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Things to Do in Albuquerque

Things to Do in Albuquerque

Albuquerque New Mexico, USA Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Embrace Albuquerque's natural landscapes through hiking, cycling, and other exciting outdoor pursuits.

Hiking & Trekking Routes

Easy Trails

The Paseo del Bosque Trail a flat, paved, multi-use path along the Rio Grande. Boca Negra Canyon trails at Petroglyph National Monument short, easy-to-access choices.

Moderate Hikes

Explore the Foothills Routes in the Sandia Peaks (e.g., Embudito Trail, Piedra Lisa Trail). These trails varied terrain and elevation gain.

Strenuous Ascent

The La Luz Trail, an 8-mile one-way ascent to Sandia Peak, a significant 10,000-foot elevation gain. This trail good fitness and gear.

Water Sports & Adventure Sports

  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Tingley Beach or Isleta Lakes & RV Park.
  • Paddleboarding/Kayaking: Opportunities on the Rio Grande are limited to specific calm sections. More options at nearby lakes like Cochiti Lake or Abiquiu Lake.
  • Hot Air Ballooning: Take a scenic flight year-round. This is especially popular and spectacular during the Balloon Fiesta.
  • Skiing/Snowboarding: During winter months, visit Ski Santa Fe, Taos Ski Valley, or the lesser Sandia Peak Ski Area.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Birdwatching: The Rio Grande Nature Center State Park excellent birdwatching.
  • Wildlife: See deer, coyotes, and various desert animals in the foothills and the Bosque.
  • Best at dawn and dusk.
  • No safaris operate in the region.

Cycling Routes

  • Road Cycling: The Paseo del Bosque Trail a paved, flat, and scenic route.
  • Mountain Biking: Explore the Foothills Trails in the Sandia Mountains.
  • The White Ridge Bike Trails near San Ysidro extensive singletrack.
  • Various levels of difficulty for mountain bikers.

Book Your Adventures

  • Find activities on GetYourGuide.
  • Reach out to local hot air balloon operators directly.
  • Check ski resort websites for winter sports.
  • Consider guided rock climbing tours.

Outdoor Safety

Always inform someone of your route and expected return time when hiking. Carry sufficient water, sunscreen, plus fitting gear. Weather conditions change rapidly in the mountains.

Cultural Immersion

Connect deeply with Albuquerque's rich Native American and Hispanic heritage through workshops, performances, and festivals.

Workshops & Classes

  • Indian Pueblo Cultural Center: Occasional training sessions on Native American arts and crafts.
  • Local Art Schools/Studios: May offer workshops in painting, pottery, or other artistic disciplines.
  • Flamenco: Albuquerque a strong flamenco tradition. Look for dance classes or practical sessions.
  • Language Learning: Spanish language schools or private tutors for those interested in learning.

Cultural Performances & Community

Native American Dances

Indian Pueblo Cultural Center features daily Native American dance performances (check their schedule).

Hispanic Arts & Humanities

National Hispanic Cultural Center hosts performances, concerts, and cultural events.

Community-Based Initiatives

Some Native American Pueblos cultural tours or experiences. Check individual Pueblo websites for access rules.

Major Cultural Festivals

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (early Oct). Gathering of Nations Pow Wow (April). Globalquerque! (Sept). Fiestas de Albuquerque (June).

Traditional Experiences

Farm visits at Los Poblanos Historic Inn. Local Fresh Markets to meet producers. Traditional healing practices are culturally sensitive and not commercially available.

Heritage Exploration

Petroglyph National Monument. Bandelier A Protected national landmark (day trip). Route 66 historic stretch. Old Town adobe architecture. Each an unique glimpse into the past.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find opportunities for rejuvenation and self-care amidst your Albuquerque adventures.

Spa & Wellness Center Recommendations

  • Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm: A tranquil spa experience in a serene setting.
  • Betty's Bath & Day Spa: A local day spa a range of treatments.
  • Resort Spas: Larger hotels and resorts, like Sandia Holiday resort & Casino and Isleta Holiday resort & Casino, feature full-service spas.
  • Yoga & Meditation: Local studios regular yoga and meditation workshops.

Natural Therapy & Clubs

Hot Springs

Jemez Springs (day trip), approximately 1.5-2 hours northwest, known for its natural hot springs and bathhouses (e.g., Jemez Hot Springs). Undeveloped hot springs like Spence Hot Springs.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Hotel pools are common throughout Albuquerque. Public pools are available seasonally. Tingley Beach offers fishing and paddle boats, but is not a swimming beach.

Traditional Healing

Limited for tourists, some Native American pueblos insight into traditional healing practices (culturally sensitive).

Mindfulness & Movement

Yoga Studios

Various local studios offer a range of yoga styles and classes for all levels.

