Albuquerque Old Town Walk (Self Guided), Albuquerque
When Governor Francisco Cuervo founded Albuquerque, he claimed the new villa had thirty-five families. The city name derived from a town in Spain, from the Latin albus quercus, meaning “white oak.” In reality, there were far fewer — yet by the time Spanish officials found out, Albuquerque had already come to life. And so, the city was born: a tiny fib that grew into one of New Mexico’s most vibrant and enduring settlements.
Albuquerque, the largest city in New Mexico, boasts a rich history shaped by the blending of Indigenous, Spanish, Mexican, and American cultures. Its roots reach back thousands of years, when Ancestral Puebloans settled along the fertile banks of the Rio Grande, drawn by its steady water supply and arable land. These early inhabitants built irrigation systems, cultivated corn and beans, and established thriving communities long before Europeans arrived.
Designed as a traditional Spanish colonial settlement, the town centered around a plaza with a church — San Felipe de Neri — which still stands proudly today in Old Town. The plaza served as the heart of community life, hosting markets, festivals, and public gatherings. The surrounding lands supported small farms nourished by irrigation canals along the Rio Grande Valley.
Albuquerque’s growth accelerated in the 19th century after the Mexican-American War and the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848. The arrival of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway in 1880 transformed it into a major transportation hub, while the 20th century brought further expansion with Kirtland Air Force Base and Sandia National Laboratories.
Today, Albuquerque is a vibrant city where ancient traditions meet modern innovation. In Old Town, visitors can explore the historic San Felipe de Neri Church, the lively plaza lined with adobe shops, and museums like the Albuquerque Museum and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.
Colorful murals, handmade crafts, and the aroma of New Mexican cuisine fill the air — proof that what began as a small exaggeration has flourished into a city larger than anyone could have imagined.
Albuquerque, the largest city in New Mexico, boasts a rich history shaped by the blending of Indigenous, Spanish, Mexican, and American cultures. Its roots reach back thousands of years, when Ancestral Puebloans settled along the fertile banks of the Rio Grande, drawn by its steady water supply and arable land. These early inhabitants built irrigation systems, cultivated corn and beans, and established thriving communities long before Europeans arrived.
Designed as a traditional Spanish colonial settlement, the town centered around a plaza with a church — San Felipe de Neri — which still stands proudly today in Old Town. The plaza served as the heart of community life, hosting markets, festivals, and public gatherings. The surrounding lands supported small farms nourished by irrigation canals along the Rio Grande Valley.
Albuquerque’s growth accelerated in the 19th century after the Mexican-American War and the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848. The arrival of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway in 1880 transformed it into a major transportation hub, while the 20th century brought further expansion with Kirtland Air Force Base and Sandia National Laboratories.
Today, Albuquerque is a vibrant city where ancient traditions meet modern innovation. In Old Town, visitors can explore the historic San Felipe de Neri Church, the lively plaza lined with adobe shops, and museums like the Albuquerque Museum and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.
Colorful murals, handmade crafts, and the aroma of New Mexican cuisine fill the air — proof that what began as a small exaggeration has flourished into a city larger than anyone could have imagined.
How it works: Download the app "911±¬ÁĎÍř: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store to your mobile phone or tablet. The app turns your mobile device into a personal tour guide and its built-in GPS navigation functions guide you from one tour stop to next. The app works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Download The 911±¬ÁĎÍř App
Albuquerque Old Town Walk Map
Guide Name: Albuquerque Old Town Walk
Guide Location: USA » Albuquerque (See other walking tours in Albuquerque)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 9
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.3 Km or 0.8 Miles
Author: doris
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: USA » Albuquerque (See other walking tours in Albuquerque)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 9
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.3 Km or 0.8 Miles
Author: doris
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Old Town Plaza
- San Felipe de Neri Church
- Plaza Hacienda
- American International Rattlesnake Museum
- Charles A. Bottger House
- Albuquerque Museum
- New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science
- Candy Lady
- Patio Escondido Mall
1) Old Town Plaza
Old Town Plaza, nestled between Mountain Road and Central Avenue, is the historic heart of Albuquerque and the perfect place to experience New Mexico’s charm and history on foot.
