Albuquerque, New Mexico’s largest city, is a veritable trove of cinematic treasures. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, it has served as the backdrop for numerous renowned films, TV shows, and books. This guide takes you on a unique journey through Albuquerque’s cinematic landmarks, offering tips and trivia that will make your trip truly special. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the city like never before!
9 Famous Films Shot in Albuquerque
Albuquerque’s unique blend of urban and natural landscapes has made it a favorite among filmmakers. Here are ten famous films that have been shot in Albuquerque, showcasing the city’s diverse charm.
- “Transformers” (2007) – Directed by Michael Bay, this blockbuster sci-fi film features several action-packed scenes shot in Albuquerque’s Sandia Mountains.
- “The Avengers” (2012) – Albuquerque Studios was a primary filming location for this Marvel superhero epic. The city’s modern architecture and wide-open spaces helped create the film’s futuristic setting.
- “No Country for Old Men” (2007) – The Coen Brothers’ Oscar-winning film beautifully captures the stark desolation of Albuquerque’s desert landscapes.
- “Terminator Salvation” (2009) – Albuquerque’s post-industrial sites provided the perfect backdrop for this post-apocalyptic sci-fi thriller.
- “The Lone Ranger” (2013) – Albuquerque’s desolate plains and rugged mountains served as the setting for this action-packed western.
- “Thor” (2011) – Albuquerque Studios was again put to use for this Marvel superhero film, with the city’s landscapes doubling for the fictional town of Puente Antiguo, New Mexico.
- “The Book of Eli” (2010) – Denzel Washington’s post-apocalyptic journey was filmed in various locations around Albuquerque, including the eerie ghost town of Carnuel.
- “Sunshine Cleaning” (2008) – This indie comedy-drama starring Amy Adams and Emily Blunt was shot entirely in Albuquerque, showcasing the city’s suburban neighborhoods.
- “In Plain Sight” (2008-2012) – While this is a TV series, it’s worth mentioning because it was shot entirely in Albuquerque, highlighting the city’s diverse landscapes and landmarks.
5 TV Shows Set in Albuquerque
Albuquerque has not only been a filming location for movies but also for several popular TV shows, presenting the city in a variety of narratives.
- “Breaking Bad” (2008-2013) – As mentioned earlier, this critically acclaimed series was set and shot in Albuquerque, using the city’s unique landscapes and architecture to create a powerful visual narrative.
- “Better Call Saul” (2015-present) – This “Breaking Bad” prequel continues the tradition of showcasing Albuquerque’s unique charm, featuring many of the same locations as its predecessor.
- “In Plain Sight” (2008-2012) – This action-packed series about a U.S. Marshal in the witness protection program prominently features Albuquerque’s urban and suburban landscapes.
- “Midnight, Texas” (2017-2018) – Although filmed in Las Vegas, New Mexico, this supernatural drama is set in a fictional town on the outskirts of Albuquerque.
- “The Brave” (2017-2018) – This military drama series was filmed and set in Albuquerque, highlighting the city’s modern infrastructure and desert surroundings.
5 Animated Films Set in Albuquerque
While Albuquerque may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of animation, the city has served as a setting for several animated films.
- “The Simpsons Movie” (2007) – In this feature-length adaptation of the popular TV show, the Simpson family travels to Albuquerque during their cross-country journey.
- “Rango” (2011) – In this animated western, the titular character travels through a desert landscape inspired by Albuquerque’s surrounding areas.
- “Bugs Bunny’s 3rd Movie: 1001 Rabbit Tales” (1982) – In one of the stories, Bugs Bunny finds himself in Albuquerque after taking a wrong turn.
- “Turbo” (2013) – In this high-speed adventure, the world’s fastest snail dreams of racing in the famous Indianapolis 500, but ends up in Albuquerque due to a navigation error.
- “The Tortoise and the Hare” (2008) – This modern retelling of the classic fable takes place in a desert setting inspired by Albuquerque’s landscapes.
Famous Books Set in Albuquerque: 3 Classic and 3 Contemporary
Beyond the screen, Albuquerque has been a setting for numerous literary works. Here are three classic and three contemporary books set in the city.