Meditation Classes

Find workshops and sessions focused on mindfulness and meditation for mental well-being.

Outdoor Walks

The Paseo del Bosque Trail or other park paths for peaceful walks and light exercise.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Discover evenings and lively spots across Albuquerque.

Live Music & Performance Venues

  • Sister Bar: Hosts live music from local and touring bands.
  • Launchpad: A popular venue for rock, alternative, and indie music.
  • Low Spirits: Features diverse music, showing local and regional acts.
  • KiMo Theatre & Popejoy Hall: Historic venues hosting films, plays, concerts, and major productions.

Nightclubs & Late-Night Options

Dancing & Clubs

Nightclubs and dancing venues are concentrated downtown and in Nob Hill. Options vary from dedicated dance clubs to casual bars with DJ sets.

Late-Night Eats

Bars and nightclubs typically remain open until 2 AM. Some diners, like the Frontier Restaurant, operate 24/7.

Casino Entertainment

Casinos (Sandia Holiday resort & Casino and Isleta Resort & Casino) offer late-night gaming and entertainment, including larger concert venues and lounges.

Downtown Bar Scene

Central Avenue and surrounding streets a concentration of bars and pubs, ranging from dive bars to craft cocktail lounges.

Nob Hill Pub Crawls

Central Avenue in Nob Hill features trendy bars and craft breweries, perfect for an evening pub crawl or a relaxed drink.

Resort Entertainment

Sandia and Isleta Resort & Casino offer a full spectrum of entertainment from concerts by national acts to casino floors.

Legal Drinking Age

The legal drinking age in New Mexico is 21. Carry valid ID. Pubs and clubs typically close at 2 AM.

Shopping & Markets

Discover unique souvenirs, local crafts, and diverse shopping experiences in Albuquerque.

Traditional Markets & Artisan Crafts

  • Old Town: Numerous shops sell authentic Native American art, jewelry, pottery, textiles, and Southwestern souvenirs.
  • Downtown Growers' Market: Operates seasonally and offers local produce, prepared foods, and artisan crafts.
  • Indian Pueblo Cultural Center: A gift shop with authentic Native American arts and crafts, supporting genuine artists.
  • Art Galleries: Galleries in Old Town and Nob Hill show a wide range of local and regional art, including paintings, sculptures, and jewelry.

Souvenir & Ethical Shopping

New Mexican Chile Products

Purchase roasted green chile, red chile powder, or decorative chile ristras (strings of dried chiles).

Native American Jewelry

Look for authentic turquoise and silver pieces. When purchasing, seek certified authentic items to support genuine artists and fair trade practices.

Local Foods & Crafts

Consider piñon coffee or biscochitos (New Mexico's state cookie). Also, Southwestern art and crafts like pottery, weaving, and carvings.

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

  • Uptown: ABQ Uptown features upscale boutiques and national brands.
  • Nob Hill: Discover unique boutique shops clothing, home goods, and gifts.
  • Old Town: High-end Native American art and jewelry galleries.
  • Find exclusive local designs.

Unique Finds & Artisan Goods

  • Local craft workshops often unique, handcrafted items.
  • Find one-of-a-kind Southwestern art pieces.
  • Hand-blown glass or pottery.
  • Specialty items reflect local culture.

Market Highlights

  • The Downtown Growers' Market is seasonal, but a place for local produce.
  • Sawmill Market for a modern take on market dining and shopping.
  • Holiday markets for seasonal crafts and gifts.
  • Smaller neighborhood markets for local charm.

Shipping & Customs Information

International Shipping
  • Be aware of customs regulations and potential duties in your home country.
  • Many stores offer international shipping services for larger purchases.
  • Keep receipts for customs declarations.
Domestic Shipping
  • U.S. Postal services (USPS), UPS, and FedEx are available for shipping purchases within the U.S.
  • Many galleries arrange shipping for art pieces.
  • Consider shipping fragile items directly from the seller to avoid damage.

Ethical Shopping Practices

When purchasing Native American art or jewelry, seek out certified authentic items. This supports genuine artists and fair trade practices. Many shops in Old Town and the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center guarantee authenticity.

Activity Planning Summary

Don't Miss These Experiences

  • Hot air balloon ride for breathtaking views.
  • Explore the historic Old Town and its one-of-a-kind shops.
  • Ride the Sandia Peak Tramway for panoramic sunsets.
  • Try a green chile cheeseburger, a true New Mexican staple.
  • Visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center for dances and exhibits.
  • Hike or bike in the scenic Sandia Mountains Foothills.
  • Explore the trendy shops and eateries of Nob Hill.
  • Attend a local festival or seasonal event if your timing matches.