ALBUQUERQUE, NM – Albuquerque welcomes the Cougars from Brigham Young University and the University of Texas at El Paso Miners for this year’s New Mexico Bowl. Albuquerque is a short jaunt from Utah and El Paso so football fans are encouraged to check out the game and all of the festivities surrounding it. Make a weekend of it with holiday shopping and events throughout Albuquerque.
 

AAA has ranked Albuquerque as the second most affordable U.S. travel destination based on the low daily costs of lodging and food. The Visit Albuquerque makes it easy for fans to find affordable deals and packages during your stay; check out www.ItsATrip.org/nmbowl for coupons to be used at shops, restaurants, attractions and more.

Albuquerque is a 300-year-old city that is the metropolitan center of New Mexico with more than 800,000 residents. At 5,500 feet altitude with mountains bordering the city, outdoor recreation abounds. Enjoy sunny skies 310 days a year along with a plethora of hiking, biking, golfing and ballooning opportunities year-round. Albuquerque is also home to world class cultural events, a vibrant heritage, 19 museums and diverse shopping options.

For last-minute holiday shopping, stroll the Historic Old Town, Nob Hill and ABQ Uptown neighborhoods. Each is distinctive in its own way. From adobe architecture with picturesque patios to national department stores, all have excellent dining options and fantastic shopping opportunities with New Mexican shopping treasures around every corner.

During the holiday season, there are a variety of festivities to enjoy with the whole family. Take in a holiday performance or walk the River of Lights at the Rio Grande Botanic Garden, New Mexico’s largest walk-through holiday light show. Get details on holiday events at www.ItsATrip.org/holiday/.

Each team will get a taste of New Mexico’s signature green chile during the team green chile cook-off at their home campus. A short video of each team making their green chile will be shown during the welcome reception and team dinner on Wednesday, December, 15th.  Fans should also be sure to treat their palates to New Mexican cuisine by sampling some local flavor at one of our authentic New Mexican restaurants. Ask our cuisine expert for recommendations: www.ItsATrip.org/abqexperts/cuisine.   

Whatever experience you are looking for, Albuquerque is the perfect opportunity for a quick weekend getaway before the holidays. Visit www.ItsATrip.org/nmbowl for lodging options and to plan your visit.