Classic:
- “The Milagro Beanfield War” by John Nichols – This novel, set in a small town near Albuquerque, explores the conflict between local farmers and a powerful developer.
- “Ceremony” by Leslie Marmon Silko – Set in the areas surrounding Albuquerque, this novel explores Native American traditions and the impact of World War II on the Laguna Pueblo people.
- “The Guardians” by Ana Castillo – This novel, set in the borderlands south of Albuquerque, deals with the issues of immigration and cultural identity.
Contemporary:
- “The Night Bird Cantata” by Donald Heiney – This contemporary novel, set in Albuquerque, explores the themes of art, music, and the human condition.
- “The Toughest Indian in the World” by Sherman Alexie – Set in and around Albuquerque, this collection of stories explores the lives of modern Native Americans.
- “Alburquerque” by Rudolfo Anaya – This novel paints a vivid picture of contemporary Albuquerque, exploring the cultural and social issues faced by its residents.
Exploring Albuquerque Filming Locations – Where to Go
To truly immerse yourself in Albuquerque’s cinematic history, there are several key locations you must visit. From iconic landmarks to lesser-known gems, these filming locations provide a unique perspective on the city.
- Albuquerque Studios – As one of the largest and most technologically advanced production facilities in North America, Albuquerque Studios has been a filming location for numerous films and TV shows, including “The Avengers” and “Breaking Bad.”
- The Car Wash from “Breaking Bad” – Now known as Mister Car Wash, this location is a must-visit for fans of the series.
- John B. Robert Dam – This unassuming structure became famous as a meeting spot for the characters in “Breaking Bad.”
- Twisters – This fast-food restaurant was transformed into Los Pollos Hermanos, the front for drug kingpin Gus Fring in “Breaking Bad.”
- The Dog House Drive-In – This local eatery has been featured in numerous episodes of “Breaking Bad” and “Better Call Saul.”
- The Crossroads Motel – Known as the “crystal palace” in “Breaking Bad,” this location is a must-see for fans.
- Walter White’s House – The suburban home of Walter White in “Breaking Bad” is a private residence, but it’s still a popular spot for fans to drive by and take photos (just remember to be respectful!).
Where to Sleep in Albuquerque: 3 Cheap and 3 Luxury Options
Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, Albuquerque has something to suit every preference.
Budget:
- Route 66 Hostel – Located in downtown Albuquerque, this budget-friendly hostel offers dormitory-style rooms and private options.
- Quality Inn & Suites – This affordable hotel offers comfortable rooms and is conveniently located near several filming locations.
- Suburban Extended Stay – Perfect for longer stays, this budget hotel offers kitchenette-equipped rooms at a reasonable price.
Luxury:
- Hotel Chaco – This luxury boutique hotel in Old Town Albuquerque offers elegantly designed rooms and a rooftop restaurant.
- Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm – This luxury inn set on a lavender farm offers beautiful rooms and gourmet dining.
- Hotel Andaluz – As one of Albuquerque’s premier luxury hotels, Hotel Andaluz offers beautifully decorated rooms and a rooftop bar with stunning city views.
Where to Eat in Albuquerque: 3 Budget and 3 Luxury Options
From traditional New Mexican cuisine to innovative culinary creations, Albuquerque offers a wealth of dining options.
Budget:
- Frontier Restaurant – A favorite among locals and tourists alike, this eatery offers New Mexican cuisine at affordable prices.
- 66 Diner – This retro-style diner serves classic American fare at reasonable prices.
- Golden Pride BBQ Chicken & Ribs – Known for its delicious fried chicken and barbecue ribs, this fast-food joint offers great food at budget-friendly prices.
Luxury:
- Farm & Table – This high-end restaurant focuses on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, offering a unique farm-to-table dining experience.
- Antiquity Restaurant – Offering exquisite seafood and steaks in a cozy, romantic setting, Antiquity Restaurant is a top luxury dining choice.
- Vernon’s Speakeasy – For a unique dining experience, visit this hidden gem that offers excellent steaks and live jazz in a Prohibition-era inspired setting.
