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Top Things to Do in Albuquerque, New Mexico (That Locals Love)
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items Albuquerque is a city that blends ancient traditions, desert beauty, and vibrant culture into one unforgettable destination. Whether you're drawn to its centuries-old adobe buildings, outdoor adventures in the Sandia Mountains, or world-famous hot ai...
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Sections
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History & Culture: Explore Albuquerque’s Heritage
Outdoor Adventures: Nature and Views in the High Desert
Food & Flavor: Taste of the Southwest
Uniquely Albuquerque: Experiences You Can’t Have Anywhere Else
History & Culture: Explore Albuquerque’s Heritage
Albuquerque is one of the oldest cities in the United States, with a rich blend of Native American, Spanish, and Mexican influences. From ancient pueblos to colonial missions and Route 66-era architecture, the city offers a compelling cultural experi...
The heart of Albuquerque’s historical identity, Old Town features adobe buildings, museums, and local shops clustered around a 300-year-old plaza. Walk the narrow streets, visit art galleries, or dine in a historic hacienda while soaking in centuries...
Old Town Albuquerque
Dedicated to the history and living culture of New Mexico’s 19 Pueblo tribes, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is both a museum and a gathering place. It features exhibits on traditional arts, interactive workshops, Indigenous cuisine at the on-site...
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
Built in 1793, this adobe church is one of the oldest buildings in Albuquerque and a prime example of Spanish Colonial architecture. Nestled in Old Town, it provides a quiet moment for reflection and photography while connecting visitors to the city'...
San Felipe de Neri Catholic Church
Located in the Barelas neighborhood, this expansive complex celebrates Hispanic culture through art galleries, a performing arts theater, sculpture gardens, and rotating exhibitions. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in New Mexico’s Spanish-spe...
National Hispanic Cultural Center
This landmark Pueblo Deco theater blends Native motifs with Art Deco design and dates back to 1927. Still active today, the KiMo hosts concerts, films, and performances and is a striking symbol of Albuquerque’s cultural fusion.
Kimo Theatre
Outdoor Adventures: Nature and Views in the High Desert
With its high elevation, rugged landscapes, and proximity to the Sandia Mountains, Albuquerque offers unforgettable outdoor experiences. Whether you're hiking, sightseeing, or birdwatching, the area is perfect for active travelers and nature lovers.
One of the most iconic attractions in New Mexico, the Sandia Peak Tramway carries visitors nearly 3 miles up the steep face of the Sandia Mountains. At over 10,000 feet, the summit offers panoramic views of the Rio Grande Valley, plus access to hikin...
Sandia Peak Tramway
Spanning over 7,000 acres, this protected site contains more than 20,000 ancient rock carvings left by Native peoples and early Spanish settlers. Easy hiking trails wind through volcanic rock landscapes, providing a glimpse into Albuquerque’s prehist...
Petroglyph National Monument
This tranquil riverside park offers easy walking trails, wetlands, and observation areas perfect for spotting migratory birds and native wildlife. Located just minutes from downtown, it’s a peaceful escape that showcases the Rio Grande’s ecological i...
Rio Grande Nature Center State Park
Though technically a working farm and inn, Los Poblanos offers public access to its lavender fields, historic gardens, and farm-to-table restaurant. It’s one of the most beautiful places to walk, photograph, or enjoy a fresh meal surrounded by serene...
Los Poblanos
A 16-mile multi-use trail that runs along the Rio Grande, this scenic path is ideal for biking, walking, or running. Lined with cottonwoods and connected to nature centers and parks, it provides one of the best ways to experience the outdoors in Albu...
Paseo del Bosque Trail
Food & Flavor: Taste of the Southwest
New Mexican cuisine is famous for its use of red and green chile, traditional ingredients, and deep roots in Native and Hispanic culinary traditions. Albuquerque offers everything from street tacos and tamales to award-winning farm-to-table dining.
This iconic Albuquerque restaurant is known for its authentic New Mexican dishes, stunning hacienda setting, and extensive tequila menu. Located in the North Valley, El Pinto serves up chile rellenos, red chile ribs, and house-made salsa in an atmosp...
El Pinto Restaurant
A beloved Albuquerque institution located across from the University of New Mexico, Frontier serves hearty Southwestern comfort food 24/7. Known for its breakfast burritos, green chile stew, and sweet rolls, it’s affordable, fast, and always full o...
Frontier
This neighborhood bakery is a hidden gem offering traditional New Mexican baked goods like biscochitos and green chile bread. They also serve creative pizza, coffee, and locally made beer in a funky, welcoming atmosphere filled with art and antiques.
Golden Crown Panaderia
A modern food hall near Old Town, Sawmill Market brings together more than 20 vendors serving up everything from street tacos and ramen to coffee and cocktails. It’s a perfect spot for groups or foodies who want to sample a variety of Albuquerque fla...
Sawmill Market
What started as a funky diner in Bernalillo has become a local chain known for comfort food with a New Mexican twist. Expect breakfast all day, house-made desserts, and quirky décor—plus plenty of chile.
The Range Café
Uniquely Albuquerque: Experiences You Can’t Have Anywhere Else
Held each October, the Balloon Fiesta is the largest hot air balloon event in the world. For nine days, hundreds of balloons launch each morning into the New Mexico sky, creating a vibrant, surreal spectacle. It’s one of the most photographed events ...
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
A city-run collection of attractions that includes a zoo, aquarium, botanical garden, and Tingley Beach fishing area. Great for families, the BioPark lets you explore desert plants, marine life, and exotic animals all in one central location near the...
ABQ BioPark
Albuquerque served as the primary filming location for Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. Fans can take guided tours or map their own route to see Walter White’s house, Saul’s office, Los Pollos Hermanos, and other familiar sites from the shows.
Breaking Bad Filming Locations in Albuquerque
Cruise or walk the historic Route 66 stretch through Nob Hill, where restored neon signs, retro diners, art deco storefronts, and modern boutiques blend into a lively, walkable district. It’s a great place for vintage shopping, mural-spotting, and ni...
Explore Nob Hill's Route 66 Neon
A lesser-known gem, the Turquoise Museum offers a deep dive into the history, geology, and cultural significance of turquoise around the world—with a special focus on the Southwest. Housed in a castle-like mansion, it’s as unique as the stone it show...
Turquoise Museum