Founded in 1706 by Francisco Cuervo—a Spanish governor and knight of royal lineage—the plaza has remained the cultural and social center of the city for over three centuries.
At its core lies a shady green park and a graceful gazebo, often filled with music, festivals, and community celebrations. Around the square, adobe buildings house shops, galleries, and restaurants that preserve the spirit of old New Mexico.
Historic landmarks surround the plaza in every direction: San Felipe de Neri Church to the north, the Old Town Emporium to the south, the Yucca Art Gallery to the east, and the Ampola Gallery to the west. With much of downtown just a short walk away, Old Town Plaza is an inviting starting point for discovering Albuquerque’s past and present.
Founded in 1706 by Francisco Cuervo—a Spanish governor and knight of royal lineage—the plaza has remained the cultural and social center of the city for over three centuries.
At its core lies a shady green park and a graceful gazebo, often filled with music, festivals, and community celebrations. Around the square, adobe buildings house shops, galleries, and restaurants that preserve the spirit of old New Mexico.
Historic landmarks surround the plaza in every direction: San Felipe de Neri Church to the north, the Old Town Emporium to the south, the Yucca Art Gallery to the east, and the Ampola Gallery to the west. With much of downtown just a short walk away, Old Town Plaza is an inviting starting point for discovering Albuquerque’s past and present.
2) San Felipe de Neri Church (must see)
San Felipe de Neri Church is one of the city’s most treasured landmarks. Built in 1793, it stands as one of the oldest surviving buildings in Albuquerque and a remarkable symbol of faith and endurance through the centuries.
The church’s origins date back to 1706, when the first mission was dedicated initially to Francis Xavier and later to Saint Philip Neri. That original structure served the community for nearly 90 years before collapsing due to disrepair. In 1793, a new church was constructed on the same site under the direction of New Mexico’s governor, Fernando de la Concha — the very one that still welcomes worshipers and visitors today.
San Felipe de Neri features a single nave design, with thick adobe walls and rich wooden furnishings typical of early colonial architecture. The church was remodeled in the 1860s, when its elegant twin bell towers and Gothic-inspired interior were added. Further restoration in 1916 brought the addition of a pressed tin ceiling, enhancing its timeless charm.
Over time, the church grounds expanded to include several historic buildings — a rectory, barn, stable, and parish hall. In 1878, Our Lady of the Angels School opened here, becoming Albuquerque’s first public school. A few years later, in 1881, the Sister Blandina Convent was built and served local nuns for nearly a century. Today, it houses a small museum and gift shop where visitors can learn more about the church’s storied past.
Visitors are welcome to attend Mass or explore the church’s museum during open hours. Even when services aren’t taking place, the graceful adobe façade, bell towers, and peaceful courtyard make San Felipe de Neri Church a must-see stop on any walk through Old Town Albuquerque.
Tip:
The museum and gift shop hours are irregular. Mass is held on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday at 7 AM; Saturday at 4 PM; and Sunday at 7 and 11 AM.
The church’s origins date back to 1706, when the first mission was dedicated initially to Francis Xavier and later to Saint Philip Neri. That original structure served the community for nearly 90 years before collapsing due to disrepair. In 1793, a new church was constructed on the same site under the direction of New Mexico’s governor, Fernando de la Concha — the very one that still welcomes worshipers and visitors today.
San Felipe de Neri features a single nave design, with thick adobe walls and rich wooden furnishings typical of early colonial architecture. The church was remodeled in the 1860s, when its elegant twin bell towers and Gothic-inspired interior were added. Further restoration in 1916 brought the addition of a pressed tin ceiling, enhancing its timeless charm.
