Often called the City of Sunshine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, takes pride in its colorful history, diverse cultures, living traditions and striking natural scenery. While rooted in heritage, the city also embraces progress—creating an affordable, vibrant Southwestern city that feels both fresh and enduring.
PHOTO: © KARIN LEPERI PEZO
Mayor Tim Keller notes that Albuquerque has emerged as an attractive destination not only for visitors but also for businesses and people relocating here. With a distinctive cultural mix, abundant outdoor recreation and targeted investment in growth sectors such as technology and space, the city offers the quality of life many now seek. For professionals and companies alike, Albuquerque represents a promising option for the future.
Old Town has seen thoughtful renewal, including new developments in Plaza Don Luis that now host tasting rooms from Ruidoso-based Noisy Water Winery and local Sheehan Winery. While visiting, explore nearby businesses such as Outpost 1706 Brewhouse, Lapis Room, Luna + Luz Modern West Goods and Flying Roadrunner Bakery.
Albuquerque’s culinary scene has expanded well beyond classic New Mexican fare. The city now offers a lively mix of food halls, markets, food trucks, casual diners and refined restaurants. New culinary hubs like the Sawmill Market showcase local entrepreneurs and diverse offerings—from Mexican and Native American specialties to Vietnamese, Venezuelan and classic American dishes.
At the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center you can experience Native American cuisine and time your visit to catch traditional dancing. For upscale dining with sweeping views, Level 5 at Hotel Chaco remains a popular choice. Mayor Keller emphasizes that investors and creators are recognizing the value of food-focused destinations—places such as Sawmill Market, 505 Central, Green Jeans Farmery and Tin Can Alley help boost local businesses and enliven the city’s food culture.
Flora Restaurant at Sawmill Market is a local favorite, serving festive Mexican dishes including ceviche. The market brings together varied cuisines—seafood, burgers, international specialties—and pairs them with a contemporary beverage scene highlighting New Mexico beers and wines. For an excellent weekend brunch, Campo at Los Poblanos Inn is well-regarded for dishes like chilaquiles, and a drive along the scenic Corrales Byway makes a great day trip.
Albuquerque’s landscapes and atmosphere have made it a backdrop for numerous film and television productions, from Westerns to acclaimed series and films. The region has served productions such as Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, and films ranging from No Country for Old Men to major studio projects. MovieMaker Magazine ranked Albuquerque the top U.S. city for filmmakers to live and work from 2019–2022.
The local industry continues to expand: in 2020, Netflix announced plans to boost its presence in regional production, and NBCUniversal opened a downtown studio location. Several production companies have also established offices in the city, strengthening Albuquerque’s role as a hub for film and television work.
From food and film to science, space and culture, Albuquerque offers a distinctive Southwestern spirit that blends past and present while looking toward the future.
SCENIC DRIVES
To experience a slice of old Albuquerque and the region’s agricultural roots, drive the 6.7-mile Corrales Scenic Byway through the heart of the Rio Grande Valley. The route presents a mix of orchards, horse ranches, vineyards, historic homes and welcoming restaurants and cafés—an appealing blend of rural charm and refined local flavors.
From I-25, take the Alameda Exit 233 west, then go north on NM 448. From US 550, head south on NM 528, then east on NM 448. Along this corridor you’ll find historic buildings, boutique shops and eateries that showcase the area’s relaxed, country atmosphere. The village of Corrales sits at the center of more than 1,300 years of irrigated agriculture and exemplifies New Mexican charm.
Nearby, the Corrales Bosque Preserve offers a peaceful stroll among cottonwoods and acequias, home to roughly 180 species of migrating and nesting birds across 400 acres of Middle Rio Grande cottonwood forest. If you’d like to extend your drive, you can link to El Camino Real and Historic Route 66 in a single day—begin with El Camino Real in the north, merge with Historic Route 66 in Algodones and continue via Alameda Boulevard into Albuquerque to reach the Corrales Road Scenic Byway. Along the way you’ll encounter echoes of bygone routes and the classic sights of old Route 66.