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.
Fortunately, there are plenty of relatively inexpensive flights between Jacksonville and Albuquerque, at least according to travel site Skyscanner.
Here’s a list of flights, hotels, restaurants and local attractions in Albuquerque to round out your trip.
(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 Jacksonville and Albuquerque are if you leave on April 25 and return from New Mexico on April 27. Southwest Airlines currently has tickets for $454, roundtrip.
Top Albuquerque hotels
To plan your accommodations, here are two of Albuquerque’s top-rated hotels, that we selected from Skyscanner's listings based on price and customer satisfaction.
The Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town (800 Rio Grande Blvd. NW)
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 Albuquerque spa hotel is located in the historic district, near the Albuquerque Museum, Old Town Plaza and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.
The Hotel Parq Central (806 Central Ave.)
There's also the 4.2-star rated The Hotel Parq Central. Rooms are currently set at $120/night.
Situated near the airport, this Albuquerque hotel is also close to the University of New Mexico, the Rio Grande Zoo and the National Hispanic Cultural Center.
Featured Albuquerque food and drink
Don't miss Albuquerque's food scene, with plenty of popular spots to get your fill of local cuisine. Here are a few of the top-rated eateries from Skyscanner's listings.
The Frontier Restaurant (2400 Central Ave. SE)
If you're looking for a local favorite, head to The Frontier Restaurant, which has an average of 4.7 stars out of 28 reviews on Skyscanner. The Frontier Restaurant has served the Albuquerque area and the University of New Mexico community since 1971.
"The five-star rating is for more than just the food," wrote visitor Susan. "This local landmark restaurant has been an Albuquerque go-to for decades, with an eclectic menu and kitschy decor, which leans heavily on John Wayne-themed art."
Antiquity Restaurant (112 Romero St. NW)
Another popular dining destination is Antiquity Restaurant, with five stars from seven reviews. It features seafood, lobster, steaks, veal, chicken and pork.
"This is your quiet date night restaurant in Old Town," wrote reviewer Susan. "The food is great and service is impeccable."
The Grove Cafe & Market (600 Central Ave. SE, A)
Finally, there's The Grove Cafe & Market, with 4.9 stars from 12 reviews.
"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
To round out your trip, Albuquerque offers plenty of popular attractions worth visiting. Here are some top recommendations, based on Skyscanner's descriptions and reviews.
The Sandia Peak Tramway (30 Tramway Road NE)
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)
The Albuquerque Museum is another popular destination. It has 4.9 stars from 22 reviews on Skyscanner.
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.
The Albuquerque Biological Park (903 10th St. SW)
Lastly, consider checking out The Albuquerque Biological Park. It has 4.7 stars from 38 reviews on Skyscanner.
The Albuquerque Biological Park is an environmental museum housing a large aquarium, a botanical garden, a zoo and a beach. There is a small railroad that connects these facilities.
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.
