When it comes to exploring the Southwest, the amazing Albuquerque cannot be missed! With beautiful sunsets, deep history, rich cultural heritage, New Mexican cuisine, and their famous hot air balloons, a weekend trip to Albuquerque is a must.
This unique Southwest city is a perfect destination for travelers looking for history, culture, and outdoor adventures. In this post, I am sharing how to spend one weekend in Albuquerque. It’s my hometown, so I do believe it’s the best 3-day Albuquerque itinerary out there! 🙂
Side note: This post was written by Yvonne, an Albuquerque local. This way, you can make sure you are reading the most accurate one weekend guide to Albuquerque on the internet. Check out the author’s bio at the end for more about Yvonne!
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Table of Contents
How do I get to Albuquerque?
Whether flying or driving into this Southwest city, one thing is sure, visitors to Albuquerque will need a car. Some of the great Albuquerque sites are not easily accessible using public transportation. When visiting Albuquerque, having your own car to explore at your leisure is best.
For visitors flying into the Albuquerque International Sunport, renting a car is easy. From the airport, shuttles take visitors from the airport to the rental car center where getting a car is usually fast and easy.
What is the best time to visit Albuquerque?
With hot summers, cold winters, and windy springs, the best time to visit Albuquerque is in the fall. From September through early November, Albuquerque is generally sunny and warm with daytime highs in the 70s-80s.
October is also the month of the city’s most famous festival, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Because of the great weather, and the famous hot air balloons, fall is Albuquerque’s peak season. If you plan on visiting during that time, make sure to book your accommodations and rental car far in advance.
Where should I stay in Albuquerque?
Albuquerque offers many options for accommodations for any budget and traveler preference. From hotels in the city’s Old Town, to Uptown and the resorts at the nearby Pueblos, there are many options to choose from.
The best place to stay in Albuquerque is in the city’s historic Old Town. Hotel Chaco and Hotel Albuquerque are two unique hotels in the area.
However, if you are open to driving, staying at a resort on a nearby Indian Pueblo is a great option. Both Isleta Resort & Casino on Isleta Pueblo and Sandia Resort & Casino on Sandia Pueblo are about a 20 minute drive or less from Old Town Albuquerque.
If you are visiting for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, staying near the intersection of I-25 and Alameda makes getting to and from Balloon Fiesta park relatively easy, although you will still hit traffic!
When choosing a place to stay, it is best to avoid Albuquerque’s South Valley, the Jackson Area in East Albuquerque, or the International District which is also known as the “War Zone.”
Albuquerque Hotel Recommendations:
- Budget-friendly Option: Holiday Inn Express & Suites: Albuquerque Historic Old Town
- Mid-range Option: Hotel Albuquerque
- Luxury Option: Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa
- Dog-friendly Stay: Hotel Chaco. Their hos-pet-ality package includes pet treats, beds and bowls for your dog.
- Unique Option (if applicable): Nativo Lodge. This hotel offers “artist rooms” painted by different local Native American contemporary artists. Each room is a unique one-of-a-kind art installation.
3-Day Albuquerque Weekend Itinerary
Day 1 in Albuquerque
Morning: Visit the Rio Grande Nature Center and Walk the Bosque
Start off your day like a local with a morning walk in Albuquerque’s Bosque, a riparian cottonwood forest that grows alongside the Rio Grande. While the 16 mile paved multi-use trail has seven access points throughout the city, the best way to walk the Bosque is to first visit the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park.
At the Rio Grande Nature Center you will learn more about the Bosque’s ecosystem. The park also has a native plant garden, wildlife viewing areas, and a picnic area. From the Nature Center, you will walk across a bridge over the acequia to reach the Paseo del Bosque Trail.
Fun Fact: Bosque means forest in Spanish.
The Rio Grande Nature Center State Park is $3 per vehicle. The gates open at 8am for an early morning hike. However, the Visitor Center hours of operation are 10am-4pm daily.
Afternoon: Visit Old Town Albuquerque
After an invigorating morning walk in the Bosque, spend the afternoon exploring nearby Old Town Albuquerque.
