Visiting Albuquerque / Northwest New Mexico

Albuquerque is the center of New Mexico's largest metropolitan area. Home to the University of New Mexico, Kirtland Air Force Base along with well know businesses, visitors come to Albuquerque for both business and fun. As an original stop along Route 66, Albuquerque has grown adept at entertaining and meeting the needs of travelers. The Sandia Mountains dominate the eastern skyline with the Rio Grande River running through the west of the city. Home to nearly half the population of New Mexico, Albuquerque continues to grow and expand. The city hosts the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the largest hot air balloon festival in the world, among other exciting events for residents and visitors.

Music fans have options in Albuquerque during July. The 2010 Mariachi Spectacular July 7th through the 11th features workshops, competitions, concerts and a special Sunday Mass. Held at the University of New Mexico, with concerts at the Downtown Civic Plaza and Sandia Resort and Casino. Enjoy performances by students and professionals as they perform the best in Mariachi music. New this year ballet folklorico is added to the workshops and performances. Celebrate the heritage and culture of New Mexico and the Mariachi Spectacular.

The New Mexico Jazz Festival 2010 is an exciting ten day event July 13th through 25th. A collaboration of venues in both Albuquerque and Santa Fe feature the top local, regional and world class jazz artists. The land of enchantment will be just that, as you enjoy the evening performances. Albuquerque venues include the Outpost Performance Space, the Harry E Kinney Civic Plaza and Old Town. Put your favorite and delight in best of New Mexico and world Jazz.

August brings the Albuquerque Film Festival. The 2010 Festival is held August 26th through the 29th. Screenings will be held at the Kimo, Guild and Lobo along historic Route 66, among other sites. More than just film, the AFF features film technology, art, music and performance. The 2010 festival will feature distinctive filmmaker Monte Hellman with a retrospective of his works as well as interactive discussions. A ideal long weekend for film buffs to enjoy cutting edge films and filmmakers.

Albuquerque hosts New Mexico's oldest wine festival in September. The 2010 New Mexico Wine Festival is held in the historic town of Bernalillo just North of Albuquerque. In its 23rd year, the festival will be held over the Labor Day weekend September 4th through the 6th. With representation from twenty New Mexico wineries, this is a spectacular way to taste and become familiar with New Mexico's best wines. Bring the entire family, the festival has a full schedule of music, arts and crafts and summer foods that pair perfectly with the wines.

Best Western has four hotels in Albuquerque. If you arrive by air, the Best Western Airport Albuquerque Inn & Suites is an ideal location. Travelers along Interstate 40 can choose between the Best Western Rio Grande Inn or the Best Western Moriarty Heritage Inn. If you want to be in the heart of Albuquerque, the Best Western Executive Suites is a convenient location.