Albuquerque is sometimes overlooked when it comes to tourist spots, but people who live here know the truth: it really has something for everyone. From experiencing authentic New Mexican culture to hiking, biking, golfing, or just checking out the local shops and restaurants downtown, the city has so much to offer we’ve created this list of fun things to do in Albuquerque.
If you are lost in a sea of restaurants, hotels, and itineraries, wondering about what to do in Albuquerque, let us be your guide. There’s no need to look further when you have these things to do in Albuquerque with kids (and without!) documented.
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
Located in the North Valley, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center tells the story and preserves the traditions and stories of 19 Pueblos and the people throughout the Southwest. It features an art gallery showing traditional works from many of these tribes, an attraction that includes permanent displays on technological, social, and religious aspects of life, and an audiovisual room that shows short educational films.
It is located on eight acres of land and features three buildings, including an interpretive menagerie, a performance hall, and an art gallery. The center also has a gift shop where you can find handmade crafts created by Native American artisans.
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By Chris English, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 2401, 12th St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, United States | Timing: 09:00 am to 04:00 pm, Monday: Closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/eXr3iPWnZYjRMgkv9 | Phone Number: +15058437270
Fishing at Tingley Beach
Tingley Beach is a little-known gem among the Albuquerque attractions. The beach itself is located at the start of the Tingley Recreation Area, on the banks of the river Grande. This river cuts across the city and is the only navigable river in the area.
Along with being a great place to relax, this one is also home to some incredible birds, especially in the spring!
By Asaavedra32, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Albuquerque, NM 87104, United States | Timing: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/xD5BAvW4WHKVrtzL6
Choose Craft Beer at Marble Brewery
One of the most popular places to enjoy a drink in Albuquerque is Marble Brewery’s back patio. There are four main brews they serve here: The Oatmeal Stout, IPA, Marzen, and American Pilsner. But the crowd favorite is the Oatmeal Stout. It is a deep, robust beer that gives a strong smoky aftertaste and goes well with a wide variety of food.
However, their seasonal IPAs, such as the Blood Orange IPA, are also highly recommended! This seasonal IPA is made with blood-orange peel and has a unique flavor profile.
By Abqbeergal, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 111 Marble Ave NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102, United States | Timing: 11:00 am to 12:00 am | Google Map Location: https://g.page/marble-brewery-Albuquerque?share | Phone Number: +15052432739
Boca Negra Canyon
Boca Negra Canyon is a fantastic spot to find peace and solitude. It is a hidden treasure of the Southwest located not far from the busy city. The canyon is a part of the Petrified Forest National Park and features beautiful Painted Desert scenery that you will find nowhere else in the city.
Hike through the narrow canyon trails with a colorful red rock to find your own private beach on the Rio Grande River. Here you can catch some serious sun, kick back and enjoy some quiet time by yourself.
Address: Atrisco Dr NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120, United States | Timing: 08:30 am to 04:30 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/h4TZLmB959hprfCK7 | Phone Number: +15058736620
New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science
The New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science (NMMNHS) is fun for kids and adults to learn more about natural history. The attraction has ten exhibit halls, an IMAX theater, and an amphitheater.
It houses over 50,000, about 8 million specimens, and an extensive array of interactive exhibits covering prehistoric to modern times. Many of the exhibits are hands-on, and there is always something new to explore.
By Asis Carlos, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 1801 Mountain Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, United States | Timing: 10:00 am to 04:00 pm, Monday – Tuesday: Closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/excmdiAmFnvrVSeC9 | Phone Number: +15058412800
Petroglyph National Monument
If you are an art lover and enjoy learning about history, and science, this is a place worth your time. Additionally, if you are interested in or studying anthropology or archaeology, this is a must-see location in Albuquerque.
Located 12 miles northwest of downtown, the Petroglyph National Monument protects more than 2,000 individual sites containing some of the most extensive and best-preserved petroglyphs in the United States. It is no wonder why it was recently certified as one of the 20 most beautiful museums globally by TripAdvisor.
