48 Hours in Albuquerque

Vibrant culture, stunning desert landscapes, and mouthwatering Southwestern cuisine make Albuquerque a compact yet richly diverse city—perfect for a 48-hour escape.

One of the oldest towns in the US, this New Mexico gem offers a distinctive blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo influences, woven into its architecture, traditions, and everyday life. With more than 310 sunny days a year on average and cool, crisp desert evenings, the high-desert climate sets the stage for amazing adventures. 

Whether you’re pedaling past sweeping vineyards, soaring above the Land of Enchantment in a hot air balloon, shopping for handcrafted Native American art and jewelry, or savoring chile-infused dishes found nowhere else in the world, Albuquerque has something to enchant every traveler.

Here’s how to make the most of 48 hours in Albuquerque.

Day 1

Check into the AAA four Diamond Hotel Chaco, a serene yet sophisticated retreat that blends modern luxury with ancient inspiration—sure to captivate history and architecture lovers alike. The design of the hotel was inspired by the pre-Columbian indigenous ruins at Chaco Canyon and honors New Mexico’s craftsmanship. 

Throughout the 118-room hotel, you’ll find subdued limestone walls, wooden accents, stacked stone masonry, roof structures highlighted by vigas and latillas (exposed wooden ceiling beams and slats—hallmarks of Southwestern architecture), and original Native American artwork. Many rooms boast private terraces with views of the Sandia Mountains, downtown Albuquerque, or the hotel's tranquil desert gardens.

Walk across the street to Sawmill Market—a trendy food hall showcasing an eclectic mix of local eateries, bars, and artisanal vendors—for a drink or snack. This former lumberyard has been transformed into a 34,000-square-foot modern market, now home to 27 merchants, including a lively brewpub. Grab a glass of sparkling wine, a green chile donut, or ube soft serve ice cream, and enjoy it al fresco at THE YARD, a spacious outdoor patio area that serves as the market’s social hub.

Continue your walk to Old Town Albuquerque, a preserved cultural village dating back to 1706. The cultural heart of the city, it boasts seven museums and more than 150 shops, plus galleries, wine tasting rooms, and restaurants—all spread across a few blocks featuring adobe structures, charming Spanish squares, and cobblestone streets.

At Plaza Don Luis, a shopping hub located across from the historic San Felipe de Neri Catholic Church, explore artisan-owned boutiques offering Southwestern-style pottery, jewelry, rugs, and collectibles. On weekends, you’ll find farmers’ markets, food vendors, street performances, and free cultural events. Seek out vendors selling biscochitos, the official state cookie of New Mexico—anise- and cinnamon-flavored crispy treats similar to shortbread cookies.

In the afternoon, take a 15-minute ride on the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway (reservations are recommended). Once at the summit, soak in the panoramic views of the Sandia Mountains, fir and aspen trees, wildlife, trails, and ski slopes. Grab a sunset cocktail at TEN 3, an upscale restaurant and bar boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, to watch the desert skies transform with hues of orange, pink, and red.

For dinner in Albuquerque, choose from one of the many locally owned restaurants serving Southwestern cuisine. Set on a historic working farm in the heart of the Rio Grande River Valley, Campo at Los Poblanos is a beautiful restaurant surrounded by 25 acres of lavender fields, cottonwood trees, and lush formal gardens. Located just minutes outside the city, it’s worth the short drive. Be sure to try the Three Sisters tlacoyo or local pork confit, which features blue corn hominy and green chile. The on-site 45-room inn has been awarded two MICHELIN Keys for exceptional service and high-quality accommodations. There’s also a lovely bar where you can enjoy a botanical cocktail before heading back to your hotel.

Day 2

Wake up before dawn for a memorable hot air balloon ride in the city known for hosting the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta—the world’s largest hot air balloon event, held each October over nine spectacular days.

Stop by The Burque Bakehouse for a traditional cortado, a smooth espresso drink balanced with steamed milk, paired with a freshly made green chile croissant topped with house-made green chile jam, flakes, and tomato powder. This couple-run bakery creatively blends French and New Mexican baking styles and was a 2023 James Beard Award semifinalist for Outstanding Bakery.

Next, head to the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center to learn about the 19 New Mexico Pueblo communities. Explore museum and exhibition galleries filled with murals, arts, and artifacts. Check the calendar for artist demos, cultural dances, lectures, and pop-up shops that take place throughout the year. You could easily spend half your day at the center, connecting with elders and artists visiting from different Pueblos.

Finish off your visit with an indigenous lunch or brunch at the Indian Pueblo Kitchen, where you can try Native superfood waffles, atole (a warm, creamy drink made with blue cornmeal and flavored with local spices), green chile stew, or blue corn enchiladas—dishes inspired by historic Pueblo traditions and recipes.

If time permits in the afternoon, drive to Piedras Marcadas Canyon to see one of the largest petroglyph sites in North America. Petroglyph National Monument features designs and symbols carved onto volcanic rocks by Native Americans and Spanish settlers 400 to 700 years ago. You’ll also find plenty of hiking spots around the area.

To cap off your visit to Albuquerque, book an immersive culinary experience at the Electric Playhouse. Enjoy a multisensory dinner where food and drink courses are paired with changing soundscapes and visuals. Interact with displays of desert flowers, New Mexico landscapes, and more during this fun dining experience. Afterward, burn off some calories and test your brain and physical abilities with futuristic games at the 24,000-square-foot facility.

With its rich cultural tapestry, stunning landscapes, and unique culinary experiences, Albuquerque invites you to embrace its vibrant soul, offering moments of discovery and wonder at every turn through this Land of Enchantment.