How to Spend a Long Weekend in Albuquerque

New Mexico’s biggest city is perfect for a quick weekend getaway. Friends, couples, and families looking for outdoor adventures, great meals, or beautiful scenery, will find everything they want in Albuquerque. This city also offers convenient and affordable hotels, historic attractions, awesome adventures, and endless opportunities to make some life long memories. If you’re planning a weekend trip to Albuquerque, check out the list below and start creating your itinerary.

Museums

The Albuquerque Museum of Art and History was founded in 1967 and is known for being one of the world’s leading art, history, and cultural institutions. The museum offers visitors a look into Albuquerque’s unique culture, heritage, and historical background. The museum is also home to a state-of-the-art amphitheater that hosts live performances and educational workshops.  

Science lovers might want to consider checking out the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science for its planetarium and historical galleries. The Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum is another unique museum experience where visitors can learn about the history of balloon flights.

History

Albuquerque Old Town is a historic district that’s full of beautiful and original architecture, shopping, restaurants, hotels, and churches. In Old Town, visitors can see some examples of traditional adobe architecture that has withstood the test of time. You can also book a historic tour through Tours of Old Town.

Petroglyph National Monument is another attraction for history buffs. The monument is a protected area that’s home to one of North America’s largest petroglyph sites. The monument also protects other natural resources, such as volcanic cones and archeological sites. You can view them through self-guided tours.

Dining

Albuquerque has plenty of fantastic eating options. From small family-owned restaurants to fine dining, you’re sure to find something mouth-watering nearby. In Albuquerque’s North Valley, you’ll find Farm and Table, a neighborhood restaurant that specializes in a “homegrown” menu of locally sourced food, beer, and wine. For travelers looking for something with Asian flair, Budai Gourmet Chinese is an award-winning local favorite. Voted the best Chinese restaurant in Albuquerque, Budai offers beef curry, dim sum, and other delicious dishes.

In downtown, you’ll also find The Artichoke Café, which serves New American cuisine. This casual bistro is the perfect place to stop for lunch and offers fresh, seasonal dishes.

Adventure

In the Sandia foothills, located on Albuquerque’s eastern edge, you’ll find the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway. It rides high above New Mexico’s beautiful terrain and offers stunning views. The ride is about 15 minutes long and is a popular year-round attraction for tourists who aren’t afraid of heights.

If you want to get outside, the Elena Gallegos Open Space the perfect destination. It’s home to the Elena Gallegos Picnic Area and Albert G. Simms Park. Visitors can experience a range of outdoor fun, with stunning views of the Sandia Mountains, Jemez Mountains, Mt. Taylor, and the Tijeras Arroyo. The park offers horseback riding, picnic areas, biking, and hiking.

Albuquerque has something for everyone, and your weekend trip will be anything but dull. Visit some of the places listed above, and you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable weekend.