Albuquerque, the largest city in
New Mexico, recently celebrated its tricentennial. It was founded
in1701 by the conquistador Governor Ceurvos y Valdez in honor
of the Duke of Alburquerque, though Native Americans had lived
in the area for centuries. Like most of the state, Albuquerque
is rich with both Hispanic and Native American Culture. It is
also full of the eclectic creativity and strong affinity for its
frontier past that is so distinctive in the character of America’s
southwestern cities.
Albuquerque is the home of the University of New Mexico. Located
near the Nob Hill neighborhood, the University provides the city
not only with revenues, a youthful spirit and UNM Lobos sports,
but also with many first class amenities. Popejoy Hall, for example,
is premier performing arts center in New Mexico, is housed in
the UNM Center for the Arts. The Maxwell Museum of Anthropology
is located on campus near Las Lomas Road.
Not that the rest of the city is a slouch. In the downtown area
the beloved KiMo Theater is a restored 1927 Pueblo/Deco venue
for a variety of events. The Albuquerque Museum of Arts &
Natural History in Old Town features a fine collection of regional
and historical art and history with free admission every Sunday
morning. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is a living Pueblo
village and educational institution that hosts tours and exhibits.
The National Hispanic Cultural Center is dedicated to the study
and advancement of Hispanic culture, and offers educational exhibitions
of Hispanic history, visual, performing and culinary arts.
Albuquerque isn’t all high culture of course. Exhibit A
are the Downs at Albuquerque Racetrack & Casino, where visitors
can hit the video slots, put their money on simulcast horse racing
or bet on the real thing every spring. The ponies also run during
the New Mexico State Fair every September. Different kinds of
ponies take center stage at the Annual U.S. National Arabian &
Half Arabian Championship Horse Show, also hosted in Albuquerque.
Visitors who work up an appetite can enjoy one of the many great
southwest restaurants in the city or go green at La Siringitu
Vegetarian Café. The Pueblo Harvest Café in the
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center offers southwestern and Native American
food.
For those who don’t mind spending a little more, Master
Chef Jennifer James’ restaurant offers some of the best
cuisine in the west.
Albuquerque New Mexico has some great nightlife to enjoy as well.
Among the several clubs and hot spots are the Launch Pad, a great
place to hear the latest Indy Rock near the UNM campus, and Pulse,
the city’s most happening Gay gathering place.
Albuquerque is the biggest New Mexican city for miles around its
metro area, so it’s a natural host for state festivals,
such as the American Fine Crafts Show and the Balloon Fiesta.
Visitors to Albuquerque can fly into the
city via the Albuquerque International Sunport.
