Miami/ Fun & Entertainment
Published on March 14, 2019
Tribal tradition: Escape from Miami to Albuquerque for the Gathering of NationsPhoto: iStock

If your ideal getaway includes taking in the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of a one-of-a-kind cultural event, then Albuquerque in late April is the destination for you.

New Mexico's largest city is home to the annual Gathering of Nations Powwow, the largest celebration of Native American culture on the continent. The event draws participants from nearly 800 tribes in the U.S. and Canada for two days of dancing, contests, music, food and crafts.

Now in its 36th year, the powwow welcomes Native and non-Native people alike, and the stages, booths and events are open rain or shine.

The powwow opens April 25 with the Miss Indian World cultural pageant, and continues through April 27 at the powwow grounds in Albuquerque. While you're there, you can take advantage of the other attractions in and around the Duke City, from New Mexico's unique fusion of Native, Hispanic and Anglo cuisine to the inspiring vistas on a hike in the high desert.

Thankfully, there are plenty of regular, relatively-inexpensive flights between Miami and Albuquerque. We pulled from travel site Skyscanner to provide you with a short list of flights and hotels handpicked for the occasion.

(Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in the articles may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. Prices and availability are subject to change.)

Flight deals to Albuquerque

Currently, the cheapest flights between Miami and Albuquerque are if you leave on April 25 and return from New Mexico on April 29. Frontier Airlines currently has roundtrip, nonstop tickets for $306.

Top Albuquerque hotels

Regarding where to stay, here are some of Albuquerque’s top-rated hotels, according to Skyscanner, that we selected based on price, proximity to things to do and customer satisfaction.

The Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town (800 Rio Grande Blvd. NW)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

If you're looking for an inexpensive place to stay, consider The Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town. The hotel has a 4.8-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $99.

This spa and hotel is located in the Historical District, near the Albuquerque Museum, the Old Town Plaza and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science. Additional nearby attractions include the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

The Hotel Parq Central (806 Central Ave.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

There's also the 4.2-star rated The Hotel Parq Central, which has rooms for $120/night.

Situated near the airport, this hotel is also close to the University of New Mexico and the Rio Grande Zoo, as well as the National Hispanic Cultural Center. Additional nearby attractions include the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.

Featured Albuquerque restaurants

If you're looking for a popular spot to grab a bite, Albuquerque has plenty of excellent eateries to choose from. Here are a few from Skyscanner's listings to help you get started.

The Frontier Restaurant (2400 Central Ave. SE)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

One of city's most popular eateries is The Frontier Restaurant, which has served the Albuquerque area and the University of New Mexico community since 1971. It has an average of 4.7 stars out of 28 reviews on Skyscanner.

"This local landmark restaurant has been an Albuquerque 'go-to' for decades, with an eclectic menu, wrote visitor Susan. "Between its extended hours of operation, and kitchy decor, which leans heavily on John Wayne themed art, is a delight."

Antiquity Restaurant (112 Romero St. NW)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Another popular dining destination is Antiquity Restaurant, with five stars from seven reviews.

The restaurant, housed in a historic adobe house and located close to the Old Town Plaza, features seafood, lobster, steaks, veal, chicken and pork dishes.

"This is your quiet date night restaurant in Old Town," wrote reviewer Susan. "It is located on a small side street off the square and reservations are recommended."

Duran Central Pharmacy (1815 Central Ave. NW)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Also worth considering is the Duran Central Pharmacy.

The unique "restaurant and pharmacy" setting of Duran Central Pharmacy is a frequent stop for locals and tourists alike. 

The Grove Cafe & Market (600 Central Ave. SE, A)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Finally, there's The Grove Cafe & Market.

"This place uses local and organic ingredients in their food and puts a gourmet spin on some of the classic breakfast items," wrote Christy. 

Top Albuquerque attractions

Not sure what to do in Albuquerque, besides eat and drink? Here are a few recommendations, provided by Skyscanner.

The Sandia Peak Tramway (30 Tramway Road NE)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

First up is The Sandia Peak Tramway, which stretches from the northeast part of the city to the crestline of the Sandia Mountains, giving it its name.

The tramway contains the world's third longest single cable car span. It first entered service in 1966 and makes over 10,000 trips every year.

"No visit to Albuquerque is complete without a trip on the tram!" wrote Alyce. "Travel a distance of 2.7 miles over 15 minutes' time via the tram to an altitude of 10,378 feet. Soak up the 11,000-square-mile panoramic view."

Albuquerque Museum (2000 Mountain Road NW)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

The Albuquerque Museum is another popular destination.

Located in Old Town, it's dedicated to preserving and educating the public about the region's art and history.

"This is a sweet little museum with a good permanent collection and interesting exhibitions. If you are an art lover, check it out," wrote Kathleen. 

Popejoy Hall (1 University of New Mexico)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Lastly, spend some time at Popejoy Hall.

"Popejoy Hall is where a lot of large shows come through town," wrote visitor Dawn. "The New Mexico Philharmonic plays here as well as the ensembles from (the University of New Mexico)."


This story was created automatically using flight, hotel, and local attractions data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.

Miami-Fun & Entertainment