One of the best things about Albuquerque is the breathtaking landscapes. Within the city, the Sandia Mountains rise majestically off into the distance. From Sandia Peak, you have a panoramic view of the city and nature stretching as far as the eye can see.
New Mexico is known as the Land of Enchantment for good reason. Located at the southernmost part of the Rocky Mountains, towering summits meet the Southwest desert in Albuquerque, resulting in stunning views. This unique landscape is highlighted by vibrant city colors and the lively people of Albuquerque. As you explore the city, check these spots out for spectacular views.
Sandia Mountains
Spots all over Albuquerque capture the grandeur of the Sandia Mountains, but you have to reach the peak to get some of the best city views. La Luz Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike that takes you to the top of the Sandias. If hiking isn’t your thing, the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway is another fun way to reach the mountain peak. At the top of the Sandias, you’ll overlook the city, the Rio Grande and the surrounding high desert.
Elena Gallegos Park
Enjoy stunning views with a trip to Elena Gallegos Park. Located in the Albuquerque Open Space Trail System in the foothills of the Sandia Mountains, this park has a shaded picnic area overlooking the mountains. Before your sunset picnic, explore the nature of Albuquerque in the 640 acres of open space wilderness at Elena Gallegos Park. Here you’ll find native plants like Apache plum and Bear grass, but watch out for snakes! They’re just one of the animals that call this area home.
Get an Aerial View
Albuquerque is the Hot Air Ballooning Capital of the World, making ballooning a must-do activity for visitors and residents alike. A hot air balloon ride will give you the best aerial views of the city! Several hot air balloon ride companies can get you airborne and mesmerized by the bird’s eye views in no time.
Golf Center at Balloon Fiesta Park
Known as the host site for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta®, Balloon Fiesta Park has picture-perfect scenes year-long. This multi-use park has vast lawns, perfect for golfing. That’s right –– practice your swing at the Balloon Fiesta Park Golf Center, with great views of the city. Open only during the spring and summer, take advantage of these majestic Albuquerque golf course views.
Rooftop Lounges
For the adults, rooftop bars in Albuquerque are great places to unwind after work or on the weekends while enjoying a lovely vantage point. Vintage 423 overlooks Albuquerque’s Eastside while Apothecary Lounge at Hotel Parq Central offers panoramic views of Downtown and the Sandia Mountains.
ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden
Sight-seers and architecture enthusiasts alike can marvel at the picturesque glass conservatory at the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden. The lush pond nearby reflects the asymmetrical building’s shape, creating an “oasis in the desert.” The Botanic Garden is home to 32 acres of protected wildlife and plants. Broken up by exhibits, you’ll not only find native plants but also plants from across the American Southwest and the world.
Views for Special Events
Standing 20 stories high in downtown Albuquerque, the Clyde Hotel is the second tallest building in New Mexico. Stay in an intimate top-floor suite for stunning views of the mountains and city.
West Bluff Park
This spectacular scene of Albuquerque at West Bluff Park is worth the trip at sunset or sunrise. At the end of a paved pathway, a gazebo overlooks the city with the mountains towering in the background. Every day is different, thanks to the way clouds shape and paint the sky with the colors of the sun.
Explore Nob Hill
A quirky part of Albuquerque fitted with retro neon signs, Nob Hill is fun to explore. In this neighborhood, you’ll find walkable, vibrant streets an array of historic Route 66 shops and restaurants.
Petroglyph National Monument
Discover unique desert landscapes in Albuquerque at Petroglyph National Monument. Walk through ancient volcanic rock and see petroglyphs from Native Americans etched into the rock centuries ago. Exploring each canyon and the dozens of petroglyphs across the park takes hours –– the perfect place to spend the day.
In a place like New Mexico, it doesn’t take long to get far away from the city noises and find yourself in a serene desert. As you explore Albuquerque and the surrounding areas, take your time. No matter where you look, you’ll find spectacular views unique to you.
Safe travels and happy exploring.
