17 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Albuquerque

New Mexico's largest city, Albuquerque doesn't take itself too seriously, which is one of its greatest charms. In fact, this is a city that relishes its quirky side and has been marketing itself as "Albuquirky" for its unique attributes since the 1990s.

Despite being the state's largest city and sitting at a major American interstate junction (where I-25 and I-40 cross), Albuquerque still has a very small city vibe, albeit one with a big heart, and its attractions and numerous things to do are well worth a few days of your time.

The vibrant city has a history dating back quite a few centuries, whose story and traditions have been shaped by diverse cultures over the years. Set in the high desert, at the foot of the Sandia Mountains, and on the banks of the Rio Grande River, the location is also visually appealing. This is a city of wide-open spaces, where the skies are sunny and blue for more than 300 days per year and the sage-scented air breathes in fresh.

You can still get your kicks on old Route 66, running through the city's heartline, Central Avenue. This iconic stretch of pavement is adorned with original neon signs, and vintage artifacts, and cultural attractions that contribute to the Albuquirky ambiance.

Nob Hill, where the university is located, is always a lively part of the city, as is Downtown, and Historic Old Town. These areas are also home to some excellent restaurants, serving up authentic New Mexican fare.

The Sandia Mountains that define the eastern edge of Albuquerque are home to interesting outdoor recreation places, such as the Sandia Peak Tramway (where you'll also find New Mexico's oldest ski area) and the Elena Gallegos Open Space. The ABQ BioPark is also a fun family destination within the city and home to the Albuquerque Aquarium, the Rio Grande Zoo, and the Rio Grande Botanical Gardens.

One of the biggest tourist draws on Albuquerque's events calendar is the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, running for nine days each October.

Albuquerque was also used as a location in the TV series Breaking Bad, and tours to the various filming sites are popular.

Discover the city's highlights with our list of attractions and things to do in Albuquerque.

Sandia Peak Tramway

While not as high as the Colorado Rockies, the Sandia Mountains framing the skyline to the east are no shrinking violets. At 10,378 feet, the rugged summit of the range offers a superb view of sprawling Albuquerque.

The tramway offers a stunning ride along a 2.7-mile suspended cable from the eastern edge of the city to the summit. You can literally see for hundreds of miles around. To add some exercise to the experience, ambitious and prepared hikers can climb the 7.5-mile La Luz Trail to the top and take the tramway back down.

In the winter, the tramway services the Sandia Peak Ski Resort.

Address: 30 Tramway Road Northeast, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Official site: http://www.sandiapeak.com/

Albuquerque's Old Town

Site of the original Spanish settlement, Old Town was shaped for centuries by both the Spanish and Mexican cultures, as well as the Native Americans of the area. Centered on the large plaza, Albuquerque's Old Town retains a relaxing and charming Southwestern feel characterized by giant old cottonwood trees, cobblestone streets, and adobe structures.

Old Town is full of interesting attractions like art galleries, souvenir shops, little museums, and restaurants. It's the perfect place to visit for an afternoon stroll, casual sightseeing, and perhaps a long lunch on a sunny patio.

One of the anchors of Old Town, the San Felipe de Neri Church is a large centuries-old Catholic church featuring a rectory, convent, school, museum, and some impressive historic religious artifacts. It is simply one of the most beautiful and peaceful buildings not only in the city, but throughout the entire state.

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

For 9 days in October, Albuquerque's bright blue skies are filled with a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes each morning as hundreds of hot air balloons drift upwards in a mass ascension. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is the world's largest, with about 600 balloons, and is now in its 51^st year.

The enchanting festival draws tens of thousands of people from around the globe to New Mexico's high desert environment, which is considered one of the best spots on the planet for favorable hot air balloon conditions.

The balloon fiesta kicks off with two days of early morning mass ascensions, known as Dawn Patrol, which are a treat to watch as the sky fills with hundreds of balloons just as the rising sun sets the crisp, fall morning landscape a glow.

The early morning flights are far from the only attraction at the Balloon Fiesta, however. There are numerous activities held throughout the day and night. These include the Special Shape Rodeo, which is probably the most popular event of all at the fiesta.

Sunset finds the balloons inflated again for evening "balloon glows," where the burners are fired into the stationary envelopes to make them shine against the dark sky. Balloon rides and scores of other events round out the celebration. The balloons can be seen from almost anywhere in the city.

You can also book hot air balloon rides throughout the fiesta with Rainbow Ryders, the official balloon ride concession. In 2023, the festival reached new inclusivity heights when Rainbow Ryders configured one of its balloon baskets to be able to accommodate some types of wheelchairs. This type of accessibility is rare for hot-air balloon excursions.

