An Insider’s Guide to Albuquerque

Albuquerque has become an increasingly popular city not only to visit but to move to, named by Insider as one of America’s top Underrated Destinations Everyone Should Visit in their Lifetime and among The Hippest Cities in the US Everyone Under 30 Wants to Move To. It offers a unique history and culture along with fabulous cafes, breweries and art galleries, while outdoor adventure can be enjoyed just minutes away. Whether you’re looking at houses for sale in Albuquerque, have already moved here or are just planning to visit, you’ll find a ton of things to see and do based on insider recommendations.

Guide to Albuquerque

What to See

Old Town Albuquerque has been inhabited for centuries and reflects shifts from Native Americans to Spanish and other European cultures with its central plaza surrounded by colorful buildings and cobbled streets. It’s home to Albuquerque’s oldest building, San Felipe de Neri Church, built in 1793, and offers multiple pieces of jewelry and souvenir shops, museums, galleries, and restaurants.

Just a couple of miles from Old Town, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center showcases art and history exhibits as well as occasional Pueblo dance performances, workshops, and cultural events. The Turquoise Museum offers a fun way to learn more about the area’s turquoise mining – you’ll see the prized gemstone in roadside shops and stores throughout the region.

What to Do

If you like to hike, the Sandia Mountains provide a beautiful backdrop to the city and offer miles and miles of trails to enjoy the area’s natural beauty. For those who would rather enjoy it on a more relaxing pursuit, take the Sandia Peak Tramway that travels three miles up the mountain via cable car, offering a bird’s-eye view of the landscape from the top.

A scenic hot-air balloon flight is on so many bucket lists and is a thrilling way to take in those stunning panoramic vistas, and one of the most appropriate things to do in this “Hot Air Ballooning Capital of the World,” with multiple outfitters offering a variety of experiences. Seeing the sun’s rays touch the Sandia Mountains early in the morning and then toasting to the experience with a glass of bubbly once you come back to the ground is truly unforgettable.

Where to Eat

There is practically an endless number of dining options here, but for breakfast, The Grove is a top spot, renowned for its delectable pastries, breakfast burritos with goat cheese and its homemade bread. Be sure to pick up a passionfruit cupcake to enjoy later. Papa Felipe’s is ideal for lunch, an eatery that’s been preparing every meal from scratch for over 40 years. Daily lunch specials are offered including entrees like Corn Chip Pie and Chicken Chalupa with salsa, fresh tostadas, sopaipillas, red or green chili and a choice of side dish all included.

MÁS – Tapas y Vino is a great choice for dinner, serving creative small plates like Sous Vide Elk Tenderloin and Berkshire Pork Belly. Or head to El Pinto and feast on enchiladas, it’s often named the best restaurant for New Mexican cuisine in the city.