8 Fun Things To Do In Albuquerque That Will Keep You entertained

By M L | Updated November 28th, 2022

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Few cities in the United States have as much character and charm as Albuquerque, New Mexico. Rich with history, culture, and entertainment options, it’s the perfect place to visit if you want to relax or take in a show. Here are eight fun things to do in Albuquerque that will keep you entertained.

What to do in Albuquerque?

Albuquerque, a city in the State of New Mexico, offers a wealth of activities and attractions to explore. From outdoor adventures to historic landmarks, there’s something for everyone here. Outdoor lovers can take advantage of nearby hiking trails and nature reserves with stunning views of the surrounding area.

Sandia Peak Tramway
Albuquerque, NM, USA – June 29, 2022 – the Sandia Peak Tramway and the landscapes of ABQ

The Sandia Peak Tramway is a fun way to see the city from above. It’s also a great way to get some exercise. The tramway takes you up the mountainside at an elevation of 10,300 feet. There are plenty of other things to do, such as hiking, biking, and camping.

The Sandia Peak Tramway is the world’s highest aerial tram, and it provides some of the most spectacular views in the region. The trip to the top takes about 25 minutes.

The tramway is open from about mid-January to sometime in October, depending on weather and other factors. The trip up costs $20 for a round-trip ticket or $15 for a one-way ticket. Kids 12 and younger ride free with an adult.

The tram is located about 10 minutes east of Downtown Albuquerque. On its way up, it offers scenic views of various mountains and landmarks, such as Kachina Peak (north) and Manzano Peak (south). Once you reach the top, you can opt for a guided or self-guided tour. Guided tours provide more background information on attractions and history.

The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History

Generic Building

Started as a small museum in 1967, the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History has now expanded to over 16 acres, making it the largest nuclear museum in the world. The museum features interactive exhibits on topics such as radiation and nuclear science. Visitors can also see some of the largest rockets ever built at the Space Hall.

Other things to do in Albuquerque include catching a flick at one of its two cinemas and visiting some of its nearby restaurants and bars. If you’re lucky, you might be able to catch an outdoor performance at Pope joy Hall or Isotopes Park.

New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science

Albuquerque, OCT 5: Exterior view of the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science on OCT 5, 2019 at Albuquerque, New Mexico

If you’re looking for something to do with the kids that’s both educational and fun, then this museum is a great place to go. They have a space exhibit where you can see what it would be like if you lived on Mars, and they also have an exhibit on ancient Egypt, which is one of my favorite things to learn about.

This is a great place to take your family on a fun trip. My kids have a blast and there’s something for everyone here. It’s not too expensive, which is always nice, and they have all kinds of things to see and do, so you can easily spend a few hours here without even feeling bored. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, as well, so it just adds to how great of an experience you’ll have if you go.

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

hot air balloon over the green paddy field. Composition of nature and blue sky background

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is a yearly event that has taken place for over 40 years. Participants can purchase tickets to ride in the balloon or simply watch from the ground. It is one of the largest events in New Mexico, and you will be surrounded by some of the most spectacular sights.

If you are looking for family-friendly things to do in New Mexico, then Albuqerque International Balloon Fiesta is a great option. There are also plenty of attractions that appeal to adults and kids alike. If you want to learn more about Albuquerque and its history, then check out one of our museums. There are also some awesome restaurants here, and we’ve put together a list so that you can try them all out!

Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

Albquerque, OCT 5: Exterior view of the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center on OCT 5, 2019 at Albquerque, New Mexico

In the Southwest, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is a must-visit. The cultural center is dedicated to preserving and sharing Native American arts and cultures. With exhibits, performances, festivals, and more, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center has something for everyone.

Sedona – Arizona: Whether it’s for a vacation or weekend trip, Sedona is one of Arizona’s top tourist destinations. The gorgeous landscape and landscape have earned Sedona its reputation as a mystical wonderland. With dozens of hiking trails and breathtaking views, there’s no doubt you’ll have an incredible time here.

Nob Hill

Male hiker looking through binoculars in forest

Located at the top of a hill, this historic neighborhood offers great views of downtown. Nob Hill is alive with trendy eateries and eclectic shops that are perfect for a day exploring the local culture. The tram ride-up is an experience in itself and should not be missed.

Bosque – Third Paragraph: Bosque is an area that highlights environmental history and conservation while offering easy access to surrounding state parks, bike paths, and outdoor recreation. A favorite pastime for locals is a trip to Bosque del Apache Wildlife Refuge in Socorro. The refuge is open year-round for hiking and bird-watching. Bring your binoculars for a close-up view of everything from eagles to quail. If you are lucky, you might even spot deer or turkeys.

Old Town Albuquerque

Old Town is the historic district of Albuquerque, New Mexico and it’s a popular tourist destination. The roads are lined with restaurants, shops, galleries, and artisans selling their wares. Stop by for a bit of New Mexican culture. If you’re in need of some retail therapy, check out the many antique stores or pop into one of the gift shops to find that perfect souvenir for someone back home.

ABQ Trolley Co.

The ABQ Trolley Co. is a free shuttle service that offers tours of the city and its attractions. Highlights include the historic Route 66, the Santa Fe Railroad, and Downtown Albuquerque.

As you can see, there are a lot of fun things to do in New Mexico. If you’re planning a trip there soon, make sure to add these activities to your itinerary!

Boca Negra Canyon

This canyon is a hidden gem in the city of Albuquerque. It is often overlooked by people that are new to the area or don’t know about it, but it has some great features that make it worth a visit. The canyon is located on the West Mesa and sits just north of the Rio Grande River. It’s not hard to find, but you may have to drive up a dirt road for a few miles before you can park your car next to the canyon and start exploring.

Conclusions

Albuquerque is a beautiful city with plenty of things to do. Whether you are looking for some family fun, or just want to get out and explore new places, there are always things to do in Albuquerque. From catching the latest flick at one of the many cinemas to getting your adrenaline pumping at one of the many water parks; from enjoying the natural beauty at one of the many hiking trails and bike paths that crisscross this large city, to attending live music performances; from exploring unique shops and boutiques to tasting our famous New Mexican food and wine. Whatever your fancy may be, we’ve got it covered.