5-Nights Enchanted New Mexico With Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

Santa Fe

Even though Santa Fe is capital of New Mexico, the state's third largest city, and has been around longer than all but one other city in America, it is still relatively unknown to many U.S. travelers. The city history spans almost 400 years yet much of Santa Fe is unexpected, including its Rocky Mountain climate and geography and the cultural diversity created by a mix of Native American, Hispanic and European traditions. Theater, dance, and music all play a significant role in Santa Fe's past and present and the importance of art has made the city one of the country's largest art markets. Surrounded by millions of acres of National Forest and public land, the city offers diverse outdoor activities. For the sightseer, the beauty of the area offers an amazing diversity of scenery and places to discover. Take some time to do some world class shopping or investigate why the city is a major center for alternative healing. Every visitor should explore the local cuisine.

Albuquerque

Albuquerque, New Mexico, could be the place to fulfill dreams of a southwestern getaway. A centuries-old Spanish church anchors the city's plaza, chili-pepper-spiked delicacies are found on almost every menu, and residential neighborhoods are chock-full of both real adobe houses (made of mud and straw) and adobe-style look-alikes (made of concrete and stucco).

Albuquerque is New Mexico's largest city and definitely different from other cities in the state: It is a bustling, working town that doesn't run the risk of becoming too precious or too exclusive.

Albuquerque's size has also helped it to develop a fine lineup of attractions, such as the Albuquerque Zoo and Old Town Albuquerque—many of which are located close together near the downtown area. Even if you don't have a lot of time to spend in town, you can see several excellent sites in the span of a short drive and a few hours.