Albuquerque, New Mexico—a city brimming with charm, character, and a myriad of surprises waiting to be discovered. From its iconic hot air balloon festival to its culinary obsession with green chile, Albuquerque captivates visitors and residents. Whether exploring “Breaking Bad” filming locations or marveling at breathtaking sunsets, every day is an adventure in this city. So, if you’re settling into your new home or want to learn more about the city, Join us as we uncover 8 interesting facts about Albuquerque.
Albuquerque has earned its reputation as the hot air balloon capital thanks to its annual International Balloon Fiesta, the largest of its kind in the world. During this nine-day extravaganza, hundreds of colorful balloons take to the skies, painting the Albuquerque skyline with vibrant hues. Beyond the festival, the city’s favorable weather conditions and stunning landscapes make it an ideal destination for year-round hot air ballooning adventures.
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Albuquerque’s street names often reflect its quirky personality, adding to the city’s charm. For instance, visitors may find themselves navigating roads with names reflecting states, metals, trees, stones as well as constellations, such as “Gemini” and “Capricorn.” Exploring these distinctive street names becomes an adventure in itself, inviting residents and visitors alike to uncover the stories behind Albuquerque’s urban landscape.
3. Breaking Bad filming locations
Fans of the hit TV show “Breaking Bad” can visit various filming locations throughout Albuquerque, including Saul Goodman’s law office and the car wash where Walter White worked. It’s a fun way to experience the show’s iconic settings in real life.
4. Green chile obsession
Albuquerque residents have a deep love for green chile, incorporating it into almost every dish imaginable. From green chile cheeseburgers to green chile stew, the city’s obsession with this spicy ingredient is a defining characteristic of its culinary scene.
5. Alien-themed attractions
A fun fact about Albuquerque is that it’s home to several alien-themed attractions, including close proximity to the International UFO Museum and Research Center in nearby Roswell. From quirky UFO-themed festivals to cosmic street art adorning the walls of downtown, Albuquerque is a haven for alien-themed attractions. Don’t miss out on annual alien-themed events such as the Alien Costume Contest during Halloween or the UFO Festival.
6. Over 310 days of sunshine
In Albuquerque, soaking up the sun isn’t just a pastime—it’s practically a way of life. With over 310 days of sunshine each year, residents enjoy endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, from hiking the Sandia Mountains to picnicking in one of the city’s scenic parks.
7. Historic Route 66
In Albuquerque, history takes the wheel on the iconic Route 66, a highway that embodies the spirit of American road culture. As one of the cities along this historic route, Albuquerque proudly preserves its vintage diners, neon signs, and roadside attractions, inviting travelers to embark on a nostalgic journey through time.
Travel tip: “One of the most photographed and famous spots is the Route 66 Neon Sign,” shares travel blogger Nikki Webster of Brit on the Move. “This neon archway sign is on Albuquerque’s west side, at the intersection of Route 66 and Coors Blvd. A trip down Route 66 is not complete without this 50’s legend.”
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With a thriving community of breweries, taprooms, and beer enthusiasts, the city has firmly established itself as a hub for craft beer aficionados. From the innovative brews of La Cumbre Brewing Co. to the laid-back ambiance of Marble Brewery’s downtown taproom, Albuquerque offers a sudsy adventure for beer lovers seeking unique flavors and experiences.
Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center. The Walk Score, Transit Score and Bike Score data is from Walk Score.
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Ana is part of the content marketing team and enjoys writing about home improvement and life & style. Her dream house would be a Mediterranean style home featuring expansive windows.
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