The current city of Albuquerque was founded in 1706 near the Sandia Mountains and the Rio Grande. While this city is known as one of the hottest parts of the country, it does have a short winter period where the temperatures can get rather chilly. Yet, since most of the year is blazing with sun it remains one of the premier winter break destinations for Americans living in the colder regions of the country.

The Jemez High Road is probably one of the most beautiful day trips that visitors can ever enjoy in this region of the country. It is basically a road which travels from northern Albuquerque into Santa Fe, but as one of the prominently labeled "scenic byways" in the country, it offers some of the most stunning scenery in this region. It has been built up as a tourist attraction with museums and other cultural stops presented along the road.

Visitors also enjoy visiting Old Town, which is a Spanish environment filled with small shops with unique goods and restaurants presenting the unique flavors of the city.

Of course, no visit to the city would be complete without getting outdoors in the Sandia Mountains. There is a state park there which allows easy access to hiking trails, picnic areas, and other adventures. The tramway which goes down the mountain to the park area is also quite popular with visitors as well as local residents who use the park for recreation.