The Ultimate Albuquerque, New Mexico Route 66 Weekend Itinerary
/*This post is sponsored by Visit Albuquerque however, all thoughts and opinions are my own.*
Hi Loves! I’m back from an amazing weekend trip to Albuquerque, New Mexico! If ABQ isn’t on your travel list it should be! Not only is it a quick 1.5 hour flight from Dallas but there are tons of fun things to do. Whether your traveling solo, with family, as a couple, or with friends, there’s something for everyone in Albuquerque!
Where to Stay
I’ll be honest. If you’ve been on my blog then you probably haven’t seen me post any motels. However, Albuquerque is well known for their historic motels and many of them have been recently renovated and restored.
EL VADO MOTEL
I stayed at the El Vado Motel and was pleasantly surprised! The hotel is within walking to distance to Old Town, the ABQ Biopark, Botanic Garden, and close to downtown. Aside from its cool exterior, it also has a pool, bar, and a few local shops and restaurants on site.
My room was very spacious with a separate sitting area, desk, mini-fridge and glass shower.
Many people visit the property just to enjoy the restaurants, super chill courtyard area that also has live music and events on certain days and tap room.
el vado courtyard area
EL VADO TAP ROOM
Arroz con pollo bowl from buen provencho
Don’t leave without ordering an arroz con pollo bowl from Buen Provencho, a Costa Rican restaurant onsite. It was out of this world!
Day 1 | Explore the Albuquerque Aquarium and Botanic Garden
I think anyone will enjoy these two attractions but especially families and children. I’m already plotting how I can bring my hubby and Skyy back! While visiting the BioPark, our group got a behind the scenes aquarium tour! The 10-year old in me was screaming!
It was really cool learning about all the work that goes into maintaining the aquarium. The garden was quaint, beautiful, and had so many great areas. My favorite was the Japanese garden. It does get fairly hot outside, so definitely wear a hat and plenty of sunscreen.
Afternoon
Check out Albuquerque’s Iconic Lowriders
One of the coolest experiences that I enjoyed in ABQ, was riding down Route 66 in 64 Impala! Albuquerque Supershow is a local lowerider car club who showcase their cars at various events in the area.
Evening
Have Pre-Dinner cocktails at 3128 Social House
3128 Social House has a great vibe, ambiance and delicious cocktails. It’s a great spot to go grab a drink before heading out to dinner.
Dine on Authentic Italian at M’tucci’s Bar Roma
The food here is delicious! Unfortunately, I inhaled my entree and totally forgot to get a pic but the calamari and fried brie appetizers are to die for!
Day 2 | Explore the Downtown Grower’s Market
albuquerque grower’s market
If you’re into local markets, I recommend checking out the Albuquerque Downtown Grower’s Market. There’s an amazing mix of local vendors selling everything from hot food, handmade goods, produce, baked goods, and more.
I found the cutest pair of hoop earrings from All Chola. I also walked by the pupusa tent and knew I had to have one! If you want a pupusa, be sure to get in line early. I waited for about 20 minutes and should’ve gotten in line as soon as I arrived.
Have a Route 66 Themed Lunch at 66 Diner
After exploring the market head on over to 66 Diner for lunch. I ordered a bacon cheeseburger, fries, and a banana cream pie shake. It was to die for!
Be sure to get a few Route 66 themed photos on the giant wall outside before you leave.
Get a taste of Albuquerque’s Speakeasy Scene with a Route 66 Trolley Speakeasy Tour
This tour is a great way to discover ABQ’s “hidden speakeasys.” You can purchase a cocktail at each spot, relax, take photos, and learn more about each bar.
Evening | Grab Dinner at 505 Central Food Hall
Food Hall anyone? 505 Central has a 7 delicious food stalls to choose from and is located downtown. I grabbed a smashburger from Stacker’s Burgers and a Detroit-style pizza from Thicc Pizza Co. Both were amazing!
Day 3 | Start the Day with Breakfast from Grove Cafe & Market
The Grove Cafe & Market is ABQ’s first farm to table restaurant. It’s a very popular spot on weekends so definitely plan on arriving early. My group arrived at 8:30am and by 10am the line was wrapped around the restaurant.
GROVE CAFE & MARKET
Take a bicycle to discover ABQ’s Urban Street Art
urban street art tour with routes bicycles
