Albuquerque hosts the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta every year starting the first weekend of October. But you can take an amazing balloon ride any time of year. We recommend Rainbow Ryders for balloon tours. It is an early morning start, but worth the experience! You may also want to check out Albuquerque's Balloon Museum.
The Paseo Del Bosque trail goes along the Rio Grande River from the far south end of town to the north end. The trail is safe - but if you are walking alone I would recommend sticking to the northern end of the trail. One of my favorite ways to access the trail is at the Rio Grande Nature Center (in the north valley). You can visit the Nature Center - or just park by the Nature Center (on the street) and get on the to trail.
The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is a great museum and cultural center. In the summer there are usually a regular schedule of dances. The IPCC also has had an outstanding restaurant for the last several years - it is currently called the Indian Pueblo Kitchen.
Albuquerque Museum -A really great museum that highlights Albuquerque and New Mexico history and art. Has ever-changing exhibits and a great gift shop.
Explora - I haven't ever been but it is in the news all the time with activities for kids.
National Museum of Nuclear Science and History - An enjoyable museum even if you aren't really into nuclear science. Lots of great displays and old video footage. Planes are part of the exhibit.
These are some of the places we like the most in Old Town.
San Felipe de Neri church on the plaza
Guerrilla Graphix (across from the Yucca Art Gallery) - Albuquerque stuff and fun t-shirts
Albuquerque Museum (just east of Old Town - very short walk)
New Mexico Museum of Natural History (just east of Old Town - very short walk)
San Pasquals (kitchen and home store)
Right next door to San Pasquals is my favorite Old Town restaurant - The Church Street Cafe
We also love High Noon - another fun restaurant and bar.
Petroglyphs National Monument is on the west side of town. I haven't been for many years, but the trails are nice and there are some good views of the city from the monument.
66 Diner - American comfort food on old Route 66.
Blake's Lotta Burger is a local restaurant chain all over Albuquerque if you want a great green chile burger (or any burger/fast food)
El Pinto - in the North Valley on the edge of the city (New Mexican food)
Flying Star is a local restaurant chain all over Albuquerque. They are all great! (sandwich, soups, desserts, New Mexican food)
High Noon (closed due to fire summer 2024) - In Old Town
Indian Pueblo Kitchen - At the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
Little Anita's - A local chain serving New Mexican food. Good for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Monica's El Portal (closing last day of June 2024) - Near Old Town (New Mexican food)
Monroe's - City center (New Mexican food)
Range Cafe - A local chain. Lots of great food options from New Mexican to comfort.
Vinaigrette - Near Old Town (salads and sandwiches)
Route 66 is Central Ave in Albuquerque. It is not the best part of town (generally) but if you are interested in Route 66 history it is a must-see experience. Route 66 will take you through Nob Hill, the University of New Mexico area, Downtown, and right near Old Town. Things on Route 66:
Nob Hill - a shopping and restaurant district just east of the University of New Mexico. It is kind of college/university shopping and dining - and some kind of higher end places too. My favorite shops are in the Nob Hill Shopping Center.
The Monte Carlo Steakhouse is kind of on the west end of a drive down Route 66. It is funky and kind of scary looking from the outside - but amazing steak and drink for a good price.
66 Diner - American comfort food on old Route 66.
The Sandia Peak Tram is a great way to see the city. You take the tram at the base of the mountain and it takes you to the top where you can hike (during fire season check to see if the forest is open). There is a gift shop and a newer restaurant called Ten 3. It is usually colder and winder up on the Peak - so layers of clothing is the way to go. In the last couple of years we have known about people who have been stranded at the top because of bad weather. Go on a day where low winds are expected.
Los Poblanos on Rio Grande is a great escape from the city. It is a farm/ranch in the cottonwoods along the Rio Grande River. Lavender and kitchen tools are highlights at this farm store.
There are two independent bookstores I regularly visit in Albuquerque: Page One (it is in the northeast part of town - several miles from where you would get on the Tram). Bookworks is in the north valley (several miles from Old Town)
If you are a Breaking Bad and/or Better Call Saul fan, nearly the entire show was filmed in Albuquerque. If you have your own transportation here is a link to a self-guided tour. It will take you all over Albuq - and I think it would give an overall interesting view of the city.
The Albuquerque Zoo is a nice zoo - if you like zoos. The Zoo is associated with an aquarium/botanic garden. I have heard you can take a trolley from the zoo to other locations in the area (maybe with a day pass?). But I haven't ever done this.
Silva Lanes - Traditional bowling experience
Holiday Lanes - Traditional bowling experience
Main Event - Bowling and gaming extravaganza!
Cliff's - Albuquerque's biggest outdoor amusement park.
Escape Room Albuquerque - Living inside a game! I haven't been but it has gotten great reviews from people I know.
Elevate - Trampoline Park
Main Event - Bowling and gaming extravaganza!
Roller King - Traditional roller skating.