How to Experience Old Town Albuquerque
Albuquerque’s Old Town is the original heart of the city. First settled in 1706 by Spanish colonists, the neighborhood boasts historic architecture, Southwestern charm, and plenty of good food! Old Town also reflects the unique blend of cultures and traditions present in New Mexico, including Native American, Spanish colonial, and American. If you’re thinking of visiting Old Town, here are our top picks for how to experience this centuries-old neighborhood first-hand.
1. Explore Old Town’s Many Museums
Old Town’s museum scene has a little something for everyone, whether you want to immerse yourself in the history of the region or enjoy hands-on activities for the whole family.
The Albuquerque Museum
Located in the heart of Old Town, the Albuquerque Museum features a diverse mix of contemporary art, historical artifacts, and a rotating selection of art exhibits and installations. The museum also features exhibits on the history and art of New Mexico. Whether you’re interested in learning more about Albuquerque’s unique history, or just want to immerse yourself art for an afternoon, the Albuquerque Museum is a must-see spot in Old Town.
The New Mexico Museum of Natural History
The New Mexico Museum of Natural History, also located in Old Town, showcases New Mexico’s unique scientific and geological heritage. The museum features permanent exhibits on prehistoric life, North American dinosaur fossils, astronomy, New Mexico history and geology, local flora and fauna, and more. They also curate a selection of rotating exhibits with a focus on science, art, and history. This museum is fun for the whole family, with plenty of interactive activities and exhibits for all ages.
Explora
Located just a few blocks away from Old Town, Explora is an innovative museum and activity center dedicated to a hands-on approach to science, math, and art. Explora’s exhibits encourage play and learning, with interactive elements included in every installation. Part children’s museum, part science museum, part eclectic interactive exhibit, Explora has a little something to offer everyone.
Rattlesnake Museum
Like snakes? The Rattlesnake Museum is home to 34 different species of rattlesnakes, as well as a variety of other snakes and lizards. The museum aims to educate visitors about these often-misunderstood animals, and also hosts an array of snake-related artwork, merchandise, and memorabilia.
2. Visit Historic Sites
As one of the oldest settlements in the state, Albuquerque is full of historic architecture and historic sights. Just wandering through the neighborhood allows you to immerse yourself in the unique history and culture of colonial New Mexico.
San Felipe de Neri Church
Originally established in 1706 and officially completed in 1718, the San Felipe de Neri Church was one of the first churches in the state. Although the original structure collapsed in 1792, it was rebuilt the following year. Although it has undergone several renovations and restorations since then, the church still features centuries-old architectural elements, and is a must-see historic spot in Old Town Albuquerque.
Old Town Plaza
Like other Spanish colonial settlements, Old Town Albuquerque features a grassy plaza surrounded by shops, houses, and other buildings. Many of the buildings around the plaza are over a hundred years old. These include the Salvador Armijo House, built in 1840, The Charles A. Bottger House, built in 1912, and Our Lady of the Angels School, built in 1878.
3. Experience Some of the Best Food in Albuquerque
Old Town features a diverse selection of some of the best restaurants in Albuquerque. Whether you’re in the mood for authentic Mexican cuisine, Salvadoran pupusas, or comfort food with a Southwestern, there are plenty of spots in Old Town to grab a bite to eat.
Duran’s
A staple of Old Town Albuquerque, Duran’s is an eclectic combination of a pharmacy, a diner, and a specialty gift shop. A frequent stop for locals and tourists alike, Duran’s features authentic New Mexican food including hand-made tortillas, enchiladas, tacos, burritos, and more. The shop also features locally made items, kitchenware, medical supplies, and vitamins and supplements.
Gobble This
Owned and operated by chef Nestor Lopez, Gobble This offers authentic Salvadoran fare, including sandwiches, tacos, and homemade pupusas. Located right off of Old Town’s historic plaza, Gobble This is a great place to grab a bite to eat before setting off on new adventures.
Little Anita’s
Little Anita’s is a beloved local chain, with nine locations in Albuquerque and four in Colorado, with a location located only a few blocks away from the plaza. The restaurant serves up New Mexican comfort food including nachos, quesadillas, green chile stew, and more. Little Anita’s serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it the perfect place to rest and refuel in between exploring the city.
Sawmill Market
Located just a few blocks away from the center of Old Town, Sawmill Market is an artisinal food hall with a wide range of offerings, from coffee and pastries to pizza, ramen, cocktails, and more. There’s a little something for everyone at this brand-new venue!
4. Enjoy Locally-Brewed Wine and Beer
New Mexico has a surprisingly diverse beer and wine scene, with a plethora of local vineyards and breweries, several of which are within walking distance of Old Town.
DH Lescombes Winery
Lescombes Winery and Bistro offers a charming sun-soaked patio, thoughtfully curated French cuisine, and delicious locally grown wine. The Lescombes family has been producing wine for six generations, and has been a part of New Mexico’s wine scene since 1981. Lescombes Winery and Bistro is the perfect place to eat, drink, and unwind after a day spent exploring the city.
Boxing Bear
Located just a few blocks away from Old Town, Boxing Bear Brewery serves up craft beer with a New Mexican flare. The brewery was founded by Albuquerque locals, and features creative brews like the Ambear Ale, Uppercut IPA, and AppleBear Hard Cider. Take a break from exploring Old Town to relax with a pint (or two) at Boxing Bear’s tasting room!
5. Take a Guided Tour
Not sure what to do first? Our guided tours of Albuquerque’s Old Town will give you a taste of everything the city has to offer! Sip on locally brewed beverages, taste fantastic New Mexican cuisine, and learn more about the culture and history behind this historic neighborhood in our four-hour walking tours. Tours run Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 1-5pm, and include five carefully curated tastings that highlight some of the best food in the city. Our knowledgeable tour guides will share the fascinating history of the area, with a special emphasis on how Native, Hispanic, and Anglo cultures shaped – and were shaped by – the region’s unique (and delicious!) food culture.
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About Us
At Wander New Mexico, we have a passion for telling stories and creating unique gastronomic experiences that allow people to connect through food.
Join us for authentic, immersive food & history tours that allow our guests to experience New Mexico’s unique food culture, rich flavors, and intriguing history!