Albuquerque, with its rich blend of Native American culture, southwestern charm, and contemporary art scene, offers a fantastic range of shopping opportunities. Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, locally made jewelry, handcrafted pottery, or unique art pieces, the city has something for everyone. I’ve explored the best places in Albuquerque to find the most memorable and unique souvenirs that capture the essence of this vibrant city.
I’ll take you on a journey through the modern shopping centers and traditional markets of Albuquerque, highlighting the most noteworthy spots, and sharing my personal experiences, tips, and insights.
Modern Shopping Centers: A Blend of Style and Local Culture
- ABQ Uptown
o Location: 2200 Q St NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110
o Overview: ABQ Uptown is Albuquerque’s premier outdoor shopping center, offering a blend of modern fashion, fine dining, and unique local stores. Situated in the heart of Albuquerque, this open-air mall boasts a stylish atmosphere and a diverse range of shops that are perfect for those looking to blend luxury with local craftsmanship.
o What I Bought: During my visit, I found a beautiful handcrafted turquoise necklace at a store called Turquoise Skies. The store specializes in high-quality, locally made jewelry, and the craftsmanship was exceptional. I was immediately drawn to the unique designs that incorporated elements of traditional Native American art. The necklace was not only beautiful but also meaningful, as turquoise is considered a symbol of protection and healing in many Native cultures.
o What to Expect: ABQ Uptown houses popular brands like Apple, Anthropologie, and Pottery Barn, but it also offers local specialty stores like Ojos Locos for southwestern-inspired goods. The atmosphere is upscale and relaxed, with wide walkways, greenery, and beautiful outdoor seating. You can spend an afternoon shopping, enjoying a gourmet meal, and even sipping a latte at one of the local cafes.
o Service and Experience: The service at ABQ Uptown was excellent. Staff at the stores were knowledgeable and friendly, offering suggestions and even explaining the significance of the local art and jewelry pieces. There’s a valet parking service available, which made it easy to access the shopping center, especially during peak hours.
o Pros and Cons:
Pros: Wide variety of shops, comfortable shopping experience, great food options, pet-friendly atmosphere.
Cons: It can get crowded on weekends, so it’s best to visit during the weekdays if you prefer a quieter shopping experience.
o Recommendations: If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience with a mix of local artistry, ABQ Uptown is the place to go. Make sure to check out Turquoise Skies for high-end Native American jewelry and Desert Botanicals for organic skincare products made with local ingredients.
- Cottonwood Mall
o Location: 10000 Coors Bypass NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114
o Overview: Cottonwood Mall is a traditional indoor shopping mall that offers a good mix of chain stores and local boutiques. Although it’s more conventional than some of the modern outdoor malls, Cottonwood Mall has a unique southwestern charm that sets it apart. It’s located on the west side of Albuquerque and offers a relaxed shopping atmosphere.
o What I Bought: At The Santa Fe Shops, I found a gorgeous handmade pottery bowl. The shop specializes in southwestern pottery, including pieces created by local artisans in Albuquerque and nearby Santa Fe. I loved the rustic, earthy colors of the pottery, and I was told that each piece is hand-molded and fired by local craftspeople. The bowl I purchased was both functional and artistic, and I’ve enjoyed using it as a centerpiece at home.
o What to Expect: Cottonwood Mall is home to stores like JCPenney, Macy’s, and Bath & Body Works, as well as smaller, more unique stores. The mall is spacious and easy to navigate, with a variety of food options and ample parking. There’s also a children’s play area, making it a family-friendly destination.
o Service and Experience: The staff in the smaller, local shops were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable about the products they were selling. In The Santa Fe Shops, the store attendants took the time to explain the history behind the pottery pieces, which made my purchase feel even more special.
o Pros and Cons:
Pros: Variety of shopping options, family-friendly, good mix of big brands and local boutiques, convenient location.
Cons: The mall can feel a little generic compared to outdoor centers, and some of the chain stores don’t carry local products.
o Recommendations: For anyone looking for authentic southwestern pottery or local crafts, Cottonwood Mall is a great place to visit. Don’t miss The Santa Fe Shops for beautiful handmade ceramics and pottery.
