What to do and see in Albuquerque, New Mexico (NM): The Best Nature & Wildlife Areas

December 15, 2021 Ying Subia

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. Cibola National Forest

Albuquerque, NM http://www.fs.usda.gov/cibola
Excellent
72%
Good
26%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 183 reviews

Cibola National Forest

A 1.5-million-acre park whose elaborate trail system includes La Luz Trail, which climbs over 3,300 feet in nine miles.

Reviewed By sentimentalnomad - Albuquerque, United States

We love the Cibola Forest bordering the Sandia Mountains! As one person reported, it’s “hiking galore!” There are so many wonderful hikes in this area. Must go at sunset on the “Watermelon” mountains! Hikes range from easy to hard, great for toddlers, true hikers, bikers, & climbers. A little something for everyone!

2. Bernalillo Open Space

9521 Rio Grande Blvd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114-1810
Excellent
0%
Good
100%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.0 based on 3 reviews

Bernalillo Open Space

3. Boca Negra Canyon

Unser Boulevard, Albuquerque, NM http://www.nps.gov/petr/planyourvisit/bn.htm
Excellent
23%
Good
77%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.0 based on 13 reviews

Boca Negra Canyon

4. Mariposa Basin Park

Taylor Ranch Road & Kachina NW, Albuquerque, NM http://www.cabq.gov/parksandrecreation/parks/prescription-trails/87120/marisposa-basin-park
Excellent
29%
Good
29%
Satisfactory
14%
Poor
0%
Terrible
28%
Overall Ratings

3.5 based on 7 reviews

Mariposa Basin Park

5. Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge

7851 2nd St SW, Albuquerque, NM 87105-7495 +1 505-248-6667 http://www.fws.gov/refuge/valle_de_oro/
Excellent
22%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
33%
Poor
33%
Terrible
12%
Overall Ratings

3.0 based on 9 reviews

Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge

Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge, the Southwest's first urban refuge, will serve as an oasis for wildlife and people on a former dairy farm just a few miles south of Albuquerque. Over the coming years this property will be transitioning from agricultural fields to a diversity of native habitats and visitor amenities. We appreciate your support and patience as the refuge is transformed and encourage you to visit and help us grow along the way. Access Update: Starting Wednesday, July 29, 2020, Valle de Oro will move forward with limiting access to the interior of the refuge to pedestrian, equestrian and bicycle access only. Visitors to the refuge in vehicles can park in designated parking areas at the Welcome Center. Access to the adjacent Bosque is scheduled to reopen on August 5th, barring any construction delays. Bosque entrance is located 1.8 miles from multi-use trail head at Welcome Center. Welcome Center building is temporarily closed due to Covid-19.

Reviewed By dbinhou7511 - Houston, United States

So close to Albquerque and a wonderful place to see bird, especially in the winter. Plenty of sandhill cranes and geese were seen, and some beautiful birds of prey. Although parts are under construction, there is still plenty to see.

ThingsTodoPost © 2018 - 2024 All rights reserved.