretty neat!

Dante Earlson says

10th November 2018 at 7:13 pm

We are new to the area and are looking to do fun things with the family. After getting settled into our new home I think that seeing what this city and the surrounding area has to offer sounds like a nice break. Thanks for putting this excellent list together and saving me and the family the effort of planning so we can get to the playing!

11th November 2018 at 6:05 pm

Our pleasure – we hope you enjoy this list very much! We were just in Albuquerque for the Balloon Fiesta last month and had an awesome time again 🙂 Such a great city!

25th October 2018 at 10:46 pm

Great post! I am new to the area, I just moved to Las Lunas to the new Express Homes community and so far I love it here. This list looks amazing I am really looking forward to really exploring the ABQ. Thanks again.

26th October 2018 at 11:26 am

Our pleasure Mark. Enjoy your time in the city! We were just there a couple of weeks ago for the Balloon Fiesta and had a great time!

2nd October 2018 at 11:57 pm

Excellent list and reccomdations! Thank you kindly. Will be there the for the balloon festival Oct. 2018. Can you please email with dressing code… I live in shorts all the time.. not sure if it’s cool around this time of year. Sneakers?? Flip flops??? Thanks much ?

3rd October 2018 at 12:31 am

Thanks Ana! We’ll be at the Balloon Fiesta this October too, do say hi if you happen to see us 😀

So you’ll want some warmer clothes for sure if you plan on coming for the morning ascensions (a must!). Before the sun comes up it will be fairly cool (likely in the fifties), so you’ll want a jacket at least, and long pants and shoes. As the day progresses it will heat up a bit. We’ve got a whole guide to attending, which you can see here: https://independenttravelcats.com/attending-albuquerque-balloon-fiesta/

Marjorie Fuerst says

16th August 2018 at 7:40 am

The Petroglyphs on the West Side and Volcano Vista are fascinating drawings of a culture long gone. A small hike to Volcano Vista is a great way to experience the vast expansive vista from the West Mesa to the Sandia Mountains. And if you are uncomfortable with the heights over gapping canyons this is an easy second place to the Tramway.

16th August 2018 at 8:51 am

Thanks for sharing Marjorie 🙂

Denise says

2nd August 2018 at 5:11 am

I will be going to Balloon Fest 2018. Your detailed information will be very beneficial. I’m even more excited after reading through all of your information. Thank you

2nd August 2018 at 10:01 am

Thanks Denise! We’re heading there this year too, can’t wait!

25th May 2018 at 12:22 am

Great post, there is so much to do in ABQ, I love that I am living here! thanks for the post. I found some things I haven’t done yet.

25th May 2018 at 8:48 pm

Thanks Diane!

Amanda says

10th April 2018 at 2:47 pm

This is a great guide! I only visited Albuquerque once, and it was for the balloon fiesta. And since the friend I was staying with lived in Santa Fe, we didn’t really spend time in Albuquerque at all other than to see the balloons! Good to know there’s plenty to do there if I ever decide to go to the Fiesta again.

Kristin says

7th April 2018 at 1:38 pm

Back when I lived out West, I wasn’t a beer drinker (*gasp*), and now that I’m craft beer-obsessed, I feel like I need to do all those destinations over again just to sample the brewery scene. Good idea or disaster in the making? 😉

7th April 2018 at 9:55 am

I really haven’t explored my own country enough. I’ve only ever driven through New Mexico on a road trip, and maybe stopped for gas and snacks. I certainly never made it to Albuquerque, but the balloon festival always looks amazing. I think I’ll skip the rattlesnake museum, but all the different food and alcohol suggestions look great!

7th April 2018 at 10:42 am

The food in New Mexico is amazing, and the balloon fiesta should be on everyone’s bucket list!

Savannah says

15th March 2018 at 9:45 pm

This is a heaven sent blog for me! I just moved to Albuquerque to a D.R. Horton home after my husband was relocated for his work. I am a Photography lover, finding the perfect setting and lighting and being able to capture it just sets my world in motion. Thank you for the information. I look forward to being able to capture this beautiful place on film.

16th March 2018 at 8:47 am

My pleasure – we hope you enjoy Albuquerque! If you enjoy food, definitely check out our Albuquerque food guide too. And don’t miss the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, it’s incredible!

Janaan Domeyer says

24th December 2017 at 3:09 pm

My husband and I moved to Albuquerque from Minnesota 6 weeks ago. This information is very timely and much appreciated!

24th December 2017 at 3:11 pm

Wonderful – delighted you found it useful. Enjoy Albuquerque, and don’t miss the balloon fiesta 😀

joe_bob_gonzales says

2nd December 2016 at 6:59 pm

its a good list. and one I will share with friends who come to visit. I am sure there many other things, but I found a few here I was not familiar with. of course, I moved back here after being gone for 30 years or so.

sunset from the crest is tops and I insure visitors do the tram.

Laurence says

2nd December 2016 at 7:37 pm

Thanks very much Joe, appreciated!

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• Apr 21, 2022
• 13 min read

15 Must-Do Activities In Santa Fe And Albuquerque

Updated: Jan 4, 2023

New Mexico surprised me. It wasn't a state that I had heard much about from those who travel a lot, and there weren't specific locations or events that seemed to be well-known (besides the hot air balloon festival ). Even though I had planned to spend a few days in the Santa Fe and Albuquerque area and had done some research beforehand, I was expecting to get my photo in front of the capitol building and then, from there, mosey around the museums, and that was about it.

Instead, I discovered that New Mexico has a lot to offer travelers and found two cities brimming with history, a unique culture, delicious food, outdoor excursions and a variety of attractions. If you're interested in any of these things I've listed, you HAVE to plan a trip to New Mexico. (And, no, I'm not getting paid to say this.)

So, let's look at 15 different activities in Santa Fe and Albuquerque that might even get you interested in touring the rest of the state.

What You'll Find In This Blog Post:

General Tips When Visiting

Santa Fe Things To Do

Albuquerque Things To Do

In a rush? Pin this post for later!

Before we get to all of the unique things you can do in these two cities, here are a few general insights to keep in mind for your trip.

Albuquerque has free places to park in most of its areas except for downtown. Santa Fe, on the other hand, has parking meters just about everywhere you go that's touristy. Rather than using coins, I suggest downloading the ParkMobile app , which will allow you to pay from your credit card as well as update how much time you need if you find, for instance, you're going to take longer in a museum than you originally planned.

New Mexican Food

Although most states in the U.S. might not have a cuisine that's specific to them, New Mexico definitely does! It's a fusion of Pueblo and Mexican flavors and cooking, and you should know that chile is king (and why New Mexico has been called the "Chile Capital of the World"). So, consider seeking out local restaurants and dishes to get a more authentic taste of New Mexico.

The Cultural Pass

My biggest piece of advice for making the most of your Santa Fe/Albuquerque (or New Mexico, in general) trip, is to get the Culture Pass . All you have to pay is $30 for this ticket, and you'll get into 15 museums and historic sites around the state, many of which are in Santa Fe and Albuquerque.

You can purchase the Culture Pass at any of the 15 locations. The date you purchased it will be written on the ticket, and you'll have a year from that date to use it. Just keep in mind that the Culture Pass only allows you to visit each museum and historic site once throughout that year. Of course, you can go to these places again, but you'll just have to pay the full price the second time.

Most of the attractions aren't extremely expensive, but I did save $30 using the Culture Pass after visiting just six of the 15 places. I still have a full year to take advantage of the remaining nine museums and historic sites that are a part of this deal.

Santa Fe is the more historic place out of the two cities. Not only is it the location of the state's capitol building, but you'll also find the oldest public building, oldest church and oldest house in the U.S. here. There is much to learn about our country's past.

Additionally, many of the adobe buildings have been preserved, so in most parts of the city, it feels almost as though you've stepped into another country for a time. And Santa Fe is a great spot to get a sense of New Mexican traditions. If you're interested in learning about its history and culture, below are some activities to help get you started.

1. Check out the New Mexico History Museum and The Palace of Governors.

To fully get to know New Mexico, it’s important to understand its history. And while there are a lot of museums in Santa Fe and Albuquerque that will showcase this, the best place to go for a detailed look is the New Mexico History Museum ( *Culture Pass ). Here, you’ll learn about the state and the main events that have taken place over the years in chronological order.

Keep in mind that this museum is long and packed full of information, so set aside some time (2-3 hours) when you go. Additionally, as in many places in New Mexico, most of the museum is in English and Spanish, further highlighting one of the cool aspects of the state’s culture.

Your visit to the New Mexico History Museum also includes The Palace of Governors. Said to be the oldest public building in the U.S., it was erected in 1610 and served as the seat of government for centuries. Inside, you’ll find another small museum, but it’s also important to take in the sight of the building itself. The Palace of Governors’ historical and architectural significance has led to its National Historic Landmark title and “National Treasure” recognition by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

2. Go on a (self-guided) chapel tour.

Santa Fe is the perfect place to go on a short but insightful historic church tour, and you can do it all within your own time. There are four beautiful buildings that you must see:

1. San Miguel Mission: This adobe building is the oldest church in the U.S. According to approximate history, its construction began in 1610, and some of its original walls are still standing. When you visit, you’ll be able to read more about its history, preservation and religious features.

Hours: Monday-Friday 1-3 PM; Sunday 3-5 PM

Cost: Free (donations are appreciated)

2. The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi: This beautiful church houses the oldest representation of the Virgin Mary in the U.S. Upon entering, you’ll receive a pamphlet with a suggested self-guided tour. It will explain the cathedral’s history, architectural style, different indoor and outdoor sections, symbols, statues and other religious items.

Hours: Tuesday-Friday 9:30 AM - 4 PM; Saturday 9:30 AM - 3 PM

3. Loretto Chapel: Known for its helix-shaped “miraculous staircase” — the staircase does two 360-degree turns without a center pole for support — this church was constructed for the Loretto Academy, a school for girls. You can learn more about its history and the structure of the staircase through a running audio commentary within the chapel.

Hours: Daily 9 - 5 PM

4. The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe: Built between 1776 and 1795, this is the oldest church standing dedicated to Our Lady of Guadalupe. After viewing the bronze statue and other artwork outside, consider heading inside. There, you’ll receive a brochure with the shrine’s timeline and the sanctuary’s treasures.

Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 11 AM - 4 PM

3. Step inside the oldest house in the United States.

Sitting right next to the San Miguel Mission is The "Oldest" House, which is considered to be the oldest house in the U.S. Some suggest it was built around 1646, though no one knows for sure. It is free to visit, and currently, the building is split up into two different sections: a gift shop and a museum of sorts.

The gift shop will greet you as you go into the house, but then a small hallway with photos of some of the reconstruction of the house will take you into the old adobe home. Here, you'll find a setup showing what the home might have looked like years ago, along with historic furniture pieces.

4. Shop, dine and stay at the plaza.

The plaza has the look and feel of a traditional Spanish Plaza and is basically the heart of Santa Fe. There are museums, chapels, a park and eateries all within a short walking distance. You'll find luxurious hotels to stay and rest in like La Fonda on the Plaza and Inn & Spa at Loretto.

And this is the prime place to shop in the city, especially if you're looking for unique and touristic items. There are art galleries, bookstores, boutiques and even Native artisans selling their creations like jewelry and rugs near the Palace of the Governors and along other streets near the plaza.

5. Drink a chocolate flight at Kakawa Chocolate House.

For those who love chocolate, the Kakawa Chocolate House is a place of paradise. Using its custom-blended chocolate, the company creates chocolate bars, chocolate "candies" (solids, truffles, caramels, clusters, mendiants, etc.); ice cream and other treats. But it's most famous for its elixirs, or rich drinking chocolates, which are recreations of some historic drinks that go all the way back to the Mayan and Aztec time periods.

There are three types of elixirs at Kakawa Chocolate House:

Mesoamerican elixirs are not very sweet and likely have spicy chili, spices and herbs inside.

European elixirs are sweeter and often more floral.

Contemporary elixirs include modern flavors like sweet American, Mexican cinnamon, Tonantzin, chocolate Chai and Havana Rum.

In order to make the most of your experience at the Kakawa Chocolate House, in addition to trying some of the chocolate treats, I suggest buying a flight. Similar to a wine tasting or beer flight, you'll get to try four different chocolate elixirs and really get an idea of what elixirs are and their various flavor profiles as well as a warm drink to enjoy.

6. Spend some time at Museum Hill.

Museum Hill is where you can visit most of the museums and more in Santa Fe. It includes the Museum of Spanish Colonial Art, Museum of International Folk Art ( *Culture Pass ), Museum of Indian Arts and Culture ( *Culture Pass ), Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian, Santa Fe Botanical Garden, Museum Hill Cafe and International Folk Art Market.

My favorite place was the Museum of International Folk Art. It was so unique! There were exhibits on the Hispanic folk music of New Mexico, creative face masks, the evolution of how Scandinavia dress and the ghosts and demons of Japan. Finally, located in the biggest room, you'll encounter "Multiple Visions: A Common Bond." This exhibit has been around for at least 25 years and includes more than 100,000 objects, which are all miniature things and people that have been placed into different sets to show the culture and folklore of more than 100 countries.

ALBUQUERQUE

Albuquerque is bigger than Santa Fe and almost like a more modern version of it. Old Town is the most historic area here, but outside of that, you'll discover a bustling place with contemporary architecture and some of your typical city attractions, such as a zoo and aquarium, a natural history and science museum, a downtown filled with skyscrapers, sports games, theaters, etc. and even a tramway.

But this isn't to say that Albuquerque is just like any other big city. Rather, it has plenty of diverse attractions to add to your list.

7. Tour the Coronado Historic Site.

Just outside of Albuquerque, on your way from Santa Fe, you’ll discover one of New Mexico’s many historic sites: the ruins of Kuaua Pueblo, also known as the Coronado Historic Site ( *Culture Pass ). According to history, Francisco Vásquez de Coronado entered the Rio Grande valley with soldiers and indigenous allies in search of the fabled Seven Cities of Gold. Instead, he found a dozen villages with native people/farmers (who they called Pueblo Indians). They supplied Coronado and his men for the two years that followed, but later, conflict with Coronado and Spanish explorers led to the abandonment of many villages, including Kuaua, which was one of the northernmost villages.

At this site, you’ll get to view the Kuaua ruins (they’re a replica due to how easily they settle back into the ground), an underground ceremonial kiva with mural paintings as well as 14 original, recovered murals pieced together and displayed in the visitor’s center. These murals are some of the greatest examples of Pre-Columbian art in the U.S. While it’s easy to look through the artifacts on display in the small museum at the visitor’s center, you’ll want to get a tour of everything else. (I was lucky to be given a tour by a local, retired history teacher who explained all of the symbols in the murals.)

8. Grab coffee and goodies at a local bakery.

Albuquerque has some great food options, and more specifically, some really yummy bakeries. While there were a lot of local options, I only had time to visit two shops — which are very different from each other — that I really loved: Golden Crown Panaderia and The Burque Bakehouse.

Golden Crown Panaderia has been around since 1972, is family owned and prides itself on being an “old-fashioned neighborhood bakery.” And it definitely has that homey feel to it, particularly because the owners (father and son) and workers are so kind, talkative and helpful and because of the fact that you can watch them make the goods in the kitchen.

You’ll find traditional New Mexican recipes here, such as empanadas and green chile bread, in addition to other foods and drinks. It’s especially known for its pizza, coffee shake and biscochitos, or New Mexico’s official state cookie.

The Burque Bakehouse is a French-influenced, walk-up shop, so although you won’t be able to hang around and enjoy your morning coffee or pastry, it’s worth the stop. The bakery sells some normal and some unique offerings as well as seasonal treats, from breads and pastries to teas and coffees. I enjoyed the Dark Berry Crisp Danish, Twice-Baked Almond Croissant, and I really loved the Mulled Wine and Red Fruits Jam I brought home. Delicious!

