Found in central New Mexico, Albuquerque is home to roughly 550,000 citizens. In recent history, Albuquerque has loomed large as both the setting for and the shooting location for the hit television show "Breaking Bad." "Breaking Bad" was such a cultural phenomenon that the area noticed a measurable boost in tourism due to interest the show generated.The Rio Grande River runs through Albuquerque, necessitating a number of bridges to connect the pieces of the mid-size city. The landscape around the city is spectacular, with the Rio Grande running through the desert, and the numerous stretches of nearby mountains. The University of New Mexico is also found in Albuquerque, and draws well over 30,000 students to town annually.
When to Search
Albuquerque doesn't pose too many difficulties to the apartment hunter. 8 to 10 weeks is probably an optimal amount of time to look for an apartment. However, if you need to move in during a busy move-in season, like September, you may want to add a few extra weeks to that estimate.
Staying in the Know
If you're renting in Albuquerque on your own, be prepared to prove how you're going to pay for your apartment. This might mean showing proof of a scholarship, of income, or that you are backed by a parent who is paying your living expenses. Landlords will want to see some sort of proof that you're capable of meeting your rent payment obligations.
Life in Albuquerque
Transportation
ABQ Ride is the public transit system that connects riders to major destinations within the city. However, Albuquerque was designed with drivers foremost in mind. The roads are laid out in a very logical fashion, and most people with cars will find that to be the easiest way to navigate the city. Walking or biking is possible, but the city has sprawled a great deal, and this can be difficult.
Where to play
Albuquerque is home to a very fun dining scene, with many sidewalk cafes, food stands and food trucks. If you were one of the millions of people who loved "Breaking Bad", you can take a tour of the city that highlights some of the famous shooting locales from the series. Touring the Old Town is a great way to get an idea of Albuquerque in the 18th century. For students, there are a number of bars that cater to the student population along Central Ave.
Attractions
One great local attractions is the Albuquerque Biological Park. It features all manner of living things in the Rio Grande Zoo, the Botanical Gardens and the Aquarium. There’s also a playground to keep the young ones entertained. Local history is best seen at the Church of San Felipe de Neri, part of the old town of Albuquerque. This local attraction is more than three centuries old. Admission is also free to tour this local landmark.”Breaking Bad” was one of the most popular television hits of the last several decades. The show shot on location in Albuquerque. Many of the most popular attractions are the most famous locales from the show’s six seasons. The Albuquerque Visitor’s Bureau offers a walking map for a self-guided tour of the “Breaking Bad” set locations
Dining
Mas Tapas y Vino is one of the consistently best-reviewed restaurants in the city. A romantic atmosphere and healthy, high-quality meals make this place a consistent winner. If you prefer to dine on local food, a visit to Jennifer James 101 will definitely satisfy your taste buds, and your moral compass. If you're looking for the high-end steakhouse experience, you can't beat the Rancher’s Club. Housed in the Crowne Plaza, this restaurant is all about the luxury, old-fashioned dining experience. On the other hand, if you're touring historic Old Town and need a place to eat, try local affordable favourites like the Church Street Café or Monica’s El Portal.
Bars
One of the best places in town to see the sunset is on the lounge atop the Hotel Parq Central. It’s romantic, fun, and an experience that really captures some of the best of Albuquerque. For a completely different rooftop experience, try Effex. This is a typical warehouse dance club but with the very cool addition of a rooftop dance floor.If you're someone with a taste for locally brewed beers, there are several good choices in Albuquerque. Lizard Tail Brewing throws some entertainment in the form of comedy and open mic nights to go with it's house-brewed beer. La Cumbre Brewing Company is a simple brewery that is known for excellent seasonal brews.
Culture
Although Albuquerque is not all that large by national standards, it nonetheless is home to an absolutely thriving theatre scene. Vortex Theatre is a contemporary black-box style theatre that specializes in modern, cutting edge work, alongside the classics. Fusion Theatre Company, who work out of the Cell Theatre in Albuquerque, is the city’s only Equity theatre. Visual Art is also very well represented in the city. 516 Arts and SCA Contemporary Art are two fantastic places to check out modern work in the contemporary scene. The Albuquerque Museum is the city’s centerpiece cultural exhibit that holds a permanent collection as well as hosting numerous temporary exhibits.
Events
The largest event centered on hot air balloons in the world takes place in Albuquerque each year. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta takes place each October, and features hot air balloon enthusiasts from all over the world. The event is hugely popular with photographers, as it provides an unmatched opportunity to take pictures of large numbers of balloons in flight at the same time.The Native American Gathering of Nations Pow-Wow is a massive cultural event that takes place each April. It celebrates the art, food and culture, while of course also hosting a traditional Pow-Wow. The State Fair takes place in September, and is a great option for a family outing.
Shopping
The Four Hills Shopping Center on Central Avenue is building a new Sprouts Farmer’s Market at the time of this writing, It is also adding a brand new theatre with deluxe seating unlike that available elsewhere in the city. If you're the type of shopper who prefers to browse upscale stores, then ABQ Uptown, located on Louisiana Boulevard is where you want to go. The Coronado Center features popular department stores like Macy’s, JCPenney and Sears. If you prefer to window shop down a scenic street instead of walking the inside of a mall, then you should pay a visit to Nob Hill. This district is home to a wealth of independent shops and boutiques.
Sports
While Albuquerque might not have a professional sports team, there are lots of great events and teams to keep sports fans in the local area excited. First of all, watching the New Mexico State Aggies play football is a great way to experience all of the local passion for football. For baseball fans, there is a Triple-A team in the city that regularly draws a crowd. The Albuquerque Isotopes are a farm team for the Colorado Rockies. Golf is one of the most popular recreational sports in the area. There is a wealth of golf courses in and around the city, and Albuquerque enjoys a certain amount of golf tourist traffic, as well as lots of rounds played each year by it's locals.
Outdoors
When it comes to outdoor activities, you can't beat having the Rio Grande River in your backyard. Rafting and canoeing on the river are both very popular activities. If you don't have your own gear several local outfitters will rent you everything you need. Hikers should head up to the Sandia Mountains to explore the many trails. You can also explore the outdoors without all the physical exertion by taking a jeep expedition. New Mexico Private Jeep Tours will give you a ride through the heart of the desert and take you to some of it's most outstanding destinations without you having to break a sweat.