By Skarz, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Western Trail NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120, United States | Timing: 08:30 am to 04:30 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/QDHHJjfQK9aM2BXa8 | Phone Number: +15058990205
Cliff’s Amusement Park
One of the things to see in Albuquerque is Cliff’s Amusement Park. Located across the street from Isotopes Stadium, it has some of the best family-friendly rides since it opened in 1969. Fun for all ages, Cliff’s Amusement Park offers tons of rides, including a roller coaster, bumper rides, and kiddie rides.
This is the only amusement ground in New Mexico and offers more than 22 rides for everyone in the family. There are plenty of live shows and rides to keep you entertained, along with special holiday shows and rides like Santa’s Wonderland in December. The ground itself has a warm and friendly atmosphere, making it easier to enjoy the attractions and rides.
By John Phelan, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 4800 Osuna Rd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109, United States | Timing: For details visit https://www.cliffsamusementpark.com/plan-your-visit/park-hours/ | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/eCKqiiQbXXXUXnLt5 | Phone Number: +15058819373
Explora
A walk through the garden, an opportunity to explore, without having to actually explore anything. A chance to see things that are often taken for granted. These are all things that you can find at Explora, one of the most popular galleries in Albuquerque.
This unique attraction features a planetarium, an observatory, and an auditorium that hosts special events and star shows. The 3D Imax hall is the largest south of Denver, and it’s got a 24-foot screen. If you’re looking for something to do with the family, this is it!
Address: 1701 Mountain Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, United States | Timing: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm, Monday: Closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/iFvxGMcPQ7r5ZVv3A | Phone Number: +15056006072
ABQ BioPark
The ABQ BioPark was the first wildlife sanctuary in New Mexico. It is located across the river from Old Town. The expansive sanctuary and aquarium have over 300 species of animals and 1,300 different kinds of plants.
The aquarium and sanctuary also offer all kinds of programs for everyone, from animal feeding sessions to sleepovers.
The BioPark and aquarium have playgrounds for school field trips, birthday parties, and summer camps for kids. For the adults, they organize various classes as well. The place is open year-round with animals and aquarium exhibits at display 365 days a year!
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By Sgerbic, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 2601 Central Ave NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, United States | Timing: 09:00 am to 05:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/4RnBq81BPGMnDrnH6 | Phone Number: +15057646200
Rio Grande Zoo
With its unique environment and variety of flora and fauna, the Rio Grande Zoo is one of the most incredible places in Albuquerque. With more than 300 animals and 1,000 different species to see, the possibilities for exciting animal encounters are endless.
The Rio Grande Zoo is one of the most famous attractions in the Southwest. For any animal lover, this is an absolute paradise. Whether you are traveling with your family or taking your littles on a field trip to the zoo, this place guarantees hours of entertainment.
By Cburnett, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 2901 Candelaria Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107, United States | Timing: 08:00 am to 05:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/zxJ4ptAArJaRR2SW9 | Phone Number: +15053447240
Golden Crown Panaderia
What travel guide to Albuquerque would be complete without the excellent Golden Crown Panaderia?
A real treat, this bakery specializes in sweets from an impressive 50-foot display. With all sorts of goodies, from pastries to tortillas, there’s more than enough spread at Golden Crown to keep your whole party happy and full of yummy foods.
Address: 1103 Mountain Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102, United States | Timing: Wednesday – Saturday: 07:00 am to 08:00 pm, Sunday: 10:00 am to 08:00 pm, Monday – Tuesday: Closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Cwn2JCY5NQtDmwR66 | Phone Number: +15052432424
Rattlesnake Museum
At first, you may not believe us – that there’s a museum devoted to rattlesnakes – but don’t let its unassuming entrance fool you! The Rattlesnake Museum is a fantastic place and a must-see if you’re traveling through Albuquerque.
