Neighborhood Guide

Explore Route 66

Route 66 in Albuquerque spans 18 miles along Central Avenue - the longest continuous urban stretch of the road in the country. There are diverse neighborhoods with unique character on every block. Explore all that Route 66 in Albuquerque has to offer.

Downtown

Downtown Albuquerque is in the midst of a major multimillion-dollar revitalization. Here you will find bustling nightlife along Central Avenue, including many nightclubs, theaters and restaurants. The Albuquerque Convention Center is located downtown and is close to several major hotels.

Nob Hill

Nob Hill is a vibrant district with eclectic shops, swanky dining and chic nightspots. Its Route 66 architecture and neon signs, combined with predominantly locally owned shops, galleries and restaurants, make Nob Hill a hip and fashionable area.

Barelas

Immediately south of Downtown is a historic enclave of New Mexican culture and industry. The pre-1937 alignment of Route 66 went through quiet Barelas on 4th Street. Today, Barelas is regarded as one of Albuquerque's quintessential destinations for authentic New Mexican dining and local arts. The National Hispanic Cultural Center is located on 4th Street, celebrating the Hispanic and Latino diaspora in the United States.

Old Town

Historic Old Town has been the heart of Albuquerque since the city was founded here in 1706. Today, Old Town is the city's cultural center, with numerous museums and more than 100 shops, galleries and restaurants. Just west of Old Town is one of Albuquerque's oldest Route 66 motels, El Vado Motel.

International District / East Central

Known today as the International District, the land plot that expanded east to the Sandia Foothills was originally known as the East Mesa, sparsely populated with service stations, motor lodges, and ranches. Today, the area gets its international flavor from the vibrant multicultural communities that call it home.

West Central

The Westside is a fast-expanding area of Albuquerque marked by the peaks of dormant volcanoes and the treasures of Petroglyph National Monument, where visitors can walk among ancient volcanic rock etchings. Experience Nine Mile Hill, a steep stretch of sand dunes providing Route 66 travelers with sweeping views of Albuquerque.

Los Ranchos / North Valley

Up north on pre-1937 Route 66 lies a pastoral sanctuary nestled along the Rio Grande called Los Ranchos. This area is known for its wonderful outdoor activities, wineries, farmers markets and spas.

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Route 66 Centennial

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