Fun Things to Do in Albuquerque for Adults

Jun 12, 2025

Key Takeaways

• Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a desert city with a vibrant history and a wide range of adult-focused activities, ranging from relaxing getaways to heart-pumping adventures.
• Adults seeking an alcoholic beverage can savor local wine at locations like Sheehan Winery, grab a beer from spots like Marble Brewery, or enjoy a house-made cocktail at places like Apothecary Lounge.
• Albuquerque attracts adults from far and wide with its diverse selection of outdoor activities, including scenic hiking trails and one-of-a-kind hot air balloon excursions.
• This southwestern city also offers adults access to unique, art-forward cultural experiences, tranquil spas, and a lively nightlife, as well as seasonal events like the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

Albuquerque’s Appeal for Adults

Albuquerque, New Mexico, may be situated in the desert, but it’s anything but barren. In fact, this culturally rich, sun-soaked city serves as a popular travel destination for many. There are so many fun things to do in Albuquerque for adults, from wine tasting or relaxing at a local spa to listening to live music or cracking up at a comedy show.

Nevertheless, some of the most popular Albuquerque activities for adults take place outdoors. The Chihuahuan Desert can take your breath away if you decide to hike one of the city’s gorgeous trails, ride on its nationally recognized tramway, or take to the sky in an unforgettable hot air balloon ride.

Due to the numerous immersive, adult-focused activities to choose from, planning a trip to this southwestern city can be challenging. Luckily, the guide below outlines some of the most fun things to do in Albuquerque for adults so that you can make the most of your time in New Mexico.

From Vines to Hops: Albuquerque’s Best Sips

Albuquerque offers a diverse selection of delicious drinks. Regardless of whether you’re a wine lover, beer enthusiast, or cocktail aficionado, you’ll be sure to find something to sip on from the suggestions below.

Explore the Local Wine Scene

Albuquerque has a boutique wine scene that gives visitors access to New Mexico-grown varietals. Tasting rooms like Noisy Water Winery and Sheehan Winery invite you in with cozy, laid-back vibes and a well-curated list of local wines. Adults can unwind in cozy lounges as they sample Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, or Malvasia Bianca, which offers a unique, lightly floral flavor. Many tasting rooms also offer small bites or cheese pairings that help add a depth of flavor, rounding out the experience.

You can create your own tasting adventure by mapping out and following your own wine trail through the city. To experience as much as possible, it is a good idea to cluster a few tastings together in one afternoon or create a wine-and-dine itinerary by incorporating nearby restaurants or dessert stops into your DIY wine trail. 

Dive Into Albuquerque’s Craft Beer Culture

Although Albuquerque’s brewery scene is well-established, it is ever-evolving, giving adults new places to see and beers to try nearly every time they visit. There are numerous great spots to choose from. Still, the stand-outs with award-winning craft beers and welcoming, unique atmospheres include Marble Brewery, La Cumbre Brewing Co., and Bow & Arrow Brewing, which is an Indigenous- and woman-owned establishment with décor that reflects Native American culture. Sometimes, taprooms host events, including trivia nights, live music, and food truck pairings.

You shouldn’t just stop at one brewery; craft your own brewery crawl by using rideshare services to visit multiple distilleries. Alternatively, you can opt for a guided option, such as the Sawmill Pub Crawl from Duke City Pedaler, which allows you to sample multiple breweries and get some pedal-induced cardio in, all without worrying about organizing transportation. 

Enjoy Signature Cocktails with Local Flavor

If spirits are more your style, don’t worry, Albuquerque still has you covered. You can enjoy house-made infusions at Apothecary Lounge, which is located on the Hotel Parq Central Rooftop. Sipping on a delicious drink while enjoying the lounge’s sky-high views can make for a wonderful, relaxing experience.

Alternatively, if you prefer a more intimate, vintage feel, step into Vernon’s Speakeasy for a moody, prohibition-style experience. You can also try Happy Accidents if you are looking for something quirky and fun—the drink menu is inventive and ever-changing.

Many bars in Albuquerque offer cocktail-making classes or tasting flights, making them perfect for couples, groups, or solo travelers who want to delve into mixology.

