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During your Albuquerque vacation, don't miss these great establishments and attractions:
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.
American International Rattlesnake Museum
This unique museum, located just off Old Town Plaza, has living specimens of common, uncommon, and very rare rattlesnakes of North, Central, and South America in naturally landscaped habitats. Oddities such as albino and patternless rattlesnakes are included, as is a display popular with youngsters: baby rattlesnakes. More than 30 species can be seen, followed by a 7-minute film on this contributor to the ecological balance of our hemisphere. Throughout the museum are rattlesnake artifacts from early American history, Native American culture, medicine, the arts, and advertising. You'll also find a gift shop that specializes in Native American jewelry, T-shirts, and other memorabilia related to the natural world and the Southwest, all with an emphasis on rattlesnakes.
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
Owned and operated as a nonprofit organization by the 19 pueblos of New Mexico, this is a fine place to begin an exploration of Native American culture. Located about a mile northeast of Old Town, this museum -- modeled after Pueblo Bonito, a spectacular 9th-century ruin in Chaco Culture National Historic Park -- consists of several parts.Begin your exploration in the basement, where a permanent exhibit depicts the evolution of the various pueblos from prehistory to present, including displays of the distinctive handcrafts of each community. Note especially how pottery differs in concept and design from pueblo to pueblo. You'll also find a small screening room where you can see films of some of New Mexico's most noted Native American artists making their wares, including San Ildefonso potter María Martinez, firing her pottery with open flames.The Pueblo House Children's Museum, located in a separate building, is a hands-on experience that gives children the opportunity to learn about and understand the evolution of Pueblo culture. There they can touch pot shards, play with heishi (shell) drills, and even don fox tails and dance.Upstairs in the main building is an enormous (10,000-sq.-ft.) gift shop featuring fine pottery, rugs, sand paintings, kachinas, drums, and jewelry, among other things. Southwestern clothing and souvenirs are also available. Prices here are quite reasonable.Every weekend throughout the year, Native American dancers perform at 11am and 2pm in an outdoor arena surrounded by original murals. Often, artisans demonstrate their crafts there as well. During certain weeks of the year, such as the Balloon Fiesta, dances are performed daily.A restaurant serves traditional Native American foods. I wouldn't eat a full meal here, but it's a good place for some Indian fry bread and a bowl of posole.
Motel 6 Albuquerque South - Airport
The Albuquerque South - Airport Motel 6 is conveniently located within minutes of the Albuquerque International Airport, downtown Albuquerque, historic Old Town and the Albuquerque Rio Grande Zoo. This location features an outdoor swimming pool, a guest laundry facility and semi-truck ...
Super 8 Motel - Albuquerque East
This attractive new Super 8 Motel opened its doors to guests on August 30, 1996 100 rooms, all queen and king beds Some rooms have handicapped accommodations The lobby is equipped with a fireplace, having a southwestern decor that will make you feel welcome and at home 24 hour coffee bar Friendly check-in 25 Inch TV, with cable and HBO Rooms are sparkling clean and new Children 12 and under free Pets with permission Close attractions would be Sandia Peak Tramway offering ...
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