Over time, the church grounds expanded to include several historic buildings — a rectory, barn, stable, and parish hall. In 1878, Our Lady of the Angels School opened here, becoming Albuquerque’s first public school. A few years later, in 1881, the Sister Blandina Convent was built and served local nuns for nearly a century. Today, it houses a small museum and gift shop where visitors can learn more about the church’s storied past.
Visitors are welcome to attend Mass or explore the church’s museum during open hours. Even when services aren’t taking place, the graceful adobe façade, bell towers, and peaceful courtyard make San Felipe de Neri Church a must-see stop on any walk through Old Town Albuquerque.
Tip:
The museum and gift shop hours are irregular. Mass is held on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday at 7 AM; Saturday at 4 PM; and Sunday at 7 and 11 AM.
3) Plaza Hacienda
Plaza Hacienda is one of Old Town Albuquerque’s most charming spots to shop, dine, and soak up the Southwestern atmosphere. Strolling through its traditional adobe buildings, visitors discover a delightful mix of local boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants that capture the spirit of New Mexico.
Food lovers can stop at Backstreet Grill, known for its delicious dishes and local New Mexico craft beers on tap. Nearby, Hacienda Del Rio serves flavorful Mexican-American meals inside a beautifully preserved historic building, offering the perfect blend of heritage and hospitality.
Art enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Genuine Southwest, an art gallery dedicated exclusively to New Mexican artists, and Gallery 8, which features unique jewelry and pottery with a distinct Southwestern flair. For those searching for the perfect keepsake, Southwestern Handcrafts offers authentic handmade gifts, while Old Town Olive invites visitors to sample a variety of infused oils and vinegars in its inviting tasting room.
Even if shopping isn’t on the agenda, Plaza Hacienda is worth a visit for its warm ambiance and historic charm. Just steps away from Old Town Plaza and San Felipe de Neri Church, it’s a vibrant corner of Albuquerque where you can relax, explore, and experience the heart of the Southwest.
Food lovers can stop at Backstreet Grill, known for its delicious dishes and local New Mexico craft beers on tap. Nearby, Hacienda Del Rio serves flavorful Mexican-American meals inside a beautifully preserved historic building, offering the perfect blend of heritage and hospitality.
Art enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Genuine Southwest, an art gallery dedicated exclusively to New Mexican artists, and Gallery 8, which features unique jewelry and pottery with a distinct Southwestern flair. For those searching for the perfect keepsake, Southwestern Handcrafts offers authentic handmade gifts, while Old Town Olive invites visitors to sample a variety of infused oils and vinegars in its inviting tasting room.
Even if shopping isn’t on the agenda, Plaza Hacienda is worth a visit for its warm ambiance and historic charm. Just steps away from Old Town Plaza and San Felipe de Neri Church, it’s a vibrant corner of Albuquerque where you can relax, explore, and experience the heart of the Southwest.
4) American International Rattlesnake Museum
The American International Rattlesnake Museum is a fascinating spot in Old Town Albuquerque dedicated to educating visitors about rattlesnakes and other reptiles. It’s not just a museum—it’s an experience that combines science, curiosity, and a touch of adventure.
Opened in 1990, the museum features one of the largest collections of live rattlesnake species in the world. Visitors can see an impressive variety of snakes, including the Baja California Rattlesnake, the Chihuahuan Ridge-nosed Rattlesnake, the Banded Rock Rattlesnake, and the Mexican Lance-headed Rattlesnake. There’s even a resident Gila monster among the museum’s reptilian stars.
Beyond the live exhibits, the museum showcases an extensive collection of snake-themed memorabilia—from toys and movie posters to stamps, shoes, beverages, and license plates. Visitors can also explore displays of snakebite kits, anti-venom, fossils, religious and Native American artifacts, and a film library devoted to serpents.
Before leaving, be sure to visit the gift shop, a favorite among guests wanting to commemorate their trip. It features a wide array of rattlesnake-themed items, from toys and jewelry to apparel, books, and unique keepsakes. Quirky mementos, educational materials, and one-of-a-kind gifts allow visitors to take home a piece of Albuquerque’s most unusual and fascinating museum.
