your guide to historic Old Town Albuquerque

Historic Old Town Albuquerque is a unique and entertaining place that features a rich historical background and a vibrant culture.  If you want to experience this town’s history at its finest, head to the heart of the city, historic Old Town Albuquerque.  Ever since the city’s founding in 1706, this area has been the cultural center of Albuquerque; filled with over 100 shops as well as numerous museums and restaurants, this is a beloved spot of both locals and visitors alike.  Discover everything there is to do here to help you plan your next getaway to New Mexico!

4 things to do in historic Old Town Albuquerque

1. enjoy delicious dining

The Old Town Albuquerque restaurants serve some truly mouthwatering meals that are sure to enhance your time here!  Several great places to eat are clustered in this area; one favorite is High Noon Restaurant and Saloon, which specializes in great steaks and New Mexican food.  Old Town Pizza Parlor is another great option; their hot, homemade pizzas are made with the freshest ingredients, guaranteed to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites!  For an experience that’s more upscale and intimate, visit Antiquity Restaurant and try one of their deluxe entrees of steak, veal, or seafood. Of course, you’ll want to experience traditional New Mexican cuisine. Among our favorite local spots Duran Central Pharmacy–yes, they have an extraordinary diner in the back! Be sure to check out their amazing gift shop.

2. browse museums

Take a journey back in time when you step inside the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science!  With interesting exhibits and planetarium shows, you could spend hours here learning about this one-of-a-kind area.  Another of the five museums in Old Town is the Rattlesnake Museum, which includes all kinds of exhibits featuring snakes and some other animals native to the area, as well as an enormous collection of snake memorabilia and a well-stocked gift shop.  

3. go shopping

Whether you’re looking for a souvenir to commemorate your trip or a new addition to your wardrobe, you’re bound to find the perfect item in the Historic Old Town shopping district!  You’ll find antiques, art galleries, clothing and accessories, jewelry, gifts, and much more in the many Albuquerque old town shops.

4. get spooked on a ghost tour

In addition to informational history tours that you can participate in (either privately or in groups) to learn more about the fascinating background of this area, you can also brave the eerie Old Town Albuquerque Ghost Tours offered nightly here by  ABQ Tours!  Knowledgeable guides will lead you by lantern light through the dark streets of this town while telling you stories of all the mysterious events that have occurred here throughout the years.  For an even more chilling experience, try embarking on one of the Moonlight Ghost Tours!  This is a fun way to get to know the area better; pictures are allowed, so feel free to bring your camera to commemorate your spooky tour. To make the most of your historic Old Town Albuquerque visit, request our comprehensive Vacation Guide. We know the best places to eat, tours to take and have all the fun you can handle!

Come stay with us at the Bottger Mansion of Old Town!

Complete your adventure in the historic Old Town Albuquerque by treating yourself to the best accommodations while you’re here!  The Bottger Mansion of Old Town is a historic bed and breakfast in the heart of Old Town offering comfortable rooms, outstanding amenities, and friendly hospitality.  Explore the many attractions of Albuquerque or simply relax in our shady courtyard.  You will love your time in our lovely inn in New Mexico, so check our availability and book your stay today!