Buffett’s Candies: Indulge Your Sweet Tooth at this Albuquerque Favorite

Buffett’s Candies is an Albuquerque landmark known as much for its homemade sweets as for its retro 50s red and white exterior festooned with a 50-foot striped candy cane. They’ve been making candy in this spot on Central Avenue since George Buffett started the business in 1956 – and he’s still running it 55 years later. Buffett’s is treasured for their delectable pinion candy made with the nut of local trees, but their assortment of chocolate creams, toffees, brittles, and roasted nuts are also favorites. Their motto — “Our candy is made to eat, not to keep!” — states their commitment to using the freshest ingredients without preservatives. Visit their store for a trip back in time, or order online through their website to have it delivered to you in the near future!

Buffett’s Candies
7001 Lomas Boulevard NE
Albuquerque, NM 87110
(505) 265-7731

Launchpad: Albuquerque’s Funky Rock Haven

It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s the Launchpad! A spaceship-themed rock venue, the Launchpad has long been a staple for Albuquerque concertgoers, many of whom have some pretty outlandish memories of the place. A great sound system, a full bar, pool tables and balconies make for a great party atmosphere. The crowd changes depending on the music, which ranges from national acts to local bands, and individual singer-songwriters. Rumor has it that the Shins got their start on the Launchpad stage. If live music — be it rock, reggae, indie, blues, or heavy metal — and cheap drinks are your thing, this place just might be your new favorite spot.

Launchpad
618 Central Avenue SW
Albuquerque, NM 87102
(505) 764-8887

Albuquerque Aquarium: A Desert Oasis of Ocean Life

Get up-close and personal with jellyfish, sharks, and turtles at the the Albuquerque Aquarium. It’s especially refreshing in arid New Mexico to spend the day submerged in the shimmer and flow of aqua-life at their freshwater, riparian, and ocean exhibits. The aquarium's new South Pacific Gallery lets you experience live coral, seahorses, mollusks, and sea stars, as well as the psychedelic colors of a huge variety of tropical fish. The 285,000 gallon shark tank introduces you to the razor-toothed ocean denizens who’ve been around for 400 million years. The Albuquerque Aquarium is part of the Rio Grande BioPark, so you can purchase your admission separately or get a combo ticket for the zoo, botanical garden and aquarium. It's open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (and until 6 p.m. on weekends.)

Albuquerque Aquarium
2601 Central Avenue NW
Albuquerque, NM 87104
(505) 764-6200

New Mexico Tea Company: A Shangri-la for Leaf-lovers

A tiny shop in Albuquerque’s Old Town, the New Mexico Tea Company a tea-lover’s haven. Here you'll find more than 150 varieties of loose-leaf tea from around the world to take home and brew. The friendly staff is a trove of knowledge about the exotic beverage, making your excursion delightful and instructive. From Earl Grey, to matte, to rooibos — if you can’t find your favorite variety here, it probably exists only in your imagination! Increase your knowledge and try new varieties at the New Mexico Tea Company's Sunday night tea tastings. Sign up for their mailing list and get a free tea sample with each order.

New Mexico Tea Company
1131 Mountain Road NW
Ste 2
Albuquerque, NM 87102
(505) 962-2137

ABQ Uptown: Upscale Lifestyle and Shopping Center

Listed as an ‘open-air lifestyle center’, ABQ Uptown is Albuquerque's latest trend in city living. ABQ Uptown has everything you need, from housing to workspaces, to shopping, all in one distinct urban village. Located in northwest Albuquerque, this upscale shopping center is a great place to spend an afternoon or evening, with 220,000 square feet of retail shops and restaurants. Forgo the mall and stroll under the blue New Mexico sky from shop to shop, with national favorites like Talbots, Eddie Bauer, Pottery Barn, and the Apple Store. There’s even a day spa for a soothing facial and massage and a Gymboree for the kids. After your shopping spree you can get refreshed at Starbucks, the Elephant Bar, or Marcello’s Chop House.

ABQ Uptown
Indian School Road & Louisiana Boulevard
Albuquerque, NM 87110

Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum: Fly High With the First Ballooners

Spacious skies and gentle, cool morning updrafts have long made Albuquerque a ballooning haven and home to the world’s largest annual Balloon Fiesta. Named after two local champions of the sport, the Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum gives you the complete lowdown when it comes to the fascinating history of ballooning, from its inception in France in 1783 to the present day. Here you can view replicas of early balloons, participate in science experiments, and view videos of some famous flights. Kids will enjoy the interactive exhibits. Hands-on workshops for kids and adults are held the second Saturdays of the month. Admission is a bargain at $4 for adults and just $2 for kids and seniors. Open Tuesday through Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum
9201 Balloon Museum Drive NE
Albuquerque, NM 87198

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