Albuquerque, a remarkably
beautiful oasis in the high desert, offers an exciting array of activities for
all ages and interests. Whether its mountain biking or hiking, golfing or
skiing, touring one of Albuquerque’s vineyards or browsing museums, galleries,
and shops, there is a vast range of choices for any visitor.
The city is gracefully
spread out across an elevated valley along the banks of the Rio Grande River,
with the Sandia Mountains rising beyond and to the east. It is in the center of
New Mexico, approximately 240 miles north of the Mexican border and 55 miles
southwest of Santa Fe.
Discover Albuquerque’s colorful past when you explore Historic Old Town, where
the Villa of Albuquerque was founded in 1706. Within walking distance are
several museums, including the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History and the New
Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science. There are also hundreds of shops,
boutiques, and art galleries to enjoy. As you stroll down Central Avenue in Old
Town, you will find yourself on historic Route 66, which once seemed much larger
in its role as the connector between Chicago and Los Angeles. Some landmarks
still remain.
Revel
in Albuquerque’s present, as you watch hundreds of hot air balloons ascending
into blue skies during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the world’s
largest, most photographed balloon event.
Hikers
will find that Albuquerque has some excellent and very challenging trails in the
Sandia Mountains, as well as less strenuous routes west of town through
Petroglyph National Monument. Looking for the ultimate hiking experience?
Taking the beautiful 7 mile long, La Luz Trail to the top of the Sandias is the
answer. The trail passes through high desert and pine forest, and offers
spectacular views of Albuquerque, the West Mesa and the mountain ranges beyond.
There are also gentle hiking trails in the 270 acre Rio Grande Nature Center, 4
miles northwest of downtown. Trails wind through meadows and groves, and pass
the habitats of local wildlife. There are also several trails in the Albert G.
Simms Park, which both hikers and mountain bikers enjoy.
It is
possible to leave downtown and be on the slopes at the Sandia Peak Ski Area in
less than an hour. There you will find 26 downhill skiing runs for a range of
abilities, and the cross-country skiing attraction of the Sandia Crest National
Skiing Byway. Sandia Peak is easily accessed via the Tramway or Highways 14 and
536.
In the
summer, mountain bikers can travel on Sandia Peak's chairlifts with their bikes
for some extreme downhill cycling. The Sandia Lakes Recreation Area, just 10
miles north of Albuquerque, has three lakes well stocked with trout and bass.
About a dozen companies offer hot-air balloon rides.
Spanish
priests began growing grapes and making wine in the mid-17th century, and local
wine production experienced a revival in the 1960s that continues to the present
day. There are now several vineyards in or near the city that offer tastings and
tours. Three of New Mexico’s native American pueblos are in the Albuquerque
vicinity. Hand crafted pottery, arts and crafts, and fresh baked goods are
offered at the markets within the pueblos.
Albuquerque combines a
unique blend of multi-culturalism, natural beauty, treasured historic
attractions, spectacular climate (with four distinct, though temperate,
seasons), museums, galleries, fine food, and great shopping. The city offers a
variety of dining options ranging from restaurants and cafes with a quaint and
casual atmosphere to the elegant ambiance of fine dining.
Spend an unforgettable
holiday in a land rich with the blend of Native American, Mexican, Spanish and
Western cultural traditions. Visit and experience Albuquerque.
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