Outdoor Adventures with an Adult-Friendly Twist

Albuquerque’s natural beauty makes it an excellent vacation spot for adults seeking an outdoor escape that blends comfort and excitement. Explore the adventurous outdoor activities listed below to make the most of your stay.

Discover Panoramic Views

You can enjoy the city from above the ground while taking a comfortable ride, using the Sandia Peak Tramway. This aerial tram is one of the longest in the United States. After you reach the top, you’ll discover fun alpine hikes with cool breezes and gorgeous, panoramic views that stretch across the Chihuahuan desert. If you’re looking to be more active, consider hiking the La Luz Trail, a moderately strenuous option that rewards hikers with stunning, sweeping vistas.

If you can, visit during sunset or the golden hour. The vistas you see may be especially magical, as the changing desert light can cast warm hues on the Sandia Mountains, rendering them perfect for photography or a session of peaceful reflection.

Hot Air Ballooning Over the Desert

Sure, hiking and tramway rides are a fun way to see Albuquerque, but nothing beats peacefully floating above the Rio Grande Valley as the sun rises. Rainbow Ryders, an experienced hot air ballooning company with an impeccable safety record, offers professionally guided sunrise or sunset hot air balloon flights that are both serene and mind-blowing. 

Even though you are an adult, you are bound to experience child-like wonder as you take in the unmatched views of the Land of Enchantment from the safety of one of our high-grade, colorful balloons. Additionally, the celebratory, post-flight champagne toast makes this perfect for mature events, such as proposals, anniversaries, or corporate gatherings.

Bike Rides and River Walks

Albuquerque’s broad network of diverse trails makes it a bike-friendly city that accommodates all skill levels. Interested adults can rent a bike and ride the Paseo del Bosque Trail, a scenic path that follows the Rio Grande past city parks and through forests of cottonwood trees.

Riders can make a day of their trip by stopping at the ABQ BioPark, which includes a botanical garden, zoo, and aquarium. Alternatively, you can bring a picnic basket filled with your favorite goodies to Tingley Beach, a peaceful spot that’s great for relaxing in the sunshine during the warm months.

Culture, Relaxation, and Luxury

Albuquerque offers adults numerous opportunities to unwind and explore the city’s rich culture, which is deeply rooted in creativity. You can treat yourself to some of the fun yet relaxing activities below.

Relax at Local Spas

Take a break from the trails and taprooms by taking a trip to spas like Betty’s Bath & Day Spa or The Remedy Day Spa. These establishments offer a range of services, from deep tissue massages to aromatherapy facials. Many include extra, adult-friendly amenities such as outdoor hot tubs, tea lounges, and couples’ suites.

Spa visits are great for unwinding after physically demanding outdoor activities. However, they can serve as a great standalone indulgence on a wellness-focused trip.

Art and Culture Experiences

The historic heart of Albuquerque is known as Old Town, and it is filled with artisanal boutiques and small galleries that showcase a diverse range of pieces, including both traditional Native American crafts and modern-day Southwest art. The Albuquerque Museum is also located in Old Town, offering a peek into the region’s art and history through well-curated exhibits.

To ensure you have even more art and cultural items to explore during your stay, consider timing your visit with First Fridays or local art walks. Doing so can allow you to witness Albuquerque’s creative community come alive around you with energetic music, delicious food vendors, and fun, open galleries.

Upscale Shopping & Local Finds

If going on a little shopping spree sounds fun to you, head to Nob Hill, where vintage meets modern in a charming walkable district. Browse locally crafted goods, such as handmade jewelry and boutique fashion.

The Rail Yards Market is another great stop for unique artisan goods and locally made food items, but it is only open seasonally. If you happen to be visiting from May to October, it’s a great place to pick up something special for yourself or souvenirs for others.

Nightlife and Entertainment

When night falls, Albuquerque doesn’t go to sleep; on the contrary, it comes to life with live music, comedic offerings, and hidden cocktail gems. The entertainment options below can help you end your day in the most fun way possible.

