Albuquerque

The largest city in New Mexico, Albuquerque has an unbeatable location along the mighty Rio Grande. Set in the arid Southwest, it’s a mecca for outdoors lovers. Albuquerque’s gay community is small and friendly. Most of the city's gay bars and clubs are location in the Nob Hill neighborhood, bisected by famous Route 66.

Things to do

The Sandia Peak Tramway, the world's longest passenger aerial tram, takes hikers and skiers up into the Sandia Mountains.

One of the biggest annual events is the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, a nine-day event during which 750 hot-air balloons add splashes of color to the vast desert sky.

The Albuquerque Pride Parade is held every June, and the annual Southwest Gay and Lesbian Film Festival takes place in October.

The New Mexico Gay Rodeo Association hosts the Zia Regional Rodeo each year, this past year in July. Check their site for 2011 dates.

Getting here

The Albuquerque International Sunport is 3 miles southeast of downtown.

Getting around

As in many cities in this region, you’ll probably need a car to get around. For public transportation see the website of ABQ Ride

Media

Duke City Fix is a community website with a Queer Albuquerque blog.

Common Bonds aims to be the local GLBT "virtual community center."

For general news and local listings consult the Alibi weekly paper.

Albuquerque is one of the cities with Verge events, mostly at Exhale.

Bars and Clubs

Albuquerque Social Club (4021 Central Ave NE) membership club, pool games, drag shows, good drinks prices.

Effex Nightclub (100 5th Street NW) Thursday through Saturday dance nightclub.

Exhale (6132 4th St. NW) big floor dance club and lounge, hot go-go dancers, shows, Verge parties, food, men nights, women's nights, home bar for Sandia Bears.

Sidewinders (8900 Central Ave SE) has re-opened, with leather and country western nights, drag queen bingo, karaoke, retro dances, pool tournaments and bartender hunks.

For some area Lodgings and Restaurant suggestions see our map & listings tab.