Downtown Albuquerque is the city’s modern financial and commercial centre filled with popular stores, bars and restaurants. Those looking for the best of the city’s best shopping and nightlife should therefore look no further.
If you wish to immerse in the Mexican history, tradition, and culture of Albuquerque, stay in the Old Town instead. Here you can explore the city’s cultural museums, as well as shop for local artisanal crafts and eat the best Mexican food in the city.
The neighbouring Sawmill is perhaps Albuquerque’s foodie favourite due to its diversity of cuisines and restaurant styles. It’s a slightly more upscale option than Old Town, and its kid-friendly museums make it ideal for families.
Sat between the Old Town and the ABQ BioPark, West Old Town is charming, calm, and also very family friendly.
Albuquerque’s hipster scene can be found in East Downtown where indie shops and farm-to-table restaurants are populated by millennials and Gen Z. Naturally, University Heights also attracts the artsy crowds to its edgy, rugged streets where you’ll find vintage shops and record stores galore.
While University Heights is one of the city’s most affordable areas to stay in, the most budget-friendly is Near North Valley. Situated a few kilometres north of central Albequerque, it is more relaxed and feels much more ‘local’ than the other neighbourhoods.
Getting around Albuquerque is easy and affordable with its reliable bus services which extend across the city.
