Nothing says vacation, summertime and fun like imbibing while the sun is out. With the sunny Albuquerque summer upon us, there’s no reason to wait until sundown to start sipping and socializing. From guided tours to refreshingly cool pools, and even colder beers, here’s a list of some of the best day drinking spots you’ll find around Albuquerque. Remember, these are fun places to be this summer, but nothing is more important than safety. Always drink responsibly and have a designated driver or take a rideshare home. And, as always, the sun is hot and the altitude is high. Drink plenty of water during your day of fun!
Enjoy the Rooftop Bar at G. Toti
Photo Credit: Facebook
Sip on a delicious drink at G. Toti's rooftop bar and patio located downtown at Hotel Andaluz. Get the evening started with cocktails, tapas and a great atmosphere.
Visit the Brewery District
Is there anything better than cold beer on a hot day? Spend an afternoon in the Brewery District, home to the city's first distillery, Left Turn Distillery, La Cumbre Brewery, Canteen Brewhouse (formerly Il Vicino), and Palmer Brewery and Cider House. And though not officially in the district, nearby Nexus Brewery is close by too - try some of the city’s favorite chicken and waffles while you’re there.
Book a Tour with Vino Vans
If you want to let someone else take the lead, book a wine tour with Vino Vans. Sip on tasting flights from three wineries. You'll be picked up and transported in a luxury limo van between wineries.
Spend the Day at Marble Brewery
Marble Brewery draws people from all walks of life and has become a central meeting and hanging spot for locals and visitors alike.
The laid back atmosphere on the patios in combination with their lineup of house beers and a variety of seasonal styles in draft and bottle, make Marble’s Downtown Brewery or Northeast Heights tap room ideal for relaxing on a summer day. With live music on their iconic Downtown outdoor stage almost daily during the summer months and some of the best local food trucks from around the city stationed outside, Marble is a must on the list for enjoying brews in the daytime.
Have Brunch at El Pinto
Brunch is the most important meal of the day right? At El Pinto Authentic New Mexican Restaurant, they take their margaritas seriously. The Tequila Bar at El Pinto carries the best selection of premium tequilas available in Albuquerque and all of New Mexico. With a selection of over 160 tequilas to choose from, there is something for everyone. On Sundays, enjoy New Mexican brunch specials like blue corn pancakes and favorites like Hatch red chile eggs benedict.
Do Like the Locals Do and Head to Nob Hill
Spend the day on one of the most iconic strips of Route 66. In Nob Hill you’ll not only find bars, restaurants and patios for any taste, but also a vibrant, walkable district with locally owned shops and galleries and a uniquely hip, fashionable vibe. Post up at one of these locally loved bars, or walk around and stop at a few while shopping and enjoying the sites of Central Avenue.
- Get tropical with a drink at Daydream Rum Bar.
- Grab a bite to eat with your cocktail at M'tucci's Bar Roma.
- Perk up with some coffee or wind down with some wine at Little Bear Coffee and Wine Bar.
- Stop at a local brewery like Flock of Moons Brewing Company.
- Discover the hidden Zema Vinyl Lounge.
- Day drinking on the weekend? Enjoy Sunday brunch with an Irish Coffee at Two Fools Tavern.
- Try some of the unique cocktails and mocktails at the award-winning Happy Accidents bar.
Take a Trip to Kaktus Brewery
Visit Kaktus Brewery, considered the first destination brewery in New Mexico. With an artistic, eclectic and relaxed environment, two killer patios and an organic, local menu, this brewery is worth the visit to Bernalillo. Remember to designate a driver or take an Uber and always drink responsibly.
