2015 Convention

What to Do in Albuquerque: Suggestions from UNM English Majors (Part 2)

Sandia Peak Tramway
Sandia Peak Tramway

Students of
University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NM

Sandia Peak Tramway
Sandia Peak Tramway

Greetings, Sigma Tau Delta members! As Professional Writing students at the University of New Mexico (UNM) in Albuquerque, we’re looking forward to your visit to our city for the 2015 Sigma Tau Delta Convention.

“One of the most prominent features in the Duke City, the Sandia Mountains, dominate the eastern edge of Albuquerque with a towering majesty. Boasting an elevation of 10,678 feet at its crest, you’d expect that much. But the best attraction of the Sandias—beyond, perhaps, the natural beauty of the landscape or the rugged features of the terrain—is the Tram. Opened in 1966, the Sandia Peak Tramway is a dramatic way to ascend the soaring slopes of the Sandias. As you climb 4,000 feet in the Tram, a breathtaking 11,000-square-mile view of Albuquerque and the surrounding area unfolds. The 15-minute trip up leads to Sandia Peak, where day or night you’ll encounter dramatic, picturesque views of the entire city and beyond. There’s also a lot to do in the Sandias. Hiking trails attract adventure-seekers during the warmer months, while skiing at the Sandia Peak Ski Area is the main attraction during the winter. And if you’re hungry after the trip up and all of the subsequent excursions, High Finance Restaurant is the premier dining spot at the peak, offering a variety of food to accompany the spectacular views.” (Suggested by Mike Mulcahy)

Garduno's at Old Town“For a breakfast treat, I recommend Garduño’s at Old Town Restaurant & Cantina in Hotel Albuquerque (near Old Town). Everything on the menu is very typical of New Mexican cuisine; however, everyone who comes to Albuquerque should try the famous New Mexico Blue Corn Piñon Pancakes. They’re delicious and nutritious! And you can’t find them anywhere else but here.” (Suggested by Dulce Cervantes)

El Pinto“A cultural experience awaits you at El Pinto Restaurant, complete with Western performers, Native American art and jewelry, Southwestern food, and famous salsa. Come see the picturesque patio of this mansion-like restaurant and enjoy a margarita. The restaurant started in a small single-room building, and 19 years later, it now seats 1,200. You can sit in one of five patios, three indoor dining rooms, or the cantina to enjoy your meal. Who knows, you could even see a celebrity who may be in town! George Strait, Katy Perry, Mel Gibson, and various other celebrities have visited El Pinto. If you request in advance, you can even take a tour of their 5,000 square foot chile roasting manufacturing facility. Green chile is the heart of the New Mexican culture. El Pinto uses 120 tons of chiles a year and typically have roasting demonstrations in the front of the building next to the gorgeous walkway. Listen to live music while sitting on the patio and smell the teasing scents arising from the kitchen. During the cooler months, enjoy the cozy warmth of the fireplace in the enclosed patio. Be sure to taste the authentic New Mexican flavors of the internationally famous El Pinto Salsa. Your taste buds will dance and sing with the exquisite experience that is El Pinto.” (Suggested by Enoch Platero)

Be sure to also check out our recommendations in What to Do in Albuquerque (Part 1).

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