27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Albuquerque (NM)

Albuquerque, New Mexico is a city with a name that’s fun to say and an environment that’s even more fun to be a part of.

The southwest comes alive when you visit Albuquerque, New Mexico and see how much diversity and beauty exist here.

We’ve compiled a list of the best and most fun stuff to do in Cleveland.

1. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

One of the most fun things to do in Albuquerque is checking out the annual Balloon Fiesta.

This event takes place over the course of nine days every October.

If you think that seems like a lot of fuss to make over something that’s pretty ordinary, realize that these are not the kinds of balloons you see every day.

Instead, Albuquerque, New Mexico uses the Balloon Fiesta to showcase massive hot air balloons.

These are ones that are spectacular in every possible way, with lovely designs, impressive sizes, and colors that pop out.

As these hundreds of balloons rise through the sky, you’ll be sure to cheer.

Don’t worry if you can’t schedule your Albuquerque trip around the Balloon Fiesta.

Another fantastic feature of this southwestern city is the Balloon Museum.

You can come here on a weekend visit to find out everything worth knowing about the art of ballooning.

Address: 4401 Alameda Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113, USA

2. Tingley Beach Fishing

It might not be Malibu or Venice, but Tingley Beach is still worth a visit.

This is one of the top attractions for those in the ABQ who are looking for some natural splendor.

A manmade construct comprised of multiple ponds, Tingley Beach is the place to be if you’re looking to catch some fish.

Fish you can catch at these Albuquerque, New Mexico ponds include catfish and rainbow trout.

It’s easy to reel them in and let them go back.

For adults who are looking for activities to do with their children, it’s awesome to teach them about the ins and outs of fishing at Tingley Beach.

You can also go for a hike around Tingley Beach, rent a paddle boat, or get a bite to eat at the local restaurant.

The whole area is one of the best things to see in all of Albuquerque.

Take a trip out to Tingley Beach for a truly excellent Albuquerque experience.

Address: Paseo del Bosque Trail, Albuquerque, NM 87102, USA

3. Sandia Peak Tramway

One of the best ways to experience a city is to get a great view of it.

Albuquerque is such a beautiful city, and the Sandia Peak Tramway is exactly what you need if you want to take advantage of these sights.

Once you’ve made your way up to the top, you’ll know that this is unlike anything else you’ll ever get to experience.

On this ride, you’ll be brought to the apex of Sandia Peak.

This one of the most beautiful attractions in all of the southwest.

Upon reaching the observation deck, you’ll be able to take in the whole of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

It might move you to tears seeing just how much absolutely beauty is below you, as well as thinking of all the kind and generous souls going about their days.

Other things you can do around this area include going for hikes and taking in the sunset.

This experience isn’t just fun. It’s also incredibly empowering, as you feel like you’re literally on top of the wold.

Thanks to the Sandia Peak Tramway and the glorious view of Albuquerque, you’ll get a view you’ll always hold dear.

Address: 30 Tramway Rd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87122, USA

4. Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

The cultural influence of southwest American Indians is completely incredible and needs to be discussed as much as possible.

If you’re looking to fill in gaps in your education, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico is a great place to visit.

At this center, you can get to the heart of certain Native American customs.

Pueblo Indians, named for their homes, have a strong culture with an emphasis on farming.

At the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, you can learn about their traditions, and view gorgeous art, such as pottery.

Another custom you can learn about is their nature-aware dances.

There are all kinds of events hosted at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, such as galas and artist demonstrations.

These are fun and show just how cool Native American culture is.

Every aspect of Native American culture is worth examining, and the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center gives you a great opportunity to learn a whole lot.

Address: 2401 12th St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, USA

Planning a road trip around New Mexico? Be sure to check out our awesome lists detailing the best things to do in New Mexico & things to do in Santa Fe, NM!

5. Albuquerque Old Town

While there are plenty of modern aspects of Albuquerque, New Mexico that are quite innovative and excellent, some of the most enduring aspects of the city are rooted in older customs.

