Location: West Old Town
Top Things to do in West Old Town
Things to do in Albuquerque, New Mexico (NM): The Best Museums
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. 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!
5. 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!
6. Rattlesnake Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 12 reviews
Reviewed By TeamWard - Nottingham, United Kingdom
The Rattlesnake museum is a real treat easily located in Old Town with lots of Rattlesnakes in tanks plus a few other creatures some very interesting exhibits and well worth discovering.
7. American International Rattlesnake Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 426 reviews
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
8. Albuquerque Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 616 reviews
The city's rich heritage is the focus at this museum, which features exhibits depicting the art, history and culture of the Southwest.
Reviewed By Mike5466
Very nice museum that requires about ½ day to see. Plan to be there around 11am if you want to take the Sculpture Garden or Old Town free docent-led tours (seasonal – April through November) and around 2pm if you want to do the Gallery free docent-led tour. Free 9am-5pm on the first Wednesday of the month, 5pm-8:30pm on third Thursday of the month, and 9am-1pm every Sunday. There are Family Art Workshops on Saturdays. The day I was there I saw anything from Highlights from the Palace of the Governors (Santa Fe) to New Mexican art, and from Albuquerque’s history to photographs and videos. Ever changing, well laid out, easy to maneuver. Love that outside has many fantastic sculptures. Also on location, a well-stocked museum store and Slate at the museum, a small restaurant with delicious food with outside seating available. Definitely worth a visit.
9. Turquoise Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 309 reviews
The Turquoise Museum and its collection of turquoise have been used as a source of information and pictures for over 22 years. Uncover the mystery of turquoise, delve into its’ rich history, learn about the different mines, specimens, and stories of colorful characters at The Turquoise Museum in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Authors of books, magazines, articles, and research papers have all used the museum as a source of information. Its rich repository of turquoise specimens from over one hundred mines, educations, and histories make it a must see in its’ travel exhibits and permanent location in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The museum is still privately owned and operated to this day. The Museum is closed Sundays, Holidays and Special days please call for before you come.
Reviewed By peterdan
The founder's son was on hand to explain every detail of the fabulous collection of turquoise from around the world. The gems there are thoughtfully set out in various settings and we spent two and a half hours fascinated by the location (originally home to a wealthy woman) and the vast variety of masks, jewelry and polished stones. Truly one of a kind and a must see.
10. Albuquerque Photographer's Gallery
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