Albuquerque, New Mexico

Sitting near the heart of New Mexico is where the largest city of the state is found—the city of Albuquerque. Just like the world-renowned Santa Fe, Albuquerque is equally popular with tourists due to its assemblage of attractions, colorful traditions, interesting history and awe-inspiring natural scenery, and its mixed features rightfully make it one of New Mexico’s in-demand tourist spot.

Albuquerque is teeming with attractions and due to this, careful planning is needed when visiting the city. The Albuquerque Biological Park must be included in the list, as this spot is home to several attractions such as the Tangley Beach, Albuquerque Aquarium, Rio Grande Zoo, and the Rio Grande Botanic Garden. While both the aquarium and the zoo are hit to children, the beach and the garden are those for visitors seeking pleasant scenery and a soothing atmosphere.

It is in Albuquerque where the longest tramway is found, the Sandia Peak Tramway. The exciting cable car ride lets the visitors see uninterrupted cityscape views which spans about 11,000 square miles. While suspended in the air, tourists are captivated by the stunning natural attractions composed of snow-capped ski slopes, hiking trails, and lush forests.

Take note that one of the largest petroglyph sites in the world is in Albuquerque, and tourists are curious about how it is like to be in its premises. The Petroglyph National Monument showcases volcanic rocks that have carved symbols about historical events, spiritual beliefs, and cultural expressions. Because there are too many carvings, the Petroglyph National Monument is tagged as “a landscape of symbols.”

For an elegant and sophisticated evening, the National Hispanic Cultural Center is the best place to be. Ideal for both relaxation and romance, this cultural center gives a venue for opera, orchestra, and several theatrical presentations. There is also an Art Museum in the center’s compound where most of its art displays are works of Hispanic artists.

Seeing the beauty of the city up in the air is an experience like no other, and that is why the hot air balloon ride is always part of the Albuquerque getaway. It is best to fly during sunrise, as it is during this time when the dramatic views of the city, from the mighty Rio Grande up to the heavenly views of the Sandia Mountains,  is witnessed. Every October, the city becomes busy as it is when the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta takes place.

To end the trip with a bang, a visit to the Old Town can be done. This is the home of the city’s oldest building, the Church of San Felipe de Neri, and it is also here where brightly-colored huts serving as restaurants, galleries, and souvenir shops are found. Being a casual city, touring Albuquerque means one can hop from one destination to the next wearing the most comfortable wear. The locals here are very friendly which contributes to a pleasant and relaxing trip. The city has excellent road conditions and with an efficient transport system, there will never be a hassle touring all the corners of Albuquerque.