Courtesy Albuquerque CVB
Albuquerque, New Mexico
The iconic sights continue in Albuquerque, which has the longest stretch of vintage Route 66 architecture.
“Route 66 still goes through three of our main neighborhoods,” said Megan Mayo Ryan, senior communications and tourism manager for the Albuquerque Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Nob Hill, Albuquerque’s first suburb, is a 15-block neighborhood that features the state’s first shopping center and dozens of hip venues inside historic buildings.
“The Jones Motor Company, today Kelly’s Brew Pub, is a 1939 iconic building where groups can enjoy a large patio. More neon is being installed in this neighborhood, where they are really embracing the heritage,” said Ryan.
Two historic gems restored to their original splendor are in downtown. The El Rey began as a movie house in 1941; today, this Mediterranean-style building features a variety of live music. The KiMo Theater was a vaudeville venue in 1927 and is now a center for the performing arts.
“This Pueblo Deco or Native American Art Deco-style building is over the top,” said Ryan. “People drive by it and say, ‘What is that?’”
Old Town has a history dating back to 1706 and was Albuquerque’s first tourist attraction.
“With galleries, restaurants and souvenirs galore, this is a great place to spend an afternoon,” Ryan said. “There are also art, history and science museums to explore.”
