Looking to get away from the city for a bit without spending hours on the road? You're in luck. Albuquerque is surrounded by some of the most scenic day-trip destinations in New Mexico, and you don’t need to venture far to experience breathtaking landscapes, quirky roadside stops, or historic small towns.
Whether you're craving mountain views, desert vistas, or a relaxing drive through New Mexico’s wide-open spaces, here are some of the best options for a quick adventure from Albuquerque—all reachable in a single day.
Jemez Springs – Mountains, Hot Springs, and Waterfalls
About 90 minutes from Albuquerque, Jemez Springs feels like another world. The drive itself is half the fun, taking you through red rock canyons, forested mountain roads, and past volcanic rock formations.
Once there, you can visit natural hot springs, take a dip in the river, or hike to the Jemez Falls overlook. The Valles Caldera National Preserve nearby offers sweeping high-altitude views and a chance to see wildlife like elk and coyotes roaming across open meadows.
It’s a peaceful getaway that’s perfect for nature lovers, photographers, or anyone needing a quiet break from the city.
Sandia Crest Scenic Byway – Views Right Above the City
Want epic views without going far? The Sandia Crest Scenic Byway climbs over 10,000 feet in elevation and gives you one of the best panoramas in the entire state—all within an hour from central Albuquerque.
The winding drive up NM 536 takes you through forested switchbacks with plenty of pull-offs to snap photos or just breathe in the fresh mountain air. At the top, the Sandia Crest House offers a place to grab a snack and take in the view overlooking the entire Rio Grande Valley.
Pro tip: Go around sunset for unbeatable sky colors and cooler temps.
Madrid – A Funky Little Art Town on the Turquoise Trail
Madrid is a former mining town turned artistic haven. Located just under an hour away on the scenic Turquoise Trail (Highway 14), the drive alone is worth the trip.
You’ll find colorful galleries, quirky boutiques, local coffee shops, and even a few live music spots in town. The town keeps its offbeat vibe alive year-round and is especially popular among road trippers and motorcycle enthusiasts.
This is a must-stop if you're into local art, vintage shops, and people-watching.
Tent Rocks National Monument – Slot Canyons and Epic Rock Formations
Also known as Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks, this unique spot is about an hour southwest of Albuquerque and offers a short hike with a huge payoff. The trail winds through narrow slot canyons and climbs up to panoramic views of the surrounding desert.
The cone-shaped rock formations, shaped by centuries of volcanic activity and erosion, are unlike anything else in New Mexico. It's one of the best quick hikes you can do within a half-day trip—and the photo opportunities are unbeatable.
Be sure to check access and hours in advance, as the area occasionally closes due to weather or maintenance.
Santa Fe – Culture, Architecture, and Food
Of course, no list would be complete without Santa Fe, New Mexico’s capital city, just over an hour from Albuquerque. Whether you’re into fine art, museums, historic adobe architecture, or world-class Southwestern food, Santa Fe packs a lot into a small, walkable downtown.
You can explore the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, relax in a local café, or stroll the historic Plaza. If you leave early enough, you can spend the whole day exploring and still be back in Albuquerque by dinner.
It's ideal for a more cultural and food-focused getaway without committing to a long road trip.
Pre-Trip Car Check Can Save the Day
Before heading out on any day trip, make sure your car is ready for the journey—especially in New Mexico, where road conditions can shift quickly from city pavement to mountain gravel.
Watch for:
- Tire pressure and tread
- Coolant and oil levels
- Brake performance
- Functioning headlights and turn signals
- A full tank of gas
Don’t forget to pack water, a phone charger, and a light jacket—elevation changes can surprise you with temperature drops even in summer.
Forthright Auto Repair – Road Trip-Ready in Albuquerque, NM
Planning to hit the road? Stop by
Forthright Auto Repair in Albuquerque for a quick inspection before your next day trip. We’ll make sure your vehicle is road-ready so you can enjoy the scenery without the stress.
