Sunday

Attracted to Albuquerque


I became entranced with Albuquerque, New Mexico in 1990. The people are so friendly and the city made such an impact on me that I have declared it my favorite place. Albuquerque is a rare city of diversified cultures, fused with historic values and traditions. I find myself comfortably surrounded in a multicultural community of southwestern influences. Each cultures heritage perks my interests and leaves me yearning to discover and learn .

This city of Albuquerque has a lot to offer to expand ones mind. There is no lack of activities and attractions in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Most new visitors seek out Historic Old Town as their first exploration in Albuquerque. Established in the 1700's, Old Town Plaza is Albuquerque's oldest district full of historic landmarks. There is a beautiful plaza surrounded by historic homes and businesses. Old Town offers guided tours, museums that enlighten, traditional artisan shops, dining, entertainment and keepsake souvenir shops. Food and wine enthusiast make a note, some of Albuquerque's best restaurants featuring authentic New Mexican foods are in the Old Town District and Albuquerque has outstanding wineries that have produced national award winning wines.

Albuquerque is what it is today, because it has a strong history of established cultures and traditions. One can really dig into Albuquerque's history of the Southwest by visiting the cultural centers. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center and the National Hispanic Cultural Center are both popular museums and learning centers. I visit these centers often because each offers changing entertainment venues and continuous educational exhibits. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center pays tribute to the state's 19 pueblos. The National Hispanic Cultural Center conducts programs in the visual arts, performing arts and features exhibits of Hispanic cultural history.

Generally, Albuquerque's climate is perfect for outdoor activities. When I'm in the need for fresh air and sunshine, I collect my friends and head to the Albuquerque Biological Parks. These parks includes the Rio Grande Botanic Garden, the Rio Grande Zoo and the Albuquerque Aquarium. These three delightful places really are must see sites for serious nature hounds and nature curious persons. Get the combo pass for these attractions if you plan to see all three sites. To get from one park to the other, take the Bio Train, known as the Thunderbird Express.

Albuquerque has its very own mountain range called the Sandias. I admire a scenic mountain landscape but getting an up close mountain view is the best. Majestic view seekers will want to experience the Sandia Peak Tramway. A 2.7-mile Tram Ride gives an ascent climb to the 10,350 foot peak of the Sandia Mountains. Don't forget a camera for the panoramic views. The top of the Sandias is the best way to view a gorgeous western sunset and see a mesmerizing view of Albuquerque's city lights. At the top of the tram ride is a restaurant known as High Finance. The stage is set for a very romantic dinner to remember.

Anyone who knows me will say that I am big on entertainment. I love movies, live theatre, museum exhibits and art centers. Lucky for me, entertainment and arts have become a passionate emphasis on the daily culture of Albuquerque. From top drawing entertainers to cozy downtown theatres there is always some show to see or some event to get to. One of my favorite established venues to check for fantastic shows is the Popejoy Hall a center for the arts. Popejoy hosts touring Broadway shows and national and international performers. A good entertainment guide that list current shows, movies and events is a local paper called, "The Alibi".

I hope my insight of Albuquerque is informative. I want to inspire people to discover and experience the cultures, traditions, performing arts and entertainments of this great city.
All of the mentioned attractions are just scratches on the surface of things to do in Albuquerque. I sincerely think that you could see a new site and experience something new every day. Its a matter of getting out there and doing it!










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