Albuquerque
The ideal base from which to explore New Mexico, Albuquerque is a laidback city with plenty of activities and sights to delight every visitor.
Albuquerque in a nutshell
The ideal base from which to explore New Mexico, Albuquerque is a laidback city with plenty of activities and sights to delight every visitor. A complete blend of Native American and Hispanic cultures, Albuquerque’s architecture, spicy cuisine and vibrant music are exciting and exuberant. You’ll find art and culture everywhere, in stunning Native American pottery and creative contemporary art.
You’ll also find lots of history in the Old Town, the site where the city was first founded in 1706, which is filled with cobbled streets and adobe covered buildings. Albuquerque also boasts a cosmopolitan, modern edge, with an exciting nightlife and lots of hip boutiques, stores selling iconic turquoise jewellery and artisanal products.
The city is located at the foot of the spectacular Sandia Mountains, offering scenic splendour and plenty of adventure activities. Take a ride in a hot air balloon to see Albuquerque’s splendour from above, go hiking alongside the iconic Rio Brande or enjoy the numerous adventure activities just outside of town, from mountain climbing to horse riding, cycling and skiing, depending on the season.
Best time to visit: You can visit Albuquerque year-round, depending on what you want to see and do. Skiing is excellent from November to mid-April. Fall (September to November) is a good time to visit as accommodation and entertainment is less expensive. Or come in spring or summer, when the weather is warm and vacations are also cheaper.
Best Area for Sightseeing: Old Town The city’s historic heart is a 10-block area that is full of Native American and Spanish heritage. Explore the numerous art galleries, old buildings, attractions, souvenir stores and eateries here.
Shopping in Albuquerque: Pick up stunning New Mexico handicrafts in the Sawmill District, as well as exquisite pottery and silver and turquoise jewellery at souvenir stores throughout the city.
Food & Restaurants in Albuquerque: New Mexico cuisine is a mix of Mexican, Spanish and Native American flavors. It’s spicy and delectable, so make sure to sample some. Washed down with New Mexico wine or home-brewed beers, it’s a stunning combination. You can also sample other cuisines at numerous restaurants in the city, including fusion, contemporary and farm-to-table dishes.
Nightlife: The action centers around the area between 1st and 8th Streets in downtown Albuquerque, and throughout the city you’ll find plenty of live music, bars and pubs to enjoy.
Things to do in Albuquerque:
- Visit the San Felipe de Neri Church, built in 1793 and the oldest building in the city.
- Explore an incredible collection of art dating back 4 centuries at the Albuquerque Museum in the Old Town.
- Hike the Paseo del Bosque Trail.
- Visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center: Home of The Pueblo People and learn about these indigenous tribes.
- Take a ride on the iconic Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway that goes up 1,200m above sheer rock faces.
Best way to get around: When you’re not walking around exploring the city, take the bus. If you plan to enjoy travelling further afield on day trips, hire a car.