Sitting about 5,000 feet (1,632 meters) above sea level, Albuquerque benefits from a remarkable natural setting and a mild, dry climate. The peaks of the Sandia Mountains stand on the east and the arid New Mexico mesas (elevated hills with flat tops) stretch out to the west.The largest city in the state of New Mexico, Albuquerque is best navigated by car. It’s divided into four official quadrants: Northeast, Southeast, Northwest and Southwest, with Central Avenue dividing north from south and Broadway dividing east from west.To get a sense of Albuquerque’s diverse ethnic heritage, stroll around historic Old Town in the Northwest. This area incorporates the original city of Albuquerque, which was founded in 1706. The narrow streets are dotted with museums, adobe buildings and Hispanic architecture, including the city’s oldest building, the San Felipe de Neri Church.Discover the region's natural diversity at Old Town’s Albuquerque Biological Park. This complex is home to the Albuquerque Aquarium, Rio Grande Botanic Garden and the Rio Grande Zoo. The BioTrain, which runs from Tuesday to Sunday, carries visitors between the park's facilities.Native American heritage has a strong influence on Albuquerque, from the presence of more than 15,000 rock carvings at the Petroglyph National Monument, to the pueblo settlements near the city. Learn about the way of life for the descendants of New Mexico’s indigenous peoples at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, located in the Northwest.Outdoor enthusiasts can escape to the rocky cliffs of the Sandia Mountains. In summer, the peaks attract rock climbers, hikers and mountain bikers, while the winter months see skiers and snowboarders flock to the slopes. Step aboard the Sandia Peak Tramway to experience the range in all its scenic glory. This aerial tramway journeys up to the 10,378-foot (3,163-meter) summit, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the city below. Albuquerque also boasts a busy events calendar. Highlights include the world-famous International Balloon Fiesta in October and the annual New Mexico State Fair, usually held in September.
Albuquerque, NM
Where to stay in Albuquerque
Northeast Heights
While visiting Northeast Heights, you might make a stop by sights like Cliff's Amusement Park and ABQ Uptown.
Old Town Albuquerque
Explore historic adobe buildings, dine at numerous restaurants, and shop at various stores in this popular tourist destination. Don't miss the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, and the nearby New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.
Downtown Albuquerque
Central business district with highrise buildings, Downtown Albuquerque offers shopping, dining, and nightlife along Central and Gold Avenues. Explore landmarks like KiMo Theater and enjoy convenient public transit options.
North Valley
You'll enjoy the mountain views and breweries in North Valley. You might want to make time for a stop at Balloon Fiesta Park or Rio Grande.
Westside
Westside is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Petroglyph National Monument and Rio Grande while you're in town.
Uptown
Travelers to Uptown praise its popular shops. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to make a stop by ABQ Uptown and Coronado Center.
Reviewed on May 22, 2024
Reviewed on May 22, 2024
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Reviewed on May 18, 2024
Reviewed on Apr 16, 2024
Reviewed on May 12, 2024
Getting around Albuquerque
Most people get around Albuquerque by car, and renting one is the best way to explore the city and its surroundings, given that taxis are expensive. The city is very sprawling, so walking everywhere is not viable, and while there are bus routes they are more useful for commuters than tourists. The Sandia Tram, Petroglyph National Monument and other popular attractions are best accessed by car. Visit the The New Mexico Department of Transportation website.Browse Albuquerque rental cars.
Best time to visit
Albuquerque is in the desert, and as such it has very hot summers, with average highs in July in the low 90s F (low 30s C). This time of year also sees frequent thunderstorms. The best time to visit is fall, when the weather is warm but not too hot, and you can attend popular festivals like the International Balloon Fiesta. During the winter, snow attracts skiers to the nearby Sandia Mountains.
Popular places to visit
Balloon Fiesta Park
Explore the great outdoors with a trip to Balloon Fiesta Park, a popular green space in Albuquerque. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its acclaimed art scene.
University of New Mexico
Enjoy the collegiate vibe at University of New Mexico as part of your travels around Albuquerque. Experience the area's fascinating museums and acclaimed art scene.
ABQ BioPark Zoo
Enjoy a day filled with animal encounters as you watch exotic creatures from all over the world, including powerful and ferocious predators.
Old Town Plaza
You can find out about the history of Albuquerque with a visit to Old Town Plaza. Wander around the area's picturesque gardens or experience its fascinating museums.
ABQ BioPark Aquarium
Make time to visit the sea animals who live in ABQ BioPark Aquarium during your trip to Albuquerque. Wander around the area's picturesque gardens or experience its acclaimed art scene.
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
Learn about the 19 Pueblo tribes of New Mexico through exhibits, performances and craft demonstrations at this popular cultural attraction.
Things to do
Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Rides at Sunrise
Albuquerque: Old Town Culture & Heritage Walking Tour
Mezcla de Culturas Walking Tour of ABQ's Historic Old Town and Sawmill District
Reviews of Albuquerque
3/5 - Okay
Only passing through
4/5 - Good
It was nice just a small desert city
4/5 - Good
I like Albuquerque, the people are great ,worst experience ive ever had at the Ramada
3/5 - Okay
They are ok here at motel.. Tp much people here
3/5 - Okay
ABQ is an ok city. It definitely did not wow me. It truly reminds me as a blue collar working city almost like a Pittsburgh but without all the sunshine. Lot's of homeless people all over the city. I personally would not live here. Weather is ok!
3/5 - Okay
Albuquerque is an ok city. Lot's of homeless people around the city.
Read travel guides and advice on visiting Albuquerque
Ultimate Guide to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
Other places like Albuquerque
- Balloon Fiesta Park
- University of New Mexico
- Albuquerque Convention Center
- ABQ Uptown
- Kirtland Air Force Base
- ABQ BioPark Zoo
- Route 66 Casino
- Isleta Amphitheater
- Sandia Casino
- Old Town Plaza
- University of New Mexico Hospital
- Santa Ana Star Casino
- Sandia Peak Tramway
- Tingley Coliseum
- ABQ BioPark Aquarium
- Isleta Casino
- Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
- Petroglyph National Monument
- Cottonwood Mall
- Isotopes Park
- Expo New Mexico
- New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science
- Coronado Center
- Paradise Hills Golf Club
- Cliff's Amusement Park
- Albuquerque Biological Park
- ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden
- El Rey Theater
- The Downs Racetrack and Casino
- Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center
- J&R Vintage Auto Museum
- Albuquerque Dragway