|
During your Albuquerque vacation, don't miss these great establishments and attractions:
Sandia Peak Tramway
This fun and exciting half-day or evening outing allows incredible views of the Albuquerque landscape and wildlife. The Sandia Peak Tram is a "jigback"; in other words, as one car approaches the top, the other nears the bottom. The two pass halfway through the trip, in the midst of a 1 1/2-mile "clear span" of unsupported cable between the second tower and the upper terminal.Several hiking trails are available on Sandia Peak, and one of them -- La Luz Trail -- takes you on a steep and rigorous trek from the base to the summit. The views in all directions are extraordinary. Note: The trails on Sandia may not be suitable for children. There is a popular and expensive restaurant, High Finance Restaurant and Tavern, at Sandia's summit. Special tram rates apply with dinner reservations. Be aware that the tram does not operate on very windy days.
Coronado State Monument
When the Spanish explorer Coronado traveled through this region in 1540-41 while searching for the Seven Cities of Cíbola, he wintered at a village on the west bank of the Rio Grande -- probably one located on the ruins of the ancient Anasazi Pueblo known as Kuaua. Those excavated ruins have been preserved in this state monument.Hundreds of rooms can be seen, and a kiva has been restored so that visitors can descend a ladder into the enclosed space, once the site of sacred rites. Unique multicolored murals, depicting human and animal forms, were found on successive layers of wall plaster in this and other kivas here; some examples are displayed in the monument's small archaeological museum.
Rio Grande Nature Center State Park
Whenever I'm in Albuquerque and want to get away from it all, I come here. The center, located just a few miles north of Old Town, spans 270 acres of riverside forest and meadows that include stands of 100-year-old cottonwoods and a 3-acre pond. Located on the Rio Grande Flyway, an important migratory route for many birds, it's an excellent place to see sandhill cranes, Canadian geese, and quail -- more than 260 bird species have made this their temporary or permanent home. In a protected area where dogs aren't allowed (you can bring dogs on most of the 2 miles of trails), you'll find exhibits of native grasses, wildflowers, and herbs. Inside a building built half above and half below ground, you can sit next to the pond in a glassed-in viewing area and comfortably watch ducks and other birds in their avian antics. There are 21 self-guided interpretive exhibits as well as photo exhibits, a library, a small nature store, and a children's resource room. On Saturday mornings you can join a guided nature walk. Other weekend programs are available for adults and children, including nature photography and bird- and wildflower-identification classes. Call for a schedule.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Albuquerque Airport
TownePlace Suites by Marriott: the simple solution for extended stays! Marriott's solution for long-stay travelers, TownePlace Suites offers uncomplicated residential living in a townhouse community with your budget in mind. The TownePlace Suites Albuquerque Airport is conveniently located adjacent to the airport. BDM Corporation, Kirtland Air Force Base, Lovelace Hospital, Sandia Labs and the Veterans Administration Hospital are all within one mile of the hotel as are the Albuquerque Sports ...
GuestHouse Inn & Suites
The GuestHouse Inn & Suites of Albuquerque is located near the city's major attaractions. The accomdations include rooms with either one king bed or two queen beds. Amenities include complimentary high speed wireless internet access, free continental breakfast and free local calls. Whether one is travelling for business, pleasure or just passing through, the Guesthouse Inn & Suites of Albuquerque is a sure bet for a relaxing stay just minutes from major business parks, city events and ...
|
|