The Burque Bakehouse is also a part of the Bread Lab Collective, which means it sells bread that contains no more than seven ingredients and there are no non–food ingredients. Everything is also at least 60-100% whole wheat and priced under $6.

9. Take a photo of the San Felipe de Neri Church.

You might as well tack the San Felipe de Neri Church onto your chapel tour even though it’s located in Albuquerque. This parish is one of the oldest buildings in the city: the original church was constructed in 1706, but it collapsed in 1792, so it had to be rebuilt. Now, other than a few areas that have been restored or redone, the church has the same adobe structure from 1793 and is still in use as a church and a school.

After you take some photos of the outside of the church, head inside (the door on the left side of the building) where there’s a gift shop, a small museum with religious furnishings and art, and access to the sanctuary. The museum is open every day from 10 AM to 4:30 PM. You can also schedule a full tour by contacting the church.

10. Take a look at the artwork at the sculpture gardens.

Apparently, there are a few places with a sculpture garden in Albuquerque. My GPS decided to take me to 4100 Montano Rd NW first when I searched for “sculpture garden.” And although this wasn’t what I was looking for, this small park area near some trailheads was really cool! Artists have turned some of the trees there into sculptures of animals, such as birds and wolves, and people. It’s free and a short sightseeing and outdoor activity.

The more popular sculpture garden in Albuquerque, however, is right in front of and inside the Albuquerque Museum and features more than 50 pieces of art. If you prefer a cheaper activity, just take a look at the sculptures outside, but if you’re willing to spend a little and have the time, head inside the museum to see more artwork and history.

11. Reserve a table at The St. James Tearoom.

And I should also say, reserve a table far in advance! The St. James Tearoom is the place to be — it’s almost always solidly booked close to the date you want a table. And why should you visit? The St. James Tearoom is a fine dining experience, and an elegant yet whimsical one at that. It provides a two-hour teatime in British fashion with savories, breads, sweets, wines and champagnes, and, of course, teas.

The tearoom presents a new menu each month that’s inspired by a season, literary or historical theme. It has 17 unique parlor areas (all secluded for you or you and your party with curtains) that you can choose from to chat with friends, read a book by yourself, or even dress up with your travel companions and make it a themed afternoon event for the day.

The St. James Tearoom also hosts special events where you can step back in time, become a connoisseur or learn a new skill. There is a Market Village, too, where you’ll find teas, tea sets and other china, books, stationery, clothing accessories and pastries to take home with you.

12. Visit the historic Route 66 sites.

Did you know that Route 66 runs through Albuquerque? And while you'll visit many of the historic sites already by just exploring the popular attractions, there are some specific Mother Road places you should check out:

Old Town includes the San Felipe de Neri Church, museums, galleries, eateries and southwestern shops.

Nob Hill was one of the first centralized shopping areas west of the Mississippi River.

The University of New Mexico was founded in 1889 and is the state's largest university.

KiMo Theatre is known for its Pueblo Deco architecture and was originally built to show vaudeville acts.

Downtown Albuquerque , located on Central Avenue, is a thriving commercial district and is the only place in which Route 66 intersects itself.

The 66 Diner is a 50s-style restaurant with burgers and sandwiches, a soda fountain and a vintage jukebox.

The Alvarado Transportation Center sits where the rail station and Alvarado Hotel used to be and is the hub for Albuquerque's ground transportation.

Lindy’s opened in 1929 and might be the oldest continuously operating Route 66 diner in the state.

13. Walk the trails at the Petroglyph National Monument.

The Petroglyph National Monument is one of the largest petroglyph sites in North America. Petroglyphs are rock carvings, and in Albuquerque, these designs and symbols, done by Native Americans and Spanish settlers 400-700 years ago, can be found on volcanic rocks.

This monument includes three canyons with trails for viewing the petroglyphs:

Boca Negra Canyon: You can view around 100 petroglyphs on the trails here in approximately 1 hour. (Hours: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM daily; $1 parking fee on weekdays; $2 parking fee on weekends.) Learn more here.

Rinconada Canyon: This 2.2-mile trail (roundtrip) features up to 300 petroglyphs as well as the remnants of volcanic eruptions. (Hours: 8 AM to 5 PM daily) Learn more here.

Piedras Marcadas Canyon: There are up to 400 petroglyphs on this 1.5-mile unpaved trail round trip. (Hours: sunrise to sunset) Learn more here.

There is an information center (open 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM) with a park store, but note that there are no trails near it. Additionally, there are a few more trails in the Volcanoes Day Use Area as well as an overlook.

14. Wine and dine at Mas Tapas Y Vino.

If you’re feeling a bit bougie one evening, make your way to Hotel Andaluz and order some drinks and Spanish cuisine at MAS Tapas Y Vino . As a full-service tapas bar and restaurant, MAS offers “fresh reinventions of traditional Spanish cuisine.” Its ingredients are also locally sourced, organic and fresh.

I had the Berkshire Pork Belly there (with Anasazi bean ragout, toasted corn and harissa-sherry reduction), which melted in my mouth and was to die for. The chef (NMRA chef of the year and voted 3x "Best Chef in the City") even gives out a sample of his signature spice rub for customers to take home. You can also consider staying at Hotel Andaluz while you’re touring Albuquerque.

15. Go to the world’s largest air balloon festival.

Albuquerque is most known for its yearly hot air balloon event: the Albuquerque International Balloon Festival . This is a nine-day festival in October in which more than 500 colorful balloons take to the skies. It’s the world’s largest event of its kind with entertainment, food and more. So, consider planning your Albuquerque/Santa Fe trip around this festival, OR get tickets and make an extra trip out to see this incredible sight.

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12 Best Things to do in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Although often overlooked in favor of Santa Fe, the state’s largest city Albuquerque is well worth visiting for its many magnificent museums and attractive Old Town full of historic adobe buildings. Showcasing a delightful mix of Spanish and Native American influences, it has a rich history and heritage to delve into with countless art galleries and cultural tourist attractions to be found around town.

Located near the center of New Mexico, the sprawling city occupies the Rio Grande Valley with the soaring Sandia Mountains to be spied in the distance. As it lies near to so much stunning scenery, there are many outdoorsy things to do in it Albuquerque with hiking and mountain biking being particularly popular.

One of the best times to visit is in October when the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta takes place, and the city’s clear blue skies are dotted with hundreds of hot air balloons.

12. Turquoise Museum

Located just a stone’s throw away from downtown is the superb Turquoise Museum which can teach you all there is to know about the glittering gem. As well as delving into the history of mining and crafting turquoise, it has lots of interesting artwork, jewellery and shiny specimens to peruse – all made out of the colorful gemstone.

While the museum was opened in 1993, the Lowry family have been involved with and passionate about the precious blue and green mineral for generations. On tours you’ll hear about their history of mining and studying turquoise, how the mineral is manufactured and myths and uses of the gem around the world. It also has a great gift shop where you can buy jewellery and souvenirs.

11. Casa Rondena Winery

Nestled on the northern outskirts of Albuquerque is the Casa Rondena Winery which has exquisite award-winning wines for you to try in its tasting room. The attractive estate also acts as a hub for the arts in the area, as it hosts a number of cultural events and festivals over the course of the year.

Founded in 1995 by John Calvin, the family-run winery exhibits some lovely architecture with a terrific Tricentennial bell tower to be found amidst its gorgeous grounds and fertile vineyards. In its tasting room you can sample some of its wonderful wines paired with tasty cheese boards, crackers and chocolates. In addition to the annual Festival de Musica Rodena, the pretty property regularly hosts weddings, concerts and special events.

10. American International Rattlesnake Museum

A very interesting and educational place to visit, the American International Rattlesnake Museum is dedicated to the preservation of the slippery snakes. As well as snake-related artworks, artifacts and exhibits it also boasts the world’s largest collection of different species of live rattlesnakes.

Located in Old Town Albuquerque, the small animal conservation museum houses over thirty kinds of rattlesnake, all of which reside within the appropriate recreated natural habitat. Through displays and demonstrations, visitors can learn about each species and hopefully cure any fears or phobias they may have about the cold-blooded creatures. The museum is also home to a Gila monster – the largest lizard in America – and has a gift shop that sells all kinds of snake-themed souvenirs.

9. Albuquerque Museum

Offering up a fascinating look into the history, culture and heritage of both the city and Southwest is the excellent Albuquerque Museum. Also located in Old Town, its ever-growing collection includes everything from art installations and interactive exhibitions to artifacts and archaeological findings with an outdoor sculpture garden also on offer.

Since being founded in 1967, the museum has educated countless generations on the history and art of the region. Alongside early maps and conquistador armour you can also find artworks by Georgia O’Keeffe among others and historic wood carvings and weavings by Native American peoples. On top of this, it regularly hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events and operates tours around the historic home of Casa San Ysidro which gives guests a glimpse into Spanish colonial life.

8. San Felipe de Neri Church

Just a minute’s walk from the museum is the stunning San Felipe de Neri Church which lines the north side of the Old Town Plaza. One of the oldest surviving structures in the city, it was built in 1793 during the Spanish colonial period and has remained in continuous use since then.

Exhibiting a magnificent mix of architectural influences, the centuries-old church sports two twin bell towers that rise up above its thick, earth-colored adobe walls. Inside, its Gothic Revival-style interior decorations such as its wood-carved altar and pulpit, both of which are painted white, give it a more European appearance. The charming church also adjoins an old rectory, convent and school while its small museum displays some gorgeous religious art and artifacts.

7. New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science

Set on the eastern edge of Old Town is another of the city’s main sights – the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science. Through interactive exhibits and dramatic dinosaur-filled displays you’ll explore over twelve billion years of natural history starting with the birth of the universe.

After learning about these early origins you can then witness the dawn of the dinosaurs, experience the ice age on Earth and see skeletons, fossils and paleontological findings up close. Since opening in 1986, the museum has been a firm favorite with both locals and tourists alike due to its well-presented galleries and hands-on activities. In addition, it is also home to a fantastic Planetarium and a 3D cinema which screens educational yet entertaining films.

6. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Every October, thousands of people from around the globe flock to the city to watch and take part in the absolutely incredible Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Over the course of its nine days, more than five hundred hot air balloons rise up slowly into the clear blue sky, making it the largest festival of its kind in the world.

What began in 1972 with just a few balloons has since turned into Albuquerque’s most famed and photographed event. Seeing the sky full of balloons of different colours, shapes and designs is an amazing experience with the Mass Ascension being its main event. You can also go up in a hot air balloon yourself and bask in beautiful views of the city below and the other balloons around you.

5. Petroglyph National Monument

Just to the west of town you can find the phenomenal Petroglyph National Monument which lies on the other side of the Rio Grande. While it boasts lava-scarred landscapes and volcanic cones for you to explore, the sprawling site is mostly known for its captivating collection of carved images which number more than 24,000 in total.

Remarkably well-preserved for the most part, these fantastic figures, symbols and signs were etched into the volcanic rock by both Ancestral Pueblo peoples and early Spanish settlers. The earliest of them date to around 3,000 years ago with large groupings to be found around Boca Negra Canyon and Piedras Marcadas. In addition, the monument’s many trails take you past some splendid scenery and commanding viewpoints.

4. ABQ BioPark

As it is home to not only an aquarium and botanical gardens but a zoo too, it is no wonder that ABQ BioPark is one of the city’s top attractions. Impressively enough, the largely outdoor environmental museum also encompasses the recreation area of Tingley Beach which has pretty paths, ponds and picnic areas to enjoy.

After having explored its beautiful botanic garden, which is dotted with desert plants and flowers, you can then head to its excellent aquarium. This again mostly focuses on local species that can be found in the Rio Grande and saltwater marshes of the Gulf of Mexico. The undoubted highlight is the park’s zoo which houses everything from elephants and gorillas to lions and polar bears.

3. Sandia Peak Tramway

Rising up dramatically above both Albuquerque and the Rio Grande Valley are the soaring Sandia Mountains which lie on the northeastern edge of the city. To reach the top of the 3,163-metre-high mounts, visitors can take an unforgettable ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway which is remarkably the longest aerial tram in the Americas.

From the desert floor, it only takes fifteen minutes to rise to the summit of Sandia Crest with divine views over the Land of Enchantment on offer from both the cable car and mountain peak. At the top, you’ll find souvenir shops, a sky bar and restaurant as well as countless hiking trails. In addition to enjoying some simply spectacular sunsets, superb skiing can be had in the winter months.

2. Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

An absolute must-visit when in town, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center preserves and promotes the Pueblo peoples’ rich history, culture, art and traditions. Owned and operated by the nineteen Pueblos of New Mexico, its innumerable exhibitions and events offer up an interesting insight into their past and present.

Founded in 1976, the cultural center now occupies a state-of-the-art site that lies just a short drive to the north of Old Town. Here you’ll find an art gallery, gift shop and museum which houses exquisite artworks, artifacts and informative exhibits on their history and culture. Besides this, the centre also hosts lots of cultural events, lectures and workshops over the course of the year with its traditional dances and performances being particularly popular.

1. Old Town

The most popular place to visit in the city is Old Town Albuquerque which is the original site the Spanish settled in the 1700s. Spanning around ten blocks in total, it boasts several attractive adobe buildings and has lots of interesting historic landmarks and museums to check out.

Set around its central plaza are countless art galleries and shops selling Southwestern souvenirs and Native American artworks as well as the centuries-old San Felipe de Neri Church. Its cobblestone streets are also home to some great restaurants and bars while talented street performers lend the area a lively atmosphere. In addition, you can also find many of Albuquerque’s main tourist attractions and museums in or around the Old Town.

Map of Things to do in Albuquerque

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July 25, 2021 at 8:50 am

Lived in Albuquerque in the past. Great article……but what about the wonderful annual NM State Fair ? One of the top ranking state fairs in the country… Plenty of entertainment…animals, food, and fun.

July 18, 2021 at 11:55 am

Lived in Corrales NM all through the 90’s. Miss it very much. A lot has changed in both Corrales and Albuq since then. Noticed change when I went back for visit in 2010. Always looked forward to the fall when cottonwoods turned gold and purple sage was in bloom. Balloon Festival was something everyone should see!

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18 Best Places to Visit in New Mexico, According to Locals

Come to see historic small towns, scenic hiking trails, the "Grand Canyon of New Mexico," and more.

For a true taste of the American Southwest, consider a trip to New Mexico. Spanning approximately 121,000 square miles, the state is famous for its rich Indigenous history, vast landscapes (from towering dunes to subterranean caves), amazing archaeological sites, national landmarks (cliff dwellings, well-preserved adobe buildings, and centuries-old churches, to name a few), and an incredible arts and culture scene. It’s no surprise, then, that New Mexico is nicknamed the Land of Enchantment.

To narrow down the state’s best attractions, we reached out to local experts for their top recommendations. Without further ado, here are the best places to visit in New Mexico, from sprawling national parks to tiny towns and everything in between.

White Sands National Park

Spanning 275 square miles, White Sands National Park is the world’s largest gypsum dune field, and it looks and feels like an entirely different planet . The wave-like, powder-white sand dunes resemble mounds of snow, and visitors can hike or sled down them any time of year. It’s also worth noting the park is home to a handful of white-hued animals — which have changed to a lighter color over time to adapt to the environment — including mice, lizards, crickets, spiders, and moths. 

Couse-Sharp Historic Site

Angelisa Murray, CEO of guided tour operator Heritage Inspirations in Taos, describes the Couse-Sharp Historic Site as a “true gem” and “one of [her] favorite museums.” Here, you’ll find the former homes and art studios of Taos Society of Artists (TSA) founding members Joseph Sharp and E.I. Couse. “Our guests can see the actual moccasins and pottery that Couse painted in his paintings ... and journey back in time to get a real feel of Taos in the early 1900s,” says Murray.

