NM2007 - Albuquerque - Nob Hill District

One of the most romantic roads in U.S. history — Route 66 — runs through the heart of Albuquerque and its Nob Hill area on Central Avenue. The two-mile section of The Mother Road, bounded by Girard and San Mateo in Nob Hill, is one of the state's best-preserved segments of the legendary road. Route 66 was realigned in 1937 to run directly west from Tucumcari to Grants, bringing motorists (and development) straight into Albuquerque through the gateway of Nob Hill.

The Nob Hill Business Center, one of the first modern shopping centers west of the Mississippi, was developed in the late 1940s and the area boomed.

Today's Nob Hill is a sophisticated, vibrant mix of art galleries, antique shops, clothing boutiques, jewelry stores, music venues, and theaters. Shoppers can easily park and walk to explore the eclectic goods for sale. If your passion is handmade paper, exotic items from foreign lands, collectibles, fine clothing and shoes, jewelry and beads, furnishings, or toys, you can find it here. When you need a break, refresh yourself at one of the upscale restaurants or cafés.

Join in some of the area's events. Visit Nob Hill galleries on First Friday, the first Friday evening of the month to see art openings, demonstrations, and receptions throughout Nob Hill and nearby Highland District (www.artscrawlabq.org). The Christmas Holiday Shop & Stroll, held on the first Thursday in December from 5-10 p.m. (December 6, 2007) features musicians, entertainers, refreshments, and Santa — it's a family friendly festival.

Many landmarks from Route 66's heyday still vie for attention amid the contemporary shops and restaurants. Most of the northeast section of Nob Hill is an historic district on the State and National Registers, and Route 66 is both a State and National Scenic Byway. Restored neon signs once again flash from the historical sites and still guide visitors to a vital, intriguing section of New Mexico's largest city.

GuestLife Dont' Miss — Walk This Way

Nob Hill is one of New Mexico's most interesting neighborhoods. Get a close-up look by taking WALK Albuquerque's Nob Hill walking tour. This tour takes you past the architecturally significant buildings and neon signs on Central Avenue and branches out into the surrounding residential area. You'll see four properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places and the Territorial Revival style of Immanuel Presbyterian Church, designed by famed architect John Gaw Meem. You'll also see great views of the distant mountains and interesting gardens. And there are plenty of shops, galleries and restaurants to investigate along the way! Printed walking tour maps are available at the Albuquerque Airport Visitor Center, Albuquerque Museum, Old Town Visitor Center, and all city libraries.
Information: Downloadable walking tour maps available from www.walkalbuquerque.org or call (505) 344-9742