8 Fun Facts About Albuquerque, NM: How Well Do You Know Your City?

Quick Facts about Albuquerque

1. Hot air balloon capital

Albuquerque has earned its reputation as the hot air balloon capital thanks to its annual International Balloon Fiesta, the largest of its kind in the world. During this nine-day extravaganza, hundreds of colorful balloons take to the skies, painting the Albuquerque skyline with vibrant hues. Beyond the festival, the city’s favorable weather conditions and stunning landscapes make it an ideal destination for year-round hot air ballooning adventures.

2. Unusual street names

Albuquerque’s street names often reflect its quirky personality, adding to the city’s  charm. For instance, visitors may find themselves navigating roads with names reflecting states, metals, trees, stones as well as constellations, such as “Gemini” and “Capricorn.” Exploring these distinctive street names becomes an adventure in itself, inviting residents and visitors alike to uncover the stories behind Albuquerque’s urban landscape.

3. Breaking Bad filming locations

Fans of the hit TV show “Breaking Bad” can visit various filming locations throughout Albuquerque, including Saul Goodman’s law office and the car wash where Walter White worked. It’s a fun way to experience the show’s iconic settings in real life.

4. Green chile obsession

Albuquerque residents have a deep love for green chile, incorporating it into almost every dish imaginable. From green chile cheeseburgers to green chile stew, the city’s obsession with this spicy ingredient is a defining characteristic of its culinary scene.

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5. Alien-themed attractions

A fun fact about Albuquerque is that it’s home to several alien-themed attractions, including close proximity to the International UFO Museum and Research Center in nearby Roswell. From quirky UFO-themed festivals to cosmic street art adorning the walls of downtown, Albuquerque is a haven for alien-themed attractions. Don’t miss out on annual alien-themed events such as the Alien Costume Contest during Halloween or the UFO Festival.

6. Over 310 days of sunshine

In Albuquerque, soaking up the sun isn’t just a pastime—it’s practically a way of life. With over 310 days of sunshine each year, residents enjoy endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, from hiking the Sandia Mountains to picnicking in one of the city’s scenic parks.

7. Historic Route 66

In Albuquerque, history takes the wheel on the iconic Route 66, a highway that embodies the spirit of American road culture. As one of the cities along this historic route, Albuquerque proudly preserves its vintage diners, neon signs, and roadside attractions, inviting travelers to embark on a nostalgic journey through time.

8. Thriving craft beer scene

With a thriving community of breweries, taprooms, and beer enthusiasts, the city has firmly established itself as a hub for craft beer aficionados. From the innovative brews of La Cumbre Brewing Co. to the laid-back ambiance of Marble Brewery’s downtown taproom, Albuquerque offers a sudsy adventure for beer lovers seeking unique flavors and experiences.

Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center. The Walk Score, Transit Score and Bike Score data is from Walk Score.