“ Abiquiú is one of my favorite small towns to take our guests,” says Murray. The town, which was settled by the Spanish in the mid-18th century, looks and feels like it was plucked out of a classic Western, and visitors may even recognize it from fan-favorite flicks like Indiana Jones . However, it’s also famous for being the home of renowned American artist Georgia O'Keeffe. Don’t leave without visiting the O’Keeffe Home and Studio and Ghost Ranch (the artist’s summer home, about 20 minutes northwest). Murray also recommends popping into the state’s first general store, Bodes , which “offers an otherworldly experience for the intrepid traveler,” according to Murray.

Bandelier National Monument

Known for its magnificent mesas, canyons, and ancestral Pueblo dwellings, this national monument spans more than 33,000 acres of rugged landscape, making it a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers alike. The 1.4-mile Pueblo Loop Trail winds through various archaeological sites and is a popular hike. If you’re looking for more thrills, hop on one of the ladders along the route to climb into small human-carved alcoves. Alternatively, experienced hikers may opt to tackle the challenging Frijoles Canyon and Rim Trail (eight miles one way). Keep in mind those who wish to visit Frijoles Canyon and the Pueblo Loop Trail will be required to take a shuttle, which runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily (mid-June through mid-October).

Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

For a first-hand look at Pueblo culture, head to the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque. Spanning more than 80 acres, the center is owned and operated by the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico. On-site offerings include a museum, exhibition galleries, murals from Pueblo artists, and the Indian Pueblo Kitchen , which serves freshly prepared Native American cuisine. Don’t leave without stocking up on some souvenirs, including Native American artwork and a wide selection of traditional and contemporary crafts, jewelry, pottery, rugs, and more. Pro tip: Check the events calendar for a schedule of the latest programming.

Santuario de Chimayo

Marama Nengel, chef concierge at Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection , recommends taking an afternoon trip to Santuario de Chimayó , about 27 miles from Santa Fe. According to Nengel, thousands visit this picturesque adobe church — now a National Historic Landmark — each year. It’s best known for its holy dirt, which is believed to have healing properties. Per Nengel, no trip here is complete without a visit to the Centinela Traditional Arts gallery to see eight generations of Trujillo weavers. Finally, when hunger calls, tuck into some Southwestern fare at Rancho de Chimayó .

Puye Cliff Dwellings

Located in Los Alamos, this National Historic Landmark was once home to 1,500 Pueblo Indians. It’s no surprise, then, that the site boasts some stunning Pueblo architecture and well-preserved cliff and cave dwellings. The panoramic valley views are an incredible added bonus. It’s worth noting that guided tours are available Monday to Thursday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Santa Fe Plaza

Santa Fe Plaza is both a beloved tourist attraction and a popular gathering place for locals. This National Historic Landmark, established by the Spanish in the early 17th century, is renowned for its Spanish Pueblo architecture. The bustling location hosts a slew of events throughout the year, including the Traditional Spanish Market in the summer months. Come holiday season, the square gets decked out in twinkling lights, making it even more magical. In recent years, the area surrounding the Plaza has evolved into a buzzy hot spot with dozens of eclectic restaurants, shops, museums, and hotels.

El Rancho de Las Golondrinas

El Rancho de Las Golondrinas (“The Ranch of the Swallows”) is a historic ranch-turned-living history museum near downtown Santa Fe, though its rural surroundings make it feel worlds away, What’s more, a visit to this 200-acre site, which is dotted with striking adobe buildings, feels like a step back in time to New Mexico in the 1800s. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the ranch served as an official rest stop for travelers on El Camino Real, which stretched from Mexico City to Santa Fe. Note the site is closed for general admission between November and March.

Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway

The 65-mile Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway — named for the precious stone the Pueblo mined here centuries earlier — links Santa Fe and Albuquerque. As such, it makes for an excellent day trip from either city. The historic route winds through old mining and ghost towns such as Madrid , Golden , and Los Cerrillos . Carve out some time to stop at Casa Grande Trading Post , Cowgirl Red , and Tinkertown Museum , as well as Sandia Peak Tramway to soak up the postcard-worthy views from up high.

Sangre de Cristo Mountains

According to Hans Loehr, adventure center architect at the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe , the Sangre de Cristo Mountains offer something for everyone, including scenic trails for hikers of all experience levels. Additionally, he tells Travel + Leisure , "Guests can enjoy exploring forests of aspen, ponderosa, and pinyon-juniper and meadows filled with colorful wildflowers, relaxing near alpine lakes, bagging some high mountain peaks, and pausing to take in breathtaking views from ridgetops and mountain summits.”

Rio Grande Gorge

Stretching nearly 50 miles, the magnificent, 800-foot-deep Rio Grande Gorge is considered the Grand Canyon of New Mexico. Soak in sweeping views of the rugged landscape from the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge , which, at 650 feet above the ground, is one of the country’s highest bridges. It’s also a popular spot for hiking.

Sontanna Sanchez, a concierge at the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe, recommends visiting Meow Wolf for a unique and immersive art experience. The kaleidoscopic “House of Eternal Return” features “more than 70 rooms, taking participants on a macrocosmic adventure only found in Santa Fe,” says Sanchez. All in all, the playful exhibit is sure to delight art lovers of all ages.

San Miguel Chapel

Located along the Old Santa Fe Trail in Santa Fe’s Barrio de Analco Historic District , this Spanish colonial mission church is considered the oldest in the United States. While initially constructed in 1610, it has since been rebuilt twice (most recently in 1710). In terms of design, prepare to be dazzled by the adobe architecture; the interiors are equally spectacular with centuries-old wooden beams and the 750-plus-pound San Jose bell, which has its own fascinating history.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

This national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the Chihuahuan Desert in the southern part of the state. The enchanting attraction is home to nearly 120 caves. Travelers can easily spend the entire day exploring these captivating caverns, admiring the mystical stalagmites and stalactites, and spotting wildlife like bats and cougars. Don’t miss the Big Room, North America’s largest single cave chamber by volume. The 1.25-mile trail is a relatively easy 90-minute trek.

Old Town Albuquerque

With its narrow winding streets and adobe architecture, Old Town Albuquerque oozes small-town charm. While lots has changed since its 1706 establishment, this dynamic destination has remained the city's heart. Despite its tiny 10-block radius, Old Town is packed with more than 150 independent restaurants and boutiques. It also hosts more than 40 events annually, including a car show, live music performances, and the world-famous Balloon Fiesta Week .

Taos Downtown Historic District

Despite its small size, Taos packs in plenty of charm and character. What’s more, this storied mountain town is renowned for its many galleries , scenic hiking trails, and, in the winter, world-class skiing. At the center of town is the Downtown Historic District , where you’ll find the 1796-era Taos Plaza. Here, locals and visitors alike gather to listen to live music and attend farmers markets and other events, including dozens of art-forward programming. An abundance of shops and galleries can also be found within easy walking distance. When it's time to refuel, head to one of the nearby cafes and restaurants . 

Taos Pueblo

About three miles northwest of Taos Plaza lies the Taos Pueblo , which is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark. The Pueblo has been inhabited for more than a millennium, and many of the adobe structures appear the same as when the Spanish first arrived in New Mexico in the 1500s. Hlauuma (north house) and Hlaukwima (south house) are the location's most famous buildings, and they’re considered the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the country.

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• Albuquerque
• United States

67 Fun Things to Do in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Surrounded by relentless desert, towering mountains and the mighty Rio Grande River, Albuquerque is a green oasis in the New Mexico landscape. The city expertly blends old and new and has a wealth of quirky museums and roadside attractions which you’ll want to visit all of.

The mixture of Spanish and Pueblo Indian cultures gives the city its own authentic identity and flavor. First-time visitors to the Southwest will surely find the distinct adobe architecture of its historic buildings unlike anywhere else in the United States.

The famous New Mexican cuisine is sure to wake up your taste buds and is sure to delight those who love their food both smoky and with a little heat. Step out of your comfort zone and see how much the city has to see, taste and experience.

Make your way to a rooftop bar and restaurant to score incomparable views of the cityscapes and sweeping mountain ranges — even the spas around these parts make sure they’re kitted with vistas to gasp over.

An amalgamation of culture and creativity; catch a live concert or tick a touring Broadway production off of your Travel Bucket List, and performing arts reign strong in the city.

Here are some of the most fun things to do in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

1 – Party in the sky at Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

If you are lucky enough to be in Albuquerque during October you have to check out the International Balloon Fiesta . This unique festival has been going on for 50 years and involves over 500 hot air balloons.

The festival takes place over nine days and is something of a paradise for balloonists and photographers offering many opportunities to get that prized shot.

If you can’t be there for the fiesta you can still take an air-balloon flight and see what makes Albuquerque such a great place to try this unusual pastime.

• hot air balloon ride in Albuquerque

2 – Meet weird and wonderful creatures at ABQ Biopark Zoo

One of the most popular attractions in all of New Mexico, ABQ Biopark has been enchanting visitors since 1927. This huge park has more than 900 resident creatures both native and exotic and includes a zoo , aquarium, botanical gardens and a beach.

See the park’s fantastic flamingos or the incredibly rare axolotl. With so many diverse creatures, including uncommon birds, big cats, primates, marsupials and reptiles everyone is sure to have a great time. A trip to the ABQ Biopark is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Albuquerque, for all the family.

3 – Discover the Historic Old Town on a walking tour

The Old Town of Albuquerque has a very unique feel to it. The district is the historic center of the city, founded in 1706, and its Spanish-Colonial architecture and charming shops and restaurants make it a popular tourist spot.

Old Town Plaza has always been at the center of the historic district. The square itself and the San Felipe de Neri Church date back to the Spanish period but most of the buildings are from the 19th and 20th-centuries. It’s home to some of the cities best events throughout the year, including summer concerts on the Old Town Plaza bandstand.

For a deeper dive into the local culture, it’s good fun to take a guided walking tour of the city.

• walking tours in Albuquerque

4 – See the Japanese gardens at ABQ Biopark Botanic Garden

First opened in 1996, ABQ Biopark Botanical Gardens covers 36 acres and is one of the most colorful places in the city. Exploding with nature’s beauty, the gardens include special glasshouses which replicate a range of climates. Visit the hardy plants of the desert one moment and the green foliage of the Mediterranean the next.

See the large collection of native plants from the deserts of North America and the beautiful Sasebo Japanese Garden which features dignified waterfalls and even a garden within a garden. The Botanic Garden also has amazing native creatures such as pollinating birds and 40 species of butterflies.

5 – Learn turtle training at ABQ BioPark Aquarium

Albuquerque’s Biopark Aquarium is home to some of the ocean’s most astonishing creatures. Sharks, eels, stingrays and jellyfish can all be observed in this captivating underwater exhibition. The resident turtles love to play games in order to get their favorite squid treats.

The park also houses two rescued two otters, named Chaos and Mayhem, who can often be seen wrestling or cuddling up together in the sun. Biopark Aquarium is a great place to visit for those who are fascinated by the deep sea. Its underwater environments show what sealife lurks in coral reefs, shipwrecks, saltmarshes and rivers. Check it out while you are in Albuquerque.

6 – Visit Breaking Bad filming locations

Albuquerque’s endless sunny days are great for moviemakers who rarely have to let bad weather postpone a shoot. The city has appeared in many movies and TV series, including Breaking Bad, Stranger Things and The Ballad of Buster Scruggs. Why not take a movie locations tour while in the city?

Relive your favorite moments from Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul with a Breaking Bad RV Tour! Visit the home of Walter White, the RV junkyard, carwash and more all while traveling in an identical RV to the one in the show. This is a must for Breaking Bad fanatics when in Albuquerque

• Breaking Bad RV tours in Albuquerque

7 – Ride the Fire Ball at Cliff’s Amusement Park

Looking for white knuckle thrills and family entertainment while in Albuquerque? Cliff’s Amusement Park has plenty of both. For classic rollercoaster fans, there are dizzying rides to enjoy such as the New Mexico Rattler, an old-school wooden coaster, and the Fire Ball which propels riders through a series of 13 vertical loops, all in under a minute.

There are also rides for younger kids in the park’s Kiddyland, and space to cool off in Watermania with its splash-tastic slides and fountains. This place is lots of fun for the whole family.

8 – Learn about the Atomic Age at the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History

New Mexico is an important part of the story of nuclear science, the state was a development and testing ground for early nuclear weapons. The Museum of Nuclear Science and History focuses on the military use of nuclear as well as modern technological uses.

The site has replicas of infamous bombs from the Second World War and exhibits dealing with the morality and after-effects of using nuclear weapons. It also has some more fun exhibits which showcase the effect that the atomic age had on pop culture.

• Museum of Nuclear Science & History tickets

9 – Visit the Petroglyph National Monument

This national monument displays historic rock carvings created by the native Puebloans of the Rio Grande Valley. The carvings, known as petroglyphs, were created with stone hammers and chisels up to 700 years ago. There are approximately 25,000 carvings within this small stretch of land.

The meanings behind many of the petroglyphs are not fully known but they have strong importance to the culture of the tribes who lived here and their modern ancestors. Don’t miss the chance to visit this amazing place while in Albuquerque.

10 – See race-winning cars at Unser Racing Museum

Celebrating the achievements and racing heritage of the Unser family, The Unser Racing Museum is a fun place to visit for motorsports enthusiasts. The museum itself is shaped like a steering wheel and covers four generations of the Unser Families racing pedigree as well as the history of racing in North America.

See cars driven by the family as well as memorabilia and trophies. The museum houses a sizeable collection of restored vintage racecars and Pace cars. Unser Racing Museum is an absolute must for lovers of Indycar racing and motorsports in general.

11 – Walk the Paseo del Bosque at Rio Grande Valley State Park

There are some very unique environments to be found in Rio Grande Valley State Par k. The Paseo del Bosque Trail runs through an area of dense forest populated by cottonwood, willow and olive trees which is quite unusual in the arid New Mexico climate.

The Rio Grande Nature Center State Park is an educational center and wildlife habitat that attracts lots of wildlife to the area, including Canadian geese and coyotes. It has walking trails that run through a rehabilitated wetland area.

Visitors should also check out the Pueblo Montano Picnic Area and Trailhead which has some impressive chainsaw sculptures.

• Rio Grande tours

12 – Explore science at Explora

Explora has to be one of the most fun ways to learn about science, math and technology. This innovative science center has a bunch of interactive experiments and exhibits that will really make you want to play, learn and discover all about them.

The center is great for kids of course but is also a wonderful day out for adults. Experiment with gravity, water and air and find out what these natural forces are capable of or harness the energy of electricity and sound to create powerful reactions. Explora is a great way to learn and have fun.

13 – Visit Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum

The city of Albuquerque really loves hot air balloons and its ballon museum attests to that. It follows the history of ballooning from its beginnings in 1783 right up to the modern-day. See replicas of historical balloons and learn about the earliest technology that allowed people to fly.

Discover a world of intrepid explorers and exciting balloon-powered adventures. Discover other uses for balloon technology and why they are still in use today.

14 – See the old west at Tinkertown Museum

If you’re on the lookout for unique attractions in the Albuquerque area, Tinkertown is definitely it. The collection began in the 1960s as a hobby of Ross Ward, who hand-carved figures of old-time American scenes. It extended to encompass his collection of Americana memorabilia and grew to what it is today.

See miniature scenes depicting the usual and unusual scenes of the old west from a blacksmith shop to a traveling circus. Not just a museum to objects, Tinkertown is also a museum to creativity and the inventive spirit that is within us all. Don’t miss out on Tinkertown, one of the most fun things to do in Albuquerque.

15 – Shop at Downtown Growers’ Market, Robinson Park

For the best and freshest foods around you have to stop into Robinson Park’s Downtown Growers Market . It’s the oldest farmers’ market in the city and has been operating for 25 years.

Here you can find ready-to-eat local favorites like burritos, tortas and tacos as well as vegetables, meats and cheeses and fresh-baked products. You can also pick up plants, dried herbs and artisan craft products like jewelry, clothing and ceramics. This is one of the best places to go for high-quality local products.

16 – Traverse the city on a bike tour

Travel the city in style on a guided bike tour and see the spots that others might miss. Not only is traveling by bike the most environmentally friendly way to get around, but it also helps you visit places that cars can’t go.

