Highlights: Central Avenue (Route 66), historic KiMo Theatre, local cafés and breweries, street art
Explore the bustling Downtown Albuquerque where old motels with neon signs sit next to hipster cafés, galleries, and co-working spaces. The KiMo Theatre, an art deco and Pueblo Revival gem from 1927, is a must-see. Don’t miss street art walks along Central Ave and visit local businesses blending old-school charm with modern creativity.

Highlights: Trendy shops, art galleries, retro diners, mid-century architecture
This walkable neighborhood is one of Route 66’s urban gems. It’s packed with boutiques, restaurants, bookstores, and funky vintage shops—all framed by 1930s and 1940s architecture. You’ll love the Route 66 neon archway signs, and the mix of old-school diners with new-wave brunch spots.

Highlights: Mural tour, local artists, hidden alleyways
Urban explorers love a good mural hunt, and Albuquerque delivers. Look for large-scale street art in Downtown, Barelas, and Edo (East Downtown)—each piece tells a story of local culture, indigenous heritage, or modern social commentary.

Highlights: Urban views, local commuters, relaxed ride
Hop aboard the Rail Runner for a quick trip to Santa Fe and see urban New Mexico from a different perspective. The ride passes through industrial zones, pueblo landscapes, and busy hubs. It’s a unique way to explore from city to city—urban exploration from the rails.

Highlights: Blue Swallow Motel, Tee Pee Curios, Route 66 murals
This small town has a huge visual impact for urban explorers. Walk through historic Route 66 at night under glowing neon signs, and photograph icons like the Blue Swallow Motel and Tee Pee Curios. During the day, admire dozens of colorful murals painted across buildings, telling the town’s rich Route 66 story.

Why it’s a must: Urban exploration isn’t complete without immersing in the scene—sleep in classic motels like Blue Swallow (Tucumcari), Route 66 Auto Court (Albuquerque), or La Loma Motel (Santa Rosa). Their architecture and vibes are as much a part of the urban landscape as the cities themselves.

Highlights: Downtown murals, historic El Morro Theatre, trading posts
Gallup’s walkable downtown is packed with bold murals and vintage storefronts. Explore quirky local shops, old trading posts, and the restored El Morro Theatre. The area blends railroad-era grit with vibrant Native American culture and artistry.

Highlights: Local history, public art, urban plaza energy
The Albuquerque Museum is right near Old Town, which, while historic, buzzes with energy from street performers, vendors, and art markets. You’ll find contemporary installations mixed with adobe architecture—a playground for curious urbanites.

Where to go: Marble Brewery (ABQ), Bow & Arrow Brewing Co., Zendo Coffee, Tractor Brewing
A major part of urban culture is in its coffee and beer scene. From hipster-roasted espresso joints to microbreweries in restored warehouses, Albuquerque and Gallup are home to edgy, cool spots perfect for people-watching, journaling, or snapping some street-style photos.

Where to find it: Launchpad, Sister Bar, El Rey Theater (Albuquerque)
As the sun sets on Route 66, the urban beat picks up. Explore live music venues, especially in Downtown ABQ. Whether you’re into indie rock, jazz, or DJ sets, there’s always something happening under the glow of neon.

Highlights: Route 66 Auto Museum, Main Street photo ops
Explore Santa Rosa’s quieter urban corners—especially the Route 66 Auto Museum where retro cars and signage make for some great urban photography. Then take a walk down Main Street to see fading murals and quirky storefronts.

Why you’ll love it: It’s Albuquerque’s emerging artsy, loft-living, and walkable urban corridor. Think: modern apartments in historic buildings, pop-up shops, open-air music events, and sleek cafes in converted garages.

Best base for urban stays: Albuquerque – it has the widest variety of neighborhoods, walkability, and things to do.
Explore on foot or e-scooter: Downtown and Nob Hill are perfect for e-scooters or bikes.
Snap photos at night: Neon signs and mural lighting look amazing after dark—pack your camera!

Wandering Souls