You’re itching to get out and get going, but seriously strapped for cash. You’re in luck, because in Albuquerque, there are plenty of things you can do for fun, and they’re all FREE.
1. Downtown
What: Revitalized Downtown Albuquerque offers a wide variety of shops and places to browse while you discover the new in this old area, such as Maisel’s, Lindy’s and the historic KiMo Theater.Where: From Edith to 12th Street, between Lead and Lomas
When: Anytime, but generally 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
2. Flea Market
What: Over 1,300 vendors on 25 acres sell old and new items, handmade products, food, collectibles and more. There’s always something to eat, but you haven’t lived until you’ve tried the funnel cake on a cold morning. This is a great place to bring out of town visitors.Where: Enter at Gate 9, Louisiana and Central
When: Every Saturday and Sunday, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
3. Los Ranchos Growers Market
What: Find locally grown food, from fresh produce to meats, cheeses and delicious baked goods. And yes, there is coffee.Where: 6718 Rio Grande Blvd. NW, just outside Los Ranchos City Hall
When: Winter Market runs second Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
4. Maxwell Museum
What: With over 10,000 artifacts and galleries that feature permanent and short term exhibits, the Maxwell offers a unique cultural perspective on life in the southwest.Where: UNM Campus, between Las Lomas and Central, just east of University
When: Tuesday – Friday 9 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Saturdays 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
5. Meteorite and Geology Museums
What: The University of New Mexico Meteorite and Geology Museums provide a glimpse at some of the most interesting rocks around. Find street parking several blocks away and walk to campus.Where: The Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences (Northrop Hall) is north of Central near Yale, on campus.
When: The Meteorite Museum Monday – Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The Geology Museum from 7:30 a.m. to noon and 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m Monday - Friday
6. Old Town
Aileen O'Catherine
What: A place to browse and discover something new about the oldest part of Albuquerque. Travel up and down alleyways browsing shops and discovering treasures, or sit on the plaza and people watch.
Where: At Central and Rio Grande
When: Anytime, but check vendors for shop hours if you plan to browse the galleries and stores.
Where: At Central and Rio Grande
When: Anytime, but check vendors for shop hours if you plan to browse the galleries and stores.
7. Open Space
What: Over 28,000 acres of open space land have been set aside by the City of Albuquerque in the form of open lands, bike and hiking trails, and parks. The Open Space Visitor Center provides a great place to start in deciding where to go and what to do, or just take a walk from there.Where: The Visitor Center is located at 6500 Coors Blvd. NW
When: Visitor Center hours are Tuesday – Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hours for specific parks and spaces vary by location.
8. Petroglyph Park
What: See up to 150 ancient petroglyphs along three self-guided trails. Petroglyphs are images that were etched or pecked into boulders and rocks. Parking requires a modest fee.When: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Off Unser Boulevard at Montano’s western end, on the Albuquerque Westside.
9. Taste Wine
What: Tierra Encantada winery offers up a taste of the good life. Stop by to try some wine or take a tour to discover what it takes to get the most out of grapes.When: Call ahead to schedule, or stop in for a tasting, 505-764-9643.
Where: 1872 Five Points Road SW in the Albuquerque South Valley
10. Visit a Tap Room
What: Find out how beer is made and taste six styles of beer at the Il Vicino Brewery, right in the heart of Albuquerque.Where: 4000 Vassar NE, west of Carlisle and north of Comanche
When: Monday and Thursday from noon to 7 p.m., Friday from noon to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.