Opened in 1990, the museum features one of the largest collections of live rattlesnake species in the world. Visitors can see an impressive variety of snakes, including the Baja California Rattlesnake, the Chihuahuan Ridge-nosed Rattlesnake, the Banded Rock Rattlesnake, and the Mexican Lance-headed Rattlesnake. There’s even a resident Gila monster among the museum’s reptilian stars.
Beyond the live exhibits, the museum showcases an extensive collection of snake-themed memorabilia—from toys and movie posters to stamps, shoes, beverages, and license plates. Visitors can also explore displays of snakebite kits, anti-venom, fossils, religious and Native American artifacts, and a film library devoted to serpents.
Before leaving, be sure to visit the gift shop, a favorite among guests wanting to commemorate their trip. It features a wide array of rattlesnake-themed items, from toys and jewelry to apparel, books, and unique keepsakes. Quirky mementos, educational materials, and one-of-a-kind gifts allow visitors to take home a piece of Albuquerque’s most unusual and fascinating museum.
5) Charles A. Bottger House
The Charles A. Bottger House is a historic home that now welcomes guests as a charming bed and breakfast. Built in 1912 for businessman Charles Bottger, who relocated from New Jersey, the house was designed by Edward B. Christy in the distinctive American Foursquare style. Its features include a metal tile roof, dormers, sun porches with glass wraps, and wide eaves, creating a striking example of early 20th-century architecture.
For its time, the home was remarkably modern, boasting conveniences rarely seen in houses of that era—such as a home intercom system using speaking tubes and a dumbwaiter. These thoughtful touches make the Bottger House a fascinating glimpse into Albuquerque’s past.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, much of the house remains original, offering visitors an authentic experience of historic design and craftsmanship. Its preservation makes it one of the city’s standout examples of early 1900s architecture.
Visitors interested in history, architecture, or distinctive accommodations will appreciate the Charles A. Bottger House. Even without staying overnight, a walk past the home offers a close-up look at its elegant design and historical charm, making it a memorable highlight while exploring Old Town Albuquerque.
For its time, the home was remarkably modern, boasting conveniences rarely seen in houses of that era—such as a home intercom system using speaking tubes and a dumbwaiter. These thoughtful touches make the Bottger House a fascinating glimpse into Albuquerque’s past.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, much of the house remains original, offering visitors an authentic experience of historic design and craftsmanship. Its preservation makes it one of the city’s standout examples of early 1900s architecture.
Visitors interested in history, architecture, or distinctive accommodations will appreciate the Charles A. Bottger House. Even without staying overnight, a walk past the home offers a close-up look at its elegant design and historical charm, making it a memorable highlight while exploring Old Town Albuquerque.
6) Albuquerque Museum (must see)
The Albuquerque Museum celebrates the art, history, and culture of the American Southwest, with a special focus on Albuquerque and the Middle Rio Grande Valley. Its collections showcase Southwest art alongside global influences, and explore 400 years of local history through permanent installations and rotating exhibitions.
Originally opened in 1967 as the Museum of Albuquerque at the Albuquerque International Sunport, the growing collection moved to its current purpose-built location in 1979.
Visitors can explore permanent exhibits featuring early maps, conquistador armor, traditional weavings, and other artifacts of colonial life in New Mexico. Changing exhibits, art galleries, and a vast photo archive offer fresh experiences with each visit, while the museum’s outdoor sculpture garden provides a scenic setting for photos and relaxation.
The museum is both affordable and strikingly modern, offering a delightful experience for visitors of all ages. Its outdoor gardens and sculpture displays provide a scenic backdrop perfect for photos.
A small café on-site offers limited indoor seating and a few outdoor tables, making it a pleasant spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings while taking in the art and history of Albuquerque.
