Albuquerque, a pleasant gateway to the state of New Mexico, is situated between the Rio Grande and the Sandia Mountains, in an elevated valley. Outdoor recreation and ancient cultures, as well as amazing natural beauty, are all found here in the ‘Land of Enchantment’. The best of it is in the countryside, so be sure to pick up a rental car in Albuquerque and keep an eye out got national travel deals online.
Getting there
Albuquerque International Airport is located eight kilometers south of downtown and mainly serves major US airlines. Local flights are also available to Alamogordo, Farmington, Questa, Ruidoso, Santa Fe, and Taos. Albuquerque’s Amtrak station services destinations to the east and west daily, via Amtrak’s Southwest Chief service. Greyhound services run throughout New Mexico.
Santa Fe, in the north, is connected to Albuquerque by car rental and then Los Cruces in the south via I-25, running parallel to the Rio Grande River. Albuquerque is linked to Texas and Arizona via the east-west I-40, while other New Mexico towns are accessible from Albuquerque along beautiful scenic drives on additional highways.
Key attractions
the San Felipe de Neri Church, located at the heart of the old town, is among a number of architectural and historical attractions in the area now regarded as a four-block museum. Just outside this area are such important buildings as the Albuquerque Museum of Art, History and Science and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History. Visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center for advice, information and guidance on some of the many pueblos which surround Albuquerque and which play a major part in the city’s and the state’s past.
Out and about
The famous Route 66 runs through the city, offering a pleasant drive littered with historic sights. Those looking for a little adventure should head to Elephant Butte Lake State Park to take part in a range of water sports. Alternatively, Sante Fe and Taos, two hours north of Albuquerque by rental car, are flourishing artistic communities and make interesting daytrips. For skiers and snowboarders, the Sandia Crest National Skiing Byway and Sandia Peak Ski Area offer downhill runs and cross-country opportunities for all abilities. Alternatively, excellent views of Albuquerque, the West Mesa and the far off mountains, are on offer from the 11-kilometre hike along the La Luz Trail. There are good national travel deals to Albuquerque online.
Leisure options
Hiking and fishing are possible at the Rio Grande Nature Center, Albert G Simms Park and the Sandia Lakes Recreation Area а which are all between 6 and 15 kilometres from Albuquerque by car rental. The city is also known for its excellent Mexican cuisine.
Safety
Like any large city, Albuquerque has its trouble spots which might not always be obvious to the visitor. Pickpockets as well as hazards while driving are all things which affect tourists in an unfamiliar environment. We strongly advise on taking out travel insurance for yourself and anyone travelling in your party.