Things to do in Albuquerque

There’s no other city in America quite like Albuquerque. It is, at the same time, both derelict and traditional; yet it also emanates a strange 1950s retro façade, which gives it a feeling of being trapped in time. Most visitors will enjoy exploring the Old Town and the Indian Pueblo Cultural Centre, where you can really get a sense of that wonderful Native American and Hispanic blend that makes this city, and the whole state of New Mexico, so special. There are also some interesting prehistoric sites just outside the city and of course, the Sandia Mountains are right next door, offering a welcome respite to all the concrete.

Albuquerque Biological Park

This interesting exhibition of water and land-based biology provides an excellent insight into the unique role that the Rio Grande River plays in the southwestern United States. An aquarium centre describes the course of the Rio Grande from its origin in the mountains to its terminus on the Gulf coast, displaying the various environments the river passes through. The massive conservatory has two botanical gardens: one houses an extensive collection of local desert plants and the other focuses on species native to a more Mediterranean climate. Phone: +1 505 764 6200.

Albuquerque Museum of Art and History

For a taste of what has transpired in Albuquerque since its discovery, check out the city’s main museum and its collection of Spanish colonial artefacts. A traditional 18th century adobe house and compound have been recreated and are fully decorated with equipment used by the first Spanish cowboys in this region. There is also a great weaving exhibition and an old-style theatre which shows short films of the city’s history. Phone: +1 505 243 7255.

Coronado State Monument

The ruins of this ancient Anasazi Indian village, once known as Kuaua, have been well-preserved and offer an excellent look at the life of an Indian village hundreds of years before the Spanish arrived. Hundreds of rooms and a few kivas have been restored, complete with murals. Visitors can wander freely among the riverside ruins, which were visited by the Spanish explorer Coronado, in 1540. Phone: +1 505 867 5351.

Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

This non-profit making centre, which is owned and operated by the 19 Indian pueblos of New Mexico, is the best place in town to explore the traditional culture of the local Native Americans. In addition to the permanent historical exhibits filled with each pueblo’s unique handicrafts and culture, you’ll find a small theatre showing how these crafts are traditionally made. Native American dancers perform ceremonial dances at 11:00 and 14:00 every weekend in the courtyard. There is also a nice café serving native foods and an excellent gift shop. Phone: +1 505 843 7270.  

Old Town

No trip to Albuquerque would be complete without a thorough exploration of the city’s Old Town, a maze of cobbled courtyards where over 150 galleries, shops and restaurants are hidden. Adobe buildings surround the central plaza, which was built in 1780. Pueblo and Navajo craftsmen often sell their wares along the sidewalks which surround the square. Although there are a handful of typical tourist souvenir shops selling t-shirts and other junk, don’t let that fool you. Old Town is by far the best place to shop for handmade Indian jewellery, pottery, weavings and other crafts, especially turquoise and silver jewellery.

Petroglyph National Monument

These vast lava flows were a hunting ground for prehistoric Native Americans, thousands of years ago. They left behind a fascinating chronicle of their daily life and beliefs etched on the black basalt rocks. Over 25,000 petroglyphs have been found and many more lie waiting to be discovered. Visitors can wander freely among the lava rocks, making for a great day outdoors. Phone: +1 505 899 0205.

Sandia Peak Tramway

This tram ferries passengers up to the top of Sandia Peak, the mountain which dominates the Albuquerque skyline. At the summit, there are several hiking trails of varying difficulty, and without question, the best panoramic views in the city. There is also an expensive and popular restaurant at the top called the High Finance Tavern, should you wish to take a repast. The tram also runs at night, giving you incredible views of the city lights as you enjoy your meal. Phone: +1 505 856 7325.

Rio Grande Zoo

Albuquerque’s zoo is a 64 acre oasis in the heart of the city, complete with more than 250 species of wildlife, housed in well-managed and natural habitats. The highlight is a 60 acre riverside bosque (forest) among towering Cottonwood trees, where more than 1,200 native animals live in their natural environment.  This is something you can only find in New Mexico. You can also see the standard array of classic exotic animals from around the globe, kept in very attractive and humane conditions. Phone: +1 505 764 6200.