There may be plenty to do in Albuquerque, but wait until you hear about all the fun that’s to be had just outside the city. Discover the best day trips from Albuquerque with this jam-packed guide.
Albuquerque is a treasure trove of national monuments, historic parks and epic scenery. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t explore beyond ABQ’s boundaries.
In fact, as many brilliant things there are to do inside the city, I guarantee there’s just as many outside.
From the indigenous towns of Taos and Acoma Pueblo, to the charming Santa Fe and Madrid, there are so many places near ABQ you really cannot miss.
Ready to discover the best day trips from Albuquerque? Read on to find out about my top picks…
The Best Day Trips From Albuquerque
White Sands National Park
Visiting Albuquerque without hitting up White Sands is not the done thing. It might be quite the drive but, trust me, the moment you step out onto the blinding white gypsum dunes (bring sunglasses), you’ll be glad you took the time to visit.
Why wouldn’t you want to visit here? There’s so much to do. Test your might by sledding down the brilliant white dunes, or stroll gently through the 0.4-mile interdune boardwalk.
Making the most of your time is essential. If you’re here for a day, it’s likely that you’ll only end up with a handful of hours to play around with. In that case, head out on the Dunes Drive, pack a sled (if you can) and stick around to stargaze in the evening.
How to Get There: Take the bus from Albuquerque to Las Cruces, then a taxi from Las Cruces to White Sands National Park.
Average journey duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
Top tip: wind your way through the 13-mile Dunes Drive at sunset for a mesmerising experience of these towering mountains of sand.
Santa Fe
For a day filled with art and culture within a quirky city, take a day trip to Santa Fe from Albuquerque. This laid-back place really does earn its “City Different” title.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast from Tia Sophia’s (a huge breakfast burrito at the OG spot, obvs) before discovering the intricate spiral staircase at Loretto Chapel. And how about exploring fantastical art installations at Meow Wolf or admiring artwork at the New Mexico Museum of Art?
If you’re there for an extra day (which I highly recommend), it’s also worth getting a Japanese-style spa treatment at Ten Thousand Waves. You can thank me later.
How to Get There: Hop on a Groom Transportation bus from Albuquerque to Santa Fe.
Average journey duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
Top tip: make the most out of your day trip by taking a self-guided walking tour of Santa Fe.
Sandia Peak
Don’t fancy heading too far? Not to worry – there’s no better way to admire Albuquerque than at Sandia Peak. You can hike up the mountain, but that’s a real calf killer, so I suggest you hitch a ride up on the Sandia Peak Tramway.
While you can technically visit all year round, I visited in February and it was SO cold. The top of the mountain was freezing and covered in snow – but on the plus side, I was treated to some absolutely stunning winter wonderland views.
That said, I imagine it’s far more pleasant when the weather is warmer. You’ll find a host of hikes for you to enjoy, but this glorious mountain peak’s star is the Ten 3 Restaurant (definitely eat here).
How to Get There: Board the Line 8 bus to Montgomery. Then take a taxi to the Sandia Peak Tramway.
Average journey duration: 20 minutes to an hour
Top tip: book a table at the restaurant in advance, as the walk-in line can be ridiculous.
Taos
Taos was a surprise favourite on my recent trip to New Mexico. It’s where indigenous culture meets contemporary New Mexican living, and I absolutely loved it.
Spend a day learning everything you can about this quaint town by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Taos Pueblo and the Harwood Museum of Art.
When you’re not sipping a cold craft beer at Taos Mesa Brewing (get a pizza, too), how about seeing the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge from below? That’s right. White water rafting is another of the best things to do in Taos.
How to Get There: Take the NMRX train to Santa Fe and then the 305 bus to the Guadalupe parking lot. Or, join the ABQ – Santa Fe – Taos shuttle.
Average journey duration: 2 hours 40 minutes to 4 hours 20 minutes
Chaco Culture National Historical Park
You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to day trips from Albuquerque, but visiting Chaco is an absolute must.
Described as the Center of the Ancient World, It’s a park with tons of UNESCO sites to explore, and the best way to do so is on the 9-mile Canyon Loop Drive. You’ll pass sites like Pueblo Bonito and Casa Rinconada throughout the drive. Charge your camera; you’re going to need it.
This is the place to get a real sense of Chacoan culture. Just know it’s not easy getting here, so follow these directions closely.
How to Get There: There’s no public transportation to the park, so hire a taxi or drive there yourself.
Average journey duration: 2 hours 40 minutes
Top tip: you can rent a car from rentalcars.com. This is who I use and I love their service.
Acoma Pueblo
Where better to visit near ABQ than one of the oldest community spaces still in use today? Roughly 50 permanent residents live in the Acoma Pueblo’s earthen homes, so it’s a real cultural goldmine for any visitor.
The San Estévan del Rey Mission is the main attraction, but don’t forget to pop into the Sky City Cultural Centre for even more insight into Acoma’s history. And if it’s cultural artefacts you seek, visit the Haak’u Museum for a deep dive into the region’s history and culture.
How to Get There: Take the Greyhound US1135 bus to the Grants Shell Station and then drive or hire a taxi to Acoma Pueblo.
Average journey duration: 1 to 2 hours
Cibola County
Sitting practically on the Arizona border, I guarantee that the avid adventurer will quickly fall in love with Cibola. And no trip to the county is complete without a visit to El Malpaís Natural Monument, so that’s where you should start your day.
Enjoy everything from scenic drives to epic hikes in this glorious part of the county. Some top sights include a 1.8-mile hike to the legendary Ice Caves Bandera Volcano and a 0.3-mile walk to the El Ventana Arch. Bring your hiking boots and prepare to put in some extra steps.
