ABOUT ALBUQUERQUE
Albuquerque is set in the splendor of the Sandia Mountains,
which were named for the watermelon splash of color during sunsets by the
Spanish conquistadores and has a rich history. Founded in 1706 as a Spanish
settlement, "Villa de Alburquerque" by Fernandez de La Cueva, the 10th Duke of
Alburquerque now has a population of over 750,000 and is New Mexico's largest
city.
Recognized as one of the most culturally diverse cities in the country,
Albuquerque has much to offer any visitor. A boundless variety of interests and
sites to visit from the Isleta and Sandia Pueblos, Historic Old Town, Route 66,
the Rio Grande Zoo and Botanical Gardens, the Albuquerque Aquarium, the
Turquoise and Rattlesnake Museums, the University of New Mexico, Kirtland Air
Force Base and the Sandia National Laboratories and much more to discover.
Albuquerque is also home to the world's largest aerial tramway on Sandia Peak,
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, and the Kimo Theatre- a 1927 "Pueblo Deco"
picture palace now is a performing arts theatre, as well as the Historic Nob
Hill and Lodestar Astronomy Center, which is located in the New Mexico Museum of
Natural History.
For nature lovers both the Sandia and Manzano Wilderness offers over 70,000
acres of high elevations and 170 miles of forested hiking trails. The Petroglyph
National Monument on the west side, stretches 17 miles with over 20,000
prehistoric Native American petroglyphs.
Sights -- A ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway; the drive up to, and the view from,
Sandia Crest; Albuquerque Bio Park (includes the botanical gardens, aquarium and
zoo).
Museums -- New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science; Indian Pueblo
Cultural Center; National Atomic Museum.
Memorable Meals -- A carne adovada burrito and a margarita at Sadie's; the
delicious creations at Jennier James Contmporary Cuisine; roast chicken at
Artichoke Cafe; sopaipillas at Monroe's; dessert at Flying Star Bakery and Cafe.
Late Night -- Drinks at the Martini Grille's bar; blues and dancing at Club
Rhythm and Blues; beer and atmosphere at Kelly's BYOB; live music at El Rey
Theatre.
Walks -- Along the Tramway Trail; the Nob Hill area from Carlisle to Girard;
downtown along Central Avenue between 2nd and 8th Streets.
Please come enjoy our next destination - a delightful and
artful blend of the prehistoric, historic rich cultures and the progressive
technological center that is Albuquerque! Cathy and her team at the Albuquerque
Hispano Chamber of Commerce are working very hard to make this the best CIMPA
conference - ever!
