The 5 Best Historic Sites in Albuquerque, New Mexico (NM)

October 15, 2021 Mikaela Didonna

Whether you're into history, culture, outdoor adventures or just in need of some new and unique scenery, Albuquerque offers exciting attractions for all ages and interests, anytime of the year. In the historic section of Old Town, ancient Indian and Spanish cultures come to life through old churches, quaint shops and piazzas, winding brick paths and adobe benches. Browsers can spend a whole day making their way through the more than 100 stores, boutiques and galleries that sell Southwestern goods as well as unique products from around the world. During the winter holiday season, Old Town is adorned with small lit candles and thousands come to stroll through the streets, listen to live music and celebrate. It is truly a sight to see. But the history doesn't stop there. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center and the Petroglyph National Monument offer a glimpse of old Indian customs and art. Families will find plenty to do at the Albuquerque Biological Park, which features a zoo, aquarium and botanic garden. Outdoor types will find ample opportunities for hiking, biking and golf. After working up an appetite, head to any number of fine restaurants that serve up a choice of hot or even hotter New Mexican cuisine. To top it all off, take a ride on the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway for spectacular views of all this vibrant city has to offer.
Restaurants in Albuquerque

1. Petroglyph National Monument

6001 Unser Blvd NW Western Trail at Unser Blvd., Albuquerque, NM 87120-2069 +1 505-899-0205 http://www.nps.gov/petr/index.htm
Excellent
50%
Good
37%
Satisfactory
10%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1,874 reviews

Petroglyph National Monument

Up to 15,000 petroglyphs or prehistoric rock art images have been found on the West Mesa volcanic escarpment, located along a 17-mile canyon outside of Albuquerque.

Reviewed By jbushman2017 - Fresno, United States

Perfect for Covid times. This site is an archaeologists dream as there are few places where you can see so many petroglyph's in such a place as you will see here. Visitors drive to the visitor center (which is closed) to pick up a map that shows three places within the monument area where you can visit the petroglyphs. My wife and I picked up a map and then drove 10 minutes down a road to visit one of the sites. The site included three very small walking trails (all less than 500 meters) from which you could get up close to these amazing petroglyphs. Visiting is all free and it is only about 15 minutes from downtown by car. Do wear shoes and bring water. Please "like" this review if you find it helpful.

2. Trinity Site

Unnamed Road New Mexico United States 33.6773, -106.4753, Albuquerque, NM +1 505-319-6448 http://www.wsmr.army.mil/Trinity/Pages/Home.aspx
Excellent
57%
Good
29%
Satisfactory
11%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 178 reviews

Trinity Site

The exact spot where the first atomic bomb was detonated.

Reviewed By bmrdoc1600

This visit is history! Read about the Manhatten Project, J. Robert Oppenheimer, the story of Los Alamos and the end of WWII. Then visit the Trinity Site! Standing at the spot where history was made is overwhelming. What happened here in 1945 touches each one of us today in so many ways! Ground Zero and the MCDonald ranch house where the core of the bomb was assembled is an experience not to be forgotten. Only two days a year is the site open for visitors as it is on the White Sands Missile Range, an active government installation run by the Army. The Trinity Site is remote, the open house well organized, and an experience. Most important: you cannot get there too early!!! The lines to enter the WS Missile range are long if you wait until mid-morning - it is very well attended. First Saturday’s in April and October are the only times the public can enter the site. See the Trinity web site for details.

3. West Mesa

6705 Fortuna Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87121-1306 +1 505-836-8718 http://www.cabq.gov/parksandrecreation/recreation/swimming/indoor-pools/west-mesa-aquatic-center/west-mesa-aquatic-center
Excellent
50%
Good
25%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
25%
Overall Ratings

4.0 based on 4 reviews

West Mesa

One of the sites near Albuquerque, where the Kokopelli figure may be found.

4. The Whittlesey House

201 Highland Park Cir SE, Albuquerque, NM 87102-3632 +1 505-243-8476 [email protected]
Excellent
0%
Good
100%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.0 based on 1 reviews

The Whittlesey House

5. Walter White’s House

3828 Piermont Dr NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111-3416
Excellent
9%
Good
20%
Satisfactory
29%
Poor
17%
Terrible
25%
Overall Ratings

2.5 based on 35 reviews

Walter White’s House

Reviewed By NoSpamSam

Yep, that’s what we were told as we were on the cross street taking pics. Owner wasn’t outside but raised the garage door to yell at us. 10/10 would go again. Pro tip: approach the house from Orlando Place so you don’t have to drive on the street in front of it.

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