Hit the cities major sites like the Old Town, Tingley Beach and Los Poblanos Inn. Learn the history of the city and discover the best places to visit, eat and shop from a true local. Cycle the historic streets on these fun and informative tours.

• bike tours in Albuquerque

17 – Cure your phobias at Rattlesnake Museum & Gift Shop

Albuquerque’s Rattlesnake Museum is home to the largest collection of live rattlesnakes in the whole world! While this might not be appealing to everyone, the museum is an enthralling place to visit. Not only does it have live snakes to see it also has exhibits that cover myths and the perception of snakes in popular culture.

The museum also has a huge collection of snake-related artwork and artifacts including posters, pottery and even an opium jar. Be sure to call into the gift shop and pick up one of the cool Rattlesnake Museum t-shirts before you leave.

18 – Discover the Turquoise Museum

Turquoise has long been prized in the region for its beauty as well as its assumed mystical powers. The Turquoise Museum covers all aspects of these attractive and precious stones. Visitors can learn about the chemical properties of the gemstone or discover its uses for jewelry and ornamental purposes.

The museum also operates a shop that specializes in turquoise products and related items such as books and mugs.

• Turquoise Museum tickets

19 – Ascend the Sandia Peak Tramway

For the best views around Albuquerque, there is only one place to go, Sandia Peak . This is not for those who suffer from vertigo though as the aerial tramway cars are unbelievably high. The highest point of the tramway towers over 4,000 feet from its starting point and offers incredible panoramic views over 11,000 square miles of New Mexico countryside.

At the peak is the TEN 3 restaurant which offers one of North America’s most unique dining experiences with incredible views all around. There are also miles of hiking trails that can be explored starting at the tramway station. Sandia Peak is an absolute must-visit while in the region.

20 – Visit the New Mexico Steam Locomotive

History lovers absolutely have to visit the New Mexico Steam Locomotive , the Sante Fe 2926. This historic engine was built in 1944 just before diesel engine trains took over. It was retired in 1956 and sat in one of the cities parks until a team of volunteers took up the work of restoring it.

The Santa Fe 2926 is now back on the rails and moving under its own steam. Check out this amazing relic of locomotive history and relive the glory days of steam engines.

21 – See the historic San Felipe de Neri Church

One of the oldest buildings in the city, San Felipe de Neri Church was constructed in 1793 on the site of an older church that had been active since 1706. The building was originally overseen by an order of Franciscan Friars then later Italian Jesuits.

The church is still in use today and includes a museum that contains clothing and items from the church’s history as well as a small gift shop. You can’t miss this centerpiece of the historic Old Town while in Albuquerque.

22 – Watch the sun go down at West Bluff Park

Inside the city, West Bluff Park has some of the best views around. This is a great spot to sit and watch the sunset with unobstructed views of the city’s downtown area, as well as the Sandia Mountains and Rio Grande River.

Take time to sit and observe the expansive views in this unique part of the country or snap that perfect photograph just as the sky turns red. This is a beautiful spot to visit in Albuquerque.

Directions in Google Maps

23 – Meet Spike the dinosaur at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science

New Mexico’s San Juan Valley has been the site of some amazing dinosaur discoveries some of which have found their way to the state’s Museum of Natural History in Albuquerque. Visitors can see complete dinosaur skeletons and learn about the lives of these native giants.

A number of other exhibits cover the history of New Mexico and the many changes it has undergone over millions of years. Discover a land of fiery volcanoes, abounding seas and fertile grasslands.

24 – Take a fishing trip to Tingley Beach

For fishing in the city, Tingley Beach is the ideal spot. Open from sunrise to sunset all year long, the ponds are well stocked with rainbow trout and catfish. There is a children’s pond for young anglers a larger central pond and a catch and release pool for fly fishing.

Fishing is not your thing? There are also paddle boats, nature walks, a model boat pond and picnic and bbq areas. There is something here for everyone.

25 – Uncover hidden highlights on a scavenger hunt

Explore the city in a fun and unique way with a self-guided scavenger hunt. Gather together your team and try one of these fun, themed tours in Albuquerque. Want to evade zombies in an apocalyptic quest through the city? Perhaps you want to explore the cities hidden art scene? Scavenger hunts have all of this and more.

Simply download an app and follow directions through the city. Answer questions and follow clues to discover your next location. These tours are great fun for families and groups.

• scavenger games in Albuquerque

26 – Go hiking in Boca Negra Canyon

If you would like to escape the city for a while and experience New Mexico’s incredible landscape, Boca Negra is a good place to visit. The area has a bunch of gentle hikes that can be completed in an hour.

The trails are within the Petroglyph National Monument and contain about 100 of these markers spread throughout the landscape. This is a great way to see the unspoiled and wild Albuquerque scenery.

27 – Take a food tour of the city’s best restaurants

Albuquerque’s restaurants are a real treat for anyone who appreciates the unique southwestern characteristics. The blend of Spanish and Native American flavors, especially the region’s chiles, make for heavenly dishes that are a little smoky and a little fiery.

The city has an abundance of great restaurants but some of the best are Farm and Table in the North Valley, Antiquity in the Old Town, Artichoke Cafe in the Downtown area and Prairie Star restaurant at Santa Anan Golf Club.

All offer different takes on local favorites. You won’t have to go far to find delicious food in Albuquerque. To learn more, why not take a food tour of some of the city’s culinary highlights?

28 – Dig a little deeper at Albuquerque Museum

Uncover the city’s deeper history with a trip to the Albuquerque Museum . Learn about 400 years of the city roots as you pass through a number of engaging exhibits which focus on the diverse culture of the region.

The museum’s collection features thousands of artifacts, artworks and photographs that help to illustrate the Spanish and Native American influences of the city’s heritage. As well as the historical exhibitions, the museum also has a sculpture park containing over 50 unique artworks just waiting to be discovered.

29 – Peruse an exhibition at the National Hispanic Cultural Center

The 20-acre National Hispanic Cultural Center encompasses a plaza, art museum, three theaters, education center, library and more. The facility promotes and preserves the Hispanic culture through performing arts, exhibitions, lectures and programs and also provides a space for artists to display their work.

The Visual Arts Museum has an impressive fresco called the Mundos de Mestizaje which depicts moments from Hispanic history and covers 4,00 square feet. The center also has delicious dining opportunities with an on-campus restaurant and a Mexican-American-style ice cream shop.

30 – Ski, snowboard and hike at Sandia Peak Ski Area

It might be hard to believe that within parts of the New Mexico desert, it actually does snow! Especially for towns and cities located high up in the mountain ranges in the northern parts (as well as a handful of spots in the south, but this is less common).

Whether you’re seasoned or are attempting the outdoor activity for the very first time, the Sandia Peak Ski Area is an epic one for families, kids, groups of friends and couples. The best part is that to access the facility, simply catch a short tram ride from Albuquerque here.

Arriving at the ski area, head to the rental shop where you can hire out all equipment from skis to boots to snowboards.

Comprising 40 kilometers of slopes and trails to attempt, gear up and hit the snowy hills.

Located in the Sandia Mountains, in the summer when there is no snow production, catch the tram up to Sandia Peak and explore the surroundings on foot during a hike around the area.

There are designated trails trekking through the Cibola National Forest. Some of these include the La Luz Trail (one of the longest), Peak Nature Trail, Kiwanis Cabin, Pino Trail, South Peak and the Domingo Baca trail.

31 – Play laser tag at Main Event Albuquerque

Food, drinks and games, Main Event ticks all the boxes. This restaurant, bar and arcade is a fun place to go in the city if you’re looking for family activities or a night out with friends. With pursuits like bowling, laser tag, gravity ropes and glow-in-the-dark golf to choose from you’ll be spoiled for choice.

The restaurant serves American-style comfort food and creative desserts that will satisfy even the sweetest tooth.

32 – Tee off for a round of golf

Are you itching to get out your clubs for a round or two? Luckily, Albuquerque has some fantastic private and public golf courses. Albuquerque Country Club has an excellent 18-hole course right near the Downtown district.

Other courses worth checking out are Puerto del Sol , which has a lighted driving range, the challenging municipal course of Arroyo del Oso and the compact Los Altos Golf Course. With such an abundance of courses dotted about the city, you’re sure to find one that suits your needs.

33 – Watch flag football at Tingley Field

If you’re unsure about what flag football is, it’s similar to standard football but rather than tackle their opponent’s players pull a flag from their waist. This fast-paced and non-contact version of football is popular in Albuquerque and the city runs both male and co-ed adult leagues.

Check out a game while you’re in the city and grow to love this exciting offshoot of football.

34 – Visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center has tons of information on the indigenous Pueblo people and displays a series of related exhibitions and artifacts. Discover artworks and crafts created by the 19 Indian Pueblo tribes that reside throughout New Mexico but once were spread as far as Arizona and Colorado.

Explore the museum and gallery and find some educational reading in the facility’s library. Try traditional dishes in the restaurant or buy food products and artworks in the shop.

35 – Attend an event at Albuquerque Convention Center

The Albuquerque Convention Center hosts a fun-packed calendar of events all year round. These include comedy gigs, dance shows and live music as well as trade meetings and get-togethers.

It also hosts track and field events and its state-of-the-art track puts on regular national events. You can check out the website for a detailed list of upcoming events.

• Albuquerque Convention Center tickets

36 – Battle 3D zombies at Hinkle Family Fun Center

It’s all there in the name right! Hinkle Family Fun Center is everything it says it is. With a whole bunch of joyous attractions including bumper cars and boats, laser tag, go-karts and mini-golf, there is so much entertainment to be found here.

Take your first climbing experience on The Rock or encounter the unique and interactive Light Space room. Battle animated zombies on the park’s 7D interactive ride, the XD Dark. Hinkle Family Fun Center also has a games room and restaurant, It really is good fun!

37 – Travel back in time at Maxwell Museum of Anthropology

Presenting 2.5 million years of human history is no easy feat. The Maxwell Museum of Anthropology preserves and showcases millions of artifacts in its collection, most of which are from the Southwest United States. Follow the story of our early ancestors and discover what made them unique among Earth’s creatures.

Explore exhibits that focus on the Southwest region, its people and the land and see how it feels to be an archeologist by visiting a recreation dig. This is a must-see for history lovers.

38 – Try out the mobile rock climbing wall

Push your limits on the city’s 25-foot climbing wall! The parks and recreation department of Albuquerque operate a mobile climbing wall that is free to use. The wall has beginner, intermediate and challenging routes and can accommodate four climbers at a time.

Keep an eye out when you’re in the city and go along to an event. You can check out the website for more details.

39 – Meet bobcats at Wildlife West Nature Park

The Wildlife West Nature Park is a sanctuary for rescued animals, taking in native creatures that have been in accidents or mistreated. The park has all kinds of fuzzy and feathered creatures including bobcats, coyotes, black bears and eagles.

This is a great place to get up close to creatures that are elusive or nocturnal and which you would not normally see in the wild. The park also puts on fun days and events. Wildlife West can be found in the town of Edgewood, just a 20-minute drive from Albuquerque.

40 – Take a Santa Fe day trip

About an hour north of Albuquerque, Santa Fe is the state capital of New Mexico and is jam-packed with traditional southwestern-style architecture, interesting museums and great restaurants.

Some of the United States’ oldest religious buildings can be found in the city, including the  San Miguel Chapel, the shrine to the Virgin of Guadalupe and Santa Fe Plaza . Hiking and skiing are popular draws to the area, as well as numerous local fiestas and the Folk Art Market which takes place in July.

In a city where art thrives, there are plenty of galleries and exhibitions to discover. Dedicated to the first female modernist in America, for any fans of the late artist, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum is a special experience.

Talk about a spooky, or rather, quirky situation! The creativity doesn’t end in Santa Fe and the Meow Wolf: House of Eternal Return is unlike any other spot in town. Comprising 70 rooms of immersive art, make your way through the most imaginative spaces, incorporating art in some shape or form.

Stop by Float Cafe and Bar inside and order their specialty meowgarita cocktail topped with a cloud of cotton candy!

41 – Go on ghost tours… if you dare!

Do you believe in ghosts or the supernatural? Unlike any excursions around town, a ghost tour is one of the most unique things to do in Albuquerque.

Truly feel like a ghost hunter during one of these eerie expeditions which take place in Albuquerque Old Town, and start in the evening at either 6 PM or 8 PM, spanning 1.5 to two hours.

Home to the famed Old Town Plaza — the site where Albuquerque was first established in 1706 — it’s a known fact that many men and women have died around this central area, yet their ghoulie souls are believed to linger on here.

In fact, if you ask some of the locals, people have even been witness to seeing ghosts and figure-less spirits roaming around the buildings and alleyways of the Old Town, before disappearing into thin air.

Learn interesting titbits like this and more during a bone-chilling tour, and guided by a local pro, hear of the stories behind the dead along the way. Be shown hidden spots where phantoms lurk and specters loom in the shadows.

Guided by a dim, ambient lantern light, there are apparently 13 major ghosts to “meet” and some travelers have even managed to capture apparitions on camera!

• ghost tours in Albuquerque

42 – Get inspired at the University of New Mexico Art Museum

Housing the state’s largest collection of art, the University of New Mexico Art Museum is the go-to place for those seeking creative inspiration. The museum has extensive photography, painting and sculpture collections and also houses the Tamarind Institute’s lithography archive.

Wander through the galleries and take in the Raymond Johnson collection, including 600 works by the artist himself. The museum is open to the public and admission is free of charge.

43 – Go wildlife spotting at Mariposa Basin Park

Fancy getting out in the open while in Albuquerque? The small Mariposa Basin Park has some nice walking trails to enjoy, all of which are less than a mile throughout the park.

The park also has a playground for younger children, ponds and sports fields so it’s a great place to go and burn off some energy. Birdwatchers can take advantage of the shaded hide that is provided to try and spot the enthralling, local and migratory bird species.

44 – Visit the New Mexico Holocaust Museum and Gellert Center for Education

Founded by Holocaust survivors who made their home in New Mexico, this museum aims to educate the public on the problems that prejudice and intolerance can cause.

Though the majority of the museum focuses on the Holocaust in Nazi-occupied Europe, the space also addresses other genocides and human rights issues that have occurred throughout the globe, including the Armenian Genocide and slavery.

45 – Fly model aircraft and drones

Its clear blue skies and ever-present sunshine make Albuquerque ideal for ballooning but also flying model aircraft . There are a few sites around the city where it is permitted to fly drones and model airplanes throughout the year.

These include the soccer field at Arroyo del Oso Park, Balloon Fiesta Park and Maloof Airpark. Visitors should definitely check these areas out for a fun day of miniature aviation.

46 – Taste local wines on a winery tour

Escape the city for a while for a peaceful afternoon of wine tasting. Try samples of different New Mexico wines and see what makes them stand out among all the other domestic wine varieties. Learn about the wine culture of the region, which dates back to 1629, and its most celebrated varieties.

Some of Albuquerque’s best wineries to tour include Casa Rondeña Winery , known for its excellent red wines, and Gruet which specializes in sparkling wines.

• wine tours and tastings in Albuquerque

47 – Be a stuntman for a day at Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park

Gravity-defying fun for the whole family, Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park has lots of activities to try. More than a trampoline park, Urban Air has climbing areas, rope courses, dueling platforms and ball pits to keep you busy for hours.

Compete in a Ninja-style obstacle course against family members or create your own freestyle tricks in the trampoline park. Urban Air is, without a doubt, one of the most fun places to visit in Albuquerque.

48 – Take a historic High Road to Taos on a day trip

Discover the intermingling of Spanish and Pueblo cultures on a journey along the iconic High Road to Taos route. See the remnants of Spanish traditional architecture in the plazas and churches of Chimayo, Talpa and Ranchos de Taos. Discover beautiful adobe buildings constructed of earth and straw that are still standing today.

