Location: Albuquerque
Top Things to do in Albuquerque
The 10 Best Art Galleries in Albuquerque, New Mexico (NM)
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. Amapola Gallery
2. Genuine Southwest Art & Gifts
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 13 reviews
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.
3. Onyx Expressions
4. Wright's Indian Art
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 15 reviews
Wright's Indian Art brings handmade, one-of-a-kind Native American art straight from the artists to the public. The gallery is known for carrying the best of the best in quality and the artists we work with include a mix of veteran award winners and up and coming younger artists. With over 25 different tribal affiliations and over 15 forms of art represented, you will find no shortage of amazing pieces that you can connect with. Wright's is also home to the "Hangin'with the Masters" artist showcase series. This is a monthly event featuring Native American artists and their beautiful work. The artists sell their own work direct to the public during the event, and most events include a live demo, an educational lecture, a question and answer session, or other interactions that allow the public to get to know the artists in an intimate setting. Refreshments are provided and all shows are free to attend. We are the oldest continuously operating business in Albuquerque, open since 1907.
Reviewed By SantaFeNana - Albuquerque, United States
Tucked in an unassuming strip away from the tourist center of Albuquerque, this gallery - the direct descendant of a trading post, that has been in the same family for generations - has some of the best Native American art outside of a museum. The owners and employees are all knowledgeable and helpful, and also are respectful of your budget. They seem to be as interested in educating the public and in supporting the artisans whose works they display, as they are in making a sale. After you have gawked at the over-rated and sometimes over-priced galleries in Santa Fe, it is refreshing to visit Wright's in Albuquerque to find exactly the right pot, weaving, painting, piece of jewelry. or unique item for you. Whether this is your first authentic Indian art, or an addition to a collection, don't buy until you have checked out Wright's. As a former resident of Santa Fe, I can vouch for this hidden gem.
5. Santisima
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 9 reviews
Reviewed By regalosdelsol - Las Cruces, United States
My review comes from a different POV. I'm an artist and I work with Santisima. Exclusively and by choice. This is a gallery that not only has an amazing collection of original artwork in a variety of prices, but this gallery also treats their artists with respect and kindness. The owner is Johnny Salas and if he happens to be in the gallery when you're there, introduce yourselves and enjoy his vibrant and colorful personality. Johnny is a natural storyteller and will be happy to talk to you about his artists and their work. Then take the time to walk around the gallery. And walk around it again. And again. You will find artwork that cannot be found anywhere else. Santisima focuses on art that is expressive of our New Mexican heritage, including a sprinkling of Spanish inspired religious works and of course, Mexican inspired Dia de Los Muertos original works. If you are in Albuquerque, take the time to find this gallery and enjoy the burst of color and life that encompasses the cultures of Mexico and New Mexico. We are a multi-cultural state and Santisima is a wonderful reflection of all things New Mexico. Felicidades!
6. Chimney Butte Gallery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 6 reviews
Reviewed By Airforcebrt - Belleville, United States
I love love love this shop! Prices are great,jewelry is spectacular! The best part is conversation with Eric the owner!
7. Aurora Borealis Glassworks
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
Reviewed By rikrax - Overland Park, United States
We spent an afternoon making a several glass paperweights at the studio on a Saturday. It was a lot of fun - I really like interactive activities like this, where you get to do something! The owner, Jeff Schmidt, was a good teacher and he makes sure you don't totally mess up your work. You have to try hard to let something go horribly wrong - or not pay attention at all. The studio is in his back yard, in a residential neighborhood. We were surprised about that. It's set up something like a garage so the large door opens to allow fresh air to circulate. Cooling down your glass pieces takes over night in a process called "annealing." Be prepared to come back the next day to pick up your piece and grind a flat spot on the bottom. Grinding our 5 pieces took about an hour.
8. KD Neeley
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Visit the KD Neeley Art Gallery, studio, and performance/event venue. Feast your eyes on some of the best artwork in Albuquerque and enjoy the colorful atmosphere of the painted floor. Food and refreshments are easily accessible just next door and it's walking distance from the Albuquerque Convention Center. Pet-friendly. Mature content may be on display for some art exhibitions.
9. Gallery Hozho At Hotel Chaco
10. Albuquerque Photographer's Gallery
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