Originally opened in 1967 as the Museum of Albuquerque at the Albuquerque International Sunport, the growing collection moved to its current purpose-built location in 1979.
Visitors can explore permanent exhibits featuring early maps, conquistador armor, traditional weavings, and other artifacts of colonial life in New Mexico. Changing exhibits, art galleries, and a vast photo archive offer fresh experiences with each visit, while the museum’s outdoor sculpture garden provides a scenic setting for photos and relaxation.
The museum is both affordable and strikingly modern, offering a delightful experience for visitors of all ages. Its outdoor gardens and sculpture displays provide a scenic backdrop perfect for photos.
A small café on-site offers limited indoor seating and a few outdoor tables, making it a pleasant spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings while taking in the art and history of Albuquerque.
7) New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science (must see)
The New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, founded in 1986, offers an engaging journey through the natural world and the history of the Southwest. Its eight permanent "time hall" exhibits take visitors from the birth of the universe to the Ice Age, highlighting key moments in Earth’s history.
Guests can explore the dawn of the dinosaurs, the Jurassic Age of giant reptiles, ancient seacoasts, volcanic landscapes, evolving grasslands, and immersive cave environments, all brought to life with interactive displays and realistic reconstructions.
A planetarium provides an additional dimension, offering shows that illuminate space, astronomy, and the wonders of the universe. Visitors can also encounter fossils, native animals, and plant displays that showcase New Mexico’s diverse ecosystems and unique geological history.
Beyond its exhibits, the museum provides an ideal stop for families, students, and tourists exploring Albuquerque. Its modern design, interactive features, and thoughtfully curated displays make it easy to spend several hours exploring.
As of late 2025, the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science is closed for major renovations and is expected to reopen in spring 2026. During this period, the museum has launched a mobile exhibit, New Mexico Rocks, bringing its collections to communities across the state.
Guests can explore the dawn of the dinosaurs, the Jurassic Age of giant reptiles, ancient seacoasts, volcanic landscapes, evolving grasslands, and immersive cave environments, all brought to life with interactive displays and realistic reconstructions.
A planetarium provides an additional dimension, offering shows that illuminate space, astronomy, and the wonders of the universe. Visitors can also encounter fossils, native animals, and plant displays that showcase New Mexico’s diverse ecosystems and unique geological history.
Beyond its exhibits, the museum provides an ideal stop for families, students, and tourists exploring Albuquerque. Its modern design, interactive features, and thoughtfully curated displays make it easy to spend several hours exploring.
As of late 2025, the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science is closed for major renovations and is expected to reopen in spring 2026. During this period, the museum has launched a mobile exhibit, New Mexico Rocks, bringing its collections to communities across the state.
8) Candy Lady
Albuquerque’s Old Town is rich with history in adobe and stone, but one storefront has built its legend out of sugar. For over three decades, The Candy Lady has delighted visitors with a mix of sweets ranging from old-fashioned fudge to chile-spiked novelties found nowhere else.
Inside, the selection is as eclectic as the city itself. Counters overflow with more than twenty fudge flavors, imported licorice, hand-dipped fruits, truffles, and brittle. Local ingredients shine through in recipes like piñon brittle glazed with green chile, red-chile chocolate bars, and pepper-infused hard candies. Even the fudge gets a New Mexico twist, balancing heat and sweetness in true Southwestern style.
The shop also celebrates Albuquerque’s pop-culture fame with playful nods to Breaking Bad. Fans can browse mugs, shirts, and novelty bags of “blue candy,” a humorous tribute to Walter White’s fictional empire—here, the only chemistry is sugar science.
Part neighborhood institution, part playful cultural nod, The Candy Lady captures the spirit of Albuquerque one sugary creation at a time. From chile-laced treats to classic confections and whimsical memorabilia, each visit offers a taste of the city’s unique character.