Visit the millennia-old settlement of Taos Pueblo and pick up some delicious food. Next hit the sights of Rio Grande Gorge and marvel at its natural beauty.

49 – See antique cars at Wheels Museum

Wheels Museum is apparently an acronym of We Have Everything Everyone Loves Spinning, and by that they mean vehicles. The museum has historic vehicles from all over New Mexico, including vintage firetrucks, aircraft, automobiles and carts.

It specializes in the history of Albuquerque transport and is even located on the famous Albuquerque railroad site where steam locomotives were once repaired. This is a must-visit for fans of antique vehicles and a fun day out for the whole family.

50 – Take a dip at West Mesa Aquatic Center

To beat the New Mexico heat, why not take a dip at West Mesa Aquatic Center . The center is great for serious swimmers and casual splashers alike. Its new Olympic-size pool is perfect for those who like a real workout when they take a swim. it has two-dozen lanes so you’ll be sure to find space to swim.

For the rest of us, it also has indoor and outdoor recreational pools with a bunch of fun water slides and areas to chill and catch some rays.

51 – Catch a show at the performing arts theater, Popejoy Hall

If it’s always been a dream of yours to watch a live Broadway theater production, but you’ve yet to travel to NYC or London’s West End, you can still tick a Broadway show off of your bucket list when traveling to Albuquerque!

Fiddler on the Roof and Hamilton are some prime examples of shows to see here fresh off of Broadway, or its past repertoire includes the likes of Jersey Boys, Dirty Dancing, To Kill a Mockingbird, Motown, The Lion King and more.

Not only limited to theatrical plays and touring Broadway musicals but the stage also gets set for a multitude of performing arts from dance performances in all genres, from ballet to contemporary dance, to music concerts to comedy nights.

Opening its doors back in 1966, Popejoy Hall underwent a restoration in 1996, and again in 2007. It can seat up to 1,985 audience members and retains an air of old-school classic charm.

• Popejoy Hall tickets

52 – See Norton County at the Institute of Meteoritics Meteorite Museum

Impactites, moon rocks and Martian meteorites, The Meteorite Museum has a large collection of space rocks. One of the highlights of the museum is a one-ton rock known as Norton County which was discovered in Kansas in 1948. The collection features meteorites found all over the world from Canada to Australia.

Uncover the many different types of meteorites and where they came from. Kids and adults alike will be in awe of these extra-terrestrial entities. Admission is free of charge.

53 – Take a picnic at El Oso Grande Park

Many people go to El Oso Grande Park just for the spectacular scenery alone. The views here extend across the city and all the way to the Sandia Mountains. The park is a popular local spot to play sports, it has soccer fields, barbecue and stroll as there are a number of gentle trails to enjoy.

It has a small playground too and plenty of grass to run around on, kick a ball and burn off some energy. Check it out if you’re in the area.

54 – Play interactive games at Electric Playhouse

Okay, you’ve probably never been anywhere quite like the Electric Playhouse before. This huge facility was built with one purpose in mind, fun! It uses digital projections to create unique experiences and activities. Want to try yoga in space or dance on a floor that responds to your movements, done.

This place also hosts unique digital art events, music performances and even has a fantastic cafe. If you’re looking for fun things to do in Albuquerque, you need to visit the Electric Playhouse!

55 – Take a Dinner Detective Murder Mystery

Dinner is good, but a Dinner Detective Murder Mystery is even better!  Join in an evening of immersive entertainment where you get to play detective and enjoy a four-course meal. These comedic and lighthearted shows are set in the present day and everyone is under suspicion, even you.

Solve clues to discover who among you is the perpetrator of the most monstrous of crimes, murder! This is a really fun thing to do in Albuquerque.

• dinners in Albuquerque

56 – Jog around USS Bullhead Memorial Park

Named after a lost World War II Submarine, USS Bullhead Memorial Park is a great place to go for a picnic in the city. The park has 44-acres of landscaped gardens, sports fields, barbecue grills and picnic tables. It also has plenty of trees that offer much-appreciated shade from the desert sun.

It is also one of the best spots to visit in the city with your dog as it has a fenced-in area and large grassy fields for them to run free.

57 – Watch sports events at these venues!

Calling all sporting maniacs, get your complete fill of sports events, whether it’s basketball, hockey or baseball, and catch a sporting match/game live at any three of the city’s sporting arenas.

Referred to as “The Lab” by locals, the Rio Grande Credit Union Field at Isotopes Park is the city’s prime location to watch a baseball game and the ballpark is home to the Albuquerque Isotopes.

Featuring state-of-the-art amenities with a seating capacity of 11,124 spectators, the stadium is always vibey when its baseball match-time season (from late March through to early October). If you’re traveling with the little ones and they’re not too interested in the game, there is also a Fun Zone here with games and carnival rides!

If basketball is more your style, book courtside tickets for a game of ball at The Pit . Mostly hosting the University of New Mexico Lobo basketball team’s playoffs and games, the venue was renamed Dreamstyle Arena in 2017.

Witness players of the New Mexico Ice Wolves team tear up the ice and whack balls across the glistening surface, sliding through the goalposts at the Outpost Ice Arenas where ice hockey is the main star of the show — but the rink is also utilized for ice skating.

58 – Discover the Telephone Museum of New Mexico

This New Mexico museum is dedicated to a revolutionary invention that may soon be a thing of the past, the humble telephone! Follow the history of the telephone from its invention in 1796 to the present day.

The Museum is housed in the city’s original telephone company building, which was constructed in 1906, and contains hundreds of items including telephones, switchboards and communications equipment. The museum offers info-packed guided tours and the admission price is very reasonable.

59 – Watch a movie at Kimo Theatre

You won’t see many buildings quite like the KiMo Theatre . Its design is a unique “Pueblo Deco” style, built in the 1920s when exotic theatres were very much in fashion. With decor features like Native American-styled war drum chandeliers and rows of glowing buffalo skulls.

The KiMo is a popular stop on Route 66 and is still hosts regular touring live music acts, dance productions and movies. Visitors to Albuquerque shouldn’t miss this iconic landmark of the city.

• Kimo Theatre tickets

60 – Unwind with a spa session

Taking inspiration from its natural surroundings, Green Reed Spa boasts some of the most stunning views to unwind to, thanks to the spa’s location at the foot of the Sandia Mountains and overlooking the river below. Choose between luxe massages, facials, soaks, wraps and more.

When booking one of The Remedy Day Spa ’s massages, such as a traditional Thai massage, their signature The Cure massage and a stress-less CBD massage, you have the option to add enhancements to your treatment like hot stone therapies, cupping or a Mind-Mint Scalp Massage, for example.

Apart from the usual massages, facials, exfoliations and wraps, Betty’s Bath & Day Spa also offers awesome hydrotherapy. Book out one of the saltwater outdoor baths, then finish it with a sauna and a cold shower.

Named after the local native Tamayame people (from the Santa Ana region), Tamaya Mist Spa & Salon is a stylish spa that taps into local healing principles. Book a reflexology massage, Tamaya Signature Massage, Deep Tissue Therapy, or one of their amazing facials including a Gentlemen’s Custom facial or Age Defying Facial.

61 – Watch horse racing at the Downs

In the mood for a wager or just looking for a fun day out? A trip to The Downs Racetrack and Casino could be just what you’re looking for. Place your bets at the historic horseracing track which hosts live on-site racing as well as simulcast events from around the world.

Next, you can visit the casino and try your luck with over 750 slot games for you to sample. The Downs also has three separate dining areas and hosts regular live entertainment and dancing so you’ll be well and truly entertained.

62 – Stay at the Isleta Resort & Casino

Built on an imposing site overlooking the RioGrande Bosque with impressive desert vistas right outside the door, Isleta Resort is a fantastic place to stay while in Albuquerque. This resort and casino has everything you might need during your stay in the city.

Take some time to relax by one of the pools or hit up the games room for some family fun. For golf lovers, there is the Isleta Golf Club course and a fitness center for those who like to stay in shape. The resort has no less than seven different eateries to sample during you stay.

63 – Listen to live music

Sit back, relax and enjoy the show, or more specifically, a few solid hours of sweet, sweet melodies for the soul at one of Albuquerque’s live music hot spots.

Once a grocery store turned film house, today the El Rey Theater acts as a concert hall as well as a nightclub where local and international artists, bands and DJs woo over the crowds.

Located downtown, the building is considered a historic feature and has managed to maintain much of its original architectural finishings, like a hardwood dance floor, adding ambiance to the whole outing.

From the likes of Snoop Dogg to The Strokes to Coheed and Cambria to Deadmau5 (with a list that goes on and on), the Sunshine Theater has seen some major stars in its time grace the stage.

Also found in the downtown area, the music venue is inside a six-floor worn-out yellow brick building (hence its name) that was constructed in 1924. Originally a movie theater until the 1970s, it closed in the 80s but survived after a renovation in the 90s.

Established in 1997, Launchpad is the place to be for all sorts of alternative gigs whether it’s bands or disc jockeys. More intimate than other venues, established artists as well as up-and-coming musicians across all genres play here.

Keep an eye out for one of their epic party nights when the space transforms into a club.

64 – Cruise Route 66

The famous Route 66 runs right through Albuquerque, though it has changed a little over the years. Along the way you can find plenty of roadside curiosities, buzzing neon and unique landmarks. The retro-styled 66 Diner is a fun place to visit en-route for some spiced-up fast food and a selfie.

Pass through Nob Hill and Old Town and call in at the KiMo Theatre before checking out the Route 66 sign on the corner of Central Avenue and Coors Boulevard Southwest. It’s kitsch, it’s fun, go get your kicks!

65 – Grab a drink at the top bars or take a brewery tour and beer tasting

There’s probably a bar to suit your mood in Albuquerque. The Q Bar in Old Town is on the fancier side of things and has a piano lounge and a large drinks menu to choose from. If you like it a little rowdier, check out Burt’s Tiki Lounge for live bands on the alternative rock & roll spectrum.

For great views of the city and old-school cocktails, The Apothecary Lounge cannot be beaten and for a low-key easy-going vibe Billy’s Long Bar is a solid bet. There are also some great breweries that offer beer tastings and tours such as Tumbleroot and the Marble Brewery .

• beer tastings in Albuquerque

66 – Revel in traditional dance and dinner with a night at Tablao Flamenco Albuquerque

Although flamenco dance originated in Spain, it’s widely celebrated all over the world, particularly in Central America and South American countries where Spanish culture reigns strong.

Based in the New Mexico region, it’s no surprise you can enjoy the traditional dance performance here and the Tablao Flamenco Albuquerque is one of the prime locales to do so.

Prepare to be blown away by these dinner shows — happening on Friday and Saturday nights only, or book tickets for Sundays for the matinee show where you can enjoy fine wine and spirits throughout the performance.

There is standard seating available (including a community table, banquette seating and tables by the open-air patio options). For some of the best seats in the house (and the most intimate experience to witness the spectacle), the premium tables are right in the middle at the front. The VIP area overlooks the stage.

Dancers and artists from Spain and the US hit the stage for a show like none other!

67 – Grab drinks and a bite to eat at the rooftop bars & restaurants

For sure there are plenty of incredible places to eat or grab drinks, but why not step things up and notch and head to some of the city’s top rooftop bars and restaurants where you can drink and dine with views to boot? Here are some of the best around.

Boasting both indoor and outdoor seating options, the stylish Apothecary Lounge is a romantic option for sundowners, specializing in seasonal craft cocktails. Order a signature, for example, the Prohibition-era classic, ‘The Sazerac.’

Level 5 rooftop restaurant and bar overlooks the blazing red mountains, perched above the luxe Hotel Chaco. It sports a refined and contemporary look and feel, with dedicated individual cocktail and wine menus.

Bright and open, arrive for tapas plates, delicious vino and artisanal cocktails at Ibiza Urban Rooftop Lounge . Open from Thursday to Sunday only, from 5 PM onwards, it operates on a first-come-first-serve basis, and you cannot make a reservation prior. For this spot, you don’t want to arrive underdressed either — just throwing it out there.

Head to Bien Shur Lounge in time for sunset hour and sip back on fine wines, cold drafts, wine and bubbly (available by the glass) paired with a cheese and meat charcuterie board with rolling hillsides as your backdrop.

How to get to Albuquerque?

For travelers arriving at Albuquerque International Sunport, consider pre-organizing airport transfers before your holiday even begins, so that you have nothing to worry about upon landing.

Forget about haggling down prices with taxi drivers, or waiting for a car to arrive only once you exit the airport, instead, this way, everything is taken care of.

Once you’ve landed and are ready to leave, your private driver awaits you outside the gates, holding a placard with your name on it. Hop into your private, air-conditioned vehicle and travel directly and comfortably to your accommodation in Albuquerque.

Airport transfers are available on your way back to the airport as well.

Where to stay in Albuquerque?

Oozing charm and picturesque landscapes, ensure you have the best time ever in Albuquerque and stay at some of the city’s top hotels.

Sleek, contemporary and clean, the extra-large rooms at the Hotel Chaco have everything you need — and then some! The mix of natural elements adds the finishing touches.

Feel like you’ve been swept away to a villa when staying at Hotel Parq Central , and far from the hustle and bustle, the overall environment is very relaxing. Rooms and suites are decked in warm tones, adding a homely, cozy feel and comfort.

Outdoor rooftop pool with hot tubs? Check. Fitness studio? Check. Find all the on-site facilities at The Clyde Hotel and spot the luxurious, rich finishings and furniture a mile away, like marble bathroom countertops and city views.

If you’re hunting down a unique and authentic type of stay, the set of linked casita-style cottages built in 1938 at Casas de Suenos Old Town Historic Inn will win you over. Designed to replicate a small traditional Spanish home, the boutique bed and breakfast is favored by couples, as well as for its location.

As one of the oldest hotels in Albuquerque, the Hotel Andaluz Albuquerque, Curio Collection By Hilton has managed to retain its original makeup, yet the historic stay has still kept up with the modern times in terms of amenities and is well-maintained.

Do you prefer picking a place that has it all, and is more in tune with a big-resort vibe? Including a multitude of restaurants, a casino, a shopping complex, pool and a spa,  you’ll find it all at Isleta Resort .

• best hotels in Albuquerque

Visiting Albuquerque on a budget?

There’s nothing wrong with saving where you can when traveling, in fact, it’s a smart way to do things. Enjoy extra dollars to spend on shopping and dining out when you opt for an Unbelievable Pass , which includes “free” entrance to certain must-see attractions, landmarks and monuments.

Valid for three, six or 12 months, save up to $1,000 when you purchase the pass that gives you automatic entry to tours and things to do like World Balloon hot air balloon rides, Del Sol Aviation flights, True REST Float Spa, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History and  Breaking Bad RV Tours.

Where to go next?

After your time in Albuquerque is up, consider some of these other options to travel to and explore next.

Head north and visit Moab (a six-hour journey) for an avalanche of epic outdoor activities, or swap the desert for mountains (snow-capped in winter) and stay in Denver (6.5 hours away).

Make your way west and explore the state of Arizona (also just over six hours from Albuquerque) where there are plenty of incredible towns and cities to discover around these parts.

There are many things to do in Sedona from seeing ancient ruins to breathtaking hiking trails, with a keen sense of spirituality in the air. Whilst you’re in this area, tick the Grand Canyon off of your bucket list, and you can reach the national treasure in under six hours.

Phoenix , Scottsdale and Tucson are all reachable from Albuquerque in just over 6.5 hours of driving time and each has its own unique draws.

Final thoughts

From the weird and wonderful to the sweeping desert landscapes to the unique culture, this city is one to add to your USA Bucket List for sure!

Have you traveled to New Mexico before? What were some of your favorite things to do in Albuquerque (if you’ve been here before) and other cities nearby?

Share your memories and favorite moments in the comments, we love hearing from our readers.

As always, happy and safe travels.

