Albuquerque, New Mexico's largest city, is situated right in the state's center along the Rio Grande. A city of a busy desert crossroads and just the perfect combination of wild and urban. The diverse city offers numerous fun things to do and sights to see throughout the year. Here are the best tourist attractions in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
2401 12th Street NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104
505-843-7270
Collectively manage by 19 Pueblos of New Mexico, the cultural center is a necessary stop-off while visiting Albuquerque. Renovated in 2016, today's museum holds interesting displays which demonstrate the stories of the individual artistic traditions of the Pueblos and their collective history, while the galleries render varying temporary exhibitions. They are arranged in a crescent all over a plaza that is consistently used for crafts demonstrations and dances. The cultural center also features a retail gallery, a huge gift shop, and the highly recommended Pueblo Harvest Cafe.
Sandia Peak Tramway
30 Tramway Rd, Albuquerque, NM 87122
505-856-7325
The longest aerial tram in the United States ascends 2.7 miles by the desert floor in the city's northeast corner to the 10,378 ft. summit of Sandia Crest. The views from above are spectacular and breathtaking at any time however they are particularly brilliant during sunsets. The summit complex features a sky bar, a fine dining restaurant, a small area for skiing, and gift shops. The Tramway includes more than 100 hiking trails alluring to a variety of explorers and adventurers. The Sandia Mountains' beauty is accessible to all visitors from the crest above the Tramway.
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
4401 Alameda Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113
505-821-1000
The high desert surroundings of Albuquerque make for one of the best locations for hot air ballooning. For nine days, every October beholds thousands of city visitors and hundreds of balloons joining the International Balloon Fiesta. The cold morning airspace is filled with hot air balloons from around the world. The balloons are inflated again during sunset for the "balloon glows" evening event. The Fiesta also features a wide variation of performances which includes Special Shape Rodeo, Balloon Discovery Center, Photo Contest, and AfterGlow Fireworks.
Albuquerque Museum
200 Mountain Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104
505-243-7255
Previously named the Albuquerque Museum of Arts and History, the Albuquerque Museum is a showpiece that should not be missed while visiting the city. The museum features an engaging gallery about the history of Albuquerque which is interactive, imaginative, and comprehensible. Aside from that, there is also a permanent art collection of New Mexico that extends to the Taos' 10th-century masterpieces. The displays include historic wood carvings, Spanish armor suits, and traveling exhibits. Albuquerque Museum is a must-visit place while exploring the Old Town.
ABQ BioPark
903 10th St SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102
505-768-2000
ABQ BioPark, located near the Old Town, is home to the Rio Grande Botanical Gardens, Tingley Beach, the Rio Grande Zoo, and the Albuquerque Aquarium. With the BioPark's upgrades and expansion over the years, the zoo has become a top destination holding hundreds of species many of which are endangered. The aquarium is ideal for shark-loving kids and visitors whereas the botanical garden is an abundant environment to find insects and butterflies. The Tingley Beach is a perfect spot for an all-day family trip since it features rental pedal boats and three selected fishing ponds.