How to Get There: Join the US1135 bus route to Grants Shell Station. Then catch a taxi to the El Malpais National Monument.
Average journey duration: 2 hours 40 minutes
Corrales
One of the lesser-known day trips from Albuquerque, Corrales is a wine lover’s paradise. Surprise, surprise, you’ll find me there.
But, hold up, fellow vino-lovers. Before embarking on a wine-drinking extravaganza, consider visiting the museum home Casa San Ysidro or the Coronado Historic Site. Both are fascinating attractions (and you’ll definitely fancy a drink after).
Ready to get your drink on? Acequia Vineyards and Winery LLC serve up divine Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. And another iconic Corrales winery worth visiting is the Pasando Tiempo.
How to Get There: Take the NMRX train to the Sandia Pueblo Station, then a taxi to Corrales.
Average journey duration: 25 to 45 minutes
Jemez Springs
I hope you’re ready for a super relaxing experience because Jemez Springs is one of the most tranquil New Mexico landmarks.
The name says it all. You can soak away your troubles at the Jemez Hot Springs after exploring the Jemez Pueblo.
And, while you’re in the area, remember to admire the serene river flowing through Soda Dam. It’s a sight to behold.
How to Get There: Join the NMRX train to Sandoval County 550 Station. From there, board the Line 204 bus from 550 Station to Jemez Springs.
Average journey duration: 1 hour 15 minutes to 4 hours
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Dreaming of an epic road trip from Albuquerque? You need to hit up Carlsbad Caverns. Ok, there’s a caveat: it’s a twelve hour drive. But hopping on a plane (direct flights are less than two hours) and spending a night here exploring the caves is an unforgettable experience.
Admire everything from stalagmites and stalactites to unique limestone rock formations. It’s an otherworldly experience, with more than 100 caves to explore. While you can discover the cave’s bat colonies, heading out on the equally-cool 6-mile Guadalupe Ridge Loop Trail is a great idea.
How to Get There: The quickest way to get here is by plane from ABQ Airport to CNM Airport, then a short taxi ride to the Carlsbad Caverns.
Average journey duration: 1 hour to 4 hours 45 minutes
Top tip: It is possible to do this as a day trip, but it’s very full on. Catch an early flight there and a late one back to ABQ.
Salinas Pueblo Missions
I know, I know – I can’t help it with all the stunning monuments! And Salinas Pueblo Missions might just be the best ABQ day trip yet.
While the visitor centre has a fantastic 14-minute educational video (and you should pop in), you’ll want to explore the space on one (or three) of its magical hikes.
There are four super easy hikes throughout the site. But, take it from me, the Mission Loop Trail and Gran Quivira Mission Trail are must-dos during your time in this lovely area.
Some may say these trails are comparable to many of the epic hikes in Albuquerque, but I think you’ll need to check them out for yourself. I promise you’re in for a real treat.
How to Get There: Take the NMRX train to Belen Station. It’s then a short taxi ride to the Salinas Pueblo Missions.
Average journey duration: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
Madrid
No, we’re not in Spain. Madrid is a quaint little village just beyond Santa Fe and makes for the perfect small-town getaway.
Like a phoenix from the ashes, this once ghost town is now a quirky little art village that sells everything under the sun. Grab some authentic silver jewellery at Crystal Dragon, or explore the bizarre galleries, like 10pm Steampunk and Alchemy Studio.
Your trip here isn’t complete until you’ve eaten at the Mine Shaft Tavern for their epic chilli cheeseburger. Go hungry and thank me later.
How to Get There: The NMRX train will take you to Kew Station. From there, it’s a short taxi ride to Madrid.
Average journey duration: 1 hour to 1 hour 40 minutes
Valles Caldera National Preserve
I’m sure you get it by now – New Mexico is a haven for outdoor lovers. But, if you’re still unsure, a visit to Valles Caldera National Preserve is a must. This spot offers everything from stunning hikes to breathtaking scenic drives.
You’ll get to wander around one of three US supervolcanoes and the magical landscape it creates. Redondo Peak and Sulphur Springs are just two examples of the volcano’s superior power. Don’t worry; it’s unlikely it’ll explode anytime soon.
Valles Caldera is also a part of the epic 163-mile Jemez Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway, so get ready to pass amazing scenic views along this fantastic road. Pair it with a visit to Jemez Springs while you’re in the area.
How to Get There: Take the NMRX train to Kewa Station and then a taxi to Valles Caldera.
Average journey duration: 2 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes
Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railway
Don’t write off the Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railway as an attraction for old fuddy-duddies – this National Historic Landmark is a must-do when you stay in Albuquerque.
This 64-mile journey through the valleys and gorges of New Mexico and Colorado is an unforgettable journey with your camera working overtime (remember to pack it).
Not only is the Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railroad the longest steam railway in North America, but it’s also the highest. So get ready for stunning views of Cascade Trestle, evergreen aspens and fields of beautiful wildflowers.
How to Get There: Take the Purple night bus to Tech Area 3, then join the Green bus to Chama, where you’ll find the scenic railway.
Average journey duration: Depending on the route, 3 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 30 minutes
Top tip: The scenic train only operates from early June to the end of October, so you’ll need to plan your visit between then.
Practical Tips for Easy Day Trips Around Albuquerque
- Always bring water and wear sunblock no matter where you go to combat the harsh New Mexican sun. Trust me on this one.
- Factor in travel time to your plans so you don’t miss out on activities. For example, the ABQ to White Sands day trip is long – you may need to find a White Sands hotel for a night.
- Many of these day trips are brilliant as part of a New Mexico road trip. You won’t necessarily need to make them a whole day trip from Albuquerque if you’re already touring the state.
Map of Day Tours from Albuquerque
Albuquerque Day Trips: Read More ABQ Guides
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