Set in a high-altitude, bowl-shaped valley around the Rio Grande River, Albuquerque seems to be painted into a colorful landscape of azure sky, red hills, and gray-green sage. Southwestern culture is alive and well with neighborhoods full of real adobe houses (made of straw and mud), menus liberally spiked with chili pepper, and Native American communities that practice time-honored traditions.

How to Spend Three Days in Albuquerque

Although Albuquerque is a city of about a half million people, most of the sights are in close proximity, making it easy to experience a lot of what the city offers in a relatively short stay.

Day 1 – Museums, Southwest Architecture and Shopping

On the first day in Albuquerque, concentrate on the city’s charming historic district, Old Town, which also serves as the museum district. Two museums in Old Town merit a visit. The New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science is a must for children, with its full-size dinosaur skeletons and a simulated volcano. The National Museum of Nuclear Science and History is fascinating as well, although, with films of atomic bomb testing and exhibits about nuclear medicine, it’s more interesting to adults.

Later, explore the Old Town area by strolling among the many restored adobe buildings that have been transformed into galleries, shops, and restaurants. Shop for handcrafted turquoise and silver jewelry, as well as inexpensive souvenirs, and visit the dignified centerpiece of Old Town, San Felipe de Neri Church, originally built in 1706.

Enjoy a Southwestern dinner at one of the Old Town restaurants. Travel Maestro tip: Check the show schedule at the KiMo Theatre to attend a performance or tour the gallery (free). The “pueblo-deco” design of panoramic murals, beams painted with hunt scenes, and chandeliers shaped like war drums is a must-see.

Day 2 – Native American Culture and the Bio Park

Start the day just north of Old Town at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, another must-see museum in Albuquerque. The museum itself is a replica of Pueblo Bonito in Chaco Canyon and it reveals the history and culture of the 19 Pueblo communities in New Mexico with traditional Native American dance, interactive children’s programs, and rotating exhibits. Travel Maestro tip: Be sure to allow time to visit the arts and crafts market there.

The Albuquerque Biological Park (a.k.a. BioPark) is just west of Old Town. It includes the Albuquerque Aquarium and the Rio Grande Botanic Garden, as well as the Rio Grande Zoo. Travel Maestro tip: During the heat of the summer, visit the Zoo first and spend the hottest part of the day inside at the Aquarium.

Head back to Old Town for dinner, then have an after-dinner drink in trendy Nob Hill.

Day 3 – Ancient Petroglyphs and Tramway Vistas

Dominating Albuquerque’s west mesa is an escarpment of volcanic rock formed 100,000 years ago. On the ancient lava rock, Native American artists and storytellers from 400 – 700 years ago drew some 20,000 designs and symbols in what is now one of the largest petroglyph sites in North America. Petroglyph National Monument is under the care of the National Park System and has hiking trails and paved walking paths to see the centuries-old art.

Stop in at the Coronado State Monument in present-day Bernalillo. See well-preserved wall drawings and visit the ruins of the Kuana Pueblo where Spanish explorer Coronado and his men spent the winter of 1540-41 while searching for the legendary Seven Cities of Gold.

Continue on to Sandia Peak and ride the aerial tram 2.7 miles to the top for spectacular mountain views. Travel Maestro tip: Make advance reservations for dinner at the restaurant at the top.

Bonus Albuquerque Activities

Historic Route 66 runs right through Albuquerque from east to west. The strip of what is now known as Central Avenue still has a retro vibe with period neon signs and funky, independent motels.

If you time your trip right, Albuquerque hosts two major events annually. In April, the Gathering of Nations Pow Wow celebrates the lively Native American culture with festivals, performances.

In October, nearly 1 million people pour into Albuquerque to watch one of the most photographed festivals in the world – the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Travel Maestro tip: Plan ahead for the balloon festival!

If you have three days, Albuquerque can fill them up. Contact the Covington vacation designers to plan your short getaway or to incorporate Albuquerque in a longer Southwest sojourn.