One of the most fun places to visit in Albuquerque is the Albuquerque Old Town.

At Albuquerque Old Town, you can see how the unique architecture of old has not fallen out of favor.

It is used for all kinds of great businesses, including museums, restaurants, and shops.

You get a chance to appreciate not only what’s inside of these businesses, but also what’s outside.

Their adobe designs are emblematic of what makes the southwest so very fantastic.

Whether you want to go to the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, the San Felipe de Neri Catholic Church, or another delightful part of Albuquerque Old Town, you have so much to look forward to.

When visiting Albuquerque Old Town, you can see how a city can show the utmost respect towards its history.

Address: N Plaza St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, USA

6. Breweries

One of the most burgeoning scenes in Albuquerque, New Mexico is that of craft beer.

All sorts of microbreweries can be found in the area, highlighting distinct flavor profiles that will make any discriminating beer drinkers swoon.

Adults who are looking for fun activities in Albuquerque need to tour these places.

Some of the best breweries in Albuquerque include Red Door Brewing Company, Tractor Brewing Company, and Marble Brewery.

All of these have distinct beers to try and fascinating stories to hear about how they came about.

For instance, at Marble Brewery, you can try a delicious sour ale known as a Passionate Gose.

There ‘s been an amazing progression in terms of what we understand beer is capable of being.

No longer are we reduced to just thinking that beer has to be something watery and bitter.

Going on Albuquerque brewery tours isn’t just fun. It’s also highly enlightening.

7. Albuquerque Museum

One of the best aspects of Old Albuquerque is the Albuquerque Museum.

This is one of the top places to visit in Albuquerque, New Mexico if you want to learn all about the region and how it has grown through the ages.

There’s also a very cool focus on the amazing art of the Southwest.

The history of Albuquerque and New Mexico goes well back before they officially became part of the United States.

Centuries of progress can be viewed at the Albuquerque Museum.

Among the items on display are vintage photos, classic fashion pieces, and lovely paintings.

All of this adds up to a museum that underscores just how spectacular this city is.

You can learn about how Albuquerque became what it is and how it continues to inspire.

For anyone who’s looking for attractions in Albuquerque that will give them a comprehensive overview of the city, come to the Albuquerque Museum.

Address: 2000 Mountain Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, USA

8. New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science

A visit to the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science is your chance to get a stronger idea of what makes the world around us so noteworthy.

At this Albuquerque museum, you can see how the world became as we knew it, starting from the age well before humans to advancements that have happened in our times.

It’s not every museum that gives you a look not only at the time of dinosaurs but also the dawn of microcomputers.

The New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science is a place that understands how magical every aspect of development is and how the changing face of our world has given us so much to discuss and study.

When you come to the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, you should be sure to keep your mind as engaged as possible.

It won’t be hard when you see all the fantastic exhibits and places like the Planetarium and Naturalist Center.

If you’re looking for educational places to visit in Albuquerque, you need to this museum.

Address: 1801 Mountain Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, USA

9. Golden Crown Panaderia

Bakeries are wonderful, but you might feel like once you’ve seen one, you’ve more or less seen them all, with a few exceptions.

When you come to Albuquerque, you need to put those ideas to rest, because they have a bakery that’s unlike any you’ve ever experienced.

Golden Crown Panaderia is an impossibly cool business, featuring goods you’re can’t find at just any corner bakery.

Run by a father and son team, this New Mexico bakery has become one of the most beloved institutions around Albuquerque.

It’s not hard to see why when you try their empanadas, green chile bread, and the biscochito cookie, free of charge.

There’s also delicious New Mexico-style pizza and hearty sandwiches to eat.

When you come to Golden Crown Panaderia, you can quickly feel like you’re part of a place that is absolutely welcoming, both to regular patrons as well as those visiting for the very first time.

You should also see why it’s regarded as one of the best bakeries in all of Albuquerque.

If you’re looking for dining attractions in Albuquerque, come to Golden Crown Panaderia.

