North Valley

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with North Valley's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore the North Valley Scenic Beauty
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing hike in the North Valley Wilderness Area. Enjoy the pristine landscapes and diverse wildlife as the sun rises.

afternoon
:

Visit local artisan shops in the quaint town of Los Ranchos. Sample delicious farm-to-table meals at a nearby café.

evening
:

Watch the sunset at the Rio Grande River. Take a leisurely stroll along the banks and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

day 2
Cultural Day in the North Valley
morning
:

Kick off your morning by visiting the Albuquerque Historical Museum. Learn about the rich history and diverse cultures of the region.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local Mexican restaurant and savor authentic dishes. Afterward, explore the nearby Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

evening
:

Attend a traditional dance performance at the cultural center. Immerse yourself in the vibrant music and storytelling of the local heritage.

day 3
Stargazing in the North Valley
morning
:

Start the day with a leisurely breakfast at a cozy café. Afterward, visit a nearby botanical garden to enjoy the flora.

afternoon
:

Take a trip to the Sandia Mountains for breathtaking views. Enjoy a scenic tram ride up to the peak for stunning vistas.

evening
:

As night falls, set up for stargazing at the Sandia Peak. Bring a telescope or binoculars to admire the vast night sky.

day 4
Wine Tasting Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to a local vineyard for a tour and tasting. Learn about the winemaking process and indulge in a few samples.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby wine trail for more tastings and picturesque views. Enjoy a delightful lunch at a winery restaurant.

evening
:

Relax at a local brewery with a flight of craft beers. Engage with locals and enjoy live music if available.

day 5
Nature and Wildlife Day
morning
:

Explore the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park early in the morning. Go bird-watching as the area is home to diverse species.

afternoon
:

Visit the Albuquerque Zoo to see various wildlife. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the zoo’s shaded areas.

evening
:

Take a guided night walk through the park for a chance to see nocturnal animals. Enjoy the tranquility and sounds of nature as darkness falls.

day 6
Art and Craft Day
morning
:

Visit the Harlem Gallery to appreciate local art exhibits. Engage with artists and learn about their inspirations.

afternoon
:

Join an art workshop at a local studio to create your own masterpiece. Take a break with coffee from a nearby café.

evening
:

Attend an art opening at a local gallery. Enjoy mingling with fellow art enthusiasts and artists in the community.

day 7
Outdoor Adventure in the North Valley
morning
:

Start your morning with mountain biking on scenic trails in the Sandias. Explore the rugged terrain and enjoy the scenery.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch and head to a local lake for kayaking. Spend the afternoon on the water, enjoying the fresh air.

evening
:

Settle down for a campfire dinner at a designated area. Share stories and make memories under the starlit sky.

day 8
Music and Food Festival Fun
morning
:

Explore the various food stalls at the local festival. Try a variety of delicious dishes from local chefs.

afternoon
:

Enjoy live music performances from local bands. Dance and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the festival.

evening
:

Conclude the festival by watching the headline act. Relax with friends while enjoying the vibrant evening vibe.

day 9
Moonlit Adventure
morning
:

Have a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation. Then, visit a local farmers' market to pick up fresh produce and local goods.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon exploring scenic backroads. Stop for photo ops and enjoy the unique landscapes of the North Valley.

evening
:

Hike a short trail under the moonlight for stunning views. Bring a flashlight and enjoy the serenity of nightfall.

day 10
Farm-to-Table Tour
morning
:

Start the day with a hearty breakfast at a farm-to-table restaurant. Sample fresh ingredients sourced from local farms.

afternoon
:

Take a tour of a local farm and learn about sustainable practices. Participate in a cooking class to create dishes with fresh ingredients.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner featuring everything you just learned to cook. Savor the flavors and appreciate the effort put into the local food scene.

Discover North Valley

Read more in our North Valley 2024 Travel Guide.

North Valley Travel Guide