What to do in Albuquerque if You Only Have One Day

Albuquerque, besides being a hard word to spell, is a fun place to eat, play and explore. While it doesn't have quite the charm of its nearby neighbors (Santa Fe and Taos) it does have some great desert vistas, terrific New Mexican cuisine and a lovely historic district. You and your family can definitely spend a diverting day in this Southwestern city or use it as a central base from which to explore the wider area.

The historic heart of Albuquerque, Old Town is worth an afternoon of exploring. The distinctive mission style buildings and cobblestone streets are charming and the many interesting shops should keep you pleasantly occupied. Plus, there are plenty of great restaurants in the vicinity if your legs tire. Cost is free, unless you can't re... More >
The historic heart of Albuquerque, Old Town is worth an afternoon of exploring. The distinctive mission style buildings and cobblestone streets are charming and the many interesting shops should keep you pleasantly occupied. Plus, there are plenty of great restaurants in the vicinity if your legs tire. Cost is free, unless you can't resist the urge to shop.
This is the one thing you shouldn't miss if you are in Albuquerque and you love a good view. Sandia Peak Tramway is the world's longest aerial tramway (2.7 miles). The ride up is exhilirating and once you arrive at the peak you have amazing panoramic views of the Rio Grande Valley and Sandia mountains. This is even a great trip in the ... More >
This is the one thing you shouldn't miss if you are in Albuquerque and you love a good view. Sandia Peak Tramway is the world's longest aerial tramway (2.7 miles). The ride up is exhilirating and once you arrive at the peak you have amazing panoramic views of the Rio Grande Valley and Sandia mountains. This is even a great trip in the winter as the snow just adds to the enchanting view. There is a decent restaurant at the top if you want to add to the experience. Give yourself at least 2 hours. Adults pay $20 for the ride and children are $12 (under 5 is free).
The distinctive mission style buildings and cobblestone streets are charming and the many interesting shops should keep you pleasantly occupied.
Sadie's is a long standing New Mexican eatery with a comfortable interior and really great food. It is an easy win for the whole family with its varied menu and laid back atmosphere. The prices are reasonable as well. Try their enchiladas and maybe take home a jar of their homemade salsa.
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It is hard not to be captivated by the site of a hot air balloon. Adults and children have a blast at the International Balloon Museum - a museum dedicated solely to these colorful floating giants. Albuquerque is the fitting home for this unique museum as it hosts the International Hot Air Balloon festival every year - a truly amazing event! Spend a few hours here and maybe even go for a ride! Entrance is $4 adults and $1 kids.
The DoubleTree is a solid Albuquerque hotel choice, especially for those traveling with kids. The hotel is located right downtown, convenient to many of Albuquerque's restaurants, shopping areas and main attractions. The rooms are comfortable and there is a large outdoor pool. Plus, they offer warm chocolate chip cookies upon check in!... More >
The DoubleTree is a solid Albuquerque hotel choice, especially for those traveling with kids. The hotel is located right downtown, convenient to many of Albuquerque's restaurants, shopping areas and main attractions. The rooms are comfortable and there is a large outdoor pool. Plus, they offer warm chocolate chip cookies upon check in! Average room is around $150/night.
Adults and children have a blast at the International Balloon Museum - a museum dedicated solely to these colorful floating giants.
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