In Old Town, you will find the original town square and parish surrounded by New Mexico’s iconic adobe buildings. Housed in these buildings are cafes, restaurants, and artisan shops. And depending on the day, there might even be artists selling their wares near the side of historic buildings.
Old Town Albuquerque is also home to a handful of local museums like the Albuquerque Museum, Explora, and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science. There is something for everyone in Old Town!
Book a guided or self-guided tour of Old Town here!
·Evening: Grab a bite to eat at El Pinto
A full day of walking and taking in the sites means it is time to relax and try some delicious New Mexican cuisine. End the day with a trip to El Pinto Restaurant in Albuquerque’s North Valley.
At El Pinto, be prepared to answer the official state question “Red or Green?” The question refers to New Mexico’s famous chile, of course. And the best answer to the question is “Christmas” which means that you will get both red and green chile.
New Mexico’s chile can be very hot! If spicy chile isn’t for you, try some other local favorites like sopapillas, piñon, anything made with blue corn, and New Mexico’s state cookie – biscochitos.
Day 2 in Albuquerque
Morning: Visit Petroglyph National Monument
Rise and shine for a Southwest sunrise over the Sandia Mountains. Then head over to Albuquerque’s West Side for a visit to Petroglyph National Monument.
First, stop by the Visitor Center to learn more about the history of the Monument and the importance of the site to the community. Then drive over to Boca Negra Canyon where incredible views of the City of Albuquerque await for you atop of Boca Negra Canyon.
Afternoon: Explore the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
Next, head back into the heart of the city to visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. The “Gateway to the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico,” the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is home to art galleries, performance spaces, a restaurant, a garden, and shops.
If you are interested in experiencing the Cultural Dance Program or a signature event like a Pueblo Art Market, check out the calendar before your visit.
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center tickets range from $8-$12 per person and are available online or at the door. Tickets are not required to visit the Indian Pueblo Kitchen or the Indian Pueblo Store. And children under five are free.
After visiting the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, stop by the Starbucks at Avanyu Plaza and grab a coffee at the largest Starbucks in New Mexico, which also happens to be Native-owed!
Evening: Visit a local Brewery
Albuquerque has many local breweries with lots of great craft beer. While in town, visit a local brewery and try a local beer. Here are three notable Albuquerque breweries to try. And these are just a few!
- Bow & Arrow Brewery, the first Native Woman-owned brewery, has one Albuquerque location with food trucks onsite daily.
- La Cumbre Brewery has two Albuquerque locations with food trucks onsite daily.
- Marble Brewery has three Albuquerque locations, pet friendly patios, and food trucks. They also serve New Mexico wine.
Day 3 in Albuquerque
Morning: Grab a traditional New Mexico breakfast burrito
Wake up bright and early for a sunrise hot air balloon ride! You’ll get to peacefully soar over Rio Grande Valley during a 1 hour ride.
Now it’s time for brunch! No trip to New Mexico can be complete without indulging one of the local breakfast delights – a breakfast burrito.
There are many places in town to try a breakfast burrito. The Frontier Restaurant near the University of New Mexico campus has great breakfast burritos. With several locations throughout Albuquerque, Weck’s is another place to try the local favorite. Some other places to grab a breakfast burrito include: Garcia’s Kitchen (any location), Duran Central Pharmacy, and Twisters.
Afternoon: Visit the Anderson Aburzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum
What is one thing Albuquerque is famous for (other than Breaking Bad)? Hot air balloons! After your morning balloon ride, you will likely want to learn and see more!
With the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta taking place every October, the city is a hot spot for ballooning year round. To learn all about hot air balloons, visit the Anderson Aburzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum.
For an afternoon pick-me-up, stop by Piñon Coffee House on Alameda Boulevard after visiting the Balloon Museum. Piñon Coffee House offers local coffee infused with Southwest flavors.
Evening: Ride the Sandia Peak Tramway
On your last night in Albuquerque, take a ride to the top of the Sandia Mountains on the Sandia Peak Tramway. It is best if you plan your trip so that you arrive at the 10,378 foot crest of the Sandia Mountains just in time for sunset. Then you can watch the sun set over Albuquerque’s volcanoes before the city’s lights flicker on.
