10 Hidden Gems Things to do in Albuquerque That You Shouldn't Miss

February 7, 2022 Marlin Saiz

Whether you're into history, culture, outdoor adventures or just in need of some new and unique scenery, Albuquerque offers exciting attractions for all ages and interests, anytime of the year. In the historic section of Old Town, ancient Indian and Spanish cultures come to life through old churches, quaint shops and piazzas, winding brick paths and adobe benches. Browsers can spend a whole day making their way through the more than 100 stores, boutiques and galleries that sell Southwestern goods as well as unique products from around the world. During the winter holiday season, Old Town is adorned with small lit candles and thousands come to stroll through the streets, listen to live music and celebrate. It is truly a sight to see. But the history doesn't stop there. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center and the Petroglyph National Monument offer a glimpse of old Indian customs and art. Families will find plenty to do at the Albuquerque Biological Park, which features a zoo, aquarium and botanic garden. Outdoor types will find ample opportunities for hiking, biking and golf. After working up an appetite, head to any number of fine restaurants that serve up a choice of hot or even hotter New Mexican cuisine. To top it all off, take a ride on the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway for spectacular views of all this vibrant city has to offer.
Restaurants in Albuquerque

1. Breaking Bad RV Tours

Excellent
89%
Good
7%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
1%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 517 reviews

Breaking Bad RV Tours

Miss Breaking Bad and love Better Call Saul take a tour in the RV just like the one on the show. We tour over 20 Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul Locations. Tour include a light lunch or dinner and we get out and take pictures at Los Pollos Hermanos, The Car Wash, Walts House, Better Call Sauls Office, The Super lab. Locations can change daily depending on filming Sechedule.

2. History and Ghost Tours of Old Town

Excellent
86%
Good
11%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 573 reviews

History and Ghost Tours of Old Town

We know Old Town & we'll show & tell you everything! Guided, outdoor, story-telling Tours, along the 315 year old paths & walkways of historic Old Town Albuquerque, share colorful assemblage of fascinating back stories & tantalizing tales. High Noon History, Legends & Lore Tours available 12pm. Private VIP History Tours: 2pm. Ghost Tour of Old Town NIGHTLY at 8pm. Professional Tour Guides entertain you with tales mixed with chills & chuckles, this is the perfect Old Town outing! No wonder the Ghost Tour is oldest & most famous Ghost Walk in the entire State of New Mexico! Special Tours & Events on select dates: Pedicab Tours, Ghost Hunting Tours, Pub Crawls, Step-on Guide Services, Private or Group Tours (1 to 100). Whether you're in Old Town for just a few hours or for several days, we'll ensure that you won't miss a thing! You will have the complete Old Town experience! Advance pre-paid reservations REQUIRED no later than 2-hours before Tour start time. Safe Practices! #AbqTours

3. New Mexico Jeep Tours

Excellent
98%
Good
1%
Satisfactory
0%
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Terrible
1%
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5.0 based on 533 reviews

New Mexico Jeep Tours

Tours out of ALBUQUERQUE and SANTA FE. With over 300 days of sunshine, we're OPEN YEAR ROUND! The Land of Enchantment abounds in opportunities to explore the mysteries of its ancient past and wonders of its landscapes. Ancestral ruins, historic homesteads, petroglyphs, petrified forests and geologic marvels lie hidden in its hills and valleys. Wild horses run free on its mesas. You are invited to join us and experience why New Mexico is called the Land of Enchantment. Offering tours from 3 hours to all day, New Mexico Jeep Tours will take you off the beaten path to places rich in history and beauty that few have the opportunity to see. All tours include water and snacks and are private and personal so we can cater to the interests and abilities of your group. Please visit our website for detailed descriptions or our tours and more information.

4. Routes Bicycle Tours & Rentals

Excellent
95%
Good
4%
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1%
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5.0 based on 171 reviews

Routes Bicycle Tours & Rentals

Routes Bicycle Tours & Rentals offers fun, easy and safe bike rentals and tours throughout Albuquerque. See the sites, learn the history, take photos, and make memories. Enjoy your ride - let ROUTES be your guide! Tours include Biking Bad, ABQ Bike & Brew, Winery Tours, Daily Scenic Tours, Mountain Biking Adventures, Balloon Fiesta Bike Tour, NM Chile Tour, and more! Visit our website for a full list of award-winning tours. Open 7 days a week - free delivery and pick-up. Locally-owned and operated.

5. New Mexico Veterans' Memorial, Albuquerque

1100 Louisiana Blvd SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108-5009 +1 505-256-2042 http://nmvetsmemorial.org
Excellent
80%
Good
16%
Satisfactory
4%
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Terrible
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5.0 based on 51 reviews

New Mexico Veterans' Memorial, Albuquerque

Reviewed By ChrisPE2014 - Teddington, United Kingdom

This is a hidden gem with a wonderful backdrop of the mountains. Beautifully laid out with some fine, thoughtful memorials including a wonderful work by artist Steve Borbas ('Holes in our Hearts', a memorial to New Mexicans lost in the Vietnam war). Talking to the veteran volunteers in the visitor centre was a real treat.

