Albuquerque, New Mexico is one of the state's cultural gems""as it is for the southwest. This article provides the single visitor some insights for outings in the city.
Key museums that the single traveler will enjoy, or anyone for that matter, are the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History in Old Town, the American International Rattlesnake Museum also in Old Town, and the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. All of these museums represent the heart of New Mexican culture, while show casing cultural aspects of Albuquerque's life. The Albuquerque Museum of Art and History houses some of the best art in the American southwest while focusing on the history of Albuquerque. The Rattlesnake Museum . . . well that is a museum that every visitor to the region should venture into. The southwest, and New Mexico, is noted for its rattlesnake population, and cultural adaptations reflect this peculiarity. Snakeskin boots, belts, key chains, jackets, and other products are frequently and regularly sold in the area, and the museum will give you a few tid-bits to amuse your friends when they ask you why (and how) you found a pair of snake skin boots from authentic rattlesnakes. The last cultural center mentioned here, the Pueblo Center, provides visitors with ample information and tour information for nearby American Indian reservations and Pueblos. Also, if you intend to visit Native American centers and lands you should stop by the Pueblo Center first. The helpful staff will provide you with some basic cultural knowledge""so that you will not offend local groups.
Another group of activities for the single traveler are some of the shopping areas located throughout the city""particularly those in Old Town. Here, you will find various types (and qualities) of Native American jewelry and crafts, and with each season you will find a different breed of vendors. These vendors are similar to the street vendors found in New York City, but in Albuquerque they are distinct to the region and product being sold. Here, you will not find a plethora of vendors selling "fake" or "hot" merchandise from high end designer. No""Albuquerque vendors deal in jewelry, clothing, and foods native to the region. In September and October you will find chilies being sold (roasted, ground, or raw), and in other seasons foods and products vary to harvest and cultural need. Additionally, just as Albuquerque celebrates it seasons with a variety of vendors it hosts a variety of festivals.
Festival season usually runs from late May through early October, and these are the months of the year that the city sees the highest amount of tourism. During the summer months, the local vineyards are celebrating their harvest and wine production. Tours of these locales will tempt and entice your taste buds, for New Mexico wine is truly one of the best kept American secrets. The Indian reservations have a multitude of cultural fairs and events""all showcasing their cultural and active elements of American life. Finally, Albuquerque hosts the Balloon Fiesta in late August, and witnessing this event is like no other! Hot air balloons, by the thousands, are lifted into the sky""painting a delightful painting of joyous colors""and visitors can take rides in the balloons.
These are just a few of the cultural gems of Albuquerque, and if you decide to visit this wonderful city you should be brave and venture out. Albuquerque hosts a population of easy and laid back folks, college students, cultural masterpieces, and all around fun.
