Adorable small towns dot New Mexico’s landscape, but we also have some cool cities. Albuquerque’s major attractions like the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway and the Plaza are fairly well known, but there is so much more to Duke City. Here are 15 reasons why New Mexico’s biggest city is secretly awesome:
1. Albuquerque has distinctive neighborhoods, each with its own personality and benefits.
For instance, outdoorsy people love the recreational opportunities and spectacular mountain views you find on the Eastside, while Nob Hill offers walkability, a funky vibe, and indie businesses.
2. There are plenty of farmers markets.
One market is even held in the previously abandoned Rail Yards. Each Sunday, 80 artisan vendors sell local skincare products, food, and more.
3. The city has breathed life into old industrial buildings.
Check out Green Jeans Farmery, a commercial plaza that is built from upcycled shipping containers!
4. Albuquerque is brimming with indie restaurants, featuring local ingredients and global influences. It’s a destination for foodies in the know.
Of course New Mexican and Mexican cuisines are always popular here, but Albuquerque is also home to a range of Asian, Latin American, European, and Middle Eastern eateries, along with unique gems like an
English tearoom, a speakeasy steakhouse, and a waffleria.
5. If you have a sweet tooth, Albuquerque isn’t just a desert mecca, it’s also a dessert mecca.
"Breaking Bad" has influenced both The Candy Lady (a candy store where you can buy blue candy crystals) and
Rebel Donut (where you can sample the "blue sky" donut). Not a fan of the show? Head to
Buffett’s Candy, which is so retro it’s cool - don’t leave without picking up some pinon nut candy or brittle.
6. You can spend evenings watching the sunset from a rooftop lounge.
The Apothecary Lounge is on the roof of Hotel Parq Central and it affords views of both the mountains and Downtown.
7. Bet you didn’t know that Albuquerque has a burgeoning craft beer scene.
Head to Nexus Brewery, Marble Brewery, or La Cumbre Brewery.
8. There are also a number of wineries.
Gruet is best known for sparkling wines, St. Clair Winery and Bistro has won a host of awards, and Casa Rondena lies in a tranquil, romantic setting.
9. Albuquerque has several haunted hotels where you can stay…
…If you dare.
10. Or nestle into a quaint B&B.
Some, like the Spy House, have fascinating backstories involving World War II espionage. Others, such as the Mauger Estate B&B, are historic and well located.
11. Every major city has its museums, but Albuquerque’s are a little on the quirky side.
You can’t find museums devoted to rattlesnakes, telephones, meteorites, and hot air ballooning just anywhere.
12. Speaking of… while Duke City has many fun annual festivals, the International Balloon Fiesta is the largest hot air ballooning event in the world and it belongs on everyone’s bucket list.
You’ll never forget the sight of the mass ascensions and the nightly "glow" events. The Fiesta is held in October.
13. Albuquerque is an artsy city and that’s especially apparent if you take time to tour its murals here.
14. History buffs and fans of all things vintage get a kick out of the ongoing influence of Route 66.
Flickr/Marcin Wichary
The Route 66 diner transports you to the 1950s.
15. There are more than 28,000 acres of open space and over 650 miles of bike trails in the city.
The parks here may be close to civilization but they feel a world away from it all.
Of course, Albuquerque also has azure skies, plenty of sunshine, staggering sunsets, and panoramic views of the Sandia Mountains. What places and businesses in Duke City do you love?
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