What to do with 1 day in Albuquerque, in New Mexico,

I have been fascinated by the landscapes, the architecture and the food of the New Mexico for some time (do not embark on the debate Green vs Red Chili Pepper!) I finally had the chance to visit as part of a student in the southwest of Tucson in Albuquerque with my daughter, who is an astronomical student at the University of Arizona.

We started by driving from Tucson to Las Cruces, in New Mexico. After a fantastic visit to the national monument of White Sands and a visit to SpatialWe spent the night TRuth or consequencesBefore heading for Albuquerque. On the way, we stopped at Very large paintingHousing the National Observatory of Astronomical Radio (and generally associated with its appearance in the film Contact.)

All these stops left us only 1 day in Albuquerque, in New Mexico, so we needed to do a lot! But if it’s all the time, you should visit the 505, simply follow our route below.

What to do with Albuquerque New Mexico

Note: Our trip was organized by Visit Albuquerque and Nativo Lodge, including accommodation and entry of attractions. All opinions are mine. This message contains affiliation links. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I can receive a small commission.

Morning in Albuquerque

If you visit Albuquerque in summer, I would recommend starting early to beat the heat. We have fed with fresh juices at Juicewhich was located just near our hotel (but they have several locations.)

We then went to the Petroglyph National Monument Visitor Center. Although you can see hundreds of petroglyphs sculpted by Amerindian and Spanish settlers 400 to 700 years ago, you will find none in the reception center. But it’s ok, because the Rangers will help you determine the trails you want to follow and head for these locations.

Boca Negra Canyon is perfect for families who do not want to spend the day on the trails, or for those who have a limited time. There are three short trails with 100 petroglyphs that you can cover in an hour. Keep in mind that you are a fairly steep hike without any barrier between the path and the edge of the mountain. However, once you arrive at the top, you are rewarded with views through Albuquerque.

For this with more time, you can head to Rinconada Canyon, which has 300 petroglyphs on a 2.2 -mile desert hike. Or, Piedras Marcadas Canyon is a 1.5 hour loop with 300 petroglyphs.

After your hike, I would suggest cooling with a visit to Indian cultural center Pueblo. This magnificent museum in the city center of Albuquerque gives an overview of the 19 Indian Pueblos in New Mexico. It reminds me a little of the First Americans Museum of Oklahoma City, which represents the native nations of this state.

Lunch in Albuquerque

El Pinto was elected the best restaurant of the new Mexican in Albuquerque and it is clearly an albuquerque monument. They say they have the “best nachos in America”, but I would say to go for Chile Con QUESO. There are abundant seats inside and outside on the shaded terrace, making it a pleasant place for a meal or a midday dinner.

Albuquerque afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the 100 specialized stores and galleries that cover the 10 blocks of historic buildings in Old Town Albuquerque. Make sure to push the alleys next to it, where picturesque architecture is as attractive as the stores inside. If you tire of gift shops, take a look at the head in the church of San Felipe in Neri, which was built in 1793 or people look at the central square.

When the sun begins to dive, head to the Sandia Peak Tramway. The 2.7-mile tram is not for those who are afraid of heights, but that will give you a breathtaking view of the city and beyond. In fact, you can see eight percent of the New Mexico compared to the summit. The journey takes 15 minutes in each direction.

At the top, there is a small reception center with overhangs on both sides of the mountain. You may be able to hike or next time, allows it for a while. When we were there, all trails were closed due to a high risk of forest fire.

Albuquerque dinner

Of course, there are so many options for dinner, but I suggest you return to the old town to try Church Street Cafewhich has a mixture of sandwiches, salads and new Mexican dishes.

Where to stay in Albuquerque

We were hosted at Nativo LodgeWhich is conveniently locate Just off of the Highway and Features “Artist” Rooms with Paintings from Local Native American Artists (Like Our Star Wars-Themed Room.) However, i think i would have previous attractions, such as the Albuquerque hotelor the Central parq hotel (Recommended by a friend.)

You can also enjoy more space with an airbnb like those offered by Coveted casitas.

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