Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a city on the rise. Although it may not be as well-known as other cities in the United States, there are plenty of things to do in Albuquerque that make this city special. Whether you’re visiting to explore Native American ruins, shop for artwork, or you’re looking for restaurants in Albuquerque, you will find it all here. For all the Breaking Bad fans who are looking to move here, this is the ultimate guide to the best things to do in Albuquerque!

Related: Find Rooms For Rent In Albuquerque

Must Do Outdoor Activities in Albuquerque

1. Go hiking at Petroglyph National Monument

If you’re looking for an adventurous day out, Petroglyph National Monument is one of the best places to visit in Albuquerque! This is one of New Mexico’s most popular parks, with good reason. It offers a great hiking experience, plus there are also plenty of other activities to fill your day, from horseback riding to scenic drives and museums.

• Cost: Free
• Timings: 8:30am – 4:30pm

2. Go for biking at Michael Emery Trail

A favorite haunt of mountain bikers and runners, the Michael Emery Trail is a winding track that offers incredible views of the Sandia Mountains. You can add this to your list of the best things to do in Albuquerque without any doubt. It is 1.3 miles in length, and the surrounding grassland is home to lots of wildlife, including elk and deer. See if you can spot some as you pass!

• Cost: Free
• Timings: 5am – 9pm

3. Fly above the city on the Sandia Peak Tramway

Sandia Peak is one of the best places to visit in Albuquerque. As one of America’s only urban tramways, it offers breathtaking views from over 10,300 feet above sea level. The scenery alone makes it worth the visit!

• Cost: $18 – $30
• Timings: 9am – 8pm

Sports in Albuquerque

1. Watch New Mexico United play live

The New Mexico United soccer team is a professional soccer team that plays its home matches at Isotopes Park and is a part of the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL). It’s always a great pleasure to watch the team play at their home ground as the atmosphere there is electric!

Cost:
The average price to attend a game during the season is $65.75

2. See New Mexico Lobos play

The Lobos are a college basketball program that represents the University of New Mexico. The Lobos have won 2 Mountain West Conference tournament titles and 5 regular-season conference titles. Watching the team play as part of the enthusiastic, local crowd is one of the best things to do in Albuquerque!

Cost:
The average price to attend a game during the season is $33

3. Catch the New Mexico Ice Wolves playing live

The New Mexico Ice Wolves are a professional ice hockey team based in the city, and they have consistently been one of the top teams in the league. So, if you’re looking for places to visit in Albuquerque, then be sure to catch a match at the Outpost Ice Arenas. We guarantee you an adrenaline-filled experience!

Cost:
The average price to attend a game during the season is $135

Museums in Albuquerque

1. Visit the Albuquerque Museum

This museum is one of the best places to visit in Albuquerque for all art lovers! It was founded in 1889 by a group of citizens interested in promoting art and history, and it remains committed to that important mission to this day.

• Cost: $6
• Timings: 9am – 5pm

2. Explore the Explora

Explora is a unique museum that not only offers fun activities for kids of all ages but also encourages budding young scientists to explore their curiosities. Located near the University of New Mexico campus, visiting Explora has become one of the best things to do in Albuquerque!

• Cost: $10
• Timings: Tuesday to Saturday 10am – 6pm; Sunday 12pm – 6pm

3. Head to the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History

One of the best places to visit in Albuquerque for science lovers is the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History. Its mission is to preserve and present the historical, cultural, and scientific importance of nuclear science and demonstrate its applications in medicine, energy, industry, and war.

• Cost: Free
• Timings: 9am – 5pm

Culture in Albuquerque

1. Attend the Renaissance Faire

Held at Expo New Mexico, this isn’t your typical type of festival or fair. It combines food, art, and recreation with a thematic twist as the backdrop for live entertainment and jousting matches! It’s hard to believe that it has been around since 1978, and it’s a must-visit if you’re looking for the best things to do in Albuquerque!

Cost: Free

2. Attend the Albuquerque Summer Fest

The Summer Fest is a series of events designed to bring the community together for a summer full of fun. This is one of the best places to visit in Albuquerque for free outdoor performances and festivals put on all around the town!

Cost: Free

3. Attend the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

The International Balloon Fiesta is one of the most anticipated events in New Mexico! Whether you’re looking for free entertainment or want to take your family out for an educational day, this event has it all. Watching beautiful and colorful hot air balloons take to the skies is one of the best things to do in Albuquerque!

Cost: Free

Explore restaurants in Albuquerque

1. Try the mouth-watering dishes at Antiquity

Antiquity is one of the most famous restaurants in Albuquerque. Known for its mouth-watering appetizers and flavorful entrees, it’s not hard to find something here that will suit your tastes!

• Cost: $25 – $100
• Timings: 5pm – 10pm

2. Visit the Artichoke Cafe

Artichoke is not your average cafe. This unique eatery specializes in home-style Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist and provides great customer service!

• Cost: $30 – $40
• Timings: 3pm – 10pm

3. Savor the pizzas at Farina Pizzeria and Wine Bar

Farina Pizzeria specializes in wood-fired pizza and also includes a full-service bar featuring a rotating list of craft beers and wines. Out of all the restaurants in Albuquerque, Farina Pizzeria serves the best pizzas in the city!

• Cost: $11 – $30
• Timings: 4pm – 9pm

---