Q: What time does Old Town Albuquerque open?
A: Old Town Albuquerque is an open district, so you can stroll around the beautiful plazas and streets at any time! However, the individual shops, galleries, and restaurants usually open around 10 AM. Old Town is made up of more than 150+ individually owned and operated businesses. Each merchant determines their own days and hours of operation. As a general rule, most businesses are open:
Monday – Saturday: 10 am to 8 pm
Sunday: 11 am to 7 pm
Most Restaurants seat until 9 pm
Q: Is parking free at Old Town Albuquerque and where should I park?
A: There are free parking options around Old Town Albuquerque, but availability can be limited. There are also paid parking lots for a small fee if you prefer a guaranteed spot. For the most part the closest lots to Old Town are paid lots. Street parking is free but there is a limit of 2 hours. Street parking just outside of Old Town or the free lots just to the north are the best bets when looking for free, all-day parking. See the parking map below.
Red = Paid Lots
Green = Free Lots and Free 2-hour street parking
Yellow = Free street parking in nearby neighborhoods
Q: What are the most walkable areas of Albuquerque?
A: The most walkable area in Albuquerque is of course Old Town. With over 150+ shops and galleries, 40+ restaurants and eateries, several breweries, multiple grocery stores, 5+ world class museums, several parks and more all within a square mile, it’s no wonder Old Town Albuquerque is the most walkable area in Albuquerque. Other walkable areas are Downtown, and Nob Hill. These areas combined offer a mix of historic sights, shops, restaurants, and parks that make for enjoyable, leisurely walks.
Q: What is the oldest building in Old Town Albuquerque?
A: The oldest building in Old Town Albuquerque is surprisingly a debatable subject. Most people would think that San Felipe de Neri Church, built in 1793, which stands as a testament to the city’s long-standing history and cultural heritage is the oldest building. But because the original plaza and church were built in 1706, there are some surrounding buildings that may date to before the current church. Why don’t we know for sure? Well, because it was founded as a Spanish city under the Spanish crown (Spain), then fell into Mexican hands, then a territory the United States, then officially a State. Even when New Mexico became a state, Old TOwn Albuquerque was its own village, not even incorporated into the City of Albuquerque, that didn’t happen until 1949. So the problem with finding the oldest building, is to find the historical records. Because Old Town has so much history between different countries, cultures, and communities, its a difficult questions to answer.
Q: Does Albuquerque have an old town?
A: Yes, absolutely! Albuquerque’s Old Town is the heart of the city’s rich history and culture, featuring stunning architecture, numerous local shops, art galleries, and a variety of fantastic restaurants. And this is the official Old Town Albuquerque website! So you’ve come to the right place.