If you really want to splurge on your last night in town, make a dinner reservation at TEN 3, the restaurant on top of Sandia Peak.
Tickets for the Sandia Peak Tramway are available online only the day before and the day of your trip. Both one way and round trip tickets are available and they range in price from $38-$22 + a $3 Grounds Fee.
Other things to do in Albuquerque
- National Museum of Nuclear Science & History: This museum features exhibits that explore the development of atomic energy, its impact on society, and its role in shaping world events.
- National Hispanic Cultural Center: Get a taste of Hispanic culture right here. Catch a show, see some art, and soak in the colorful New Mexican vibes at this awesome cultural center.
- A Day Trip to Santa Fe: Admire adobe buildings, shop for cool art, and chow down on tasty Southwestern grub. It’s a quick getaway with major charm.
Where (else) to Eat in Albuquerque
Other places to try traditional New Mexican Food:
- Indian Pueblo Kitchen: offers a unique dining experience that celebrates the culinary traditions of the Native American Pueblos of New Mexico. The restaurant showcases indigenous ingredients and flavors, providing a taste of the region’s rich cultural heritage.
- Sadie’s of New Mexico: Sadie’s is a beloved New Mexican restaurant known for its flavorful and authentic Southwestern cuisine. From enchiladas to green chile stew, Sadie’s offers a diverse menu that highlights the bold flavors of the region.
- Casa de Benavidez: This family-owned restaurant serves traditional New Mexican dishes with a home-cooked touch. They’re known for their breakfast and brunch offerings, including dishes like huevos rancheros and breakfast burritos.
- The Original Cocina Azul: The Original Cocina Azul is renowned for its classic New Mexican comfort food. Their menu features a range of dishes prepared with red and green chile, offering visitors an authentic taste of New Mexico’s culinary heritage.
- Frontier Restaurant: Frontier Restaurant is a popular eatery near the University of New Mexico campus. It’s known for its all-day breakfast options, including their famous breakfast burritos. The restaurant also offers a variety of New Mexican and American dishes.
- Perico’s: Perico’s is a local favorite known for its delicious Mexican and New Mexican cuisine. From tacos to sopapillas, their menu offers a wide range of dishes that showcase the vibrant flavors of the region.
Other local favorites include:
- Blake’s Lotaburger: Blake’s Lotaburger is a regional fast-food chain that originated in New Mexico. They’re known for their flavorful and juicy hamburgers, as well as their signature “Lotaburger” with green chile. The restaurant emphasizes using locally sourced ingredients for a taste that’s distinctly New Mexican.
- Dion’s Pizza: Their menu includes a variety of pizzas, salads, subs, and sandwiches. One of their standout features is their green chile ranch dressing, which adds a Southwestern twist to their offerings.
- Antiquity: Antiquity is a charming fine dining restaurant that has been a staple in Albuquerque for decades. The restaurant is known for its cozy atmosphere and classic American cuisine with a touch of elegance. It’s a favorite spot for special occasions and romantic evenings, offering dishes that range from steaks to seafood.
Weekend Trip to Albuquerque Map
Other Tips to know before visiting Albuquerque
- Albuquerque is over a mile high in elevation. Take some time to adjust to the altitude and be mindful of signs of altitude sickness.
- The chile is hot! If you want to try it but are unsure about the heat, ask for it on the side.
- Lock your car and do not keep any valuables inside, especially overnight.
- Tune in to 89.1 FM to hear traditional NM music while you are in town.
One Weekend in Albuquerque isn’t enough
As you can see, there’s SO much to do in the Albuquerque that one weekend would never be enough to see it all. You can customize your 3-day Albuquerque itinerary based on what interests you. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find plenty of entertaining activities to create your own fun-filled, jam-packed adventure weekend in Albuquerque!
What else would you add to this Albuquerque weekend trip?
About the Author!
Yvonne is one half of the family travel blog MPA Project Travels which she creates with her teenage son. A Burqueña through and through, Albuquerque is Yvonne’s hometown. Follow along in Yvonne’s travels on Instagram or Pinterest!
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