Whether you're a local or traveling, Albuquerque offers plenty of free things to do. From art to museums, there's something for everyone here!
Take a self-guided art walk to see some of the city's best murals. Or, check out the city's flea markets for a chance to pick up some vintage goodies.
The Tijeras Pueblo Museum is a great way to learn about the culture of New Mexico. The museum is located at the site of a 14th century Ancestral Pueblo mountain village.
The museum explains the importance of Tijeras in New Mexico's history and offers a self-guided tour with interpretive signs. There's also a children's fantasy garden, which is perfect for kids of all ages!
Fall is a great time to visit Albuquerque as it's filled with festivals. But be aware that autumn is the city's peak tourist season, so accommodations will be more expensive.
If you are interested in the history of space, the UNM Meteorite Museum is a must-see. It is located in Northrup Hall on the campus of the University of New Mexico.
The museum houses a collection of meteorites that have been discovered around the world. The exhibits are quite interesting and informative, and they have someone available to answer your questions if you have any.
There are also some interesting geology displays here that you can see if you want to learn about the different rock formations found in the area. Admission is free, and it is a great place to spend an hour or two learning about the earth and solar system.
Petroglyphs National Monument is one of the most interesting things to do in Albuquerque. Located in the city’s West Mesa, this national park is run by the city and the federal government and is home to thousands of ancient petroglyphs.
These petroglyphs were made by ancient Puebloans who chipped away at the dark-colored lava boulders and then pecked in their own images. The designs range from plants and animals to abstract shapes and faces.
The petroglyphs were created in a variety of styles, reflecting the social and religious lives of the Ancestral Puebloans. They are now considered a sacred landscape by Native American communities.
If you're looking for a free thing to do in Albuquerque, the UNM Geology Museum is the place for you. It's located on the university campus and is a great place for children and adults alike to learn about the history of the earth.
The museum is a popular destination for people visiting New Mexico because it offers an informative and insightful look into the geology of the state. It also features a number of mineral exhibits that highlight the important minerals found throughout the state.
Gutierrez-Hubbell House Museum is a great way to experience local history and culture. It's located at 6029 Isleta Blvd SW.
This historic territorial-style hacienda was originally built in the 1820s and enlarged in the 1860s. The house is a symbol of the joining of colonial Spanish grace, Native culture and Mexican traditions with Anglo-American entrepreneurship.
James Lawrence “Santiago” Hubbell came from Connecticut to New Mexico and with his wife Juliana Gutierrez established a family that would grow to include 12 children. Their son, Juan Hubbell, became a famous Indian trader and set up the Hubbell Trading Post in Ganado, Arizona, which is today a National Historic Site.
The Albuquerque Balloon Museum is a great place to learn about the history of hot air balloons. It's also a fun place to see all of the different types of balloons.
This is a well-curated museum that has balloons in everything, from circus history to postal mail, WWII, setting records, space and more! They even have a kids' area with balloons and a simulator.
General admission is free on Sundays and the first Friday of each month. Admission fees still apply for special exhibits and events.
