Wildly colored balloons can be seen for miles at Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta happens in October

Visit pet friendly Albuquerque, New Mexico for a true taste of the American Southwest. As one of America’s oldest cities, Albuquerque boasts a unique blend of Native American, Hispanic, Latino, and Anglo influences. Whether you prefer hiking with your dog in the spectacular Sandia Mountains, shopping at one of more than 3000 shops and galleries, exploring fascinating museums and cultural centers, savoring delectable New Mexican cuisine, golfing at one of 14 beautiful golf courses, taking a hot-air balloon flight, or strolling through Old Town, there’s something for everyone in pet friendly Albuquerque.

There are many reasons to visit Albuquerque, but it is best known as the “Hot Air Balloon Capital of the World.” Every October, the city hosts the world-famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta -often called the most photographed event in the world. This magical festival attracts a huge crowd of balloonists and spectators, and the sky may fill with as many as 700 hot air balloons at once. No pets are allowed on the grounds of the event itself, but visitors traveling with their pets might enjoy watching the colorful balloons from one of the many pet friendly venues in the city.

Examples of Native American images at the Petroglyph National Monument

Albuquerque lies a mile above sea level, and the region’s sunny skies and low humidity are perfect for outdoor activities during all four seasons. Pet owners can hike with their dogs in the foothills of the Sandia Mountains amid cholla cactus and desert sage, or they can trek to higher elevations where ponderosa pines and shimmering aspens frame breathtaking mountain vistas. Farther to the west, pet owners will enjoy walking through ancient lava flows with their pets, as well as exploring Native American carved images at the Petroglyph National Monument. In winter months, nearby Sandia Peak offers world-class skiing and snowboarding.

Albuquerque’s unique heritage is reflected in its distinctive cuisine, art, music, architecture, and culture. To get an authentic feel for the city, take a pet friendly guided walking tour of historic Old Town. This area is Albuquerque’s cultural center, with seven museums and more than 100 shops, galleries and restaurants. During your visit, be sure to stop by one of the off leash dog parks in the area where your pet can run and play to his heart’s content.

Another interesting pet friendly walking and driving tour is famous Route 66 through Albuquerque. Here, historic neon signs guide visitors from the volcanoes on the far west side of the city, through historic Old Town and the Downtown business district, and then continuing eastward to the trendy Nob Hill area where many of the best restaurants and shops in the city are located. In addition to silver and turquoise jewelry and other traditional art forms, discerning shoppers will appreciate the eclectic selection of exciting, contemporary artworks in a variety of styles and expressions.

Pet Friendly Albuquerque landscape

After the sun sets, the whole city comes alive with gallery openings, salsa dancing, concerts, plays, and casino action. Enjoy yourself, and then head back to your pet friendly accommodations for a nightcap and a warm bath to soothe your aching feet. Pet friendly lodging options in Albuquerque include RV and tent campgrounds, budget motels, full service hotels, charming inns, historic bed and breakfasts, and luxurious resorts.

Albuquerque is a pet friendly city just begging to be explored, from fascinating New Mexican culture and unparalleled shopping to historic Native American ruins and stunning high desert landscapes. No matter what you choose to do during your stay, a visit to pet friendly Albuquerque will be both culturally enriching and fun. It is truly a must-see American destination.

For pet friendly hotels in Albuquerque, visit www.PetTravel.com and search our worldwide database of pet friendly hotels.