The Best of New Mexico Part 1
Editor’s Note: This post is a part of our series on Delilah’s annual trip to the 127 yard sale. We’ll be back next week with DIY projects, recipes, inspiration and business tips. -Nicole S.
Every year after the 127 yard sale, we book it straight from the last market to New Mexico. We try to take to make it in two days so we can have more time relaxing, but it’s a tough drive with the first leg being Chattanooga, Tennessee to slightly past Little Rock, Arkansas in just over seven hours. The following day is directly to New Mexico in 12 and a half hours.
We love New Mexico, the people are friendly, the chile hot and the sky, beautiful. Over the years, I have created a list of some of my favorites from the Land Of Enchantment. This first part will be a list of my favorite places in Albuquerque and part two will cover other areas and Santa Fe. I know this list is far from complete, so if I am missing anything PLEASE let me know in the comments section so I can update the list!
1. Los Poblanos Inn: Last year was our first time at this organic lavender farm and this year we were lucky enough to stay three evenings (the reward for the long drive!). Fantastic restaurant and beautiful farm shop that you can visit even if you are not a guest. 4803 Rio Grande Blvd NW, Albuquerque, New Mexico
2. The Octopus and the Fox: I love this little handmade shop off the main drag, Central Ave and it is a regular visit for us in Albuquerque. Check it out and try one of two delicious places to eat next door (see below). 514 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, New Mexico
3. Artichoke Café: Close to the Octopus and the Fox, this bistro highlights seasonal produce in a casual atmosphere. 424 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, New Mexico
4. The Owl Café: You might have seen this café on our Instagram, it’s a popular diner with New Mexico favorites and a number of creative shakes. Great for breakfast before you hit the road. 800 Eubank NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico
5. Pueblo Harvest Café and Bakery: We just discovered this place on our last visit after doing a search for restaurants. This café and bakery that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner focuses on Native fusion cuisine and is really an incredible treat that should not be missed. Many of the breads are made in their horno, or earth oven and the food is delicious—for sure it will be something to remember. 2401 12th NW, Albuquerque, New Mexico
6. National Museum of Nuclear Science and History: 601 Eubank, Albuquerque, New Mexico
7. Self-Guided Breaking Bad tours: We have always wanted to take the popular Breaking Bad RV tours, but we are always in NM in the early part of the week, not the end of the week when the tours happen. However if you are in Albuquerque for the weekend, you can purchase tickets HERE.
8. Book Works: A favorite bookstore of my husband’s, great selection with a number of events. They even had some of his books on display when we were there shopping! 4022 Rio Grande Blvd NW , Albuquerque, New Mexico
9. Flea Mart: We have been visiting this flea store for a few years now and for us it has the best picks, prices and quality than any store in Albuquerque. Over the years, it has grown to triple the size proving that we are not the only ones who love it! 5015 Lomas NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico
10. Jubilation Wine & Spirits: Over the years, New Mexico has been producing a number of wines, beers, ciders (YUM) and spirits and the best place to get them is here. 3512 Lomas Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico
11. Farina Pizzeria: Directly next door to the Octopus and the Fox, one of our first places to have dinner in Albuquerque, this pizzeria place serves up seasonal pizzas and small Italian bites. Its great for a mid-afternoon bite. 510 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, New Mexico
12. Hotel Andaluz: This historic Hotel is downtown and has a long history. Constructed by New Mexico native Conrad Hilton. A great evening for large groups. 125 2nd St NW, Albuquerque, New Mexico
13. Hotel Parq Central: This centrally located hotel off the freeway has a rooftop bar that is perfect for lounging while gazing a the downtown lights and beautiful skies of New Mexico. 806 Central SE, Albuquerque, New Mexico
14. Left Turn Distillery: This new distillery is simply the best and most intimate experience we have had on our whole trip. Offering four different spirits that are truly unique to anything we have had, make sure that you get a cocktail at the small bar after your tasting. The Pinon Rum is INSANE. 2924 Girard Blvd NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico
15. Downtown Albuquerque Contemporary Arts Walking Tour: This large list highlights galleries, public and places to eat/drink in the downtown area.
That’s it for Part 1 of the best of New Mexico! Stay tuned tomorrow for part 2!
XO, Delilah
