Albuquerque, New Mexico offers a wide range of activities and attractions for teenagers to enjoy. Here are some fun and exciting teen-approved things to do in the Duke City.
Quick Links
Sandia Peak Tramway
The Sandia Peak Tramway offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding desert and mountains. It is a popular thing to do among all age groups, especially teens. It is the longest aerial tramway in the United States, stretching from the base of the Sandia Mountains to the 10,378-foot summit.
The tramway is operated by the Sandia Peak Ski and Tramway Company and is open year-round, although hours of operation may vary depending on the season. The tramway is an iconic landmark of Albuquerque and provides a unique and thrilling experience.
Balloon Fiesta Park
This park is the home of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, which is the largest hot-air balloon festival in the world and a must-see event for anyone visiting the city. Balloon Fiesta Park is a large open-air park that offers a variety of things to do and attractions for visitors of all ages.
During the Balloon Fiesta, spectators can watch hundreds of hot air balloons take flight and participate in events such as live music performances, food festivals, and night-glow balloon shows. The park also features a playground, picnic areas, scenic walking trails, and stunning views of the nearby Sandia Mountains, making it a great location for teens to meet up with friends and enjoy some time outside for a game of soccer or even share a meal picnic-style.
Old Town Albuquerque
Old Town is the city’s historic center and is home to several museums, shops, restaurants, and plenty of things to do for teens. It’s a great place for them to explore and learn about the city’s history and enjoy entertainment with their friends. Old Town is a historic district and a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The area is known for its charming architecture, colorful shops, and delicious food.
Get Outside
Teens can get outside and have fun at the many parks in Albuquerque, especially those who enjoy skate parks. Albuquerque has a thriving skate park scene.
The popular Los Altos Skate Park is located in the northeast part of the city. This spacious park offers a diverse range of features, including bowls, ramps, rails, and ledges, providing endless opportunities for skaters to hone their skills and try out new tricks. The park also features lights, allowing for night-time skating, and ample seating for spectators.
Another notable skate park in Albuquerque is North Domingo Baca Skate Park, situated in the Northeast Heights area. This park offers a unique layout with a flow-style design, incorporating both street and transition elements. It features a large bowl with a shallow end for beginners and a deep end for more experienced skaters, as well as a street plaza section with rails, stairs, and ledges. The park also hosts various events and competitions, adding to the vibrant skateboarding community in Albuquerque.
Additionally, the City of Albuquerque has invested in smaller neighborhood skate parks, such as Los Vecinos Skate Park in the South Valley and Sunnyside Park Skate Park on the west side, providing options for skaters in different parts of the city.
Fun by the Water
Despite being in a landlocked state, Albuquerque offers plenty of water recreation opportunities for teens.
Located at the base of the Sandia Mountains, Sandia Lakes is a recreational area with three fishing lakes, as well as paddle boat rentals and a sandy beach for swimming. It’s a great spot for a day of family fun and relaxation.
Located about 45 minutes north of Albuquerque, Cochiti Lake is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake is surrounded by beautiful sandstone cliffs, making it a picturesque setting for outdoor water activities.
Of course, the iconic Rio Grande flows through Albuquerque, providing opportunities for kayaking, rafting, and tubing. There are various sections of the river that cater to different skill levels, from calm stretches suitable for beginners to more challenging rapids for experienced paddlers.
These are just a few of the many fun and exciting things for teenagers to do in Albuquerque. With its diverse range of attractions and activities, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
