This daylong itinerary to discover Old Town Albuquerque blends art and scientific discovery. Old Town is great for meandering – with its adobe architecture, narrow streets, live music, eclectic shops, a historic church, and traditional New Mexican cuisine at local eateries. People watching and soaking up the atmosphere are primo pastimes. Or you could pop into the Rattlesnake Museum!
As for the science part, the Albuquerque Museum boasts a vast collection of more than 10,000 artworks. Its outdoor sculpture garden is a nice place to hang out. At the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, the mysteries of the Earth’s past come alive through ancient fossils and interactive displays.
Old Town is bordered by Rio Grand Blvd NW, Mountain Rd NW, 19th St NW, and Lomas Blvd NW. A Visit Albuquerque Visitor Info Center is also here. Breaking Bad RV tours also depart from Old Town.
End with a New Mexico-style sunset stroll along the nearby Rio Grande or catch a cultural performance at the historic KiMo Theatre.
Breaking Bad RV Tours, Old Town Road Northwest, Albuquerque, NM, USA
Rio Grande, Albuquerque, NM, USA
Kimo Theatre, Central Avenue Northwest, Albuquerque, NM, USA
Duran Central Pharmacy, Central Avenue Northwest, Albuquerque, NM, USA
Tia B's La Waffleria, Campus Boulevard Northeast, Albuquerque, NM, USA
Old Town, Albuquerque, NM, USA
San Felipe de Neri Church, North Plaza Street Northwest, Albuquerque, NM, USA
Church Street Cafe, Church Street Northwest, Albuquerque, NM, USA
The Range Café, Rio Grande Boulevard Northwest, Albuquerque, NM, USA
Albuquerque Museum, Mountain Road Northwest, Albuquerque, NM, USA
New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, Mountain Road Northwest, Albuquerque, NM, USA
High Noon Restaurant & Saloon, San Felipe Street Northwest, Albuquerque, NM, USA
Seasons Rotisserie & Grill, Mountain Road Northwest, Albuquerque, NM, USA
Hotel Chaco, Bellamah Avenue Northwest, Albuquerque, NM, USA
Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town, Rio Grande Boulevard Northwest, Albuquerque, NM, USA
Sawmill Market, Bellamah Avenue Northwest, Albuquerque, NM, USA
Marble Brewery, Marble Avenue Northwest, Albuquerque, NM, USA
Bottger Mansion of Old Town, San Felipe Street Northwest, Albuquerque, NM, USA
Casas de Suenos Old Town Historic Inn, Albuquerque New Mexico, Rio Grande Boulevard Southwest, Albuquerque, NM, USA
Best Places for Breakfast in Albuquerque
Best Things To Do in the Morning in Albuquerque
Old Town
Join a guided walking tour of Old Town Plaza (founded in 1706) to dig deeper into the history, culture, and architecture of the area. Visit some of the city’s oldest buildings, including the San Felipe de Neri Church (1793). Maybe attend a Mass or other religious service at San Felipe, which has played a significant role in the area’s history and culture.
Art galleries, shops, and boutiques showcase local and regional artists, including Native American pottery and crafts, jewelry, paintings, Mexican folk art, or southwestern decor.
Best Places for Lunch in Albuquerque
Best Things To Do in the Afternoon in Albuquerque
New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science
Check out the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science to understand New Mexico’s geological past, from ancient fossils to space exploration. Learn about the formation of the universe and appreciate the region’s unique ecosystems. The popular T-Rex exhibit features the world’s most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton. The museum also offers planetarium shows, virtual reality experiences, and a natural history garden.
Best Places for Dinner in Albuquerque
Seasons Rotisserie & Grill
Seasons, with the best rooftop restaurant in Albuquerque, is sophisticated yet relaxed, with warm lighting and contemporary decor. The diverse menu showcases locally sourced ingredients and inventive flavors – from perfect steaks and seafood to creative vegetarian options. Try the crab cakes and Cajun seasoned rotisserie half chicken.
Best Places to Stay in Albuquerque
Hotel Chaco
This boutique hotel, a hair’s breadth from the heart of Old Town, offers a luxurious stay with modern amenities. The rooms feature Southwestern decor, spa-like bathrooms, and stunning views of the Sandia Mountains. The hotel also has an on-site restaurant, rooftop bar, fitness center, and spa.
After Dark in Albuquerque
Sawmill Market
The Sawmill Market, a super fun and bustling food hall, showcases diverse local vendors, food stalls, and artisanal food producers. From gourmet burgers and wood-fired pizzas to sushi and craft cocktails, there is something for everyone. Expect casual, communal seating areas indoors and out. You might get lucky with live music performances and events.
Marble Brewery
Marble Brewery (less than two miles from Old Town) is highly regarded for its handcrafted beers, friendly, and chill. It’s spacious and inviting, with indoor and outdoor seating options. Choices range from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts and refreshing ales. You’ll often find live music and events.
Bonus Pro Tips
If you are more of a B&B kind of person, Bottger Mansion is a great choice and steps from the Plaza. Also fab? Casas de Suenos Old Town Historic Inn, a few blocks from Old Town.
Albuquerque for Families: Where to Play, Stay & Eat