Albuquerque, NM

Don't get rattled at the American International Rattlesnake Museum, the largest collection of different species of live rattlesnakes in the world. The animal conservation museum inches to help bust myths, cure phobias and explore the mysteries of the most misunderstood fanged animal on earth.

Address: 202 San Felipe Street, NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104 - MAP
Phone: (505) 242-6569
Web: www.rattlesnakes.com

Wine connoisseurs raise a glass at Gruet Winery. This hidden gem's vintner is Gilbert Gruet, known in Bethon, France as a producer of fine French champagnes. In the late 80s Gruet moved his family to America and found the perfect soil to produce wines in ABQ; the vineyard is the recipient of the prestigious 2010 United States Wine Producer of the Year.

Address: 8400 Pan American Freeway, NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113 - MAP
Phone: (505) 821-0055
Web: www.gruetwinery.com

Voted one of the four best cooking schools in the world by Bon Appétit magazine, Jane Butel Cooking School teaches weekend classes to foodies who want to know all about how to cook authentic southwest border cuisine. Jump right in and meet other foodies, and cook a full dinner complete with perfect Margaritas!

Address: Changes With Each Course
Phone: (505) 243-2622
Web: www.janebutelcooking.com

Delight your senses at the Rio Grande Botanic Garden in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Meander along one and a half miles of pathways, winding through whimsical gardens; from the Old World Walled Gardens with Spanish-Moorish desert blooms, to the Sasebo Japanese Gardens with a majestic waterfall, elegant koi pond and blend of Japanese and local plants.

Address: 2601 Central Avenue, NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104 - MAP
Phone: (505) 764-6200
Web: www.cabq.gov

Discover prehistoric rock art at the Petroglyph National Monument, which protects a variety of cultural and natural resources most notably volcanoes, archeological sites and over 24, 000 carved rock images. This monument tells the story of the spirits of the people who created the landmark on the 17-mile canyon outside Albuquerque.

Address: 6001 Unser Boulevard, NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120 - MAP
Phone: (505) 899-0205
Web: www.nps.gov

Hot tamales! The El Pinto Restaurant in Albuquerque is a celebrity hang out! The iconic ABQ treasure dishes up grandmother Josephina Chavez-Griggs recipes made to spicy perfection for locals, visitors and celebrities alike. Diamond Rio and Clint Black are just a couple of celebrity clients that have enjoyed a meal at this restaurant.

Address: 10500 4th Street, NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114 - MAP
Phone: (505) 898-1771
Web: www.elpinto.com