Travel the historic Route 66 along New Mexico State Road 333 from Albuquerque to Tijeras. Explore the Musical Highway, scenic views of the Sandia Mountains, and remnants of Americana in this short but memorable desert drive.
Albuquerque
Explore Albuquerque, NM—a city where rich history meets vibrant culture and stunning natural landscapes. Discover top attractions, culinary delights, and outdoor adventures in the heart of the Southwest.
Albuquerque, New Mexico: Where History, Culture, and Innovation Converge
Nestled in the high desert at the base of the Sandia Mountains, Albuquerque is a city that harmoniously blends its rich historical tapestry with a vibrant contemporary culture. Founded in 1706 as a Spanish colonial outpost, Albuquerque has evolved into New Mexico’s largest city, boasting a population of approximately 560,000 residents. Its unique location along the Rio Grande and proximity to ancient Puebloan sites imbue the city with a deep sense of history and tradition.
Albuquerque’s cultural landscape is as diverse as its history. The city’s Old Town district, with its adobe buildings and central plaza, offers a glimpse into its colonial past, while the National Hispanic Cultural Center celebrates the rich tapestry of Hispanic arts and culture. The city is also renowned for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the world’s largest hot air balloon festival, which paints the sky with vibrant colors each October.
Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore, from the Sandia Peak Tramway—the longest aerial tram in the Americas—to the Petroglyph National Monument, home to thousands of ancient rock carvings. The city’s culinary scene is equally enticing, offering a unique blend of Native American and Spanish flavors, with local specialties like green chile stew and biscochitos, New Mexico’s official state cookie.
Experience Albuquerque
Interstate 40: Albuquerque – New Mexico
Cruise 12 miles east across Albuquerque on Interstate 40, from Rio Grande Blvd to Tramway Blvd. Experience the Big I interchange, cityscapes, Route 66 history, and views of the Sandia Mountains.
Old Town Plaza: Albuquerque – New Mexico
Take a short but scenic drive around Old Town Plaza in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Experience the charm of historic adobe architecture, the iconic San Felipe de Neri Church, and the timeless ambiance of one of the city’s oldest districts.
Lomas Blvd NW: Albuquerque – New Mexico
Drive 2 miles west along Lomas Blvd NW in Albuquerque, New Mexico—from I-25 to Route 66—passing civic landmarks, museums, and the edge of Old Town in this short but dynamic urban journey.
Interstate 25: Bernalillo to Albuquerque – New Mexico
Cruise 16 miles south along Interstate 25 from Bernalillo to Albuquerque, New Mexico. Explore a high-desert route through Sandia Pueblo and into the heart of Albuquerque via the iconic “Big I” interchange with I-40.
Historic Route 66 – Central Ave: Albuquerque – New Mexico
Take a nostalgic drive down Central Avenue in Albuquerque, New Mexico—Historic Route 66—where neon signs, university bustle, downtown charm, and desert landscapes bring the Mother Road to life. This 20-mile journey captures the spirit of old-school travel in a moder…
Interstate 40: Albuquerque – New Mexico
Cruise 23 miles west on Interstate 40 through Albuquerque, New Mexico—from the forested Sandia foothills through downtown and across the Rio Grande to the edge of the West Mesa. A high-desert drive blending mountain scenery, historic routes, and city culture.
New Meixco Road 333 – Historic Route 66: Tijeras to Carnuel
Follow a 5-mile stretch of New Mexico Highway 333 / Historic Route 66 from Tijeras to Carnuel, winding through the Sandia Mountains and into Albuquerque’s eastern edge on a road steeped in history.