It was founded by local taxidermist J.D. Chandler in the year 1997. There are over 10,000 rattlesnakes here, along with several fascinating facts about these fascinating creatures. Located just two blocks from the historic Old Town district, home to several hundred tourist-friendly businesses and restaurants, the Rattlesnake Museum is as intriguing as it is fun!
Address: 202 San Felipe St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, United States | Timing: 11:30 am to 05:30 pm, Sunday – Monday: Closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/nuTB3q8xyhBN4Wgh6 | Phone Number: +15052426569
Balloon Museum
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, you must visit the Balloon Museum and International Balloon Fiesta. This 19-acre attraction holds the world’s most extensive collection of hot air balloons and memorabilia, with more than 100 exhibits and a wind tunnel for testing new designs.
The highlight of the attraction is its three enormous hangars containing scale models of balloons from all over the world. You can also get a glimpse of the inside of the hangars by checking out their webcam. This attraction makes the perfect backdrop for all events – birthdays, celebrations, and even weddings.
Address: 9201 Balloon Museum Dr NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113, United States | Timing: 09:00 am to 05:00 pm, Monday: Closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/uH8kRnLB5dyDXg6o6 | Phone Number: +15057686020
National Hispanic Cultural Center
The National Hispanic Cultural Center, also known as NCC, is a part of the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian in Albuquerque. Nestled in the heart of downtown, the center encompasses art and history while teaching and preserving the origins of Hispanic culture.
The center has something for everyone, from watching a play at the Kiva auditorium to witnessing a magic show at the center’s Flea Market Magic Concert. The center also organizes several exciting events throughout the year for those who want to learn more about the native culture.
Address: 1701 4th St SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102, United States | Timing: 10:00 am to 04:00 pm, Monday: Closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/39TYEoiZSoXjrs1L9 | Phone Number: +15052462261
San Felipe de Neri Church
If it’s your first time here, you have to check out the San Felipe de Neri Church. This distinctive Gothic revival style landmark was graced with a beautiful golden dome in 1924. Located in the heart of downtown, at the corner of 2nd St SW and 5th St NW, it serves as both a house of worship and an art gallery.
The San Felipe de Neri Church is a historic building built in 1793 by Spaniards who only lived there for four years but left some beautiful features for us to appreciate today.
By John Phelan, CC BY 3.0, Link
Address: 2005 N Plaza St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, United States | Timing: 09:00 am to 02:00 pm, Saturday – Sunday: Closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/tsDjKvkeuhisfy7m7 | Phone Number: +15052434628
Get Spooky with The Haunted Kimo Theatre
The Kimo Theater was built between 1929-1930. The space was used for live performances by many of your favorite actors, actresses, and musicians. The stage here has hosted Thelma Todd, Bob Hope, Laurel And Hardy, Abbott And Costello, Zorro, Bing Crosby, Sophie Tucker, Fanny Brice, The Marx Brothers.
Having witnessed several crucial moments in history, the building stands tall as an iconic monument, one that is rumored to be haunted! In fact, this place is considered one of the most haunted places in the state of New Mexico. With a history that stretches back to the late 1800s when it was part of the military fortification, the building has several sinister secrets and stories at its heart.
By Daniel Schwen, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 423 Central Ave NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102, United States | Timing: For details, visit https://www.abqtickets.com/location/kimo-theatre | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/wEkndZkat7z4f7AZ9 | Phone Number: +15057683522
The Albuquerque Museum
The Albuquerque Museum is one of the most popular Albuquerque attractions. It is dedicated to the area’s history since 1598 when the Spaniards first established the town. It features a wide variety of exhibits, from artwork to science and everything in between.
There are more than 3,000 artifacts on display at any time, including pottery, textiles, tools, weapons, capes, jewelry, furniture, and paintings. It also displays permanent collections from Hispanic, Native American, and other cultures that live or have lived in the area, along with distinguished traveling exhibitions from around the world.
