We’ll admit: We’ve been doing Albuquerque dirty. For years, it’s felt like an afterthought to artsy Santa Fe or outdoorsy Taos — despite being New Mexico’s biggest city. But while we were overlooking it, Walter White’s hometown has quietly been building a case for itself, with diverse neighborhoods, colorful Southwestern art galleries, an epic food scene (you haven’t lived until you’ve had a green chile burger), and cultural offerings that rival its flashier neighbors. Add in the absurd amount of stunning desert scenery (stay at Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm for the dreamiest morning coffee views) — and, yeah, you can consider this our formal apology.
🎆 Historic Route 66 runs straight through Albuquerque, lined with some of the country’s best-preserved neon signs — but that’s just the beginning for art lovers. The city’s also dotted with dozens of vibrant murals and funky galleries, including one that dates back to 1964.
🖼️ Dive into Albuquerque’s Latino and Native American roots at the National Hispanic Cultural Center (which includes a performing arts center, library, and art museum) and the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center (owned by the state’s 19 pueblos), where you can learn more about their traditions, buy art and jewelry made by Natives, and taste traditional dishes at the on-site restaurant.
🌤️ Sure, you may be in the self-proclaimed hot-air ballooning capital of the world — but that isn’t the only way to take in the picturesque landscape. Enter: the Sandia Peak Tramway. A 15-minute ride takes you to the 10,378-foot mountain crest, where you can enjoy sweeping Rio Grande Valley views and hikes through verdant ponderosa forests.
😋 Carne adovada (pork braised in red chile sauce) is to Albuquerque as deep dish is to Chicago. Meaning, you can’t leave without trying it. Specifically, at Mary & Tito’s Cafe, a 63-year-old institution known for hearty portions, authentic flavors, and fork-tender meat.
🍺 Albuquerque has a surprisingly legit craft beer scene, complete with its own beer trail. Whether you follow it or do your own thing, stop at Marble Brewery (don’t miss the lime-infused Mexican-style lager) and Bow & Arrow, the first Native women-owned brewery in the US, where beers get the Southwest treatment with ingredients like blue corn and prickly pear.