Albuquerque,
Albuquerque is the largest city in the state of New Mexico located in the southwestern United States. Known for its unique blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo cultures, Albuquerque offers a rich cultural experience to visitors. The city is famous for its annual International Balloon Fiesta, one of the largest hot air balloon festivals in the world.
Albuquerque also features a stunning backdrop of the Sandia Mountains and offers outdoor enthusiasts a wide range of activities such as hiking, biking, and skiing.
Places to visit
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Old Town and the Botanic Garden
morning:Start your day with a visit to the historic Old Town Plaza, where you can wander through the charming streets and explore unique shops and galleries. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a delightful breakfast at Café Plazo. Then, head to the Albuquerque BioPark Botanic Garden to immerse yourself in the beauty of diverse plant life and peaceful nature trails.
afternoon:Grab a satisfying lunch at The Farmacy for a farm-to-table dining experience that highlights local flavors and fresh ingredients. Afterward, continue your exploration of the Botanic Garden, exploring the stunning glass conservatory and taking a leisurely stroll by the Japanese Garden and Mediterranean Conservatory.
evening:For a delightful evening, head to the Hotel Chaco's Level 5 rooftop bar, where you can savor breathtaking views of the city skyline while enjoying handcrafted cocktails and small bites.
Scenic Tramway and Museum Adventure
morning:Embark on a scenic journey on the Sandia Peak Tramway, taking in panoramic views as you ascend to the top of the Sandia Mountains. Once at the summit, enjoy a hearty breakfast at Ten 3, a mountaintop restaurant offering delectable morning fare and stunning vistas. After breakfast, explore the various hiking trails and admire the breathtaking scenery.
afternoon:After descending from the tram, visit the Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum, an engaging and educational attraction celebrating the art, culture, and science of hot air ballooning. While here, indulge in a delightful lunch at the museum's Café Calluna for a taste of local cuisine and refreshing beverages.
evening:Conclude your day with a visit to the Marble Brewery, where you can savor an array of craft beers at their spacious taproom while enjoying the vibrant ambiance and possibly catching live music performances.
Cultural Heritage Exploration
morning:Start your day with a visit to the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and diverse culture of New Mexico's Pueblo communities. Indulge in a delightful breakfast at the center's Pueblo Harvest Café, featuring traditional Pueblo and New Mexican dishes. After breakfast, explore the center's museum, art gallery, and traditional pottery demonstrations.
afternoon:After a culturally enriching morning, head to the National Hispanic Cultural Center for a captivating afternoon. Enjoy a flavorful lunch at the center's La Fonda del Bosque restaurant, offering authentic Hispanic and New Mexican cuisine. Following lunch, explore the center's art museum, heritage garden, and engaging exhibitions.
evening:For a vibrant evening, venture to the historic Nob Hill district, where you can discover an array of eclectic dining options, trendy bars, and lively entertainment venues. Consider enjoying a delectable dinner at Scalo Northern Italian Grill, known for its inviting atmosphere and exceptional Italian cuisine.
Outdoor Adventure and Brewery Trail
morning:Start your day with an exhilarating outdoor adventure at the Petroglyph National Monument, exploring ancient rock art and picturesque hiking trails. After working up an appetite, grab a satisfying brunch at The Owl Cafe, a local favorite known for its classic American comfort food and friendly ambiance. Don't miss their famous green chile cheeseburger!
afternoon:Continue your day with a visit to one of Albuquerque's renowned craft breweries, such as La Cumbre Brewing Co. or Bosque Brewing Co. Delight in a diverse selection of handcrafted beers and tasty pub fare, immersing yourself in the city's vibrant craft beer culture.
evening:For a casual and enjoyable evening, head to the lively Brewery District, where you can explore a variety of breweries, taprooms, and beer-centric eateries, making it the perfect place to cap off your day with a relaxing night out.
Albuquerque Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Green Chile Stew
A hearty stew featuring chunks of tender pork, potatoes, and onions stewed in a flavorful broth made from roasted green chilies, garlic, and various spices. Can be found at Frontier Restaurant and The Range Café.
Must-Try!
Carne Adovada
Pork marinated and slow-cooked in a rich, spicy red chile sauce, resulting in tender and flavorful meat that is often served with beans, rice, and tortillas. Recommended at Mary & Tito's Cafe and Sadie's of New Mexico.
Sopapillas
Fluffy, deep-fried pastries served with honey or stuffed with savory fillings like carne adovada. Enjoy these delightful treats at Church Street Café and El Pinto Restaurant.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Rail Yards Market
A vibrant Sunday market featuring local vendors offering a diverse array of food and artisanal products. Visitors can savor a variety of street foods like Navajo tacos, tamales, and green chile cheeseburgers.
International District
This multicultural neighborhood is a treasure trove of international cuisine, with food trucks and street vendors serving up delicacies ranging from Vietnamese banh mi to authentic Mexican street tacos.
Things to do in Albuquerque
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Albuquerque
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!