Dancing and Live Music

What do you have a taste for? Funky lounges or energetic nightclubs? Regardless, Albuquerque has a scene for just about everyone. You’ll find everything from live DJ sets to Latin nights and indie shows, making the city’s nightlife diverse and exciting to newcomers.

Sister is a downtown bar that offers live music that’s perfect for dancing, along with great beer. If you’re seeking a more clubby vibe, you might enjoy Canvas Artistry, a restaurant by day and a nightclub by night. This tasteful venue offers beautiful views of downtown ABQ.

Comedy and Performing Arts

If you need some levity, you can enjoy some laughs at Hyena’s Comedy Nightclub, which features both local and touring comics. If theater is more your style, the historic KiMo Theater combines Art Deco flair with an engaging lineup of music, film screenings, and live performances. Both of these entertainment options are great for a relaxed but engaging night out, especially if you are joined by others.

Speakeasies and Upscale Lounges

There are many upscale lounges throughout the city that offer plush seating, fine spirits, and an ambience that is perfect for sipping and savoring. For instance, Town & Ranch, owned by Los Poblanos, a historic inn and organic farm in Albuquerque, offers an eclectic, throwback vibe and a wide selection of signature cocktails that can be complemented with delicious light bites.

Sometimes, there are secret locations that can add an extra layer of fun. For example, Founders Speakeasy is intentionally tucked away to create an intimate atmosphere. It offers artisanal cocktails and a rotating seasonal menu. Plus, the low lighting and elegant décor make it perfect for late-night conversations on a date night. 

Unique Albuquerque Experiences for Adults

If you are looking for something more extraordinary or off the beaten path, check out the one-of-a-kind experiences below during your adult trip to Albuquerque.

Balloon Fiesta (Seasonal Highlight)

Held every October, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is widely regarded as one of the most breathtaking events in the world. Hundreds of vibrant balloons lift off at dawn, filling the sky with gorgeous colors. However, the fun doesn’t stop when the sun and the balloons go down—awe-inspiring balloon glows light up the night.

Hot air balloon activities are complemented by food, art, and live entertainment, providing people with plenty to do when they’re not in the sky. Hands down, this is one of the best events for adults in all of New Mexico.

If the Balloon Fiesta is something you’re interested in, consider booking accommodations and scheduling festival flights in advance, as this international event can make the city extremely busy.

Sunset Horseback Riding

Suppose you want to experience the Land of Enchantment on horseback. In that case, try the trail rides at Running Horse Ranch; their guided rides can take you through scenic trails and high desert landscapes. Riders can catch the golden hour if the sun sets before the end of their ride.

Nighttime Culture at Old Town or BioPark

If the weather is conducive, visit Old Town Albuquerque in the evenings to enjoy its peaceful atmosphere. Some visitors prefer to take a lantern-lit walking tour, while others opt for simply strolling through the narrow streets and browsing artisan shops or ordering a nightcap.

If you want a quieter look at the city’s flora, fauna, and cultural charm, seasonal events, such as Night Walks at the Botanic Garden at the ABQ BioPark or a Twilight Tour at the Zoo, can give you what you are looking for.

Plan the Perfect Adult Getaway

Albuquerque, New Mexico, serves as a melting pot of adult-focused activities, blending adventure, relaxation, culture, and engaging nightlife. So, whether you’re visiting the Southwest for a romantic getaway, solo soul-searching, or a long-overdue girls’ trip, you’ll easily be able to find fun things to do in Albuquerque for adults.

Many people enjoy going out for drinks, relaxing at a spa, or steeping themselves in the city’s culture through live music or visual art. Nevertheless, one of the most widely enjoyed activities in Albuquerque for adults is hot air ballooning—this city is renowned for its annual International Balloon Fiesta. 

Even if you won’t be here for this fun fiesta, Rainbow Ryders regularly offers safe yet exhilarating rides that are sure to fit your schedule. We have been helping people (literally) elevate their trips to the Southwest since 1983, so we are sure that gazing out at Albuquerque from above will make your trip unforgettable.

Book your hot air balloon ride online or contact our helpful team if you have any questions or concerns.