Address: 1103 Mountain Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102, USA

10. Petroglyph National Monument

The dawn of art goes far beyond the dawn of recorded history.

Petroglyphs, carvings made into rocks, give us a strong window into what our earliest ancestors viewed and were inspired by.

At the Petroglyph National Monument, you can see art from those who lived in what is now Albuquerque.

Thousands of petroglyphs can be sighted at this monument.

What’s notable is that many of these were from historic ages, rather than prehistoric ones.

The influx of Spanish settlers in the 16th and 17th centuries had a very negative influence on the Pueblo Indians and their ability to practice their customs.

However, you can take solace in how many of these have survived.

Petroglyphs were made with deliberate purpose to show what a culture stood for and to provide certain kinds of communication.

Even though some of these messages are lost to time, you can still appreciate the beauty of it all.

This easily makes the Petroglyph National Monument one of the greatest points of interest in Albuquerque.

Address: Western Trail NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120, USA

11. Explora

Your kids might not be anywhere near their school, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have opportunities to learn.

When visiting Albuquerque, New Mexico, you want to give the youngest members of your party a chance to be wowed by the educational opportunities.

Explora is a cool place to visit that helps get maximum mileage out of your child’s mind.

As its name suggests, Explora is all about discovery.

Children and adults can delight in exhibits such as “Light, Shadow, Color” and “Math Moves!”

What makes these especially wonderful is that it’s interactive.

You and your children can see how exactly these concepts apply to the real world by taking part in the provided activities.

Depending on when you come to Explora, you could also take in special events, such as ones at the live theater.

Liveliness is what Explora is all about.

It shows that turning on your mind is a surefire way to be excited and inspired and that it can be a superb example to set for your children.

Address: 1701 Mountain Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, USA

12. New Mexico State Fair

When you plan a visit to Albuquerque, New Mexico, you might want to come to in September.

That’s because the New Mexico State Fair takes place then.

This one of the best state fairs in the country today.

For ten days, people in and near Albuquerque can descend upon Expo New Mexico for tons of fun.

Among the attractions at the New Mexico State Fair is art, animal exhibits, live entertainment, and of course, the rides.

You can experience serious thrills with your family and friends at the New Mexico State Fair.

If you’re looking for a taste of regional culture, be sure to take in one of the rodeo events.

You’ll quickly be able to realize why the New Mexico State Fair is so well regarded.

You can arrive early in the afternoon and still be sticking around well into the night.

Should you be paying a September visit to Albuquerque, there’s no question that you should go to the New Mexico State Fair.

Address: 300 San Pedro NE Albuquerque, NM 87108, USA

13. Cliff’s Amusement Park

Even if you’re not in town for the New Mexico State Fair you can still have excitement with rides in Albuquerque.

Cliff’s Amusement Park is a resoundingly endorsed place for fun in Albuquerque.

There are plenty of rides and things to do at this place.

One of the biggest draws of Cliff’s Amusement Park is the roller coasters.

One of these, the New Mexico Rattler, is particularly lauded.

Additionally, you can check out rides like the Demolition Disco and the Cliff Hanger freefall.

Right next to the amusement park is the Cliff’s Watermania.

This water park is the place to be for visitors of all ages who want to cool down and have the time of their lives at the same time.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Albuquerque, plan a trip to Cliff’s Amusement Park.

Address: 4800 Osuna Rd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109, USA

14. ABQ Trolley Co.

If you’re looking for sightseeing opportunities in Albuquerque, be sure to check out ABQ Trolley Co.

This is a business that brings you around the city, giving you not only a wonderful view of the region but also a thorough glimpse into its history.

When you take a ride with ABQ Trolley Co., you can expect to have a whole host of facts shared about this city.

You can find out about the development of Albuquerque and other fun facts.

It’s an experience that can show you just how much life and love rest inside the souls of those in the Duke City.

ABQ Trolley Co. can also take you by various points of interest in Albuquerque, including Route 66 and Old Town.