The 15 Best Things to do in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Known best for the International Balloon Fiesta, Albuquerque is an enchanting Southwestern city with a mix of diverse cultures that translates to unique museums showcasing their traditions and vibrant events held throughout the year. From flamenco dances held at the National Hispanic Cultural Center to watching Native American dances held every weekend at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, this is an idyllic setting for history buffs and those that want to learn about this city’s distinct past. 

Check out Albuquerque’s founding neighborhood in Old Town and admire its 18th-century adobe buildings, visit a museum about the city’s history, or check out one of the largest petroglyph sites. In contrast, among the modern skyscrapers, you’ll find a thriving arts scene and world-class restaurants. 

If you love the outdoors, hike up the Sandia Mountains or take the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway up to the peak for panoramic views of the colorful hot air balloons overhead. At night, party under the glow of neon signs along historic Route 66 or catch a show at one of the many theaters or performance venues found in the bustling entertainment district.

With so many things to see and do, you might not know where to begin, so we’ve put together a list of the 15 best things to do in Albuquerque to help you make the most of your visit. Stick to these fun and unique Albuquerque bucket list recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an amazing time exploring this gorgeous Southwestern oasis!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Fun and Unique Things to do in Albuquerque, NM

1. learn about the fascinating indian pueblo culture at the indian pueblo cultural center.

Take a trip to the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center to learn about and experience the rich cultural heritage of the 19 Pueblo tribes of New Mexico . With its combination of interactive exhibits, events, workshops, and authentic cuisine, it offers a truly immersive experience that provides you with a glimpse into New Mexico’s Native American Nations and Pueblos. 

If you are intrigued by Native American culture and history, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is one of the many must-do Albuquerque activities. The on-site Indian Pueblo Kitchen is a great introduction to Indigenous foodways, Native American dishes made with traditional Pueblo ingredients, and also some New Mexico signature plates. 

The restaurant is famous for its bold and rich flavors, making it the perfect spot to experience the unique tastes of Native American cuisine. Will you choose their hearty bison chili or real blue corn enchiladas? For the ultimate indulgence, try a Navajo taco, which uses traditional fry bread instead of a tortilla.

It’s also the only place in the country that showcases Native American dances, held every weekend throughout the year. Stop by any weekend to see the dance groups from the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico and witness the performers up close. 

Standing side by side, the Pueblo singers and drummers fill the air with their deep melodic voices and drumming in perfect unison. Dressed in traditional regalia, the dancers tell stories with their bodies. Bells, shells, rumbling drums, and traditional cultural songs make this one of the most memorable things to do in Albuquerque. 

Don’t leave without checking out their fabulous gift shop, where you can pick up authentic handmade souvenirs like intricate silver jewelry, handcrafted pottery, kachina dolls, colorful textiles, and folk art. Each piece sold in the shop supports local artists and the Native American community.

2. Visit the Quirky Museums of Albuquerque

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Albuquerque, the American International Rattlesnake Museum is the only museum in the world dedicated solely to rattlesnakes. At this animal conservation museum, you can see over 30 different varieties of live rattlesnakes, educational exhibits about these fascinating creatures, and an array of snake-related artwork, artifacts, and memorabilia. 

If you’re interested in reptiles or just want to experience something unique, the museum is a great place to learn about them, their behavior, and their important role in the ecosystem. It is also a great opportunity to confront and overcome any fears you may have about these misunderstood reptiles. Plus, at the end of your tour, you’ll even receive a certificate of bravery signed and witnessed by the museum owner!

The Tinkertown Museum is an eccentric museum that showcases the imaginative creations of its founder and builder, Ross Ward. The museum is housed in a building made of over 20 tons of glass bottles and features a whimsical collection of antique circus and carnival memorabilia, antique toys, and other oddities.

One of the most notable features of Tinkertown is its collection of hand-carved, hand-painted wooden figures, which depict scenes from American life, miniatures of the Wild West, and folklore, as well as various characters from popular culture. Visitors can also see the antique circus and carnival memorabilia, including hand-painted signs, posters, and equipment, which provide a fascinating look into the history of these American institutions.

3. Admire the Pueblo Deco Design in the Haunted KiMo Theatre.

Are you interested in unique architecture, rich cultural history, and a touch of the paranormal? Then you need to see one of the coolest Albuquerque attractions, the KiMo Theatre !

Built in 1927, this historic venue is a prime and rare example of Pueblo Deco design, a blend of Pueblo Indian and Art Deco styles that create an atmosphere that is both elegant and impressive. It used to host everything from silent films to vaudeville acts and live performances. Today, you can still catch live performances like concerts, films, plays, ballets, and artist lectures here.

Countless big-name celebrities have passed through KiMo over the years, but the most famous resident is Bobby, the ghost that is believed to haunt the theater! It is said that if the performers in a show don’t leave a gift of some sort for Bobby, then he will prank them during their shows. Be sure to go on the intimate backstage tour so you can visit Bobby’s shrine, that’s full of candy and toys left by performers to keep him happy.

The KiMo Theatre is one of the most unique Albuquerque attractions and is an important part of the city’s cultural heritage. If you’re interested in theater, stunning architecture that fuses geometric southwestern motifs with Art Deco design, or just want to befriend a ghost, the KiMo Theatre should be on your Albuquerque bucket list!

4. Drive Down Interstate 40 for Some Tunes on the Musical Highway

Get ready for a one-of-a-kind road trip on the “Musical Highway” in New Mexico. This stretch of road, located on the eastbound lanes of the historic Route 66 between Albuquerque and Tijeras, features rumble strips that play the tune of “America the Beautiful ” when you drive over them at a certain speed. 

Created in 2008 as part of a road improvement project, the Musical Highway is one of the most fun things to do in Albuquerque for anyone looking for a unique and interactive way to enjoy the scenic beauty of New Mexico. Turn off your radio, roll down your windows, and be sure to align your right tire to hit the rumble strips on the passenger side of the road for the best musical experience.

This innovative road is a tribute to New Mexico’s rich musical heritage, as well as to the iconic Route 66. With most of the signs having been removed, be sure to put it in your GPS, as it’s about 10 minutes east of Albuquerque. Be sure to drive the speed limit at 45 miles per hour, so you don’t miss out on this unique piece of Americana!

If you’re looking for a quirky and fun way to explore Route 66 and the beauty of New Mexico, the Musical Highway is a must-visit. This musical road will leave you humming the tune long after your drive is over, making it a highlight of any road trip along Route 66.

5. Ride the 2.7-Mile Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway for Striking Valley Views

If you don’t consider yourself a hiker and don’t want to trek all the way to the top of the Sandía Mountains, consider taking the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway . It’s a scenic 2.7-mile-long cable car ride that will take you from the foothills of the mountains to the peak. Feast your eyes on the blueish granite rocky landscapes and the impressive Rio Grande Valley below. 

Enjoy the panoramic views from the spacious cable car cabin, the perfect place to experience the natural beauty of the area. Those 15 minutes will fly by as you embrace having a bird’s-eye view of Albuquerque. Consider going in the evening, when you can see the lights of the city below, with a blend of spectacular pink and orange hues at sunset. 

Once you arrive at the top, you can hike one of the beautiful trails, and if you are a total fitness enthusiast, then you could even hike back down the mountain, but it’s not for the faint of heart! Sandia Peak is also a haven for bird-watchers as it is home to golden eagles and many other birds of prey.

If you prefer to just unwind, then you can enjoy a lovely picnic in the picnic area. Forgot to bring food? Don’t worry, there are several restaurants at the summit for you to relax and enjoy.

6. Explore the History of Albuquerque’s Old Town

Founded in 1706, the Old Town neighborhood is the city’s most historic neighborhood, and today it remains the cultural heart of the city and one of the must-do things in Albuquerque. 

Most of the architecture in Old Town is adobe. These centuries-old Pueblo-Spanish-style buildings, with their flat roofs and stucco walls, now house shops and restaurants. The neighborhood is also dotted with several Victorian buildings, and despite centuries of change, it has kept its original charm. 

Today, it’s one of the area’s top Albuquerque attractions, and you can easily walk to more than 150 shops and galleries in the plaza and the surrounding area, where there are treasures found around every corner! Along the sidewalks bordering the plaza, you’ll find local artists selling their goods, including Native American artists and vendors selling their authentic handmade jewelry and pottery. 

A highlight of the neighborhood is the museum at San Felipe de Neri Church, the oldest church found in the city that’s located near the plaza. Built in 1793, it still is used today by parishioners. Opt for the Heritage Walking Tour, which will give you the chance to discover the cultural hotspots of the area with an experienced local guide. 

The guides will tell you all about the history and will introduce you to local artists and gallerists –and you’ll see some fantastic artwork. It’s the perfect way to experience the beauty and charm of Old Town Albuquerque.

In addition to the tour, you can stroll the Plaza, dine at great restaurants, stay at a bed & breakfast or nearby hotel, take a bicycle or trolley tour, and discover the hidden chapel tucked away in the heart of Old Town. 

The Old Town is also a great place to relax and soak up the unique atmosphere. You’ll find adobe houses, hidden patios, winding brick paths, manicured gardens, cobblestone alleyways, and fountains. Plus, every weekend, be sure not to miss out on the Folklorico dancing, live music, and other events that take place throughout the year. 

Old Town Walking Tour

7. Wander through the Themed Gardens of ABQ BioPark Botanic Gardens

The ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden is a 36-acre public garden. It features a diverse collection of plant species from around the world in its themed gardens, including a Mediterranean and desert conservatory and formal manicured gardens. 

While you are there, you can also visit more attractions found within the ABQ BioPark that are worthy of a stop. Here you’ll also find the Albuquerque Aquarium, Zoo, Tingley Beach, and the Rio Grande Heritage Farm, which represents 1920s-era farm life. 

Experience a piece of the Far East with the stunning Sasebo Japanese gardens. Stroll along the traditional wooden bridges to hear the rush of waterfalls gently flowing into the colorful koi-filled pond. Intricate stone lanterns are dotted around the four-acre park among the delicately blooming flowers. Just being here will put you into a calm, zen-like state!

Head to the butterfly pavilion to see a variety of colorful native butterflies and learn all about these precious pollinators. Traveling with children? Little ones will love the Bugarium, which is home to all manner of creepy crawlies. 

There’s also a whimsical children’s fantasy garden complete with a giant 14-foot dragon that guards the castle, among other huge sculptures of insects, veggies, and a two-story large pumpkin that you can walk through.  

8. See the City from Above at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Known as the “Ballooning Capital of the World,” Albuquerque holds the largest hot air balloon festival in the world, the International Balloon Fiesta . Every year on the first Saturday of October, the balloon fiesta kicks off and lasts for nine whole days. If you want to take advantage of the most amazing photo op, you’ll need to head there before 6 am to see the balloons take off and fill the bright blue sky with pops of color. 

Waking up early has other perks, it’s also the perfect time to catch a balloon ride yourself as the sky is crystal clear and the wind is at its calmest. Plus, seeing the sunrise with 360-degree views of the city and the Sandia Mountains while floating in the sky is a magical experience and a top Albuquerque bucket list activity.

Weather conditions are great year-round, so you can book your balloon ride pretty much any time of the year. Just be sure to do it well in advance because this activity is insanely popular! Post-landing, you can enjoy a celebratory champagne toast to your flight and bravery. 

If you’re afraid of heights, don’t worry, you can still see all the wonders of ballooning with your feet planted firmly on the ground. The Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum is a fabulous museum that focuses on the history of ballooning.

They have a collection of fascinating artifacts, photographs, and interactive exhibits that showcase the evolution of ballooning as a sport and science. You can even learn how to pilot a balloon yourself in their interactive exhibit! Find out about the brave pioneers of ballooning, the crazy technology behind modern hot air balloons, and the cultural significance of balloons in different parts of the world.

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

9. Be Amazed by the Ancient Wonders of Albuquerque

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Albuquerque, you can see 700-year-old symbols, messages, and drawings carved into rocks by Spanish settlers and Native Americans at the Petroglyph National Monument . Discover over 15,000 petroglyphs, which are ancient images carved into rocks, mainly by the Native American Pueblo people.

Later on, the Spanish settlers added their own unique carvings to the mix. Archaeologists have dated some of the carvings as far back as 3,000 years ago, making it believed to be older than the Colosseum in Rome and the Parthenon in Athens. 

To get the most out of your time there, first head to the small visitors center and pick up a map of the area, a brochure, and a bottle of water if you didn’t already have one. Then you just need to take a short drive to Boca Negra Canyon, which is located off Unser Boulevard. Boca Negra offers access to over 100 petroglyphs.

You’ll enjoy their three short trails, which offer petroglyph viewing, including the Boca Negra Canyon Trail, the Rinconada Canyon Trail, and the Piedras Marcadas Canyon Trail. You could easily do all three in under two hours, so even those strapped for time will get to enjoy hiking through this ancient art gallery. 

Besides Boca Negra, there are other main points of interest nearby. Here, you’ll find the Three Sisters Volcanoes, remnants of dormant volcanic activity. There are no petroglyphs there, but it offers stunning vistas of Rinconada Canyon and the Piedras Marcadas Canyon.

Explore the Gems of Albuquerque

10. Immerse Yourself in Arts and Heritage at the National Hispanic Cultural Center

The National Hispanic Cultural Center holds over 700 events and exhibitions every year that do an amazing job of showcasing the diverse Hispanic culture and heritage of the region and beyond. Tucked away in one of the original Spanish settlements of the city in the lively Barelas neighborhood, the center hosts everything from plays to musical performances, dance ensembles, art exhibitions, visual arts, and literary arts that celebrate Hispanic culture. 

The center also features an art museum, a library, restaurants, and multiple exhibition spaces that display the work of local and international Hispanic artists. We recommend taking a guided tour of El Torreón, the Tower, which took about 10 years to complete. 

This 4,000-square-foot mega fresco was painted by native New Mexico artist Frederico Vigil and depicts thousands of years of Mestizo history. The work is titled “Mundo de Mestizaje” meaning “the Mestizo world.” The stunning ceiling is all about the Mestizo people, depicting over 200 of them, while the circular side walls depict their vibrant history. You could visit this place 1,000 times and still discover something new hidden in its gloriously intricate depths. Plus, the NHCC also features artwork by world-renowned artists like Mexican artist Diego Riviera.

11. Visit the Fascinating Albuquerque Museum

Located just off Route 66, this museum offers a unique insight into the city’s past, present, and future through its impressive collection of artifacts and art pieces. Celebrating Albuquerque’s unique history and diverse cultures, this museum features permanent art and history collections, traveling exhibits, and exhibits curated locally. 

A must on any Albuquerque bucket list, the Albuquerque Museum is a great way to learn about New Mexico’s artistic side and the city’s roots, from its first Native American origins to the Civil War. Art lovers will be in their element because the museum features approximately 7,000 pieces of art, including work by renowned American artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe and Peter Hurd.

If you’re a history buff, you’ll love the “Only in Albuquerque” gallery, and the “Wit, Humor, and Satire” exhibit will be right up your alley if you need a laugh. There are regular temporary exhibitions, so each visit will be totally unique. Be sure to check out the sculpture garden outside, and if you have kids, they will love the interactive children’s area downstairs. 

12. Bike the Paseo del Bosque Trail

For a city escape, take a ride on the 16-mile Paseo del Bosque Trail , which simply means “forest stroll.” Motorized vehicles aren’t allowed on the trail, so you are guaranteed to enjoy the peace and quiet that this riverside trail has to offer.

Rent a bike and enjoy a leisurely cycle in this peaceful cottonwood forest. You can begin the trail in the Old Town and bike the loop for as little or as long as you like. The trail is paved and mostly flat, making it ideal no matter what your fitness level is. 

If you are planning to take a longer, more scenic route, you need to make a stop at Los Poblanos Organic farm, a historic property that’s set among 15 acres of dreamy lavender fields, where you’ll smell the place long before you arrive!

