Albuquerque City Guide

New Mexican food with chiles is a highlight. Try Green Chile Cheeseburger and Carne Adovada. There’s also a growing international scene. Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options. Late-night food is mostly near the university and downtown.

Downtown and Nob Hill offer many bars, breweries, wine spots, and clubs. Some venues like Effex Nightclub and Sidewinders are very LGBTQ+ friendly with karaoke and drag shows.

The coffee scene is strong with many specialty cafes and local roasters. Piñon coffee is a local specialty.

Tipping is expected in restaurants (15-20%), taxis (15-20%), and services like haircuts or massages (15-20%). Takeout tipping is common but less than dine-in.

SIM cards are easy to buy at AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon stores, or electronics retailers. Major providers offer good coverage and eSIMs for compatible phones. No ID is required to buy prepaid SIMs.

Main areas are generally clean and well maintained. Waste pickup and recycling services are regular.

Some 24/7 pharmacies, convenience stores, and fast-food outlets exist. Night clinics are less common, but emergency rooms operate continuously.

International grocery stores include Talin Market and Casa Blanca International Market. Main supermarkets like Smith's and Albertsons are common. Farmers markets run seasonally. Stores usually open early and close late, with most open on Sundays.

Card payments are accepted almost everywhere, so you rarely need cash.

ATMs are easy to find in banks, grocery stores, and convenience shops. Fees range from $2.50 to $5 for out-of-network withdrawals.

Albuquerque Public Schools is the largest district. Private and charter schools are available. Mostly English instruction. No major dedicated international schools but some offer specialized curricula.

The remote worker community is small but growing with meetups found online. Co-working spaces act as community hubs.

The city has nearly 300 parks and green spaces, including the Rio Grande Nature Center and Paseo del Bosque Trail. Many shaded paths are good for walking and running.

Popular routes include the Paseo del Bosque Trail along the Rio Grande. Running is generally safe with clubs and events available. Air quality can vary due to wildfire smoke and heat.

Several gyms and sports facilities are available, along with parks featuring sports courts.

Tennis courts are common in public parks and clubs. Courts are mostly hard surface. Equipment rental and coaching are available mostly at private clubs.

Padel courts are rare but may exist at some specialized clubs.

Many studios offer a wide range of classes and wellness options. English is the main language of instruction.

Various martial arts are taught, including BJJ, Muay Thai, Karate, Judo, and Kickboxing. Many gyms offer drop-in classes with English-speaking instructors.

Sandia Peak Ski Area is nearby with beginner and intermediate slopes. Other resorts like Ski Santa Fe and Taos Ski Valley are within a few hours. Rentals are available during the season from late November to March.

Kayaking and paddleboarding are possible on the Rio Grande and nearby lakes like Cochiti and Elephant Butte. Rentals and some guided tours exist, though conditions vary by season.

No ocean or surf spots near Albuquerque.

No natural diving or snorkeling sites near Albuquerque.

Albuquerque has good hospitals and clinics with English-speaking staff. Private and public options exist. Pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS provide OTC meds and prescriptions.

Tap water is generally safe to drink in Albuquerque.

The city has many parks with playgrounds, family-friendly cafes, and baby supply stores. Attractions include Explora Science Center, the BioPark Zoo and Aquarium, and the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway.

Albuquerque is very LGBTQ+ friendly with legal protections, safe spaces, and events like Pride Fest. Gay-friendly venues are spread across the city.

Albuquerque welcomes pets with many pet-friendly parks, restaurants, and vet clinics. Dog parks and walking areas are common.