This is just a sample of what’s fantastic about Albuquerque, but it’s nonetheless a great show of what all this city has to offer.

Address: 800 Rio Grande Blvd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, USA

15. Albuquerque Zoo

Something that’s particularly cool about Albuquerque is that you can feel influence not only of the surrounding area but also of cultures and environments throughout the planet.

One of the best examples of this is at the Albuquerque Zoo.

This is one of the most must-see attractions in the whole state.

Animals who call the Albuquerque Zoo home include elephants, apes, and hippos.

Different exhibits focus on different continents, such as Africa and Australia.

You can definitely discern just how much thought the curators of the Albuquerque Zoo have put into making sure their animals are cared for and their guests are satisfied.

The best of Albuquerque is shown at the Albuquerque Zoo.

If you love animals and want to see as many species as possible, come to this zoo.

If you want to check out others in the southwest, you should definitely consider visiting Reid Park Zoo in Tucson, Arizona.

Address: 903 10th St SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102, USA

Exploring other parts of New Mexico? Why not check out some of the things to do in Roswell, NM?

16. ABQ BioPark

The ABQ BioPark is one of the top attractions for nature lovers.

Here, you can experience biodiversity like few other tourist attractions can.

This place swings you across the world in all sorts of directions, but somehow, you’re staying in Albuquerque through it all.

The aforementioned zoo and Tingley Beach are part of this, as is an aquarium, and botanic garden.

Living species, be they covered in fur, scales, or leaves, can be a gateway into understanding how vital biodiversity is.

A focus on conservation on behalf of the ABQ BioPark personnel shows how important it is to care for those who may be negatively impacted by human behaviors.

Activities, like visiting the butterfly pavilion or going on Bosque Sunset Walks, are some examples of what to do when you come to these places.

This whole BioPark is a striking example of what to do when visiting Albuquerque.

If you’re looking for fun with a whole lot of nature to learn about, come to the BioPark.

17. Elena Gallegos Open Space

For an Albuquerque sightseeing experience that defies description, you need to come to Elena Gallegos Open Space.

This whole area, a combination of the Albert G. Simms Park as well as the Elena Gallegos Picnic Area, is so utterly gorgeous, you may feel you’ve come to some far-off world, light years away from Earth.

Elena Gallegos Open Space is set against the Sandia Mountains.

Even if you don’t ascend these mountains, which can be quite treacherous, even for experienced climbers, you can appreciate their majesty.

You can also appreciate the various flora, including soapweed yucca and Apache plume.

Animals such as coyotes and cougars have been known to inhabit this area.

Elena Gallegos Open Space doesn’t just give you things to see.

It also gives you things to do like horseback riding, hiking, and camping.

If you need any convincing that this is one of the most beautiful states around, then coming to Elena Gallegos Open Space will set you right.

Address: 7100 Tramway Boulevard Northeast, Albuquerque, NM 87122, USA

18. St. James Tearoom

Even on vacation, it can be hard to escape the hectic feeling of everyday life.

If you’re looking for stuff to do in Albuquerque that puts you out of the stranglehold of modern times, there’s a business that can certainly do that.

Hopefully, it’s your cup of tea.

St. James Tearoom started in 1999, the purpose is to give guests a place to just let go and forget monotony and all the frustrations that come with it.

When you step into St. James Tearoom, you may feel like you’re in a time and place long since passed.

However, once you’re there, you may not want to leave anytime soon.

Furnished with absolutely posh delight, from the chairs to the cups, St. James Tearoom is like charm encapsulated in one location.

There are all kinds of amazing teas to be sampled here.

Be sure to come to St. James Tearoom for an exquisite Albuquerque experience.

Address: 320 Osuna Rd NE # D, Albuquerque, NM 87107, United States

19. American International Rattlesnake Museum

Some people shudder at the very sight of snakes, and the trademark sounds of the rattlesnake can be even more unnerving.

