AboutValerie S Expertise I can answer questions regarding travel around NM, including hotels, restaurants, sights and information about the New Mexico Pueblos. I live in the Albuquerque area and of course know a lot more about this city and environs, but can also answer questions about Santa Fe, Taos, national parks and culture.
Experience I have lived in NM for 19 years and have a deep love for our multi-ethnic culture. I have volunteered for the Albuquerque Convention and Vistor's Bureau. I have been involved in the travel industry for 7 years.
Education/Credentials BA History for University of New Mexico
Expert: Valerie S Date: 2/22/2006 Subject: albQ, santa FE, las vegasNM
Question My wife and I and our 8 year old will be in town for a conference in March2006. Are there 2 or 3 must see things in Albq, Santa Fe. And what do you know about las vegas-we're thinking about moving there or at least somewhere in northern half of nm. read your other answers, they were great.Wife and i lived in Flagstaff in late 80's.so we are familiar with west.
thanks
Answer Hi Jack,
Sights depend in large part on your interests, but for Albuquerque I'd say you (and your 8 year old) would enjoy the Sandia Peak Tramway which scales the mountain to over 10,000 feet; the Petroglyphs National Monument (ancient Indian rock etchings); Old Town; and if you're in town over a weekend, a visit to the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center to see the dances. There is a Rattlesnake Museum in Old Town which kids love (yes, they are all alive!). There are lots of good restaurants in Nob Hill (Central Avenue east of the University). You can also see my list of Albuquerque restaurants at http://www.slowtrav.com/usa/restaurants/valerie_albuquerque.htm
Santa Fe: The downtown of Santa Fe centers on the Plaza, and there are loads of shops, galleries, and restaurants in the six block radius. The Museums of New Mexico administer the Portal Artist Program, where Native Americans sell their hand-made goods under the Portal of the Palace of the Governors (the oldest continually used government building in the US). This is a good place to buy jewelry and pottery as there are stringent requirements on authenticity and quality of materials. Plus, you get to buy it directly from the artist. The Oldest House and Oldest Church in the US are also worth a visit (on Santa Fe Trail). Loretto Chapel with its widely reknowned spiral staircase is neat. There are lots of museums (near the plaza and at Museum Hill); a drive to the Santa Fe Ski Basin affords hiking opportunities and beautiful views.
Las Vegas is a pretty town with two colleges and an active downtown area. It's worth a look. There are pretty areas and the town seems rather lively with a nice mix of retirees, college students, locals and bohemians.
I hope this helps! Enjoy your visit to our beautiful state!