Address: 2000 Mountain Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, United States | Timing: 09:00 am to 05:00 pm, Monday: Closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/ux6HUHMhxF1qQRsQA | Phone Number: +15052437255
Expo New Mexico
Getting married? Planning a trip? Just curious about cool Albuquerque things to do? Regardless of your reason, there are plenty of reasons why Expo New Mexico is one of the most popular places to visit in Albuquerque.
Even though not the biggest center in town, this expo center hosts several events every month, such as car shows, art shows, and expos. But the best part? There are always free samples of food at Expo New Mexico!
Address: 300 San Pedro Dr NE, Albuquerque, NM 87108, United States | Timing: Sunday – Thursday: 10:00 am to 09:00 pm, Friday – Saturday: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/riDv7sHh1fDCSyVd6 | Phone Number: +15052229700
Albuquerque Zoo
If you’re visiting Albuquerque, you should definitely visit the Albuquerque Zoo. This attraction is known for being one of the most advanced habitats in North America. It’s also recognized as being one of the best attractions to visit with your children.
It offers you several opportunities to interact with nature and interact with wildlife – all in one place. It also ranks in the top 20 attractions in the nation known for its natural beauty and diversity of species in its exhibits. Whether it’s the gorillas or the penguins, the animals here are happy, healthy, and lively!
By Robert Timmons, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: 898 12th St SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102, United States | Timing: 09:00 am to 05:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/ULww9BUcpRCqvDs46
Paseo del Bosque Trail
Paseo del Bosque means “trail through the woods” in Spanish, and that’s the perfect way to describe the forested arroyo as it winds along a meandering course. It is a paved, multi-use trail that spans miles and miles through the ‘bosque’ or forest. It winds 12 miles around Isleta on Grande Blvd. and passes through some of the most gorgeous scenery the city has to offer, including swamps, marshes, and cattail ponds.
The Bosque provides a natural habitat that is lush with plants and wildlife. There are several places to stop for a bit of relaxation, including benches and plenty of trees. The best part about this trail is that it’s free, even the parking! If you want to ride your bike through this excellent county park, there are many different trails of varying difficulty levels to choose from.
Address: Bridge Blvd SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102, United States | Timing: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/QzF6bspUdaaDQeqj6
Teatime at St James Tearoom
The St James Tearoom is one of the oldest tea rooms in the western hemisphere, opened in 1892 by an Englishman named Frank Woods. Architect Joe Fuller designed it to look like a church, with stained-glass windows, Tiffany lamps, and wooden pews for chairs.
St James Tearoom is perfect for a leisurely tea and snack. You can’t miss it when you walk around Old Town. It is a teal-colored shop with an amazing porch; the shop itself is located in the old wing of a home.
By Roger A Smith, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Address: 320 Osuna Rd NE # D, Albuquerque, NM 87107, United States | Timing: Tuesday, Wednesday & Sunday: 10:45 am to 06:00 pm, Thursday – Saturday: 10:45 am to 08:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/5Ma1zAenX8uHQ19C9 | Phone Number: +15052423752
The Turquoise Museum
The Turquoise Museum is a history lesson that you can touch. The collection of Native American turquoise artifacts makes a trip to this place worth your time. Of course, it’s well known that New Mexico is famous for its many mineral deposits but seeing it in effect is a whole other experience.
It is the only museum of its kind in the world. The attraction itself is packed with fascinating artifacts and displays devoted to the history of turquoise. Interesting exhibits include a vast cache of antique Native American jewelry ― pieces that used to belong to private collectors were purchased by the founder, Bruce Payette.
Address: 400 2nd St SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102, United States | Timing: 10:00 am to 02:00 pm, Sunday, Thursday: Closed | Google Map Location: https://g.page/turquoisemuseum?share | Phone Number: +15054333684
Explore Route 66
Running just shy of 2300 miles, Route 66 is one of America’s most famous roads. This seemingly ordinary road has had some extraordinary history.