However, if you’re looking for things to do around Albuquerque that can dispell some notions regarding certain animal species, then you should definitely come to the American International Rattlesnake Museum.

It provides an educational experience that is personal as well as informative.

This is one of the most personal educational experiences around Albuquerque because it lets you see rattlesnakes from all over the world.

Don’t worry, about them being any threat, as they’ll be secure in their habitats.

But even if they weren’t, rattlesnakes are quite docile creatures are will only pose a threat if someone or something does so first.

Visiting a rattlesnake museum might not be your most traditional idea of tourist attractions, but what makes Albuquerque so neat is that it doesn’t conform to stale ideas of tradition.

One of the best things to do in Albuquerque is visiting the American International Rattlesnake Museum.

Address: 202 San Felipe St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, USA

20. Casa Rondena Winery

One of the best travel hacks for wine lovers traveling around Albuquerque is to visit Casa Rondena Winery.

This Albuquerque attraction is for people with great taste, not only in wine but also in scenic beauty.

It’s no wonder things like the Festival de Música Rondeña occur here, a fantastic musical event.

Regardless of whether you gravitate towards white or red wine, you’ll be in good hands here.

The tasting room lets you try all sorts of complex wines.

You can get more information from the employees, the knowledge of whom makes every sip taste all the richer.

If you find yourself hooked by a wine and wish to take it home, you can.

There are all kinds of wines to choose from in the shop, along with things like chocolates and cheeses.

Fine wine is one of the most valued things in all the world, and Casa Rondena Winery is one of the most valued parts of Albuquerque.

Address: 733 Chavez Rd, Los Ranchos De Albuquerque, NM 87107, USA

21. Rio Grande Nature Center State Park

Another place to commune with nature in Albuquerque is at the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park.

The ground, water, and animals make it one of the coolest things to check out during a weekend visit to Albuquerque.

You should be prepared to be astonished by all the invaluable nature around this place.

The Rio Grande Nature Center State Park is against the famous river, the Rio Grande.

Just looking at this mighty river is incredible, to say nothing of renting a boat and flowing down it.

You can also go for a hike along the many trails and see some feathered friends at the birding exhibitions.

If you don’t want to feel rushed during your visit to Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, you can go camping.

Spending the night can really put you closer with nature.

For other camping opportunities in the southwest, you should check out Canyon Vista Campground in Flagstaff, Arizona.

Address: 2901 Candelaria Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107, USA

22. Albuquerque Isotopes

One of the top things to do in Albuquerque for groups of sports fans is to take in a baseball game.

The Albuquerque Isotopes is the hometown team.

This minor league team brings fans from in and around Albuquerque to Isotopes Park to cheer on their team to get home runs.

On a cloudless spring or summer day, there’s nothing like sitting in the stands at an Albuquerque Isotopes game.

They might be minor league, but there’s major league excitement to be had watching this team play.

A very noteworthy feature of this park is its high elevation.

As a result, balls struck by batters can receive a much greater uplift and result in more impressive feats.

Even if you’re not a baseball fanatic, going to an Isotopes game is one of the best things to do in Albuquerque.

You can watch a great team in action and enjoy the community of fans you’ve become a part of.

Being near so much good energy is a very special experience.

Address: 1601 Avenida Cesar Chavez SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

23. Unser Racing Museum

If you want to feel like you’re near absolute speed greatness, you need to come to the Unser Racing Museum in Albuquerque.

This museum chronicles a riveting history of a local racing dynasty, the Unsers.

There’s also an examination of how the world of racing has evolved.

At this Albuquerque museum, you can learn all about the Unsers and compare the infancy of racing to where it is today.

If you want to try your hand at being a race car driver without the risks, the racing simulator is a great thing to try.

So much fun and excitement can be had here.

It didn’t take long after the introduction of cars for people to want to start racing them.

Unser Racing Museum taps into the natural fascination there is towards speed.

You should agree that visiting this museum is one of the top things to do in Albuquerque.