Adjacent to Balloon Fiesta Park, where the main part of the fiesta takes place, the Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum is open year-round with a great selection of ballooning history and exhibits. Permanent installations at the museum include a Balloon School, the Weather Lab, and an experiential 4-D theater. The museum offers a wide assortment of children's programs focused on science and creativity.

Official site: http://www.balloonfiesta.com/

Albuquerque Museum of Art and History

This impressive institution offers visitors an in-depth look into Albuquerque's past. Located at the edge of Old Town, this museum hosts a spectacular collection of cultural items from the past 400 years. It is a place where the visitor not only gains a better understanding of Albuquerque's history but about European settlement in the entire southwest.

Displaying suits of Spanish armor, historic wood carvings, and even art from the likes of Georgia O'Keeffe, the museum also hosts traveling and temporary exhibits.

ABQ BioPark

Not far from Old Town, the ABQ BioPark is home to the Albuquerque Aquarium, the Rio Grande Botanical Gardens, the Rio Grande Zoo, and Tingley Beach. With its expansion and upgrades of the past decade, the zoo has become a premiere destination hosting hundreds of species (many endangered) and one awesome playground.

The aquarium is perfect for kids interested in sharks, while the botanical garden is a lush environment to discover butterflies and other insects. Tingley Beach has three designated fishing ponds open to the public and pedal boats for rent. This is an excellent place for an all-day family outing.

Address: 903 10th Street Southwest, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Official site: http://www.cabq.gov/culturalservices/biopark

Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

For thousands of years, the numerous cultures of the Pueblo people called this area (now New Mexico) home. While dozens of pueblos disappeared with the coming of the Spanish, many remain vibrant. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, located two miles north of Old Town, celebrates these living cultures and histories with an outstanding museum, as well as cultural events, lectures, workshops, and tours.

Be sure to make time to attend at least one of the traditional dances. Also of interest, the on-site Pueblo Harvest Café is a restaurant and bakery well known throughout the area for their New Native American Cuisine.

Official site: https://indianpueblo.org/

Unser Racing Museum

Named after a legacy racing family in the Albuquerque area, the Unser Racing Museum features a wide range of motor vehicles from throughout the last century. While the vehicles look immaculate on the museum floor, many of the cars and motorcycles on display come straight out of the Unser family history and timeline.

This is an engaging experience for both automobile enthusiasts and racing fans, but anyone will enjoy learning about the exciting history behind motor-engine racing. A racing simulator within the facility also allows visitors to get behind the wheel themselves.

Address: 1776 Montaño Road Northwest, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Official site: http://www.unserracingmuseum.com/

KiMo Theatre

One of Albuquerque's best-known architectural landmarks, the KiMo Theatre was originally built in 1927. The somewhat gaudy Pueblo-Revival-Art Deco style incorporates adobe architectural styles with the linear motifs and recessed spandrels more typical of classic Art Deco. Paintings and images of Native American cultures abound.

Through the 1970s, the theater fell into neglect and was barely saved from the wrecking ball. A renovation completed in 2000 has allowed the theater to again become one of the city's premier venues. Oh, and it is reputed to be haunted!

Address: 423 Central Avenue Northwest, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Official site: https://www.cabq.gov/artsculture/kimo

Paseo del Bosque

Albuquerque isn't just a big city. It also hosts one of the most important environmental corridors in the Southwestern United States. Tracing the forested Rio Grande for 16 miles through the center of town, the Paseo is a perfect walking and biking path. The route offers a break from the city, as well as some great wildlife-viewing opportunities. Detour attractions lining the path include Tinley Beach and Rio Grande Nature Center State Park. The trail can be accessed via multiple points along the river.

Official site: http://www.cabq.gov/parksandrecreation/open-space/lands/paseo-del-bosque-trail

Rio Grande Nature Center State Park

The Rio Grande Nature Center State Park is located on the east bank of the Rio Grande just north of downtown. Exhibits at the Education Center within the park introduce the ecology, geology, and history of the Rio Grande Valley. Outdoor exhibits include gardens, ponds, and wetlands, as well as a great blind for bird watching along the Rio Grande flyway.

A small hiking trail meanders throughout the area, and for more hiking pursuits, the neighboring Rio Grande Valley State Park has other loops to explore. This nature center is a good access point or side adventure stemming from the Paseo del Bosque.

Address: 2901 Candelaria Road Northwest, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Official site: http://www.emnrd.state.nm.us/SPD/riograndenaturecenterstatepark.html

Elena Gallegos Open Space

On the eastern edge of the city limits, Elena Gallegos Open Space is a 640-acre park set in the foothills of the Sandia Mountains. This is a popular place for hikers, bikers, and equestrians, and a network of multi-use trails spreads throughout the area, often connecting with other trails that lead deeper into the Cibola National Forest.

