#CloseToHome series – Albuquerque

Travel is not an option for us right now, but there’s no reason why we can be dreaming and planning ahead for a fun and relaxing getaway once the restrictions have been lifted. While international travel will remain uncertain for a while, there are plenty of destinations close to home, right here in the US, that sometimes go unnoticed. We created this “Close to Home” series to inspire you to get out and explore  the amazing American destinations that surround us. As doors open and we we become free to roam, we hope you take some time to explore the sites and take in the beauty of the land we call home.

Let’s start our journey in the heart of New Mexico – Albuquerque! Albuquerque is an oasis in the high desert. The state’s largest city, Albuquerque, features diverse cultures, authentic art and rich Spanish and American Indian traditions.  Modern downtown Albuquerque is a stark contrast to its historical Old Town just a few minutes away. Dating back to 1706 when the city was founded as a Spanish colony, Old Town draws visitors with it’s authentic food and entertainment, shops and restaurants. To visitors, Albuquerque is known for traditional New Mexican cuisine, world-class museums, Central Avenue – the original Rt 66, archaeological sites, and the hot air ballooning capital of the world.

Things to do

The ABQ BioPark consists of four facilities: the Zoo, Botanical Garden, Aquarium, and Tingley Beach. ​Exhibits include Mediterranean and Desert Conservatories, 1920’s farm, Japanese and formal gardens and BUGarium.

Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
museum and cultural center created to be a place where we, Pueblo people, can tell our story. ​The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is the only place in North America to host Native American dances every weekend year-round, and also offers an exciting schedule of cultural and community activities, including rotating museum exhibits, events with Native American artists, hands-on children’s programs, and art festivals.

Old Town Albuquerque
Dating back to 1706 when the city was founded as a Spanish Colony, Old Town remains the cultural heritage center of the city. Visitors enjoy restaurants, hotels and bed & breakfasts, as well as over 150 stores and galleries featuring unique Southwestern gifts. Visit Old Town’s museums, take a guided tour, or just stroll the quiet, winding brick paths, and admire hidden patios, gardens and balconies!

Sandia Peak
Take the tram to the top of Sandia Peak high in the Cibola National Forrest for a stunning 11,000 foot view. In the winter months, the weather is so mild that visitors can ski Sandia and golf in Albuquerque in the same day. Sandia is also the perfect place to escape and enjoy hiking and biking in the springs, summer and fall.

Petroglyph National Monument
Enjoy the sites and sounds of the high desert. The National Park features five volcanic cones, hundreds of archeological sites and an estimated 24,000 images carved by Ancestral Pueblo peoples and early Spanish settlers.

Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
October 3, 2020 – October 11, 2020
Up, up and away! For nine days in October, the skies of New Mexico are painted by graceful, giant hot air balloons. The festival is a pilgrimage for ballooning fans all over the world, and an amazing site to see!