Albuquerque Pictures

The annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta features more than 500 balloons. Ron Behrmann Albuquerque Convention & Visitors Bureau

Not only are red chile ristras the main ingredient in red chile sauce and other New Mexican dishes, but they serve a decorative purpose, too. You'll often see them strung near arches, doors and windows all over the state.  www.kipmalone.com Albuquerque Convention & Visitors Bureau

You'll spot adobe doors like this in Old Town. Kim Ashley Albuquerque Convention & Visitors Bureau

Thanks to its proximity to the Sandia Mountains and the meandering Rio Grande, Albuquerque offers an ideal landscape for adventurous hikers and bikers. www.morimotophotography.com Albuquerque Convention & Visitors Bureau

The San Felipe de Neri Church was first constructed in 1793. traveler1116 Getty Images

Old Town is the site of the original Albuquerque settlement, which was founded in 1706. www.itsatrip.org Albuquerque Convention & Visitors Bureau

Historic Route 66 (now "Central Avenue") runs east to west through downtown Albuquerque. MarbleStreetStudio.com Albuquerque Convention & Visitors Bureau

The Sandia Peak Tramway carries passengers from eastern Albuquerque to the summit of Sandia Peak. sherwoodimagery Getty Images

For an in-depth look at Albuquerque's rich cultural heritage, take a few hours to explore the Albuquerque Museum. www.visitalbuquerque.org

During the International Balloon Fiesta – held the first week in October – Albuquerque's blue skies are filled with hundreds of hot air balloons. Ron Behrmann Albuquerque Convention & Visitors Bureau

The ABQ BioPark is home to a zoo, an aquarium, a botanical garden and a beach. Raymond Watt Albuquerque Convention & Visitors Bureau

This curious critter is just one of the many animals you'll find in Albuquerque's zoo, which is part of the ABQ BioPark. David~O Flickr

In addition to the center's temporary exhibits, it also offers a permanent space featuring original artwork and craftsmanship of each of the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico.  www.visitalbuquerque.org

Visitors to the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science are greeted by two life-size New Mexico dinosaurs created by Albuquerque sculptor Dave Thomas. Alberta (seen here) is a carnivorous Albertosaurus. MarbleStreetStudio.com Albuquerque Convention & Visitors Bureau

Petroglyph National Monument showcases the world's largest accessible collection of ancient rock art. Verna Wood Albuquerque Convention & Visitors Bureau

The Sandia Peak Ski Area is usually open from November (Thanksgiving weekend) through March (spring break). Jay Blackwood Albuquerque Convention & Visitors Bureau

With 310 days of sunshine, it should come as no surprise that Albuquerque boasts its fair share of fairways. When you're not perfecting your swing, take a moment to enjoy the scenery: courses here are surrounded by rocky mountain peaks and the roaming Rio Grande. Hyatt Tamaya Resort & Spa

Hot air balloons that don't take on traditional shapes take longer to inflate, but they make for stunning photo ops.  Raymond Watt Albuquerque Convention & Visitors Bureau

Visitors can get a great view from the Sandia Peak Tramway observation deck. Julian Starks Getty Images

Prepare for striking sunrises and sunsets in Albuquerque.  MarbleStreetStudio.com Albuquerque Convention & Visitors Bureau

Chile peppers are a staple in Albuquerque cuisine, and you're sure to spot them all over the city. Brian Welker / EyeEm Getty Images

Come October, hundreds of balloons take to the skies. Busakorn Pongparnit Getty Images

You'll be able to spot ancient rock art at Petroglyph National Monument. Wilsilver77 Getty Images

The San Felipe de Neri Church is a striking presence in Albuquerque. csfotoimages Getty Images

The turquoise doors of the San Felipe de Neri Church are striking to look at. florencemcginn Getty Images

The High Noon Restaurant and Saloon is a popular spot in downtown Albuquerque. Serendigity Flickr

The Casa Rodena Vineyard is a great place to learn about and sample local wines. ivanastar Getty Images

Tapas (shared small plates) are a great way to sample local cuisine with friends. National Institute of Flamenco Visit Albuquerque

The Sandia Peak Tramway offers an aerial view of Albuquerque and the surrounding landscape. Jay Blackwood – Sandia Peak Ski & Tram Visit Albuquerque

The ABQ BioPark is a great way to spend an afternoon exploring the flora and fauna of Albuquerque. Raymond Watt Visit Albuquerque

Outdoor enthusiasts will love kayaking along the Rio Grande. MarbleStreetStudio.com Visit Albuquerque

Culture and music lovers will want to catch a show at the KiMo Theatre, which puts on several performances per week. Check the calendar in advance to book your tickets. View Pictures / Contributor Getty Images

A great way to see Albuquerque is from way up high. Take to the skies in a hot air balloon ride (choose from sunrise, sunset or somewhere in between) for an unforgettable view. Karol Franks Getty Images

Albuquerque is known for its wines, so making a stop at the tasting room at Casa Rondena Winery is worth the trek. ivanastar Getty Images