Ah, Albuquerque, the land of hot air balloons, the Breaking Bad tour, and everything green Chile. But what about hidden gems that a typical tourist trail can’t fully cover? Dear traveler, fear not, as I’m here to guide you through Albuquerque’s lesser-known delights.
First of all, we had the Tinley Beach Boat. Of course, Tingley Beach is a popular destination for families and anglers, but did you know that you can rent a paddle boat or kayak at a houseboat? That’s right, you can do cardio while enjoying the beauty of the Sandia Mountains. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to show off your boating skills to your travel companions. Try not to capsize unless you’re going for the ultimate team-building exercise.
Speaking of team building exercises, have you heard of escape rooms? Of course there is, they are all the rage these days. But have you ever heard of an escape room in a locked room? The family-owned company offers a variety of themed rooms, including the Wild West Salon and the creepy Clown Circus. But what sets them apart is their unique twist on the concept – you don’t just want to escape, you want to solve a mystery. So gather your most cunning friends and test your detective skills.
Now, let’s talk about food. Albuquerque is known for its New Mexican cuisine, but sometimes you need a break from all the green Chile. This is where Poki Poki Cevicheria comes in. This bright and colorful place offers a variety of ceviche bowls, poke bowls, and even sushi burritos. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a refreshing change of rhythm compared to the heavier, spicier dishes usually found in the region. Also, it’s a great opportunity to take an Instagram-worthy photo with your colorful meal.
If you want to taste another refreshment, head to the tractor brewing company. Now, I know what you’re thinking – “But, that’s a brewery, isn’t that on the typical tourist route?” Ah, but have you heard of their Tuesday night yoga and beer classes? That’s right, you can sip a cold dog while down the dog. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, they also offer Thursday night punk rock aerobics classes. Nothing says “I’m living my best life” than jumping a jack in the sound of The Ramones.
But what if you’re more inclined to seek thrills? The Sandia Peak Cable Car is the place for you. This aerial tramway will take you 2.7 miles to the top of the Sandia Mountains with stunning views of the surrounding area. But that’s where the real adventure comes in – at the top, you can go on guided hiking, take part in mountain bike tours, and even ski in winter. If you feel particularly brave, you can even go zipline. Just don’t look down unless you want to question all of your life choices so far.
Now, let’s slow down. If you want to do something more leisurely, head to ABQ Biopark Botanical Garden. This 36-acre garden features a variety of plants from around the world, including a Japanese garden, a desert greenhouse, and even a butterfly pavilion. But what sets it apart is their “Botanical Garden Music” series, which features local musicians performing in beautiful outdoor settings. It’s the perfect way to relax after a day of adventure.
Finally, we have the Eternal Return Home of Meow Wolf. Now, you may have heard of this psychedelic art installation as it has gained quite a few followers in recent years. But it’s worth mentioning again that it’s truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Meow Wolf describes it as “a unique combination of a jungle gym, haunted house, children’s museum, and immersive art exhibit,” which is very accurate. You’ll find yourself wandering through a seemingly endless maze of rooms and portals, all with their own psychedelic and surreal décor. It’s like stepping into a different dimension, and it’s an absolute must-see for anyone visiting Albuquerque.
So there you go, guys – some off-the-beaten-track activities can be added to your Albuquerque itinerary. Whether you love outdoor adventures, quirky museums, or just food and drinks, there’s something for everyone. Who knows, you might even discover your favorite new place along the way.
Keep in mind though – while these events may not be as well-known as hot air balloon rides and Breaking Bad, that doesn’t mean they’re any less enjoyable. In fact, sometimes hidden gemstones end up being the most memorable. So get out and explore Albuquerque and don’t be afraid to try something new. You never know what kind of adventure awaits you.
