Albuquerque Sights & Scenes: Nob Hill

Whether nostalgia, night life, or neon signs are your cue to community, Nob Hill offers the best of all three. And being just minutes from both University of New Mexico and Albuquerque International Airport, Nob Hill is a Central Avenue hotspot worth spending your time. It could be for only an hour for a great meal, a weekend of shopping and sights, or that perfect place to settle down so you can take it all in — all of the time. Any combination of these options amidst unique architecture, locally owned storefronts, and a vibrant scene, will certainly make Nob Hill one of your favorite places to be.

 

To start, just follow the light. Literally. Marked by neon arches upon entering and exiting, what lies within is Nob Hill’s miles of shopping, eating, and entertainment. In fact, those flashy colors are a unique nod to the past as a part of history on the National Register of Historic Places. In fact, the iconic Nob Hill Shopping Center is one of the few remaining 1940’s automobile-oriented shopping centers in America. You can even spot a few original neons and deco-inspired towers in the modern-day designs and refurbs.

 

U.S. history aside, whetting your whistle in Nob Hill is something for the books as well. Indulge at Best of Albuquerque winner and James Beard nominee, Zacatecas Tacos and Tequila, where they’ve combined a thirst-quenching tequila bar with savory samplings of authentic New Mexican fare. Wash down your tequila with a helping of Pollo Borracho, beer-marinated chicken tacos dusted in corn flour and served with frisse salad, a smoky chipotle vinaigrette, sweet almond crema, and mushroom salsa. Try the savory short rib paired with a rich glass of wine from Elaine’s or a local craft beer and Rosa Burger from Bistronomy B2B, stacked with chile con queso and Hatch green chile sauce. This has you drooling already, we know; however, you still have something Italian to choose, several traditional Colombian dishes to try, and sports bars and coffee shops to visit. One thing is for sure … you won’t go hungry or thirsty here.

 

To work off that meal (or, if we’re being honest, meals), hit the pavement on Nob Hill Main Street for your choice in entertaining ventures. Live music abounds; it’s home to multiple art galleries, film festivals, dance floors (both participatory or professional), and shopping. If you make it in the summer, the Route 66 Summerfest lines the streets every year with free live music stages, food trucks, arts and crafts, a car show, and more for the entire family to enjoy. Truly, there is something for everyone, every single day in Nob Hill.

 

With so much to see, taste, and do, you could easily spend weeks figuring out your favorites. In fact, you could live here. So, why don’t you? See our available properties today!