ARTS & CULTURE TRIP IDEAS

Recognized as one of the most culturally diverse cities in the country, Albuquerque's ethnic tapestry is reflected in its architecture, artwork, cultural centers and cuisine. Albuquerque is home to more than the Native American, Hispanic, and Latino cultures for which New Mexico is well known. In fact, more than 70 different ethnicities call Albuquerque home.

Albuquerque's one-of-a-kind Southwestern culture is in everything around you. In every way possible, the past seamlessly weaves through the fabric of present-day Albuquerque, making it a truly culturally rich American destination. Ranked among American Style magazine's Top 25 Arts Destinations in the country, Albuquerque offers abundance and variety to anyone seeking traditional or contemporary art and culture.

Museums

With 19 museums, everyone in your travel party is sure to find something to interest them. With topics covering everything from turquoise at the Downtown Turquoise Museum to hot air balloons at the Anderson Abruzzo International Balloon Museum to nuclear science at the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History, you could spend days in our museums. Museum patrons will learn about the history of Albuquerque dating back to 1700 and beyond, teens may enjoy learning about how the personal computer was invented in Albuquerque and the little ones can have fun learning through hands-on science experiments at Explora.
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Festivals & Events

The city's festivals and special events provide an additional look at all of the unique cultures that blend together to create Albuquerque. From food festivals celebrating all things chile to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta highlighting hot air ballooning to Women & Creativity celebrating the creative spirit each spring, year-round events are a great way to choose the timing of your visit.
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Cultural Centers

To dig a little deeper into the cultures of this area, plan a visit to one of our cultural centers. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is owned by the 19 pueblos of New Mexico and provides a great introduction to Native American culture. Highlights include weekend Native American dances by tribal dance groups, informative exhibits, an excellent gift shop and Albuquerque's only Native owned restaurant.
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The National Hispanic Cultural Center is a community center, an arts venue and a teaching facility all in one. Permanent and changing exhibits inside of the Art Museum offer an intriguing look at Hispanic art and artists throughout the world. The center is also home to North America's largest concave fresco called "Mundos de mestizaje," which depicts more than 3,000 years of Hispanic heritage. Additional attractions include a performing arts center, gift shop and a restaurant.
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Visit the KiMo Theatre

Opened in 1927, the KiMo Theatre in downtown Albuquerque is a tribute to "Pueblo Deco" architecture. Pueblo Deco was a flamboyant, short-lived architectural style that fused the spirit of the Native American cultures of the Southwest with the exuberance of Art Deco. The original movie house along Route 66 has been renovated and is now open for live theatrical performances, movies and cultural events. Visitors may view the inside of the theatre during office hours Tuesday-Saturday.
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Historic Old Town

Into history? Love to shop? Want to take a piece of New Mexico home with you? Historic Old Town is a great place to start. The city was founded, in what is now called Old Town, in 1706 with a traditional Spanish plaza design. The San Felipe de Neri church congregation has operated continually since 1706. The current building was built in 1793. Shoppers and art lovers will enjoy a visit to the Old Town district at the intersection of Rio Grande Boulevard and Central Avenue, which is home to 150+ shops, galleries, boutiques, art studios, restaurants and museums. Shop for Southwestern pottery and Southwestern paintings. Tours of Old Town offers history, ghost and specialty tours.
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Historic Nob Hill

The historic Nob Hill neighborhood is full of eclectic shops, galleries and boutiques. The walkable district plays up on its Route 66 heritage with neon signs and unique architecture. Nob Hill is a hot spot for unique shopping, dining and entertainment. It's not only a place where locals frequent, but a popular spot for visitors as well.
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Visit a Pueblo

Acoma Pueblo, said to be the longest continually inhabited community in the United States, is about 45 minutes west of Albuquerque. Visiting the pueblo and the Sky City Cultural Center provides an intriguing look at pueblo culture - past and present.
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Pueblo Feast Day schedule »

See a show

More theatrical performances take place every weekend in Albuquerque than in any other U.S. city of its size. Find everything from musicals, comedies and live dramas to first-person historical reenactments, improvisational cabaret, Shakespearean classics, new work by emerging playwrights and more.
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Arts & Culture Resources