One Day in Albuquerque

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Only have one day in Albuquerque? Here are some great suggestions to check out while you’re there!

I had just one day in Albuquerque, and I wasn’t sure what to do. I hadn’t researched the city before my visit. The only time I had been there was as a child with my family, and all I remember is the rock designs in my parents’ friend’s yard—quite different from the grass lawns back in the Midwest. However, as I explored the city, the locals began offering suggestions. It’s always a good idea to listen to the locals. Continue reading to learn about my discoveries in Albuquerque.

Old Town Albuquerque

Old Town is the original site of the village of Albuquerque, founded in 1706. Today, the Historic District serves as a cultural hub, with the San Felipe de Neri Church at its center. Surrounding this area, adobe buildings house a variety of restaurants, shops, museums, and galleries.

San Felipe de Neri Church

In 1793, builders constructed the San Felipe de Neri Church, establishing it as one of the oldest buildings in the city and the oldest church in Albuquerque.

Wine Studio

Swing by for a wine tasting, grab a flight, or just enjoy a glass while soaking in the awesome views of San Felipe de Neri Church from the second-story balcony. All the wines come from local wineries in New Mexico.

Cafe Enzo – An Italian Espresso Bar, now Kasmir Coffee Lounge in Park Square Market, Uptown

A local at Crème De La Crème recommended that we visit Café Enzo. This Italian espresso bar, known for its use of pure ingredients, was exquisite. However, they are currently on a temporary hiatus because they have opened Kashmir Coffee Lounge in the Park Square Market. Be sure to visit them there!

Explora Museum

A destination for the entire family to explore science and technology right in the heart of Old Town.

Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm

We received a recommendation from a local to visit Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm, located in the village of Los Ranchos de Albuquerque. So, we decided to take a look. Established as a ranch in 1934, it boasts a rich history along with 25 acres of beautiful lavender fields and gardens.

Los Poblanos Historic Inn

Enjoy the lavender fields while staying at the farm. The inn encourages guests to participate with the farmers in the lavender fields.

Hacienda Spa at Los Poblanos

By incorporating lavender products from their fields, the spa enhances the experience at Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm.

The Farm Shop

Where visitors can purchase various lavender products from the farm, located in a historic dairy barn on the property.

Campo

The restaurant serves breakfast, brunch, and dinner farm-to-table, using fresh ingredients from its own farm and local farmers in the area.

Sawmill Market

Hungry? You won’t go hungry if you visit Sawmill Market. Originally a lumber company in the early 1900s, the sawmill turned into a food hall opening in 2020, with 27 local food merchants to choose from. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, cocktails, beer, and even dessert are all available in one place. We stopped by Crème de la Crème, oh what a treat!

Crème de la Crème

We spent quite a bit of time here. The deserts are not just deserts; they are art, beautiful. Not only are they beautiful, but they are also wholesome, made with all-natural ingredients and crafted by Pastry Chef Armani Brigante. If you’re fortunate enough to visit while Bella is there, she will take the time to explain the ingredients and offer tastings. She was a delight. You will not want to miss visiting this well-known gem in Albuquerque.

Downtown Albuquerque

I was in town for a conference, so it made sense to stay in downtown, which I later learned was the historic downtown area of Albuquerque, just about a mile from Old Town.

Arrive Hotel

Located on old US Route 66, Arrive Hotel is one cool hotel. Brand new in February 2025, this hotel was formerly the Downtowner Motor Inn, built in 1965. The design showcases the bones of a 1960s and 1970s roadside motel while updating it to meet today’s standards. The lobby looks amazing with its beautiful desert colors and cool 70s vibes. There are two patios, a fun cocktail bar, and a restaurant called DWTNR (Downtowner). Guests can access their guest rooms, which have outdoor entry doors, only from the lobby, as the hotel is gated or fenced in. Plus, there’s a fantastic mural of a red lowrider by artist Nani Chacon that really adds to the funky feel! You’ll want to consider a stay at this hotel when visiting Albuquerque.

Curious Toast Cafe

Directly across the street from Arrive Hotel is Curious Toast, a café that specializes in gourmet toasts made with fresh bread. These toasts are truly unique, featuring delicious toppings that cater to both savory and sweet preferences. You can enjoy your meal in a cozy living room setting indoors, relax on the back patio beneath the trees, or sit on the front porch. Don’t forget to complement your toast with a bold cup of coffee!

Final Thought on My One Day In Albuquerque

My one day in Albuquerque was fun, and I was able to experience a few of the things that the locals recommended to try.

Here are some places I want to see next time I spend more than one day in Albuquerque.

• Petroglyph National Monument and Boca Negra Trail
• Breaking Bad tour locations
• Sandia Peak Tramway
• Park Square Market

Bucket List Hotels

• Los Poblanos Historic Inn
• Hotel Chaco

Did you know that Santa Fe is only one hour away from Albuquerque? Check out Santa Fe Historic District, A Historic Santa Fe Restaurant Experience at The Pink Adobe, A Santa Fe Rooftop Bar: The Bell Tower, and The Oldest Hotel In Santa Fe, Hotel St. Francis.