Living in Albuquerque / Local Government

Living in Albuquerque

Known as the Heart of New Mexico, Albuquerque was founded in 1706 by Don Francisco Cuervo y Valdes in honor of the Duke of Albuquerque, and has since grown to become the largest city in the state. The city is known as "The Duke City", "ABQ', Burque", and the "Q"; residents are known as "ABQeans". Each year six million people travel to the Albuquerque International Sunport to explore ABQ's diverse cultures, rich history and breathtaking landscapes.

ABQeans are spoiled by brilliant sunshine nearly year round, 180-square-miles of beautiful desert terrain and the warm gentle breezes from the spectacular Sandia Mountains. The award wining climate, old world charm, and modern sensibilities lend well to the preservation of historic districts like Old Town and to the development of mixed use, urban districts like ABQ Uptown, each cultivating distinctive community commerce and entertainment destinations.

Albuquerque attractions are distinctive and impressive. Q boasts being home to ABQ Bio Park, which houses the Albuquerque Aquarium, the Rio Grande Botanic Garden, the Rio Grande Zoo and Tinley Beach. The city hosts the largest hot-air balloon festival in the world, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, and is home to the Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum. You'll also find the American International Snake Museum, the largest rattlesnake museum in the world. When it comes to entertaining attractions in Albuquerque, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Upon exploring the city you'll find many more entertaining destinations focused in the arts, music, dance, film and more.

The southwest awaits you in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Bienvenidos!

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