How to spend 48 hours in Albuquerque
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) — From museums to hiking trails, there’s an abundance of things to do in Albuquerque, and if you only had 48 hours in town, you may not know where to start. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top places to see while you’re here in Duke City. You can take a look below.
Visit the Petroglyph National Monument
It’s one of the largest petroglyph sites in the US, and it’s here in Albuquerque. The Petroglyph National Monument is a 7,244-acre monument with nearly 20,000 petroglyphs. You can find out more information on the website.
Take a stroll through Old Town
Old Town is a New Mexico gem. You can find vendors of various natures alongside local cuisine and drinks. Here’s just a slice of what Old Town has to offer:
- Go on a walking tour
- Browse the Old Town Portal Market
- Check out the American International Rattlesnake Museum
- Soak up the views at Level 5 Restaurant & Lounge
- Visit the San Felipe de Neri Church
Ride the tram

The_Sandia_Tram_in_Winter_2_20190222070824
The tram is a classic for Duke City. It brings you 10,378-feet up to the crest of the Sandia Mountains for incredible panoramic views of the city. There’s also a restaurant and a gift shop. You can buy a ticket online.
Grab lunch and go shopping in Nob Hill

Nob Hill mural_235206
Nob Hill is an Albuquerque staple along historic Route 66. You can find a myriad of shops and restaurants all nestled into this vibrant, hip neighborhood. Take a look at some of what Nob Hill has to offer below:
- Two Fools Tavern
- Vintage Vault
- Gertrude Zachary
- Masks Y Mas
- The Shop
Browse through a museum or two

New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science | Courtesy: New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science|New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science | Courtesy: New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science
There’s a museum for everyone in Albuquerque. Find yours below:
- New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science
- Rattlesnake Museum
- Turquoise Museum
- National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
- Explora Science Center and Children’s Museum of Albuquerque
- Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum
- National Hispanic Cultural Center
- Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
- New Mexico Holocaust & Intolerance Museum and Gellert Center for Education
- Telephone Museum of New Mexico
Check out some local art
There are galleries and public art galore across the city of Albuquerque, including an abundance of murals. Nob Hill and downtown are both great areas if you’re looking to check some art out. There’s even a map to help you track down public art installations across the area.
Hike the Sandias
You’re bound to see the Sandia Mountains anywhere you go in Albuquerque – why not give them a visit? There’s trails for newbies and experts alike.
Stop by the BioPark

ABQ Biopark signs (KRQE News 13)
The ABQ BioPark is a hidden gem in Duke City. The organization consists of a zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden. There’s also various events, including concerts, light displays, and more. You can find the latest info on the ABQ BioPark website.
Stroll through the Bosque
One of the best parts of Albuquerque is the nature. A great way to experience that is through a walk or hike down any portion of the Rio Grande Bosque. The 16-mile trail stretches through a good portion of the city. A map with access points can be found online.
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