It has been the subject of numerous songs, television shows, and movies. It now stands as an iconic location and a backdrop for several pictures and memories.
Address: Albuquerque, NM 87121 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/vMo9p71dJmY1HGSt8
Enjoy Live music at Sunshine Theater
If you are planning to visit Albuquerque, New Mexico, you have to swing by Sunshine Theater. It is probably the best local entertainment venue here. It was constructed under the leadership of publisher S. Blair Fowler in 1923, and it was nicknamed “The Jewel Box,” which describes its fantastic interior very well.
Perhaps one of the most unique places in Albuquerque, Sunshine Theater, is a must for any music fan. Founded more than 45 years ago, this 900-seats live entertainment venue has hosted national acts attracting some of the biggest names in pop culture over the years, including Nirvana, Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, Pearl Jam, Shania Twain, among others.
Address: 120 Central Ave SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102, United States | Timing: Monday – Friday: 09:00 am to 06:00 pm, Saturday – Sunday: 11:00 am to 06:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/n5Sw5pTedijor8uR9 | Phone Number: +15057640249
Casa Rondeña Winery
This vineyard is one of the most prominent wine tourism destinations in the southeast, and for a good reason! Casa Rondeña Winery is right at home nestled under the Sandia Mountains. Visitors are welcome to visit the winery, do some wine tasting, and enjoy a Peruvian lunch. Their bestselling wine, the Rondeña Red, has been named after the vineyard itself.
Breathtaking views, incredible wines, and a beautiful setting – you can’t do any better than that on a wine tasting experience. So, head to Rondeña for an experience like no other.
By John Phelan, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 733 Chavez Rd, Los Ranchos De Albuquerque, NM 87107, United States | Timing: 12:00 pm to 07:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/pxNDuupJUT7W5yq29 | Phone Number: +15053445911
Take the Sandia Peak Tramway
If you’re a fan of heights, the Sandia Peak Tramway is a must-do activity. At 10,378 feet above sea level, Sandia Peak gives you the chance to ride an aerial tram from the foothills to the peak of the Sandia Mountains for some magnificent views of Albuquerque and beyond.
Located just five miles northeast of downtown, the Sandia Peak Tramway was built in 1963 and is a prominent local landmark. The peak tramway climbs a 3,000-foot vertical rise from its base to the summit of Sandia Peak, giving visitors sweeping views of the spectacular Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
By AdamSelby, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 30 Tramway Rd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87122, United States | Timing: 09:00 am to 08:00 pm, Tuesday: Closed | Google Map Location: https://g.page/SandiaPeak?share | Phone Number: +15058561532
National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History is a prominent, established place to learn all about nuclear energy and the history of nuclear warfare. It was built in Los Alamos – where the first atomic bomb was created for educational use so people could be encouraged to learn from the mistakes made in the past.
However, this museum is not just about America’s involvement in the creation of atomic weapons during WWII, also known as “The Manhattan Project.” It is also about how the country has worked to prevent nuclear war ever since through international cooperation. The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History is one of the most fun museums in Albuquerque. It has amusing displays about the history of nuclear energy and provides fun for the entire family, including hands-on activities for kids.
Address: 601 Eubank Blvd SE, Albuquerque, NM 87123, United States | Timing: 09:00 am to 05:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/UqZpwHqyxwi3zcKy7 | Phone Number: +15052452137
New Mexico’s largest city is small enough to make it easy to get around but large enough to offer plenty of things to do. This mecca for culture, miles of trails, amusement parks, and museums has something new to offer everyone – there are many Albuquerque attractions that you’ll surely enjoy.
The Duke City is becoming increasingly popular owing to its unique history, strategic location, and of course, the many, many things to do in Albuquerque NM. So, keep this list handy if you are wondering what to do in Albuquerque in the day or at night.
