Shopping in Albuquerque

As the largest city in New Mexico, Albuquerque offers a wealth of shopping choices, from designer boutiques and handmade crafts shops to art galleries and quirky one-of-a-kind emporia. The city is home to several large shopping malls too. The best shopping districts for tourists include the Nob Hill, Old Town, and the rapidly gentrifying Downtown.

Key areas

Don't miss Old Town Plaza, where history and modern life merge with narrow brick paths, renowned artwork, sculptures, photography, ceramics, fine jewellery, delicious food and unusual speciality shops. There are over 100 boutiques, galleries and shops in the neighbourhood. Nob Hill is another must for shoppers, with its funky vintage clothiers, modern design shops, antiques stores and avant-garde art galleries. Albuquerque has a number of trading posts specialising in Native American crafts, art and jewellery; one of the most famous is Skip Maisel's, 510 Central Avenue SW. With an extensive collection of unusual stones, Mama's Minerals, 800 20th Street SW, also offers jewellery-making and beading.

Markets

There are a number of farmers markets throughout the city if you’re looking for fresh produce. There is also an artisan market every Tuesday afternoon on 6400 Wyoming Boulevard from June to September.

Shopping centres

The Uptown area is the site of two of the city's major shopping malls, Coronado Center (the state's largest) and the sparkling ABQ Uptown, a fancy shopping and dining complex near Louisiana Boulevard and I-40, which is a beautifully designed outdoor mall that boasts national boutique chains.

Opening hours

Shopping hours vary in Albuquerque but most malls and department stores open Monday to Saturday 1000-2100 and Sunday 1200-1600.

Souvenirs

Native American souvenirs from jewellery to arts and crafts, pottery, rugs, clothing, food products such as chile and salsa products, balloon pins and Route 66 memorabilia are among the souvenirs on sale in Albuquerque.