Car Hire Albuquerque - Mini guide to Albuquerque

Lying at the heart of New Mexico, where the main east–west road and rail routes cross both the Rio Grande and the old road south to Mexico, Albuquerque is the natural base from which to explore the enchanting southwest region.

The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is a stunning museum and crafts market owned and run as a cooperative venture by the diverse Pueblo Indians of New Mexico. Its horseshoe-shaped design deliberately echoes the architecture of the Ancestral Puebloan city of Pueblo Bonito, in Chaco Canyon, and the central courtyard is the venue for free Pueblo dances every weekend.

The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is also New Mexico's one major museum about Native Americans run by Native Americans, and the displays have a clear and distinct point of view. The shared ancestral Puebloan heritage at the root of Pueblo culture is explained in detail, as is the impact of the Spanish conquistadors. Videos illustrate modern Pueblo life, and the stores upstairs sell outstanding pottery and jewellery. A good quality café serves assorted Pueblo specialties.

The intact Spanish plaza is a highlight for visitors. Dating from 1706, the area consists of a four-block historical and architectural museum with the most famous building, San Felipe de Neri Church, on the plaza's northern side. Though the church has been renovated several times since first built in 1706, the old charm and historical sense remain.

Other important attractions are the Albuquerque Museum of Art, History and Science, and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History; while the excellent Kimo Theater features stunning Pueblo Deco architecture as well as tasteful displays of art.

Several companies around Albuquerque offer hot-air balloon rides, and every October Albuquerque hosts the nation's largest hot-air balloon rally, attracting upwards of 100,000 people to its mass ascensions. Local vineyards are another favourite with visitors, with most offering wine tastings and tours.

The major suburbs in Albuquerque are: Buena Ventura, Chelwood Park, Kinney, La Cuesta, Los Candelarias, Los Duranes, Los Griegos, Old Town, Paradise Hills and San Jose.