A trip to Albuquerque isn’t complete unless you visit the Rio Grande Zoo. With over 200 species of animals, from elephants, to orangutans, to toucans, there’s something for everyone at this spacious, beautifully landscaped 64 acre park. The seals and sea lions are a sleek favorite as they cavort and glide in the water. Ariel, a harbor seal pup, joined the gang in April of 2011. Mornings are cooler and less crowded in the summer months. The zoo is part of the Rio Grande BioPark, which also includes the botanical garden and aquarium. Admission can be purchased separately or discounted for all three venues. The Rio Grande Zoo is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Rio Grande Zoo
903 10th Street SW
Albuquerque, NM 87102
(505) 764-6200

With its welcoming, modern ambiance and its healthy menu, The Grove Café brings a taste of northern California to the New Mexico desert. Just a short trip from Broadstone Towne Center, it’s a tasty gathering spot for breakfast and lunch that’s easy on the wallet. Co-owners Lauren and Jason Greene’s aim is to offer the highest quality local and organic ingredients cooked artisan-style and served up in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Their menu features all-day breakfast fare and lunch items that include soups, salads, panini and cold sandwiches. Have a cup of fresh brewed coffee and one of their signature cupcakes to finish off your repast. Cruise through the market section and pickup one of their artisan food items like a jar of raspberry red chile jam on your way out.

The Grove Café and Market
600 Central Avenue SE
Albuquerque, NM 87102
(505) 248-9800

There's nothing run of the mill about Albuquerque's Antiquity Restaurant. This upscale eatery serves gourmet cuisine that utilizes the freshest ingredients and most innovative cooking techniques. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, recalling a laid back European bistro. The menu is equally impressive, featuring perfect cuts of meat perfectly cooked. Tenderloin au Poivre features a brandy based sauce infused with green peppercorns and mushrooms. The Spiced Shrimp is sautéed with beer and New Mexican red chili. This one is a real scorcher. The Chateaubriand for two is carved table side, while the pork Normande is made with brandy and sliced apples in cream sauce. For dessert there is Polyczenta, which is ground walnuts and cream wrapped into a crepe, as well as crème brulee and chocolate mousse. Along with a glass of wine from Antiquity’s stellar wine list and you have a world class meal at your fingertips. Be sure to call ahead to arrange seating, Antiquity can get full pretty fast.