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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.
Rio Grande Zoo
More than 1,200 animals from 300 species live on 60 acres of riverside bosque among ancient cottonwoods. Open-moat exhibits with animals in naturalized habitats are a treat for zoo-goers. Major exhibits include polar bears, giraffes, sea lions (with underwater viewing), the cat walk, the bird show, and ape country, with gorillas and orangutans. The zoo has an especially fine collection of elephants, mountain lions, koalas, reptiles, and native Southwestern species. A children's petting zoo is open during the summer. There are numerous snack bars on the zoo grounds, and La Ventana Gift Shop carries film and souvenirs. Also check out the seal and sea lion feeding at 10:30am and 3:30pm daily and the summer Zoo Music Concert Series.
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.
Econo Lodge East
The Econo Lodge East, conveniently located less than five miles from attractions and events like the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, the Isleta Casino, the Sandia Casino and the University of New Mexico. This pet-friendly hotel welcomes pets for a small nightly fee, FREE continental breakfast and FREE HIGH-SPEED INTERNET ACCESS IN ALL ROOMS. Rooms with refrigerators, microwaves and coffee makers are available. Truck parking is also available. A 24-hour Waffle House is located on the premises. Pet ...
Crossland ABQ-Northeast
Crossland Albuquerque-Northeast is designed specifically for people who need more than just a room while away from home. The oversized studio suites feature a kitchen that allows you to prepare meals at your convenience. As a guest of Crossland, you receive free local phone calls, voice-mail, and a phone with a computer dataport. Guests also have access to a 24-hour, coin-operated laundry facility. Weekly housekeeping ensures that you have fresh linens throughout your ...
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