AUTHENTIC NEW MEXICAN FOOD

New Mexico is home to one of America’s most cherished regional cuisines, so it’s no surprise that food is one of the things that people remember most about a trip to Albuquerque. Some people say they moved here just to be closer to the source!

New Mexican cuisine is based on native ingredients such as corn, beans, squash and chiles, and it incorporates Mexican, Native American and Spanish flavors. Chile is always the most important element.

BALLOONS & RIDES

An Event Like No Other

For nine days in October, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® creates an enchanted world of special-shaped balloon rodeos, twilight balloon glows, and vibrant balloon-filled skies. Brisk autumn mornings in the Rio Grande Valley create an otherworldly backdrop for the breathtaking majesty of our most popular event, Mass Ascension of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta®.

And for a completely different kind of ride—and the second of only two ways to get to Sandia Peak Ski Resort—visitors must not miss the Sandia Peak Tram. Rising from the hustle and bustle of Albuquerque, you ascend one of America’s most stunning urban peaks. Reaching the 10,378-foot crest of the Sandia Mountains, an 11,000 square mile panoramic view awaits you. Find out more and get tickets here.

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

You can dive into the Albuquerque’s broader and older heritage at two must-visit facilities: the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, on 12th Street, and the National Hispanic Cultural Center, an inviting campus along the Rio Grande River. Learn, dine, and shop at the IPCC, featuring interactive displays and a teaching kitchen, all co-run by New Mexico’s 19 Pueblos. The NHCC features performing, visual, and literary arts, along with guided tours by museum docents.

If you want to get a little further off the beaten path at some of the city’s more unique—and uniquely awesome—attractions, start at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, which features a world-class planetarium and 3D theatre. Nearby you’ll find the Turquoise Museum, which showcases the southwest’s favorite gemstone with thousands of examples on display. Now step over to the Rattlesnake Museum, with the world’s largest collection of live rattlesnakes. Not for the squeamish!