Tips on Avoiding Albuquerque Tourist Traps

Albuquerque Tourist Traps

When you are visiting Albuquerque, be mindful of the following tourists’ traps. If you keep these tips in mind while out experiencing all that Albuquerque has to offer, you will have an enjoyable and memorable visit.

Old Town Albuquerque

Founded in 1706, this historic old town has a bit to offer in the way of site seeing and learning, as it is the former Armijo hacienda. Today many shops line the town mostly selling tourist alluring memorabilia. The shops are expensive with items that are not really connected to Albuquerque’s culture or history. Rather than shop, walk around to find the hidden gems; the locations that served as a brothel, stables, and historical references.

The Balloon Fiesta

The Balloon Fiesta is the biggest hot air balloon show in the world and occurs every fall. With all the colors, it’s a great photo opportunity. However, this is the tourist even of the year in Albuquerque, so expect traffic. And at around $100 a ticket, it can be expensive to go on a balloon ride. There is not much else to do at the festival but watch. Companies have closed their doors unexpectedly and walked away with their customer’s money after purchasing ride tickets. In addition, if the weather is bad the town cancels the festival.

The High Finance Restaurant

Sitting on top of Sandia Crest, The High Finance restaurant offers spectacular views but the price for food and beer is rather high. It is a hike to get there and you cannot drive, as the website seems to indicate. If you take the tram, you get a discount at the restaurant. A better option is to bring a picnic, save your money, and take in the views free.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about Albuquerque tourist traps.