What to Do on a Trip to Albuquerque?

When looking for a place to get away, Albuquerque should be at the top of your list. Home to the iconic Balloon Fiesta, a plethora of museums, delicious New Mexican cuisine, and incredible landscapes and historic sites, it truly is a destination for everyone. So what’s there to do in Albuquerque that should be on your must-visit list?

Outdoor Adventures

Those who love the outdoors will never be bored while in Albuquerque. There are plenty of trails in the area, perfect for all kinds of hikers, from beginners to experienced trekkers.

• The Cibola National Forest and Wilderness
• Contessa Road Trails
• Piedras Marcadas Trail
• The Ojito Wilderness Trail

There are also natural attractions like the Rio Grande River, which is great for rafting, canoeing, and kayaking, as well as petroglyphs at the Petroglyph National Monument. And don’t miss out on one of the most picturesque valleys in the Southwest: the iconic Taos Ski Valley. There are plenty of ski areas and snowboarding for all levels of experience.

Experience Arts and Culture

Albuquerque also has plenty of arts and culture for travelers to discover. The city is home to some of the most renowned museum attractions in the United States, such as The Albuquerque Biological Park, home to some of the world’s rarest plants and animals, the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science which has an array of scientific and historical exhibits, and the New Mexico History Museum, a proud celebration of the state’s unique cultural heritage.

Albuquerque also offers a delightful range of art galleries throughout the city showcasing both local and international artists, such as the New Mexico Art Museum on the west side of town and the Forms of Inquiry Gallery, perfect for those who are looking for something new and exciting.

Find Places to Eat

No trip to Albuquerque would be complete without trying some of its culinary offerings. Whether you’re looking for traditional New Mexican food or something from around the world, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for here. Many restaurants feature locally grown ingredients and more are beginning to add vegetarian and vegan dishes to their menus. Some of our favorite restaurants include Monroe’s New Mexican Cafeteria & Bar, Pasion Latina Restaurant & Bar, Il Aroeste Ristorante Italiano, and Chama River Brewing Company Restaurant.

Shopping and Artisan Markets

For those who love to shop, there are plenty of places to find unique items in Albuquerque including markets like The Old Town Farmer’s Market, Rail Yards Market, and To’hajiilee Trade & Rice Market. There are also boutiques like Allesandra Lewis Boutique which specializes in designer shoes, handbags, and clothing. And don’t forget local artisans markets where you can find jewelry, pottery, paintings, carvings, and more from Albuquerque’s talented artisans, including the popular Sea & Sky Art Market.

No matter what kind of traveler you are, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Albuquerque! From amazing outdoor adventures, to arts & culture experiences, and local marketplaces full of unique items, you won’t run out of things to do while on your trip to this beautiful city!

The Insider’s Guide to Albuquerque, New Mexico

If you’re planning a trip to Albuquerque, you’re in for a treat. Known for its stunning natural vistas, rich artistic culture, and amazing food, Albuquerque is the perfect getaway destination. This insider’s guide offers everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.

Attractions to Explore in Albuquerque

Albuquerque offers a wealth of attractions to explore, from historic landmarks to natural wonders. Be sure to visit the following:

• The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta: The world’s largest hot air ballooning event brings hundreds of colorful balloons into the sky every October. It’s a must-see if you’re in town during the festival.
• The Sandia Peak Tramway: Take a ride on the world’s longest aerial tramway, ascending to the top of Sandia Peak for stunning views of the surrounding mountains and city below.
• The Petroglyph National Monument: A unique cultural site featuring rock carvings made by Native Americans more than 400 years ago.
• The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center: Learn about the culture and history of New Mexico’s 19 Pueblo tribes through exhibits, performances, and traditional meals at the on-site restaurant.
• The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History: Explore the history and science of nuclear energy and weapons, with interactive exhibits and artifacts from the Cold War era and beyond.

Dining Spots to Check Out in Albuquerque

Albuquerque has a thriving culinary scene, embracing both traditional New Mexican cuisine and international flavors. Don’t miss these top dining spots:

• Garduño’s at Old Town: This restaurant in the historic Old Town district serves up classic New Mexican fare, including green chile pork stew and stuffed sopapillas.
• El Pinto: Another local institution, El Pinto is known for its award-winning margaritas, salsa bar, and delicious entrees like green chile chicken enchiladas.
• Frontier Restaurant: A popular spot near the University of New Mexico campus, Frontier is open 24/7 and offers an eclectic menu of breakfast burritos, burgers, and sweet rolls.
• The Grove Cafe & Market: This gourmet bistro and market is perfect for a leisurely brunch or lunch, with menu items like baked brie and goat cheese and glazed pork belly.
• Rude Boy Cookies: For a sweet treat, head to this local bakery for creative and delicious cookies like lavender white chocolate and maple bacon.

Cultural Experiences in Albuquerque

Albuquerque is rich in cultural experiences, from traditional Native American ceremonies to modern art galleries. Check out these top picks:

• The Albuquerque Museum of Art & History: Learn about the city’s history through art exhibits, including works by regional artists and pieces from the museum’s permanent collection.
• The KiMo Theatre: This historic theater hosts live performances and films, and is known for its classic Pueblo Deco architecture.
• The Gathering of Nations Pow Wow: An annual event in April, featuring traditional Native American dance competitions, food vendors, and arts and crafts displays.
• The National Hispanic Cultural Center: Explore the art, history, and community of the Hispanic and Latino cultures at this cultural center, with exhibits, performances, and educational programs.
• The Albuquerque Artwalk: Go on a self-guided tour of downtown Albuquerque’s art galleries and studios, held on the first Friday of each month.

Local History to Experience in Albuquerque

Albuquerque is steeped in history, with a variety of historic sites and landmarks to explore. Check out these must-see stops:

• Old Town Albuquerque: The city’s historic district features adobe buildings, museums, galleries, and shops selling local artisan crafts and souvenirs.
• The Turquoise Museum: This museum showcases one of New Mexico’s most iconic minerals, with displays of raw turquoise stones and finished jewelry pieces.
• The San Felipe de Neri Church: A beautiful historic church in the heart of Old Town, with stunning 18th-century architecture and an active congregation.
• The Albuquerque Indian School: A former boarding school for Native American children, now a historic landmark and cultural center with exhibits and events showcasing Native American heritage.
• The Route 66 Diner: This classic 1950s-style diner, located on the historic Route 66 highway, is a must-visit for fans of vintage Americana and car culture.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions in Albuquerque

For travelers looking to explore beyond the typical tourist sites, Albuquerque offers plenty of unique and quirky attractions. Check out these off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

• The Tinkertown Museum: An eclectic museum featuring miniature western towns, hand-carved figurines, and vintage memorabilia.
• The National Museum of Rare & Endangered Plants: This museum and botanical garden is dedicated to preserving and protecting rare and endangered plant species from around the world.
• Explora Science Center and Children’s Museum: A family-friendly museum with interactive exhibits exploring science principles and the natural world.
• The New Mexico Museum of Space History: Located in nearby Alamogordo, this museum features exhibits on the history of space exploration and the role of New Mexico in the space program.
• The Gruet Winery: Take a tour of this award-winning winery and taste their selection of sparkling wines, made in the traditional French style.

In conclusion, Albuquerque is a fascinating and unique destination that offers something for everyone. From scenic natural attractions to rich cultural experiences and delicious food, this insider’s guide has highlighted some of the top places to explore on your trip to Albuquerque, New Mexico.