Elena Gallegos is a popular gathering place, with seven covered picnic areas that deliver on spectacular views. A wildlife blind, shaded rest stops, and original art also surround the picnic space. The stunning sunsets bring out the pink "watermelon" color that the Sandia Mountains are named for and are another popular reason to visit.

Address: 7100 Tramway Boulevard Northeast, Albuquerque, New Mexico

New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science

Located near Old Town and the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, this institution focuses on the ancient geologic history of the area. Through several life-size dinosaur skeletons and models, a hands-on Naturalist Center, and an inside look at extracting dinosaur fossils, this educational center provides interest for every member of the family.

The Planetarium at the facility features a 55-foot, full-dome theater with regular shows concerning space, constellations, and the never-ending world of fractals. Regular programming takes place at the museum, with classes and events catering to children, adults, and families.

Official site: http://www.nmnaturalhistory.org/

Petroglyph National Monument

Albuquerque is full of history, but here is where you'll find the really old stuff. Located on the western edge of the city, this 7,236-acre national monument is home to nearly 20,000 ancient images hewn into the volcanic rock by some of the continent's earliest inhabitants. This is an outdoor museum, and most of the images are accessed via numerous hiking trails.

A popular area of the park is the Boca Negra Canyon day-use area, with restroom facilities and a drinking fountain, as well as access to three self-guided trails and more than 100 petroglyphs to observe. The visitor center offers excellent interpretive exhibits along with a wide range of educational programs.

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/petr/index.htm

Sandia Peak Ski Resort

New Mexico may not be the state that first comes to mind when you think about downhill skiing. That's okay with the locals who like to keep the fact quiet that the city has some great skiing only 30 minutes from town. Sandi Peak Ski Resort is New Mexico's oldest ski resort and the only one in the state with a tram.

Sandia Peak gets an astounding 10 feet of snow each season, and what doesn't fall from the sky is supplemented with a state-of-the-art snowmaking operation spread over 30 acres. The ski hill has 35 runs that are mostly at the intermediate and beginner levels. Three old-school-style double chairs slowly take you back to the top, and a surface lift is used in the lessons and children's area.

One of the highlights of a visit to the resort is lunch at the Ten 3 restaurant located at 10,378 feet, offering spectacular views out over the surrounding mountains and Albuquerque.

Official site: https://sandiapeak.com/ski-area/

Read More: Best Ski Resorts in New Mexico

Explora! Science Center and Children's Museum

Just on the outskirts of Old Town, next to the New Mexico Museum of Natural History, the Explora! Science Center is a unique place full of discovery. Catering to the younger minds in the community, Explora features experiential exhibits designed around science, education, and fun.

Permanent exhibits at this two-floor education space include the Shapes of Sounds, a Paradox Café, and a Water Flow Patio. Explora also offers a wide range of camps, classes, and events, all of which encourage a collaborative environment of scientific learners.

Address: 1701 Mountain Road Northwest, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Official site: http://www.explora.us/en/

University of New Mexico

The sprawling forested campus of the University of New Mexico (UNM) is like one massive park located right in the center of the city. The state's flagship institution, UNM is a public research university founded in 1889. Famed architect John Gaw Meem designed many of the buildings on the central campus, which has a unique southwestern feel. Eight of the buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places.

Here, you will find an arboretum encompassing more than 300 species, the Maxwell Museum of Anthropology, the Geology and Meteorite Museums, the Southwest Biology Museum, and the University Art Museum in the Center for the Arts. UNM is forever hosting art and cultural exhibits and performances and is surrounded by a lively university district.

Official site: http://www.unm.edu/

American International Rattlesnake Museum

A few blocks from the ABQ BioPark, this animal conservation museum has one of the largest collections of live rattlesnakes in the country. Striving to educate the public about these sometimes "less desirable" reptiles, the museum displays 34 species of rattlesnakes from around the world, as well as snake-related artwork, photography, and various other memorabilia.

The Rattlesnake Museum encourages visitors who are frightened of snakes to come check them out in this safe and controlled environment and to learn more about these resident animals of the American Southwest.

Address: 202 San Felipe Street Northwest, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Official site: http://www.rattlesnakes.com/

Map of Attractions & Things to Do in Albuquerque

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Nearby Cities: If you are traveling through New Mexico, don't miss an opportunity to see the sites of beautiful Santa Fe, just an hour away. A little further afield, the pueblos and other attractions around Taos are also worth the 2.5-hour trip north. For a complete look at ideas for a stop in New Mexico, see our list of top attractions in New Mexico.