The ABQ BioPark Zoo in Albuquerque brings visitors up close to Earth’s wildest creatures, from giraffes and polar bears to Mexican wolves, orangutans, crocodiles, and more. At 64 acres, it’s a sizable facility, and kids will especially delight in the zoo’s variety of exhibits, which include biomes from Africa, Australia, and beyond.
One of Albuquerque’s most delightfully distinctive tourist attractions, the American International Rattlesnake Museum is an entertaining facility, home to one of the world’s largest collections of live rattlesnake species. As well as learning about these venomous reptiles, visitors can see tortoises, Gila monsters, insects, and more—it’s a great choice for budding herpetologists.
Sante Fe’s Museum of International Folk Art has no parallel—it’s the largest collection of international folk art in the world. With some 150,000 artifacts from more than 150 nations, the museum offers a vast treasure trove to explore, from Mexican cartonería to Macedonian embroidered dresses. Sitting atop Museum Hill, this spot splashes a little color onto any Sante Fe itinerary.
Situated on the Old Town Plaza, San Felipe de Neri Church is one of Albuquerque’s oldest buildings, dating back to 1793. Still a functioning Catholic church with regular mass services and holy day celebrations, the site is also home to a museum and gift shop. Stop by to see religious art and artifacts, take a breather in a peaceful atmosphere, and admire the architecture.
Though not exactly a beach by any stretch of the imagination, Tingley Beach does offer a natural getaway amidst the hustle and bustle of Albuquerque. Adjacent to the Rio Grande Bosque, there’s plenty to enjoy here: five ponds for fishing, paths for running and walking, a model boat pond, and wildlife watching.
The KiMo Theater has entertained residents for nearly a century, becoming one of Albuquerque’s most celebrated historic landmarks. Built in the distinctive Southwestern Pueblo Deco style, which fuses Native American–inspired decorations with art deco influences—complete with colorful murals, chandeliers, and buffalo skulls with glowing red eyes—it’s both an architectural gem and a popular destination for concerts, screenings, and other events.
Shady paths and a children’s playground draw visitors to Tiguex Park (Tricentennial Park) in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Located a couple blocks from the Old Town Plaza, Tiguex Park is near San Felipe de Neri Church and the Albuquerque Museum. Go for a stroll in this city park to use the exercise stations, play a match at a chess table, or bring the kids for a picnic.
A public sculpture in Albuquerque, Madonna of the Trail is one of 12 identical statues erected in the 1920s. Representing the contributions of pioneer women, these sculptures were commissioned by the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution, and are located in significant places along the Old Trails Road.
Fans of the TV series Breaking Bad will be well aware that Albuquerque served as the backdrop for the antics of Walter White and Jesse Pinkman, so it’s fitting that The Breaking Bad Store ABQ is located near the city’s Old Town Plaza. The gift shop features an array of merchandise and memorabilia and is a must for any Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul affectionados.