Other notable rest stops are the blooming Botanic Gardens, seeing the splash-happy ducks at Tingley Beach, Rio Grande State Park, and the zoo, where you can even spot llamas and elephants from the trail. For more local wildlife, be sure to look up every once in a while because you might see a porcupine taking a nap in one of the trees or a great horned owl hunting for its dinner.

13. See Rescued Wild Animals Up Close at the Wildlife West Nature Park

Located just a short drive from Albuquerque, the Wildlife West Nature Park is not a zoo, it’s a sanctuary for over 20 species of native animals. The majority of these wild animals have been in accidents or rescued from inhumane treatment and have been offered a second chance at life in this wholesome and family-friendly park.

Bobcats, black bears, cougars, eagles, and turkey vultures have all found their forever home in this amazing animal sanctuary. Visit Oreo, the mischievous raccoon, and Tonto, the curious pronghorn antelope. This wildlife paradise wouldn’t be possible without the help of a dedicated group of selfless volunteers that really care for the animals and their well-being. 

Just 20 miles east of Albuquerque, this 122-acre park provides a glimpse into the wild side of New Mexico that you can’t find anywhere else. You’ll get to observe native species in their natural habitats, from a safe distance, of course. Plus, the kids will love the children-centric Imagination Trail’s playground equipment.

Beyond housing the animals, they also have a broad range of educational opportunities and events held over the course of the year. The park hosts raptor flight demonstrations, a Music and Arts Festival, and Mud Runs. Check out their Saturday night Chuckwagon Supper Shows for a home-cooked BBQ meal, a wildlife presentation, and a live bluegrass music concert.

14. Get Hands-On at Explora’s 250 Interactive Exhibits and Activities 

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Albuquerque, leave your adulting at the door and embrace your childish sense of wonder in over 250 interactive exhibits and activities at Explora . Explora is a science, engineering, art, and technology museum with a twist, and you are guaranteed to have a blast!

Discover the science of sound, play with shadows, and create your own musical instrument. Spark your imagination while you build machines and other structures. Manipulate electricity to do your bidding by turning on a lightbulb with only two wires and a little bit of ingenuity. 

Exactly how stretchy is a bubble? Find out as you beat your friends by blowing the biggest bubble in the Bubble Room. Why is water wet? Find out the answer to this question and many more at Explora. Test your balance while 12 feet in the air while on the high-wire balance bike, and bring your doodles to life on the big screen in the Sketch Aquarium.

With so many inventive hands-on experiments in one place, you’ll find it hard to leave! Plus, they now have Explora Adult Nights. Check out the adult-only performances, lectures, and hands-on experiments while sipping on beverages for the 21+ crowd. 

Nights like the Science of Beer allow you the opportunity to learn about the brewing process with surprising interactive beer-related activities while tasting some of New Mexico’s best craft brews. 

15. Get Tipsy While Doing Yoga at Casa Rondeña Winery

Standing here among the rows of lush green vines and blossoming flowers, you could easily forget that you are in Albuquerque. With its inviting archways, hand-painted tiles, and rustic wooden doors, Casa Rondeña has all the charm of a quaint Spanish village, nestled away from the hectic traffic and noise of the city. A world of its own, Casa Rondeña is one of the coolest things to do in Albuquerque if you’ve got extra time.

Here you can also take a gentle yoga class that invites you to relax your mind and body and let all of your stress melt away. After you finish your session, you’ll be given a refreshing glass of their famous wine.

Casa Rondeña is a family-owned and operated business that has perfected the art of making mouth-watering wine. How about a crisp Pinot Noir to accompany your downward-facing dog? This is the perfect activity for a girly day out or even a quirky yet romantic date idea. It’s easily one of the most unique things to do in Albuquerque!

This area is one of the oldest winemaking regions in North America, known for its bold, dry reds and classic, crisp whites that impress and are known internationally. If you’re not up for doing yoga, many of the other wineries and vineyards nearby offer free tastings. 

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Albuquerque! What’s your favorite thing to do in Albuquerque? Let us know in the comments below! 

Planning a trip to New Mexico? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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About the Author:

Carrie Ann Back is part-time travel writer and full-time globetrotter based in Southeast Asia. Recent bylines include Travel + Leisure, Parents Magazine, Postcards Magazine, Culture Trip, Matador Network, & more! Leaving her home in 2015, she has embarked on an around-the-world journey and has been traveling continuously ever since. Her most recent adventures include working in the Bolivian Amazon jungle, surfing in Sri Lanka, and exploring Laos via a slow boat up the Mekong River. She’s a proud member of the Cherokee Nation and is passionate about sustainable travel. She now lives in Siem Reap, Cambodia, with her cat Lil’ Mama. Most nights, you can find her munching down at the street food vendors.

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THE 10 BEST Albuquerque Sights & Historical Landmarks

Albuquerque landmarks.

• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• Churches & Cathedrals
• Sacred & Religious Sites
• Arenas & Stadiums
• Architectural Buildings
• Historic Sites
• Monuments & Statues
• Educational sites
• Neighborhoods
• Auto Race Tracks
• Historic Walking Areas
• Mysterious Sites
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• West Old Town
• Raynolds Addition
• Highland Business
• Huning Highland Historic District
• Central Campus
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Albuquerque Old Town

2. Petroglyph National Monument

Recommended Sightseeing Experiences (18)

3. San Felipe de Neri Church

4. New Mexico Steam Locomotive and Railroad Historical Society

5. University of New Mexico

6. Spaceship House

7. Nob Hill Main Street

8. Central Avenue

9. Gutierrez Hubbell House

10. Albuquerque New Mexico Temple

11. Walter White’s House

12. La Jornada

13. Musical Highway

14. Chapel Of Our Lady Of Guadalupe

15. The New Mexico School of Natural Therapeutics

16. Albuquerque Murals

17. Alvarado Transportation Center

18. Madonna of the Trail

19. Don Francisco Cuervo y Valdes monument

20. West Mesa

21. Albuquerque Dragway

22. Occidental Life Building

23. Rio Grande Community Farm

24. Center For Action And Contemplation

25. Giant Red Arrow

26. San Ignacio Catholic Church

27. The Whittlesey House

28. Sunshine Building

29. Route 66 Karting

30. Sandia Mountains 2

What travelers are saying.

• Petroglyph National Monument
• Albuquerque Old Town
• New Mexico Steam Locomotive and Railroad Historical Society
• San Felipe de Neri Church
• Spaceship House
• University of New Mexico

The Best Things to Do in Albuquerque: 16 Epic Activities in ABQ

Discover the best things to do in Albuquerque with this guide. Hikes, culture, cuisine and plenty more.

Ready to dive into a world of endless adventure and excitement? Look no further than the amazing experiences that Albuquerque has to offer.

Before I visited ABQ, my only references to the city were from its huge annual Balloon Fiesta and Breaking Bad (not quite the impression it wants to give, I’m sure). Then the check-in staff at my first hotel low-level slammed the city as boring and insipid and I questioned whether it had been worth coming at all. 

I’m here to tell you… the haters are wrong. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover or foodie, ABQ is a ridiculously underrated US city. 

Get ready to explore this incredible city with the help of this practical AF guide – and don’t forget to bring your appetite for spice – ‘cos chiles are ABQ’s thing big time.

Want to take a sneak peek? Watch my video on cool things to do in Albuquerque! 

Psst, are you looking for a place to stay in this desert oasis? Book a room at Hotel Chapo for a sleek stay in the heart of Albuquerque.

Top 5 Things to do in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Take off on a hot air balloon.

In a city notorious for its massive International Balloon Fiesta, it’s a no-brainer to head to the skies. Although the festival usually takes place in October, you can hop on a hot air balloon anytime of the year (weather permitting of course).

Take it from me, there’s no better feeling than gliding above the golden city at sunrise and it was hands down one of the highlights of my time in Albuquerque. 

Not to mention that a balloon flight is the best way to fully appreciate the beauty of the Bosque Forest and Rio Grande. You’ll have a chance to admire the blue waters of Rio Grande as they snake through the lush forest and picturesque city. 

To top off an already luxurious experience, end the trip by popping open a bottle of champers or glugging down a mimosa. I went with Rainbow Ryders and would very much recommend them for your epic aeronautical experience.

Book Your ABQ Balloon Ride Here

Admire the Scenery on the Sandia Peak Tramway

You might question whether the 20-minute drive from downtown to the Sandia Peak Tramway is worth it, but I’ll answer the question for you –  it very much is. 

This 15-minute scenic tram to Sandia Peak should be on every Albuquerque itinerary – it’s just that unforgettable.

I went up this mesmerising mountain in winter, so it was bitterly cold, but even I stopped whingeing about the cold when the scale of the mountainous winter wonderland revealed itself. That said, visiting in the warmer months is much better for exploring the Cibola National Forest as the trails aren’t hidden under 5 ft of fresh powder.

If you’re looking for hikes, the best of the bunch is the 1.1-mile Scandia Cave Trail. But if you want something more challenging, you can always head back down from the top of Sandia Peak on the 7.5-mile La Luz Trail.

Alternatively, nibble on something tasty at Ten 3 Restaurant before heading down. But remember to reserve a table in advance as it’s always busy.

Top Tip: You must book a tramway ticket online, which you can do on the Sandia Peak website .

Explore the Petroglyph National Monument

Situated in the western Mesa, the Petroglyph National Monument is one of the best free things to do in Albuquerque. It’s a goldmine for history, with over 25,000 petroglyphs made by the Spanish Settlers and Native American communities up to 700 years ago.

While the visitor centre is well worth stopping by to get some handy information, none of the trails to the petroglyphs begins here. The trails are fairly far apart (be ready to drive), so it pays to plan ahead.

Here are the three trails you should consider doing:

Rinconada Canyon Trail : If you only have time to enjoy one trail, I recommend doing this 2.2-mile loop trail. It has over 300 unique petroglyphs to discover — which are largely clustered on one half of the trail, so you can either do it as a loop or as an out-and-back.

Boca Negra Canyon : Travel three miles north to this seven-acre region of the park. You’ll find around 100 petroglyphs across an hour’s worth of walking trails.

Piedras Marcadas Canyon : This is the furthest trail from the visitor centre (six miles), and this region has over 400 petroglyphs to discover. You can enjoy a 1.8-mile round trip through the blackened walls of the canyon.

Discover the Sawmill Market

Of all the places to visit in Albuquerque, you don’t want to miss the Sawmill Market near Old Town. This bustling market is the city’s culinary heart and, to be quite honest, it’s where I fell in love with ABQ.

And with 32 unique bars and restaurants all under one roof, can you blame me? 

You won’t fall short of options. Indulge in Hawaiian life with a myriad of fresh ingredients at Notorious P.O.K.E (my personal fave), or try some classic American-style ribs at the Mercantile Cafe. 

Replenish your taste buds with a Margarita from the All-American Flora Restaurant. And if local brews are more your vibe, you’ll find plenty at the Paxton Taproom.

Are you drooling at the sound of this, or is it just me? 

Discover the Indian Pueblo Cultural Centre

The Indian Pueblo Cultural Centre is an absolute must when it comes to places to go in Albuquerque.  This relatively small museum packs a big cultural punch, showcasing the history and lives of the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico.

Discover everything about the local Native American tribes through the museum’s expansive collection of jewellery, art, clothing and cultural artefacts. They even have an ever-changing array of contemporary exhibitions to keep things fresh.

During my time at the museum, there was a vibrant display of Native American skateboard art. Pretty cool, right? 

While you’re here, you really should pop into the Indian Pueblo Kitchen, for a taste of authentic Native American cuisine. You can even get in on the action and join a cooking class . 

Brilliant Things to See & Do in Albuquerque 

Visit the best albuquerque breweries.

There are plenty of fantastic things to do at night in Albuquerque. But nothing comes close to a little bar-hopping experience of the best breweries in town. With 40-plus breweries along the Albuquerque-Sante Fe strip, picking your ideal brewery isn’t easy.

To help you out, here are the top joints to visit: 

Bow and Arrow Brewing Co: Spend time at this fantastic native-women-owned taproom on McKnight Ave. Enjoy eclectic brews, like the smooth Malt Forward and the unique cactus fruit seltzer.

Bosque Brewing Co: If it’s a fruity punch you seek, grab a pint or two at the Bosque Brewing Co’s taproom on Girard Blvd. Sip on something sweet like banana-inspired Peel Out or classic Bavarian style lager.

La Cumbre Brewing Co: Another Girard Blvd special, this trendy taproom has served unique blends since 2010. Enjoy something refreshing like the tangerine-infused Spring Runoff or earthy like a dry Irish stout.

Book Yourself a Feast at Campos by Los Poblanos

If you’re planning a romantic evening in Albuquerque, you must book a table at Campos by Los Poblanos. It’s a fine dining masterpiece set on a classic southwestern organic farm.

Get ready for a fusion of contemporary southwestern flare and Mexican bite. As all the ingredients are from farm to table, Campos celebrates indigenous, American and Mexican cuisine.

You can also expect new flavours no matter when you go, as they change the menu seasonally. I don’t think I’ll ever have a better braised lamb birria and tortilla again.

Its unassuming timber interior and moody lighting make this a dining experience you’ll always remember. You may as well book your table at Campos now.

Visit the Gruet Winery and Tasting Room

Many people will take a day trip from Albuquerque for a wine-tasting experience. But why not stay in town and sample the best wine in New Mexico at the Gruet Winery and Tasting Room?

They may specialise in Méthode Champenoise sparkling wines, but that’s not all they offer. Allow the genius of resident winemaker Cyril Tanazacq to take you on a bubbly adventure, from a vintage Sauvage to a smooth Pinot Noir.

While their three vineyards all produce stellar grapes within New Mexico, you don’t need to venture beyond Albuquerque to experience these wines. Head to the Tasting Room along the Pan American Fwy, then sit back and enjoy delicious caviar and wine pairings.

Explore the Rio Grande Nature Centre

Find plenty of outdoorsy things to do in Albuquerque at the Rio Grande Nature Centre in the city’s heart. You can expect walking and biking trails here, but there are also a few hidden gems.

Start on the Aldo Leopold Trail system, which meanders the park alongside the Rio Grande. You can admire the scenery at first, but it’ll quickly become evident that this riverside park is a bird lover’s haven.

If you head south, the maze-like trail will eventually lead you to the Laberinto del Bosque. It’s the perfect place to realign yourself with stunning views of Rio Grande. Need I say more?

Discover the Best Kept Secrets in Old Town

You didn’t think I forgot about all the quirky things to do in Old Town Albuquerque, did you? Well, let me put your mind at ease and take you on a journey through the narrow streets of this unique neighbourhood.

Take in the sculptural masterpieces at La Jornada and discover why many want to remove these works showing Spanish settler histories. Discover how Old Town is the perfect example of a mixture of cultures at the Chapel of Our Lady of Guadalupe. 

You can also learn about the city’s origins at Old Town Plaza. And why not finish off the experience at the Antiquity Restaurant? Alternatively, get an inside scoop on the region on this Old Town walking tour .

Admire Albuquerque’s Public Art

You’re not short of things to do in ABQ, but my favourite way to explore the city is by hunting out all its public art. 

Like many American cities, Albuquerque has a thriving street art scene, and you’ll find most of these iconic murals in the Reynolds Addition and lower downtown.

Admire Mauricio Ramirez’s The Kiss that adorns Lot 4 and the ultra colourful work by Cloudface on the Copper Building. Discover a neon classical fusion by Jody Herrera at 5th North, and remember to see the culmination of several artists in the alley behind El Rey Theatre.

Top Tip: Learn about all 155 public art murals in Albuquerque on the Muros ABQ website .

Unique Things to See & Do in Albuquerque: Hidden Gems That are Off the Beaten Track

Enjoy brunch at the grove cafe.

Now, into the realm of the unknown — okay, not quite, but it is a lesser-known activity. Enjoy lunch at The Grove Cafe. This is a classic Albuquerque place to visit with a relaxing country vibe and down-to-earth food.

Try their organic egg white frittata or house granola bowl for something light. If it’s something more authentic you seek, look no further than their Mexican-inspired Chilaquiles.

