Albuquerque, a remarkably beautiful oasis in the high desert, offers an exciting array of activities for all ages and interests. Whether its mountain biking or hiking, golfing or skiing, touring one of Albuquerque's vineyards or browsing museums, galleries, and shops, there is a vast range of choices for any visitor.
The city is gracefully spread out across an elevated valley along the banks of the Rio Grande River, with the Sandia Mountains rising beyond and to the east. It is in the center of New Mexico, approximately 240 miles north of the Mexican border and 55 miles southwest of Santa Fe.
Discover Albuquerque's colorful past when you explore Historic Old Town, where the Villa of Albuquerque was founded in 1706. Within walking distance are several museums, including the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science. There are also hundreds of shops, boutiques, and art galleries to enjoy. As you stroll down Central Avenue in Old Town, you will find yourself on historic Route 66, which once seemed much larger in its role as the connector between Chicago and Los Angeles. Some landmarks still remain.
Revel in Albuquerque's present, as you watch hundreds of hot air balloons ascending into blue skies during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the world's largest, most photographed balloon event.
