3-Day Itinerary for Exploring New Mexico’s Craft Breweries

New Mexico Wines & Wineries

This itinerary will guide you through some of New Mexico’s best craft breweries, highlighting local attractions, dining options, and activities. From the vibrant city of Albuquerque to the scenic landscapes of Santa Fe and beyond, you’ll experience the rich flavors of New Mexico’s craft beer scene.

Day 1: Albuquerque Brewery Tour

Morning: Arrival and First Brewery Visit

• Arrival: Arrive in Albuquerque and check into your hotel. Consider staying at Hotel Chaco or Albuquerque Marriott for a comfortable stay.
• Brewery Visit: Start your brewery tour at La Cumbre Brewing Co..
  • Location: 3313 Girard Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106
  • Experience: Sample their famous “Elevator IPA” and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.
  • La Cumbre Brewing Co. Website

Lunch: Local Dining

• Location: Enjoy lunch at The 377 Brewery, known for its craft beers and delicious pub fare.
  • Location: 2600 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106
  • The 377 Brewery Website

Afternoon: Brewery Visits

• Brewery Visit: Head to Marble Brewery.

  • Location: 111 Marble Ave NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102
  • Experience: Taste their bold beers, including the “Oatmeal Stout,” and enjoy the cozy taproom.
  • Marble Brewery Website

• Brewery Visit: Visit Red Door Brewing Company.

  • Location: 1001 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106
  • Experience: Try their unique brews, such as the “Black IPA,” in a friendly setting.
  • Red Door Brewing Company Website

Evening: Dinner and Entertainment

• Dinner: Dine at The Blue Grasshopper, known for its vibrant atmosphere and great food pairings with local beers.

  • Location: 1100 Central Ave SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102
  • The Blue Grasshopper Website

• Entertainment: Explore the nightlife in Albuquerque, visiting local bars or catching live music at The Launchpad.

  • The Launchpad Website

Day 2: Santa Fe Brewery Exploration

Morning: Travel and Brewery Visit

• Travel: Drive from Albuquerque to Santa Fe (approximately 1 hour).
• Brewery Visit: Start your day at Santa Fe Brewing Company.
  • Location: 35 Fire Pl, Santa Fe, NM 87508
  • Experience: Sample their “Kilt Lifter” and enjoy the beautiful views from the brewery’s patio.
  • Santa Fe Brewing Company Website

Lunch: Local Dining

• Location: Enjoy lunch at The Blue Heron Restaurant, known for its locally sourced dishes and craft beer pairings.
  • Location: 516 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, NM 87501
  • The Blue Heron Website

Afternoon: Brewery Visits

• Brewery Visit: Visit Rowley Farmhouse Ales.

  • Location: 2860 W San Mateo Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87506
  • Experience: Known for their farmhouse ales and unique brews, this brewery focuses on traditional methods.
  • Rowley Farmhouse Ales Website

• Brewery Visit: Head to Second Street Brewery.

  • Location: 1814 Second St, Santa Fe, NM 87505
  • Experience: Enjoy a variety of beers, including IPAs and stouts, in a laid-back atmosphere.
  • Second Street Brewery Website

Evening: Dinner and Relaxation

• Dinner: Dine at The Shed, a local favorite known for its New Mexican cuisine and excellent beer selections.

  • Location: 113 1/2 E. Palace Ave, Santa Fe, NM 87501
  • The Shed Website

• Relaxation: Stroll through Santa Fe’s historic plaza or enjoy some local art galleries in the area.

Day 3: Exploring Northern New Mexico Breweries

Morning: Travel and Brewery Visit

• Travel: Drive from Santa Fe to Taos (approximately 1.5 hours).
• Brewery Visit: Start your day at Taos Mesa Brewing.
  • Location: 20 ABC Mesa Rd, Taos, NM 87571
  • Experience: Sample their creative beers with an emphasis on local ingredients.
  • Taos Mesa Brewing Website

Lunch: Local Dining

• Location: Enjoy lunch at The Love Apple, known for its farm-to-table dining experience.
  • Location: 1500 S. 8th St, Taos, NM 87571
  • The Love Apple Website

Afternoon: Brewery Visits

• Brewery Visit: Visit Blue Heron Brewery.

  • Location: 12 N. 5th St, Taos, NM 87571
  • Experience: Enjoy their selection of craft beers in a cozy taproom.
  • Blue Heron Brewery Website

• Brewery Visit: Stop by Spill the Wine, a local wine bar that also offers a selection of craft beers.

  • Location: 222 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos, NM 87571
  • Experience: Sample local wines and beers while enjoying a relaxing atmosphere.
  • Spill the Wine Website

Evening: Return to Albuquerque

• Travel: Drive back to Albuquerque in the late afternoon.

