Exploring Fascinating Sights in the Land of Enchantment
Albuquerque is New Mexico’s largest city and offers a unique blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo influences. The ABQ is a south-western hub of culture, history, and natural beauty. It is also renowned for its world famous Balloon Festival and delicious food. While you’ll most likely need a car to enjoy sightseeing across the city, 4 days is enough to hit the highlights. Here are the top 10 best things to do while visiting Albuquerque!
10. Albuquerque BioPark
For a family-friendly outing, head to the Albuquerque BioPark, a complex comprising the Rio Grande Zoo, Botanic Garden, and Aquarium. Marvel at exotic wildlife, stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens, and discover the wonders of the deep sea—all in one place. If you want to embrace the lush scenery along the Rio Grande River, try taking a stroll thru the Paseo del Bosque trail nearby.
9. Petroglyph National Park
Petroglyph National Park is an archaeological site that boasts hundreds of ancient petroglyphs dominating the western horizon of the city. This vast area of rocks and sand dunes provides a glimpse into the stories and artistry of the indigenous people who once called this place home. If you look closely, you can spot a plethora of designs and symbols carved onto the volcanic rocks by Native Americans from over 700 years ago. Choose between several walking trails to explore this open air museum:
- Boca Negra Canyon – 100 petroglyphs, about 1 hour of hiking
- Rinconada Canyon – 300 petroglyphs, about 2.2 miles of hiking
- Piedras Marcadas Canyon – 400 petroglyphs, 1.8 miles of hiking
- Volcanoes Trail – 3.5 miles of hiking
8. National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
Gain insights into the city’s scientific contributions by visiting the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History. Exhibits cover the fascinating history of atomic energy, nuclear weapons, and their impact on society. It’s an educational and thought-provoking experience. The 9 acre outdoor Heritage Park even stores a collection of historically important aircraft like the B29 Superfortress that dropped the Fatman Bomb.
7. Albuquerque Old Town Plaza
Step back in time by wandering through the historic streets of Old Town Albuquerque. The central plaza is connected to dozens of cobblestone paths that lead you to charming adobe buildings, authentic local shops, galleries, and restaurants. At the north end of the plaza you’ll find the San Felipe de Neri Church, which was built in 1793 and remains one of the oldest surviving structures in the city dating back to the Spanish colonial period.
6. Take a Day Trip to Santa Fe
With a bit of extra time, I would consider taking a day trip to the state’s capital. Santa Fe is about an hour drive north of Albuquerque and contains tons of history, eccentric museums, and fantastic sights to see. The city was originally a Spanish Colony founded in the 1600s , with tons of Pueblo-style architecture and innovative art galleries to indulge in. You can also take the Rail Runner Train from downtown ABQ to the Santa Fe Railyard for about $8 a ticket. Definitely check out the Meow Wolf museum!
5. Breaking Bad RV Tour
Fans of the iconic TV series Breaking Bad will be delighted to signup for an immersive tour through the nostalgic filming locations across Albuquerque. You get to ride in a replica RV (or a van depending on availability) while actors test your knowledge and give exclusive insights into the critically acclaimed show. The tour departs at 10am and lasts approximately 3hrs and includes lunch at Los Pollos Hermanos (Twister’s). Tickets sell our extremely fast so make sure to reserve your spot at least 2 weeks in advance! If you can’t make the tour, at least stop by the Breaking Bad Store for all kinds of merchandise and even some blue rock candy.
4. Indulge in the Albuquerque Food Scene
No visit to Albuquerque is complete without indulging in its mouthwatering Food Scene. The city is known for its flavorful gastronomy, so be sure to sample some of the traditional New Mexican cuisine like carne adovada, green chili burgers, and Navajo tacos. For an even more Authentic experience, sign up for a food tour around Old Town to get a taste of Albuquerque’s hidden gems. One of our favorite spots was Los Compadres Restaurant.
3. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
For a more personal experience with the skies, go on a hot air balloon ride. Thanks to its geographic location, Albuquerque is one of the best places in the world to try it. Floating peacefully over the Rio Grande Valley as you embrace the warm glow of the sunrise over the city is a truly magical experience. Check out some of the most amazing views from over 1,500ft up in our Mass Ascension Hot Air Balloon Ride vlog. We managed to cross off a sunrise balloon ride in Luxor, Egypt a few years ago, but the skyline filled with hundreds of balloons is incomparable.
2. Sandia Peak Tram
For a breathtaking journey to the top of Albuquerque, You definitely need to take a ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway. Sandia Peak is an enormous mountain ridge piercing over 10,000 ft into the sky, which makes the cable car the longest passenger aerial tram in the world! Soaring for 15mins above the city, this tram offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the vast desert and the majestic Sandia Mountains. While only possible to purchase tickets 2 days in advance, I still recommend purchasing them as quickly as possible since they often sell out. Reserve a table at the Ten3 Restaurant on the summit for an elevated dinning experience with unbeatable views.
1. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
If there’s one reason to visit New Mexico then it’s definitely for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta which takes place Every October (Ocotber 5th – 13th 2024). Hundreds of colorful hot air balloons saturate the sky, creating a spectacular sight unparalleled by anything in the world. While the festival can often be hectic with tons of crowds, traffic, and surged pricing, it’s one of the grandest celebrations in the world and a once in a lifetime experience. Be sure to wake up early to catch the mass ascension! Check out our entire Balloon Fiesta Survival Guide for more tips on attending this epic festival.
Albuquerque’s charm lies in its diverse offerings, from thrilling adventures to rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re soaring above the city in a hot air balloon, exploring ancient petroglyphs, or savoring the flavors of New Mexican cuisine, Albuquerque promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Southwest. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the enchantment that awaits in this vibrant city! Thanks for reading and keep leveling up!
Check out if Albuquerque is boring or not for yourself in our ABQ travel vlog!
See the magic of a hot air balloon ride during Mass Ascension here:
Check out all the tips you’ll need to survive the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta in our travel vlog!
Check out our Digital Travel Guide: How to Save Money & Travel More! For our best tips on booking cheap flights, hotels, and the best travel hacks for saving money on your trips!
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