Detailed Itinerary Day by Day
To make the most of your film-themed trip to Albuquerque, here is a carefully curated four-day itinerary that will take you to the city’s most iconic filming locations and hidden gems.
Day 1: Breaking Bad Tour
Start your day by visiting some of the iconic locations from “Breaking Bad.” Begin at the Crossroads Motel, then head to the Dog House Drive-In for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the car wash and Los Pollos Hermanos (Twisters). End your day by driving by Walter White’s house.
Day 2: Film Studios and Natural Landscapes
Visit Albuquerque Studios in the morning and take a tour (if available). After lunch, head to the Sandia Mountains, where scenes from “Transformers” were shot. Enjoy the breathtaking views and take a ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway.
Day 3: Old Town Albuquerque
Spend the day exploring Old Town Albuquerque, which has been featured in numerous films and TV shows. Don’t miss the San Felipe de Neri Church and the Albuquerque Museum. Enjoy lunch at one of the local New Mexican restaurants.
Day 4: Route 66 and Nob Hill
Start your day with a drive along historic Route 66, stopping at the 66 Diner for breakfast. Spend the afternoon exploring Nob Hill, a vibrant area with unique shops and restaurants, which has been featured in several films. End your day with a luxurious dinner at one of Nob Hill’s upscale restaurants.
Local Legends and Curiosities
One of the most fascinating aspects of Albuquerque’s film industry is the local legends and curiosities that surround it.
For instance, did you know that Albuquerque is home to the longest aerial tramway in the United States? The Sandia Peak Tramway, featured in movies like “Transformers,” spans 2.7 miles and offers a spectacular view of the city.
Another interesting fact is that Walter White’s house from “Breaking Bad” has become so popular that the actual homeowners have had to erect a fence to keep fans at bay.
Hidden Gems in Albuquerque
Beyond the well-known filming locations, Albuquerque also has several hidden gems that are worth exploring.
- KiMo Theatre – This historic theatre in downtown Albuquerque, known for its Pueblo Deco architecture, has been used as a filming location for several movies and TV shows.
- Rio Grande Nature Center State Park – Although not a filming location, this park offers beautiful views of the Rio Grande and is a great spot for bird watching.
- The Church Street Café – Located in Old Town Albuquerque, this charming café is housed in one of the oldest buildings in the city and is a perfect spot for a relaxing meal.
What to Pack for a Trip to Albuquerque
When packing for a trip to Albuquerque, it’s important to consider the city’s climate. The city experiences warm, dry summers and mild winters, so lightweight clothing is suitable for most of the year. However, nights can be cool, so it’s a good idea to pack a jacket or sweater.
Other essentials to pack include comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle. If you plan to explore the city’s outdoor locations, consider packing hiking boots, a backpack, and a camera to capture the city’s beautiful landscapes.
How to Dress
Dressing for Albuquerque is all about comfort and practicality. Casual attire is suitable for most places. For outdoor activities, wear breathable clothing and sturdy footwear. If you’re visiting during the summer, lightweight clothing, a hat, and sunscreen are essential. For the cooler months, layers are recommended.
Transportation Tips
Getting around Albuquerque is relatively easy, whether you choose to drive, bike, or use public transportation. The city’s public bus system, ABQ RIDE, is an affordable option for getting around. For more flexibility, consider renting a car. If you prefer to bike, Albuquerque offers over 400 miles of bike paths and trails.
Remember to always carry a map or GPS, as some of the filming locations are spread out. Also, be aware of traffic during peak hours, and always plan your route in advance.
Travel Documents
Before your trip, ensure you have all necessary travel documents. U.S. citizens need a valid driver’s license or state ID for domestic travel. For international visitors, a valid passport is required. It’s also a good idea to have a copy of your hotel booking and travel insurance.
Conclusion
Albuquerque’s rich cinematic history provides a unique perspective to explore this vibrant city. From famous films shot in Albuquerque to TV shows set in the city, and from classic books to contemporary ones, the city’s diverse landscapes and culture have inspired countless storytellers. So, whether you’re a film enthusiast, a book lover, or simply a traveler looking for a unique adventure, Albuquerque awaits to unfold its cinematic magic for you! Happy travels!
