ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico—A city full of charm, character, and countless surprises just waiting to be discovered. From its iconic hot air balloon festival to its culinary obsession with green chile, Albuquerque attracts visitors and residents alike. Whether exploring the filming locations of Breaking Bad or marveling at breathtaking sunsets, every day in this city is an adventure. So if you’re settling into a new apartment in Albuquerque, looking for homes for sale, or want to learn more about the city, join us as we uncover 8 interesting facts about Albuquerque.
Basic information about Albuquerque
| Median home sales price | $339,000 |
| average monthly rent | $1,283 |
| walk score | 43/100 |
| traffic score | 29/100 |
| bike score | 61/100 |
1. Hot air balloon capital
Albuquerque has earned its reputation as the Hot Air Balloon Capital for its annual International Balloon Fiesta, the largest hot air balloon fiesta in the world. During this nine-day extravaganza, hundreds of colorful balloons take to the sky, painting the Albuquerque skyline with bright colors. Festivals aside, the city’s favorable weather conditions and stunning scenery 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 example, visitors may find themselves driving on roads with names reflecting countries, metals, trees, stones, and zodiac signs, such as “Gemini” and “Capricorn.” Exploring these unique street names is an adventure in itself, inviting residents and visitors alike to uncover the stories behind Albuquerque’s urban landscape.
3. “Breaking Bad” filming location
Fans of the hit TV show “Breaking Bad” can visit various filming locations in Albuquerque, including Saul Goodman’s law office and the car wash where Walter White worked. It’s a fun way to experience iconic scenes from the show in real life.
4. Obsession with green chile
Albuquerque residents love green chile so much that they incorporate it into nearly every dish imaginable. From green chile cheeseburgers to green chile stew, the city’s fascination with this spicy ingredient is a defining feature of its culinary scene.
5. Alien-themed attractions
An interesting fact about Albuquerque is that it is home to several alien-themed attractions, including the International UFO Museum and Research Center near 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 the annual alien-themed events like the Alien Costume Contest or UFO Festival during Halloween.
6. More than 310 days of sunshine
In Albuquerque, soaking up the sun isn’t just a pastime, it’s actually a way of life. With more than 310 days of sunshine each year, residents enjoy endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, from hiking in the Sandia Mountains to picnicking in one of the city’s scenic parks.
7. Historic Route 66
In Albuquerque, history drives on the iconic Route 66, a highway that embodies the spirit of America’s highway culture. As one of the cities along this historic route, Albuquerque proudly preserves its old-school restaurants, neon signs, and roadside attractions, inviting visitors on a nostalgic journey back in time.
8. Craft beer is booming
With a thriving community of breweries, bars, and beer lovers, the city has firmly established itself as a hub for craft beer lovers. From the innovative beers of La Cumbre Brewing Co. to the laid-back atmosphere of Marble Brewery’s downtown taproom, Albuquerque offers a frothy adventure for beer lovers looking for unique flavors and experiences.