Address: 1776 Montaño Rd NW, Los Ranchos De Albuquerque, NM 87107, USA

24. KiMo Theatre

If you’re looking for things to do around Albuquerque that are a bit on the creepy side, you should check out the KiMo Theatre.

One of the best things to do in Albuquerque at night is to see a movie or live concert at the KiMo Theatre.

When you hear about this venue’s history, you may find yourself fascinated by the macabreness of it.

Although the KiMo Theatre was founded in 1927, it achieved notoriety in 1951, when a boiler explosion caused the death of a young boy in the lobby.

Legend has it that he continues to haunt the venue.

Even if you don’t believe in ghosts, you can still be entertained/spooked by this tale.

But if you’re looking for one of the top 10 places in the southwest to catch a show, the KiMo Theatre is where to go.

Classic films are screened here, and acclaimed musical acts play here.

You can also attend thought-provoking conversations with great authors.

Check out upcoming events at the KiMo Theatre today.

Address: 423 Central Ave NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102, USA

25. Hotel Andaluz

Wherever you slept tonight or last night or two weeks ago isn’t likely to hold a candle to Hotel Andaluz.

It’s no shade meant towards those places.

It’s that a night spent at this Albuquerque hotel is unlike any lodging experience you’ve had and any you’ll have in the future.

What makes Hotel Andaluz so special to people from and visiting Albuquerque is its history and design.

As the inaugural high-rise hotel in New Mexico, it set a tremendous standard for hospitality in the state.

It’s clear why it’s been named an Albuquerque Historic Landmark, among other plaudits.

The hotel doesn’t just rest on the laurels of history, as it continues to be well-kept and spectacular for every who enters.

Whether you spend a week, weekend, or day at Hotel Andaluz, you should be able to find the wonders of this Albuquerque hotel.

Reading about it is great, but experiencing it in person is even better.

Taking loge at the Hotel Andaluz is definitely one of the best things to do in Albuquerque.

Address: 125 2nd St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102, USA

26. Green Jeans Farmery

One of the most fun things to do in Albuquerque is to visit the Green Jeans Farmery.

This place takes shops and restaurants to the next level.

Not only are these businesses great, but so is the concept of this whole Albuquerque complex.

Sustainability is clearly a big part of the Green Jeans Farmery.

How else could you explain its construction of used shipping containers?

However, don’t think that this place is just about recycling old ideas.

When you eat at great Albuquerque restaurants like Chumley’s Southwestern, you’ll see how much this city is about being forward-thinking.

Along with the restaurants, you can see dynamic shopping experiences like that at Sacred Garden, a medical marijuana dispensary.

Green Jeans Farmery is a great example of what to see in Albuquerque if you want to see innovation in action.

Coming here is one of the top things to do in Albuquerque.

Address: 3600 Cutler Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110, USA

27. Albuquerque Little Theatre

If you don’t know what to do during your Albuquerque trip and love live entertainment, you should come to the Albuquerque Little Theatre.

This venue dates back to 1930 and has brought in generations of theatre lovers.

All kinds of tastes can be satisfied with the quality of entertainment here.

Stage productions are hosted at this theater.

Among the shows that have appeared here include “Les Miserables” and “Cats.”

Being able to experience these riveting productions with a crowd of other theater devotees is second-to-none in terms of joy.

You could also unlock a love for live theater inside your kids.

There truly is nothing quite like experiencing a great production.

Come to Albuquerque Little Theatre if you want to see just how much Albuquerque values the arts.

Address: 224 San Pasquale Ave SW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, USA

Start Planning Your Trip To Albuquerque

Albuquerque gives visitors and residents both so much fun and enrichment.

If you’re looking for a great place to spend a weekend or longer, come to Albuquerque.

Anyone who is dying to know “what is there to do around Albuquerque?” should know that there are so many opportunities.

There are so many fun things to do in Albuquerque and it’s one of the most beautiful places in the US.

If you want to be near southwestern beauty at some of its finest levels, you should come to Albuquerque.