Things To Do In Albuquerque NM

What Is There To Do In Albuquerque?

Albuquerque is a vibrant city in the heart of the southwest with a population of more than half a million. The city is a nature lover’s paradise, offering superior mountain vistas and the Rio Grande running through the center of the city. ABQ has plenty to do, all in the perfect southwest mountain backdrop.

Whether you’re there for business, for pleasure, or looking to make it your permanent Albuquerque home, no trip is complete without a trip along historic Route 66. Let the road be your guide as you experience volcanoes on the city’s far west side, to old town, and the downtown business district. Let the road be your guide as you experience vintage Americana traveling through Albuquerque.

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

ABQ is home to the Albuquerque International Balloon Festival, a 9-day event with more than 500 hot air balloons on display. This event is the largest balloon festival in the world! After you watch with wonder the many balloons take flight, make a trip to the balloon museum. Learn a little bit about the history of ballooning.

Sandia Peak Tramway

Experience Albuquerque from above the ground with a trip on the Sandia Peak Tramway. You’ll be transported high above steep canyons. Watch the dramatic beauty unfold before your eyes as you embark on the 2.7 mile trip down the mountain. You’ll have an 11,000 square-mile panoramic view of the Rio Grande Valley and the Land of Enchantment. You can also ski here during ski season.

Southwest Culture

Immerse yourself in the Pueblo Indian culture at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. You can see a collection of Native American pottery and art, or watch a native dance. Swing by the Rio Grande Nature Center afterward to watch some birds or walk a trail.

History buffs will appreciate the Albuquerque Museum, where they can learn about the city’s rich 400-year history. Browse permanent and traveling collections that include items representing the city, like armor, maps, weaves, and other great items. Step back in time with a trip to the Petroglyph National Monument, home to more than 15,000 petroglyphs carved into a rock. Another noteworthy location is the National Hispanic Cultural Center, preserving and promoting the Spanish-speaking world.

Albuquerque Museums

Science fans and dinosaur lovers alike will appreciate the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science. There are 8 exhibitions at the museum that start at the beginning of time and finish at the Ice Age. You can learn about the beginnings of the dinosaurs and look at the aging of a volcano. The museum is also home to a planetarium as well as two floors dedicated to astronomy and space exploration. Microsoft was founded in Albuquerque and a section is dedicated to the history of the personal computer. Have the kids in tow? Take them over to Explora, the hands-on science museum that is fun for all ages. You will also find a zoo and amusement park to entertain the young ones.

Craft Beer

If you’re a beer lover, Albuquerque is home to a particularly robust craft beer scene that’s gaining national attention. New Mexico has earned the title of “beercation” hotspot. Just last year, Craft Beer & Brewing Magazine highlighted Albuquerque as one of America’s best beer cities, and the Duke City made its second appearance on Travelocity’s Top 10 list of “Beer Destinations” along with Portland, Ore., Denver and Seattle. Beer lovers will find a brew for every taste, and IPA lovers will be in luck–NM is known for it’s hop-forward, bold brews.

Old Town Albuquerque

Finally, if you’re looking for an authentic Albuquerque experience, take a trip to old town, Albuquerque’s first neighborhood. 300 years later, it remains a center for shopping, art, culture, and architecture.

You’ll find plenty to do for everyone when you visit Albuquerque. Your only complaint will be that you won’t have enough time to see it all. Start planning your New Mexico trip today.