The food sounds divine, right? Wait until you sip on a classic house brew cappuccino or a golden milk latte. It doesn’t get much better than this.

Visit the Turquoise Museum

Did you ever think visiting a museum about stones would be on the cards? Probably not, but it’s one of the most unique things to do in Albuquerque. So why not grab a Turquoise Museum entry ticket ?

Nestled within what appears to be a castle in the middle of downtown Albuquerque (I know, it’s crazy), you’ll find the largest collection of turquoise minerals in the US. I recommend spending around an hour admiring these green and blue beauties, ranging from polished jewellery to massive raw stones.

Explore the National Museum of Nuclear Science

It’s interesting for some and not so much for others, but whatever the case, popping into the Nuclear Museum is worth a thought. 

America has a complex history with nuclear science. Think of the atomic bomb and nuclear power plants, to name a few examples. But possibly the most unique part of the museum is the permanent exhibit of the famous series, Breaking Bad . 

So, when you’re not learning about the dark cube or pioneers of the atom bomb, pop over and see Walter White in his classic yellow overalls.

Ride the Paseo del Bosque Trail

You could call the 17.7-mile Paseo del Bosque Trail the Garden Route of Albuquerque. This glorious path passes through some of the city’s most picturesque streets and gardens, from Old Town to the North Valley.

You’ll ride past some lovely spots along the Rio Grande, such as the Train Depot, Albuquerque Botanical Gardens and Aquarium, and the zoo. As it’s a relatively long trail, you can stop off at certain points and rejoin after a snack at a local cafe.

Visit the San Felipe de Neri Church

Old Town has many hidden gems within its colourful streets, and one such sneaky find is this terracotta-coloured church. You can explore the museum to learn more about Spanish Catholicism.

Discover unique artefacts such as the original Cristo from the Good Friday celebrations of El Descendimiento and some spectacular religious paintings. It’s also one of the oldest buildings in Albuquerque, so its historical significance is second to none.

Note: It’s a good idea to schedule your museum visit in advance as they rely on volunteer docents and aren’t always open.

Things to Do Albuquerque: Practical Tips for Your Trip

First of all, be sure to drink plenty of water. The city is located at a high altitude, and it can be easy to get dehydrated, especially if you’re doing a lot of outdoor activities.

Secondly, be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat. The sun can be intense in Albuquerque, and you don’t want to get sunburned during your visit.

Lastly, if you’re a fan of spicy food, you’re in luck! Albuquerque is known for its green and red chile, and you’ll find it on just about every menu in town. Be sure to try it, but be warned – it can be quite spicy!

I recommend you spend at least three days in Albuquerque to experience everything it offers.

The best time to visit Albuquerque is between September and November. This time grants you the best weather, and there are many festivals around this time.

Where Should I Stay in Albuquerque? 

Hotel chaco (mid-range) .

Of all the hotels in Albuquerque, Chaco provides 4-star comfort and ticks all the boxes for a luxury stay. Enjoy everything from relaxing in your sleek room and cooling down in the crystal clear pool to watching a mesmerising sunset from the rooftop bar.

Check Rates and Availability

Los Poblanos Hotel and Inn (Luxury) 

Los Poblanos is slightly outside the city centre, but it has the best restaurant in Albuquerque for some late-night dining. With private gardens branching off every gorgeous room, you can also enjoy a true farm-style stay in southwest America.

Recommended Tours in Albuquerque

• Rio Grande Valley Hot Air Balloon Ride
• Old Town Culture & Heritage Walking Tour
• Turquoise Museum Admission Ticket

Things to Do in New Mexico Albuquerque: Map

Things to do in Albuquerque: Read More NM Guides

• Unmissable Things to do in New Mexico
• A Guide to Visiting White Sands National Park

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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Getting around Albuquerque, NM

Planning to travel in Albuquerque? Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, let this guide help you make the most of your Albuquerque experience. Travel from Albuquerque International Sunport to Sheraton Albuquerque Uptown using Uber and discover popular routes and destinations. Depending on your city, you can even use the app to get around with public transport, bikes or scooters, and more.

Plus, check out Uber rates for riders and drivers and learn how to use Uber to get paid to drive or deliver in Albuquerque.

Reserve car service in Albuquerque with Uber

Arrange your car service needs in advance with Uber in Albuquerque. Request a ride anytime up to 90 days ahead, whether you need transportation to Albuquerque International Sunport, you have plans to visit your favorite restaurant, or you’re going somewhere else.

Ride Sharing in Albuquerque

Getting around Albuquerque without a car is easy with Uber. Find places to visit in the area, then request a ride on any day and at any time of the week. You can request a ride in real-time or request a ride in advance so your ride is ready when you are. Whether you’re traveling in a group or alone, you can use the app to find a ride option for your needs.

Open the Uber app and enter your destination to begin exploring Albuquerque.

Albuquerque-area airport car service

When your travel in Albuquerque takes you to an airport from a neighborhood, or elsewhere, open the app and request a ride at any time of day. Tap below on the name of a nearby airport to learn how to use Uber to get car service to arrivals and departures. On the linked airport page, you’ll find out where to meet your driver for pickup, how much the trip will cost, and more.

Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ)

Santa fe municipal airport (saf), durango-la plata county airport (dro), choose the best ways to get around albuquerque, taxi in albuquerque.

Consider Uber as an alternative to taxis when traveling in Albuquerque. With Uber, you can trade flagging down cabs for requesting rides on demand, no matter the time of day. You can request a ride from Albuquerque International Sunport, visit Los Ranchos, or enter another place. Open the app and enter a destination to get around Albuquerque.

Public transport in Albuquerque

Getting around with public transport is an affordable way to travel. Depending on the area, you can view nearby bus or subway routes with Uber Transit to help plan your travels. Open the app to see if Uber Transit is available in your neighborhood or visit popular places in Albuquerque by ridesharing with Uber.

Bike rentals in Albuquerque

Biking is an eco-friendly way to get around the heart of a city. In select cities, you can find and ride electric bikes with Uber. Open the app to see if bikes are available in Albuquerque, then order from our popular restaurants to refuel after a day of exploring. If bikes are available in Albuquerque, remember to wear a helmet and follow traffic laws while riding.

Uber does not tolerate the use of alcohol or drugs by drivers using the Uber app. If you believe your driver may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, please have the driver end the trip immediately.

Commercial vehicles may be subject to additional state government taxes, which would be over and above the toll.

There are a number of location-specific requirements and regulations users should be aware of when using Uber in your country. Please visit this page to read them.

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Watch CBS News

See the list of notable past total solar eclipses in the U.S. since 1778

By Kerry Breen

Updated on: April 7, 2024 / 7:18 PM EDT / CBS News

On April 8, 2024, a rare total solar eclipse will be visible in parts of the United States. Those in the path of totality will have the opportunity to see the sun be fully covered by the moon for several minutes. 

Total solar eclipses are rare, and aren't often visible from the U.S. The last time one occurred here  was in 2017 , and the U.S. won't see another until 2044.

Here's a list of all the times a total solar eclipse has been recorded in the United States. 

Total solar eclipse in the U.S. during the 18th century

The first recorded total solar eclipse was in 1778, according to NASA , just a few short years after the United States became an independent country. The eclipse was visible from the Carolinas to New England, and was noted by historical figures like Thomas Jefferson, according to Mount Vernon , the museum established in former President George Washington's estate. Troops in Washington's army also noted the event. 

List of total solar eclipses in the U.S. during the 19th century

1806: The first total solar eclipse of the 1800s occurred in 1806, according to the National Parks Service . The path of that eclipse would have crossed from Arizona, through the Midwest and into New England, according to NASA . 

1869: The next total solar eclipse was recorded in 1869. The path of totality stretched from Alaska to the Carolinas, according to NASA . Photos of the event were published in Harper's Magazine, the service said, the first mass publication to do so. 

1878: The next total solar eclipse occurred in 1878, and the path of totality arced from Alaska through Louisiana, according to NASA . It was studied by an all-woman team of astronomers, according to the parks service, and Thomas Edison himself traveled to see the event, bringing scientific equipment to study the sun's corona during the eclipse. 

List of total solar eclipses in the U.S. during the 20th century

1900: The first eclipse of the 20th century was in 1900, according to the parks service. The path of totality of that eclipse brought it over Wadesboro, North Carolina.

1918: In June 1918, a total solar eclipse was visible from Washington to Florida, according to the parks service. It was the last time a total solar eclipse would be visible across the entire continent for nearly 100 years. 

1925: This was followed by another total solar eclipse in January 1925, which was visible from Minnesota through New England, according to NASA . 

1932: In August 1932, another total solar eclipse was visible in North America. The path of totality for this eclipse was mostly in Canada, according to NASA , but was visible in northern New England including parts of Vermont, Maine, New Hampshire and Massachusetts. 

1963: The next total solar eclipse in the U.S. wasn't until July 1963. This eclipse was visible in Alaska and parts of northern New England, according to NASA . 

1970: In March 1970, another total solar eclipse was visible from the coast of the Southwest United States. Watch CBS News coverage of that event in the video below:

1979: The last eclipse that NASA recorded in the 20th century took place in 1979. This eclipse was visible in the Pacific Northwest and parts of Idaho and the Dakotas, but the path of totality mostly arced through Canada. 

Total solar eclipses in the U.S. during the 21st century so far

Only two total solar eclipses have been visible from the United States during the 21st century. The first was the total solar eclipse of 2017 , which was visible across the country . This was the first time such an event had occurred since 1918, and millions gathered to watch . 

The April 8, 2024, eclipse will be the next total solar eclipse visible in the U.S. The path of totality for this eclipse will stretch from Texas to the Northeast. The eclipse will start on Mexico's Pacific coast at just after 11 a.m. PDT before traveling across the U.S. and into Canada. The eclipse will leave North America around 5:19 p.m. EDT. 

The eclipse is expected to attract millions of spectators. Some areas where the event will be most visible have already declared local states of emergency to account for the number of expected visitors. 

When will the next total solar eclipse be visible in the U.S.?

After the April 8 eclipse, the U.S. won't see another total solar eclipse for decades. The next total solar eclipse visible from the United States will occur in August 2044. 

Total solar eclipses typically happen every one to three years somewhere around the globe, but the events are often only visible from Earth's poles or from the middle of the ocean. 

Kerry Breen is a reporter and news editor at CBSNews.com. A graduate of New York University's Arthur L. Carter School of Journalism, she previously worked at NBC News' TODAY Digital. She covers current events, breaking news and issues including substance use.

More from CBS News

When was the last total solar eclipse in the U.S.? Revisiting 2017

Why do total solar eclipses happen? Learn what causes the celestial show

Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times across the U.S.

Hotel prices soar as tourists flock to see solar eclipse

Maps of the April 2024 Total Solar Eclipse

By Jonathan Corum

On April 8, the moon will slip between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow across a swath of North America: a total solar eclipse.

By cosmic coincidence, the moon and the sun appear roughly the same size in the sky. When the moon blocks the glare of the sun, the sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, will be briefly visible.

Below are several maps of the eclipse’s path as well as images of what you might experience during the event.

Where Can I See the Total Eclipse?

The eclipse will begin at sunrise over the Pacific Ocean, then cut through Mexico and cross the United States from Texas to Maine. Most of North America will see a partial eclipse, but viewers within the deepest shadow — a band sliding from Mazatlán, Mexico, to the Newfoundland coast near Gander, Canada — will experience a total solar eclipse.

Percentage of

the sun obscured

during the eclipse

Indianapolis

Little Rock

San Antonio

Viewers inside the path of the total eclipse may notice a drop in temperature , a lull or shift in the wind , the appearance of bright planets in the sky, and the quieting of birds and other wildlife.

Many cities lie inside the path of the total eclipse, as shown below, the width of which varies from 108 miles to 122 miles.

5:13 p.m. NDT

20% partial eclipse

NEWFOUNDLAND

SASKATCHEWAN

Fredericton

4:33 p.m. ADT

3:26 p.m. EDT

3:20 p.m. EDT

Minneapolis

3:18 p.m. EDT

3:13 p.m. EDT

San Francisco

90% partial eclipse

3:05 p.m. EDT

Los Angeles

1:51 p.m. CDT

1:40 p.m. CDT

1:33 p.m. CDT

12:16 p.m. CST

12:12 p.m. CST

11:07 a.m. MST

Mexico City

EL SALVADOR

12:23 p.m. CST

1:36 p.m. CDT

3:09 p.m. EDT

3:27 p.m. EDT

Explore our interactive cloud outlook for eclipse viewing times and average cloud data at your location.

What Will I See?

A composite image of the 2017 solar eclipse over Madras, Ore.

Aubrey Gemignani/NASA

If the sky is clear, viewers in the path of the total eclipse should see a “diamond ring” effect a few seconds before and after the total eclipse, as the edge of the sun slips in and out of view.

The “diamond ring” effect during the 2017 solar eclipse.

Rami Daud/NASA, Alcyon Technical Services

The sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, is normally hidden by the sun’s glare. These tendrils and sheets of gas, heated to a million degrees Fahrenheit or more, are in constant motion and shaped by the sun’s swirling magnetic field.

The sun’s corona during the 2017 solar eclipse.

The sun is relatively active this year and is nearing the expected peak of its 11-year solar cycle . Researchers at Predictive Science are using data about the sun’s magnetic field to predict and model a dramatic corona for the April eclipse.

A prediction of how the sun’s corona might appear during the April 8 total eclipse.

Predictive Science

What Colors Should I Wear?

As the sky darkens, light-sensitive cells in human eyes become more sensitive to blue and green hues than to reds and oranges. This shift in color perception is known as the Purkinje effect , after a 19th-century Czech scientist, and is typically seen at twilight.

Watching the 2017 total eclipse at Southern Illinois University.

Andrea Morales for The New York Times

To take advantage of the Purkinje effect, Solar Eyeglasses suggests wearing green clothes or a contrasting combination of greens and reds. Blue-green colors (shorter wavelengths) will appear brighter, while red colors (longer wavelengths) will appear to recede into the darkness.

What If I Miss It?

The next two total solar eclipses in the United States won’t occur until 2044 and 2045 . But eclipse chasers might catch one in 2026 in Greenland, Iceland and Spain; 2027 along the coast of Northern Africa; 2028 in Australia and New Zealand; or 2030 across Southern Africa and Australia.

A Total Solar Eclipse Is Coming. Here’s What You Need to Know.

These are answers to common questions about the April 8 eclipse, and we’re offering you a place to pose more of them.

By Katrina Miller

What’s the Cloud Forecast for Eclipse Day? See if the Weather Is on Your Side.

April 8 could be your best opportunity to see a total solar eclipse for decades. But if clouds fill the sky, you may miss the spectacle.

By Josh Katz, K.K. Rebecca Lai and William B. Davis

• Share full article

Our Coverage of the Total Solar Eclipse

Dress for the Occasion:  What should you wear for the eclipse? Our fashion critic weighs the options , including an unexpected suggestion from scientists.

Free to View:  Six inmates in upstate New York prisons who sued the state won their lawsuit to view the eclipse , arguing it “is a religious event.” But a statewide prison lockdown during the eclipse will remain in place.

Hearing the Eclipse:  A device called LightSound is being distributed to help the blind and visually impaired experience what they can’t see .

Sky-High Hotel Prices: One Super 8 hotel in the eclipse’s path is charging $949 a night . Its normal rate is $95.

Animal Reactions : Researchers will watch if animals at zoos, homes and farms act strangely  when day quickly turns to night.

A Rare Return:  A total solar eclipse happens twice in the same place every 366 years on average. But people in certain areas will encounter April 8’s eclipse  about seven years after they were near the middle of the path of the “Great American Eclipse.”

 No Power Outages:  When the sky darkens during the eclipse, electricity production in some parts of the country will drop so sharply that it could theoretically leave tens of millions of homes in the dark. In practice, hardly anyone will notice  a sudden loss of energy.

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