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Mayors Innovation Project 2025 Summer Meeting

Albuquerque, NM| July 30- August 1, 2025

We’re excited to welcome you to Albuquerque, New Mexico for the Mayor’s Innovation Project 2025 Summer Meeting. Albuquerque is a city where centuries of tradition meet bold ideas for the future, a fitting backdrop for leaders driving innovation in local government.

As you dive into this year’s event, we hope you’ll also take time to experience all that Albuquerque has to offer. From its deep Native American and Hispanic roots to its vibrant arts, food and community spirit, this city reflects the same ingenuity and resilience you bring to your work.

Welcome to Albuquerque!

 

Mayor's Innovation Project logo

 

Visiting Albuquerque 

In Albuquerque, diverse culturesauthentic art and dynamic traditions have helped shape our centuries-old story. No matter your interests, the city has countless opportunities for you to explore while you're here for the 2025 Summer Meeting. From outdoor adventure and delicious food to world-class museums and fun for the whole family, Albuquerque's beauty and character will beat any expectations. Explore our lively neighborhoods, stroll along Central Avenue under the vintage neon glow of Route 66, or soar high above the city in the hot air ballooning capital of the world — and our city is sure to change your perspective.

Downtown River Cityscape

Getting to Albuquerque 

Getting to Albuquerque is easy. Most major airlines serve the Albuquerque International Sunport including Alaska Airlines, American, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit and United.

There are nonstop flights to and from more than 20 cities in the United States. Lack of congestion at the Albuquerque Airport (Sunport) means visitors experience very few ground delays.

Getting Around The City 

There are many ways to get around Albuquerque during your stay. With taxi services and all major rideshare apps it is easy to connect with a reliable ride. Buses are also available for transportation to many of Albuquerque's cultural attractions, and the Albuquerque Rapid Transit (ART) bus provides easy access to and from the Nob Hill, University and Downtown neighborhoods. 

Things To Do in Albuquerque

 

A Flavorful Experience 

The Church Street Cafe sign

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Duran's Central Pharmacy, where iconic breakfast burritos and huevos rancheros await. For lunch or dinner, head to Church Street Cafe, where you’ll experience some of the best New Mexican cuisine in the city. Indulge in red or green chile or make it “Christmas” style to include both.

 Sip, Sip, Hooray 

Noisy Water Winery

Raise a glass to local flavor in the heart of Old Town, where cozy tasting rooms and artisanal craft spirits take center stage. Explore Noisy Water Winery, known for its New Mexico-grown wines and bold labels, or unwind at Sheehan Winery, where the focus is on locally harvested grapes and small-batch charm. For a unique Southwestern twist, try Outpost 1706, featuring a selection of local brews, wine and cocktails.

Where to Shop 

Shopping in Old Town

Old Town is a haven for unique finds, with its charming streets lined with shops that reflect the city's culture and history. Start your exploration at Old Town Emporium, where you’ll find a eclectic mix of New Mexican themed souvenirs including shirts, ornaments, home decor and more.  Stop by Luna & Luz, a boutique offering contemporary clothing, accessories and beautifully crafted home goods with a distinctly New Mexican flair. If you're a fan of Breaking Bad, make sure to check out The Breaking Bad Store ABQ for memorabilia and souvenirs. 

Immerse Yourself in Culture 

Space Tourism - New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science 3

Dive into Albuquerque’s vibrant history by exploring the cultural gems of Old Town, where history and art meet on Museum Row. Begin at the Albuquerque Museum, which offers an in-depth look at the city’s history and influences. Discover the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science, where exhibits bring the region’s prehistoric past to life. Don’t miss the American International Rattlesnake Museum, a quirky yet fascinating stop that dedicated to the world of live rattlesnakes.

Hiking & Outdoor Adventures 

Sandia Tram - Photo by Minh Quan

For those who love to explore the great outdoors, Albuquerque is an adventure playground. The Sandia Mountains offer a range of hiking trails, whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging ascent. For panoramic views, take the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway, the longest aerial tramway in North America, for a bird’s-eye view of the city and surrounding mountains.

Family-Friendly Activities

A family plays a game at Electric Playhouse

Albuquerque has a diverse range of attractions that cater to all ages and interests. From interactive activities to a variety of cultural and education experiences, there is something for everyone to enjoy. 

For the innovative thinkers, visit Explora Science Center and Children's Museum, where there are plenty of hands-on activities to educate and entertain family members of all ages. Get into the game at Electric Playhouse where visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of games that keep them moving and guessing throughout the whole experience. 

The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History is an intriguing place to learn about the Atomic Age, and features permanent displays and special exhibits about the history and future development of nuclear energy. 

The ABQ BioPark is a unique environmental museum comprised of four different facilities: Experience up close encounters with exotic and native animals at the Zoo, take a trip underwater with coral reef fish, stingrays, sharks and many more at the Aquarium, explore serene and whimsical gardens at the Botanic Gardens, or take a trip down to the fishing lakes at Tingley Beach

For pure fun and amusement, enjoy thrilling roller coasters and splashing around in water park attractions at Cliff's Amusement Park, enjoy laser tag, go-karts, miniature golf and a variety of arcade games at Hinkle Fun Center, go bowling and explore virtual games at Main Event.

Find inspiration for more things to do around town on our blog, our events calendar, or our website

Save on Your Albuquerque Experience 

Looking to make the most of your visit while saving a little extra? Check out our collection of exclusive coupons for top attractions, dining and activities throughout Albuquerque.

Outdoor Adventure

Part desert, part mountain, part river, all under endless blue skies, Albuquerque offers exhilaration you can’t find anywhere else. Imagine the perfect day hiking, biking, kayaking, bouldering and even hot air ballooning, while soaking in the natural beauty of the Southwest. 

Arts & Culture

Creative cultures flourish in Albuquerque. Home to more than 100 art galleries and studios, a multitude of museums, and an innovative theater scene, Albuquerque is a favorite cultural destination for visitors from all over the map.

Albuquerque Dining

New Mexico is home to one of America's most cherished regional cuisines, so it's no surprise that food is one of the things that people remember most about a trip to Albuquerque. This city has an abundance of great restaurant options featuring our famous regional and traditional cuisine as well as contemporary and fusion flavors. 

Wineries & Breweries

With its unique blend of Spanish, Mexican, U.S. and Native American culinary influences, Albuquerque offers a dining and drinking experience like no other city. Albuquerque's local beer and wine choices put this high-altitude city a level above the ordinary.