Free Things To Do

Looking for fun on a budget? Albuquerque offers a slew of activities that won’t cost you a dime. This lively city has plenty of vibrant festivals and bustling markets which are free and open to the public. Check out this cool interactive public art map of Albuquerque. Located in downtown Albuquerque, the OffCenter Community Arts Project provides free space, free access to art-making tools and supplies, and is dedicated to supporting and celebrating creativity in all its myriad of forms. ABQ Artwalk is held for free every first Friday of the month, with art shows, live music and other community events.

Free fishing can be found along Tingley Beach fishing ponds, and they are open year-round. And free public libraries! Albuquerque has over 18 neighborhood branches around town, and many offer free or low-cost classes, workshops, readings and performances, as well as art exhibits.  You can also visit many of the museums in Albuquerque for free on certain days. Some are free every Sunday, others on first Mondays or Wednesdays, so, call ahead!

Entrance to many national forests and parks nearby are free, such as the Petroglyph National Monument which stretches for 17 miles across the volcanic basalt West Mesa dominating the western horizon of Albuquerque. It is one of the largest known petroglyph sites in North America. No entrance pass is required, but call ahead; the trailhead parking lots may charge a small fee. However, visitors are allowed to hike the trails at the Volcanoes Day Use Area, Rinconada Canyon, and Piedras Marcadas Canyons from sunrise to sunset by simply parking outside of the gated parking lots.

Speaking of the great outdoors, let’s not forget the nature trails! With the magnificent Sandia Mountains as a backdrop, you can enjoy breathtaking sunsets and invigorating hikes without spending a penny. From cultural experiences to outdoor adventures, Albuquerque proves that fun doesn’t always come with a price tag. So gear up and dive into a world of free Albuquerque delights!