Sightseeing in Albuquerque

Within our sightseeing section, you’ll find listings for the city’s most popular attractions, while additional information on restaurants, bars, entertainment and shopping in Albuquerque can also be accessed from the expandable menus to your left. 

Introducing Albuquerque…

Having made great strides in recent years to become one of the greenest cities in America, a visit to Albuquerque and the surrounding towns of Santa Fe and Taos make for a fascinating journey into the heart of colourful New Mexico. 

Nestled between the Rio Grande and the Southern Rockies, Albuquerque - which is home to more than half-a-million people - is found approximately 240 miles north of the Mexican border and 55 miles southwest of Santa Fe.

Offering all the benefits of a big city, whilst retaining a distinct small town charm (perhaps best exemplified by the quaint shops and enticing nooks and crannies of the Old Town) Albuquerque’s unique blend of multiculturalism and natural beauty also combine with a wide-range of activities for all ages and interests. As well as a number of progressive cultural institutions and museums (including the well-regarded Albuquerque Museum of Art and History and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science), you’ll find treasured historic attractions, a thriving social scene and plenty of cafes and casual/formal dining options.

Downtown Albuquerque also has hundreds of shops, boutiques and art galleries to enjoy, while a stroll along Central Avenue (in the city’s Old Town) will see visitors encounter the historic Route 66. Most famous of all, is the annual International Balloon Fiesta - an awe-inspiring spectacle that’s widely acknowledged as being the world’s most photographed hot air balloon event.

Despite critics chiding the city for an abundance of dour, utilitarian buildings (which contrast negatively against Albuquerque’s wonderful natural backdrop) it nonetheless has a strongly defined southwestern style. And, while there’s certainly a degree of architectural potpourri, a good number of historically important buildings are found here which, as well as being unique to the United States, suitably embody key architectural eras including Renaissance and Art Deco styles.

Out of town, the stunning backdrop of the Sandia Mountains offers hikes of varying difficulties, while the much admired La Luz Trail (which passes through high desert and pine forest) offers spectacular views of Albuquerque, the West Mesa and the mountain ranges beyond. Other trails take in a series of picturesque meadows and groves, with those in the Albert G. Simms Park also being suitable for mountain bikers.

Elsewhere, the Sandia Lakes Recreation Area (just 10 miles north of Albuquerque) offers fishing opportunities galore with well-stocked lakes of trout, catfish and bass, while for lovers of winter sports, the Sandia Peak Ski Area is less than an hour from downtown Albuquerque. With 26 downhill skiing runs to suit all ages and abilities, the peak is easily reached via the Tramway or Highways 14 and 536. Furthermore, mountain bikers can make use of the Summer Uphill Program to ascend the peaks by chairlift before experiencing the challenging Golden Eagle, Falcon Ridge or King of the Mountain downhill runs.

All in all, Albuquerque’s spectacular climate, natural setting and inimatable style make for a memorable holiday where Native American, Mexican, Spanish and Western cultural traditions are seamlessly blended together.