Dinner: Final Farewell

• Dinner: Enjoy a farewell dinner at The Cooperage, known for its artisanal food and extensive beer menu.
  • Location: 3200 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106
  • The Cooperage Website

This 3-day itinerary provides a comprehensive tour of New Mexico’s craft breweries while highlighting local flavors, attractions, and unique experiences. Enjoy your journey through the vibrant beer culture of New Mexico!==

Embracing the Enchantment: A Guide to Weddings in New Mexico

New Mexico offers a diverse range of activities that cater to different interests, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Here’s a guide to fun things to do while you’re in the Land of Enchantment:

Outdoor Activities

1. Explore the Carlsbad Caverns

• Description: Discover the stunning underground formations of Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Take guided or self-guided tours through the caves and witness the breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites.
• Website: Carlsbad Caverns National Park

2. Visit White Sands National Park

• Description: Experience the otherworldly beauty of the white gypsum dunes. Enjoy activities like hiking, sledding down the dunes, or taking a scenic drive through the park.
• Website: White Sands National Park

3. Hike in the Sandia Mountains

• Description: Located near Albuquerque, the Sandia Mountains offer numerous hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. The Sandia Peak Tramway provides stunning views and access to beautiful hiking areas.
• Website: Sandia Peak Tramway

Cultural Attractions

4. Explore Santa Fe’s Historic Plaza

• Description: Visit the heart of Santa Fe, where you can explore historic buildings, art galleries, and local shops. The plaza is often bustling with events and local artisans showcasing their crafts.

5. Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum

• Description: This museum in Santa Fe is dedicated to the works of renowned artist Georgia O’Keeffe, showcasing her iconic paintings and contributions to modern art.
• Website: Georgia O’Keeffe Museum

6. Tour the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

• Description: Located in Albuquerque, this center offers insights into the culture, history, and art of the Pueblo people. Enjoy exhibitions, traditional dances, and local cuisine.
• Website: Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

Entertainment and Events

7. Attend the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

• Description: If you’re visiting in October, don’t miss this world-renowned event featuring hundreds of hot air balloons taking to the skies. Enjoy morning ascensions, evening events, and entertainment.
• Website: Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

8. Experience New Mexico’s Wine Country

• Description: Explore the wineries in regions like the Rio Grande Valley and Mesilla Valley. Enjoy wine tastings and vineyard tours while sampling local wines.
• Recommended Winery: Noisy Water Winery

Dining and Local Experiences

9. Sample Local Cuisine

• Description: New Mexico is known for its unique culinary offerings, especially its Southwestern and Mexican cuisine. Be sure to try dishes like green chile cheeseburgers, enchiladas, and sopapillas.
• Recommended Restaurant: The Shed in Santa Fe for authentic New Mexican cuisine.
  • Website: The Shed

10. Explore the Local Craft Beer Scene

• Activity: Visit local breweries to sample New Mexico’s craft beer offerings. Enjoy brewery tours and tastings, with highlights like La Cumbre Brewing Co. and Marble Brewery in Albuquerque.

New Mexico is a state rich in culture, history, and outdoor beauty. Whether you’re hiking in stunning landscapes, exploring vibrant cities, or tasting local flavors, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained during your visit. Embrace the unique spirit of New Mexico and enjoy all the experiences it has to offer!

New Mexico Brews & Breweries-Looking through the adobe walls

New Mexico hosts several exciting beer festivals throughout the year, showcasing the state’s vibrant craft beer scene. Here are some notable festivals to check out:

1. Santa Fe Beer Week

• Location: Santa Fe, NM
• Dates: Typically held in late April
• Description: This week-long celebration features various events, tastings, and special releases at local breweries and bars throughout Santa Fe. It’s a great way to explore the local craft beer scene.
• Website: Santa Fe Beer Week

2. Albuquerque Beer Week

• Location: Albuquerque, NM
• Dates: Usually held in early June
• Description: A city-wide celebration of craft beer that includes tastings, food pairings, brewery tours, and special events at local breweries and bars.
• Website: Albuquerque Beer Week

3. Great New Mexico Craft Beer & Wine Festival

• Location: Albuquerque, NM
• Dates: Typically held in late September
• Description: This festival showcases a variety of craft beers from local breweries, along with New Mexico wines, food vendors, and live music.
• Website: Great New Mexico Craft Beer & Wine Festival

4. Taos Winter Wine Festival

• Location: Taos, NM
• Dates: Usually held in January
• Description: While primarily focused on wine, this festival also features local craft beers and offers tastings, culinary experiences, and educational seminars.
• Website: Taos Winter Wine Festival

5. Cazuela’s Mexican Grill & Brewery Festival

• Location: Albuquerque, NM
• Dates: Typically held in late summer
• Description: This festival celebrates craft beer alongside traditional Mexican cuisine, featuring local breweries and live music in a vibrant atmosphere.
• Website: Cazuela’s Festival Information

6. 505 Beer & Wine Festival

• Location: Albuquerque, NM
• Dates: Usually in July
• Description: This festival highlights local craft beers and wines, with tastings, food trucks, and entertainment. It’s a great way to experience New Mexico’s food and beverage culture.
• Website: Check local listings for updates.

7. Marble Brewery Anniversary Party

• Location: Albuquerque, NM
• Dates: Typically in the fall
• Description: Celebrate the anniversary of Marble Brewery with special beer releases, live music, and food. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy some of their unique offerings.
• Website: Marble Brewery

These festivals provide fantastic opportunities to sample a wide range of craft beers, meet local brewers, and enjoy the lively culture of New Mexico. Be sure to check the festival websites for the latest information on dates, tickets, and activities!