6. Genuine Southwest Art & Gifts

1919 Old Town Rd NW Suite 2, Albuquerque, NM 87104-1369 +1 505-243-1410 [email protected] http://www.genuinesouthwest.com
Excellent
85%
Good
15%
Satisfactory
0%
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5.0 based on 13 reviews

Genuine Southwest Art & Gifts

Whether you're a resident or a tourist, we have that perfect "slice of New Mexico" for you! Our store is artist owned by Charlene Kalbfell and Valerie Isenhower. We have a variety of original handmade artwork made by 33 artists who live in New Mexico. We have art and gifts in 25 different art mediums: tapestries, woodwork, pottery, punched tin, blown glass, copper work, stained glass, paintings, jewelry photography and more. In our store you'll find functional and decorative art with a southwestern flair.

Reviewed By TeamWard - Nottingham, United Kingdom

While wandering around Old Town this is the best gift shop, charming service, delightful items to find and plenty of choice, grab a holiday souvenir, well worth a shop.

7. Petroglyph National Monument

6001 Unser Blvd NW Western Trail at Unser Blvd., Albuquerque, NM 87120-2069 +1 505-899-0205 http://www.nps.gov/petr/index.htm
Excellent
50%
Good
37%
Satisfactory
10%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1,874 reviews

Petroglyph National Monument

Up to 15,000 petroglyphs or prehistoric rock art images have been found on the West Mesa volcanic escarpment, located along a 17-mile canyon outside of Albuquerque.

Reviewed By jbushman2017 - Fresno, United States

Perfect for Covid times. This site is an archaeologists dream as there are few places where you can see so many petroglyph's in such a place as you will see here. Visitors drive to the visitor center (which is closed) to pick up a map that shows three places within the monument area where you can visit the petroglyphs. My wife and I picked up a map and then drove 10 minutes down a road to visit one of the sites. The site included three very small walking trails (all less than 500 meters) from which you could get up close to these amazing petroglyphs. Visiting is all free and it is only about 15 minutes from downtown by car. Do wear shoes and bring water. Please "like" this review if you find it helpful.

8. American International Rattlesnake Museum

202 San Felipe St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104-1442 +1 505-242-6569 http://www.rattlesnakes.com/
Excellent
50%
Good
38%
Satisfactory
9%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 426 reviews

American International Rattlesnake Museum

This museum houses the world's largest collection of different species of live rattlesnakes and aims to correct common reptilian misconceptions.

Reviewed By maman823 - Albuquerque, United States

Quite a terrific immersion into the world of these amazing reptiles along with other exhibits of world known naturalists. Loved it. Certainly worth the admission

9. Rio Grande Nature Center State Park

2901 Candelaria Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107-2965 +1 505-344-7240 [email protected] http://www.emnrd.state.nm.us/prd/rgnc.htm
Excellent
63%
Good
28%
Satisfactory
7%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 259 reviews

Rio Grande Nature Center State Park

This 270-acre region of riverside forest and meadows offers hiking trails along the Rio Grande River and is considered an excellent spot for birdwatching and viewing wildlife.

Reviewed By LaurettaYoung - Portland, United States

Excellent interpretive center with information about geology, flora and fauna with great gift shop. Went on some of the trails which were easy to follow down to the Rio Grande. the pond right by visitor center was full of turtles and migratory ducks and even some Sandhill Cranes landed in the nearby fields. Great way to spend a few hours learning about the area.

10. Casa Rondena Winery

733 Chavez Rd NW North Valley, Albuquerque, NM 87107-5600 +1 505-344-5911 [email protected] http://www.casarondena.com/
Excellent
72%
Good
15%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
3%
Terrible
5%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 408 reviews

Casa Rondena Winery

A trip to Casa Rondeña Winery will send you into the thicket of the Rio Grande Bosque. Among the cottonwoods sits a bit of Spain. The breathtaking beauty of the architecture paired with the complexity and finesse of the wines will leave you wondering if you've been transported out of Albuquerque. Casa Rondeña has been chosen "Best Winery" 7 years in a row by Albuquerque the Magazine readers! Come experience the magic yourself!

Reviewed By kmas73 - Albuquerque, United States

Casa Rondeña is the perfect spot for a peaceful afternoon flight of wine. Not only is their wine delicious (the Cab is out of this world) but their staff is incredible! Robert in the tasting room is so welcoming and friendly, making you feel like you're sitting in your own backyard relaxing with your best friend.

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