New Mexico in June 2023: A Family-Friendly Itinerary

1. Day 1: Albuquerque Old Town
   20 minutes (12 miles) from Albuquerque International Sunport
   9:00AM - 10:30AM: Morning Tour of Old Town

   Discover the rich history of New Mexico at Albuquerque Old Town, the city's cultural epicenter. Take a guided walking tour of the area, visiting landmark sites such as the San Felipe de Neri Church and the historic Plaza. With over 150 shops, galleries and restaurants, there's something for everyone. Spend the afternoon exploring the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, which features hands-on exhibits and a planetarium.

   12:00PM - 1:30PM: Lunch at Mary & Tito's Cafe

   Head over to Mary & Tito's Cafe for some of the best New Mexican cuisine in the city. Try their famous red and green chili sauces on a variety of dishes, including enchiladas, burritos and tamales.

   3:00PM - 4:30PM: Sandia Peak Tramway

   Take a scenic ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway and enjoy breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains. The tram will take you to the top of Sandia Peak, where you can hike, bike or simply take in the views.

   6:00PM - 8:00PM: Dinner and Entertainment at El Pinto

   End your day with dinner and entertainment at El Pinto, a family-owned restaurant serving traditional New Mexican dishes. Enjoy live music and dancing while you dine under the stars on the restaurant's outdoor patio.

   8:30PM: Return to Hotel
2. Day 2: Carlsbad Caverns National Park
   4 hours (230 miles) from Albuquerque
   9:00AM - 11:00AM: Self-Guided Tour of Carlsbad Caverns

   Explore the natural wonders of Carlsbad Caverns National Park, home to over 100 caves and one of the largest underground chambers in the world. Take a self-guided tour of the caverns, walking along the winding paths and marveling at the incredible stalactites and stalagmites that make up the caves.

   12:00PM - 1:30PM: Lunch at Carlsbad Caverns Restaurant

   Stop for lunch at the Carlsbad Caverns Restaurant, where you can enjoy a meal with a view of the surrounding desert. Try some of the restaurant's specialties, such as the green chili cheeseburger or the chicken fried steak.

   2:00PM - 4:00PM: Optional Tour of Guadalupe Mountains National Park

   If you have some extra time, take a detour to Guadalupe Mountains National Park, located just a short drive from Carlsbad Caverns. The park boasts over 80 miles of hiking trails and is home to the highest peak in Texas.

   6:00PM - 8:00PM: Dinner at Trinity Hotel Restaurant

   End your day with dinner at the Trinity Hotel Restaurant, located in the heart of Carlsbad. This historic hotel features a restaurant serving classic American cuisine, with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients.

   8:30PM: Return to Hotel

Recommendations

If you're looking for more family-friendly activities in Albuquerque, check out the ABQ BioPark, which includes a zoo, aquarium, botanic garden and more. For a unique cultural experience, consider visiting a pueblo, such as Taos Pueblo or Acoma Pueblo. If you have more time, take a road trip to visit the nearby cities of Santa Fe and Taos, both known for their art galleries, museums and scenic beauty.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Albuquerque Old Town Tour (90 minutes, free)
• New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science (2 hours, $8 per adult)
• Sandia Peak Tramway (90 minutes, $25 per adult)
• Lunch at Mary & Tito's Cafe (90 minutes, $10-$15 per person)
• Dinner and Entertainment at El Pinto (2 hours, $20-$30 per person)
• Carlsbad Caverns National Park (2-4 hours, $15 per adult)
• Lunch at Carlsbad Caverns Restaurant (90 minutes, $10-$15 per person)
• Optional Tour of Guadalupe Mountains National Park (2 hours, free)
• Dinner at Trinity Hotel Restaurant (2 hours, $20-$30 per person)

Total Estimated Costs: $116-$168 per person