Inside, the selection is as eclectic as the city itself. Counters overflow with more than twenty fudge flavors, imported licorice, hand-dipped fruits, truffles, and brittle. Local ingredients shine through in recipes like piñon brittle glazed with green chile, red-chile chocolate bars, and pepper-infused hard candies. Even the fudge gets a New Mexico twist, balancing heat and sweetness in true Southwestern style.
The shop also celebrates Albuquerque’s pop-culture fame with playful nods to Breaking Bad. Fans can browse mugs, shirts, and novelty bags of “blue candy,” a humorous tribute to Walter White’s fictional empire—here, the only chemistry is sugar science.
Part neighborhood institution, part playful cultural nod, The Candy Lady captures the spirit of Albuquerque one sugary creation at a time. From chile-laced treats to classic confections and whimsical memorabilia, each visit offers a taste of the city’s unique character.
9) Patio Escondido Mall
Patio Escondido Mall is a charming shopping destination located in the heart of Old Town Albuquerque, just steps away from the Albuquerque Museum. Visitors can wander through a cluster of adobe-style buildings housing a variety of local shops, galleries, and artisan boutiques. The mall’s open-air design and colorful décor create a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere that reflects the spirit of the Southwest.
Art lovers will enjoy browsing galleries that showcase paintings, jewelry, and crafts created by Albuquerque-based artists. Several stores focus on handmade or upcycled items, offering unique souvenirs and gifts that capture the region’s creative energy. Visitors can also find specialty shops with clothing, accessories, and home décor inspired by Southwestern style.
Cafés and small eateries within the mall provide the perfect opportunity to pause, enjoy a snack, or sip a cup of coffee while taking in the historic Old Town surroundings. The combination of shopping, local art, and a relaxed courtyard setting makes Patio Escondido Mall an inviting stop for anyone exploring the area.
Art lovers will enjoy browsing galleries that showcase paintings, jewelry, and crafts created by Albuquerque-based artists. Several stores focus on handmade or upcycled items, offering unique souvenirs and gifts that capture the region’s creative energy. Visitors can also find specialty shops with clothing, accessories, and home décor inspired by Southwestern style.
Cafés and small eateries within the mall provide the perfect opportunity to pause, enjoy a snack, or sip a cup of coffee while taking in the historic Old Town surroundings. The combination of shopping, local art, and a relaxed courtyard setting makes Patio Escondido Mall an inviting stop for anyone exploring the area.
Walking Tours in Albuquerque, New Mexico
Create Your Own Walk in Albuquerque
Creating your own self-guided walk in Albuquerque is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Downtown Historical Buildings Walking Tour
The one-of-a-kind character of Albuquerque is the result of many different forces and centuries of history that have shaped the city. The core of Central Albuquerque is what most of the locals considered “downtown” – a place they lived, worked, shopped, governed and entertained themselves in for almost 80 years, since the arrival of the railroad in 1880.
The vibrant architectural... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.7 Km or 1.1 Miles
The vibrant architectural... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.7 Km or 1.1 Miles
University of New Mexico Walking Tour
Founded in 1889, The University of New Mexico (UNM) is a renowned public research institution. Its branch campuses are scattered throughout the state while the main campus is located in Albuquerque. A good number of spots on this campus deserve a special note, either from an architectural or cultural standpoint, and we encourage you to explore them.
A must-go-to for students and visitors alike,... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.6 Km or 2.2 Miles
A must-go-to for students and visitors alike,... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.6 Km or 2.2 Miles
Breaking Bad Locations Walking Tour
Breaking Bad’s screenwriter Vince Gilligan once said, “Albuquerque is a character in the show...” When Breaking Bad began filming in 2007, the city wasn’t just a backdrop-it became inseparable from the story. Gilligan may have picked New Mexico for its film production tax rebates, but the camera quickly proved how perfectly its desert horizons, strip malls, and quiet neighborhoods could... view more
Tour Duration: 9 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 22.6 Km or 14 Miles
Tour Duration: 9 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 22.6 Km or 14 Miles
The Most Popular Cities
/ view all