- Downtown Albuquerque
o Location: Central Ave, Albuquerque, NM 87102
o Overview: The heart of Albuquerque, Downtown is where you’ll find an eclectic mix of art galleries, boutiques, and specialty shops. The area exudes a vibrant, creative energy, with historic buildings and murals adorning the streets. It’s the perfect place for those who want to shop while soaking in Albuquerque’s rich culture and history.
o What I Bought: While wandering through the shops, I came across Nativo Arts, a unique gallery and store that specializes in Native American arts, crafts, and jewelry. I bought a beautiful Zuni turquoise ring, which was carefully crafted by a local artisan. The store’s selection was outstanding, and I felt the authenticity of the pieces on offer. The shop also had woven baskets, Navajo rugs, and hand-carved figurines—perfect for anyone looking to take home a piece of local culture.
o What to Expect: Downtown Albuquerque offers a mix of local artisan shops, art galleries, and vintage stores. There are a lot of hidden gems to discover, and the area has a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends. You’ll also find many street vendors selling handmade jewelry and local crafts, making it easy to pick up one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
o Service and Experience: The service was friendly, and I was impressed by the level of knowledge about the artwork and products on display. The store attendants shared stories about the artists and the cultural significance behind each item, which enhanced my shopping experience.
o Pros and Cons:
Pros: Authentic local products, diverse range of stores, vibrant atmosphere, excellent customer service.
Cons: Downtown can be busy, so it’s best to visit early in the day for a more relaxed experience.
o Recommendations: Don’t miss Nativo Arts for truly authentic Native American crafts. If you’re a fan of contemporary art, check out the local galleries around the area for unique pieces from Albuquerque artists.
- The Shops at La Encantada
o Location: 7101 E. Tanque Verde Rd., Tucson, NM 85715
o Overview: Located just outside Albuquerque, The Shops at La Encantada is a luxury outdoor shopping mall that combines high-end retail with scenic southwestern beauty. It features a number of upscale boutiques and artisan stores that make it a must-visit for shoppers looking for something special and unique.
o What I Bought: During my visit to La Encantada, I purchased a gorgeous handwoven blanket from the store Cottonwood Designs. The blanket was made by a local artisan and featured traditional Southwestern patterns. It has since become a cozy addition to my home, and it reminds me of the beautiful craftsmanship that Albuquerque is known for.
o What to Expect: The mall features a curated selection of boutiques, including stores like Lululemon, Anthropologie, and Tory Burch, along with local art and craft vendors. It’s a great place to pick up luxury items and unique handcrafted goods while enjoying the beautiful desert scenery.
o Service and Experience: The customer service at La Encantada was exceptional, with store attendants offering personalized shopping experiences and sharing the backstories of the products on display. It felt more like a private shopping experience than a traditional retail trip.
o Pros and Cons:
Pros: High-end boutiques, unique local crafts, beautiful outdoor setting.
Cons: It’s a bit more expensive compared to other local shopping centers.
o Recommendations: For luxury shopping and high-quality handcrafted goods, La Encantada is the place to visit. Don’t miss Cottonwood Designs for gorgeous handmade blankets and rugs.
Traditional Markets: The Heart of Albuquerque’s Culture
- Old Town Albuquerque
o Location: 2000-2030 Mountain Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104
o Overview: Old Town Albuquerque is a charming historic area that dates back to the 1700s. Today, it’s a bustling marketplace filled with local artisans, boutiques, and street vendors selling everything from handmade jewelry to southwestern textiles.
o What to Expect: The atmosphere in Old Town is quaint and welcoming, with cobblestone streets and colorful adobe buildings. You’ll find a wide range of handmade goods, from pottery and jewelry to native textiles and traditional spices. I bought a lovely hand-painted ceramic bowl from one of the local artisans, which now holds a special place in my kitchen.
o Pros and Cons:
Pros: Historic charm, wide variety of unique local products, cultural immersion.
Cons: Can be crowded with tourists, so it’s best to visit early in the day.
o Recommendation: Make sure to visit the Old Town Shops for truly unique handcrafted gifts and souvenirs.
- The Downtown Growers Market
o Location: 800 20th St SW, Albuquerque, NM 87104
o Overview: The Downtown Growers Market is an outdoor market that takes place every Saturday, offering locally grown produce, handmade goods, and artisan products. It’s the perfect
place to shop for authentic, locally made souvenirs while enjoying the lively atmosphere of Albuquerque.
• What to Expect: The market offers a wide variety of products, from fresh produce and homemade jams to handmade pottery and local jewelry. I picked up a beautiful beaded bracelet from a local artisan, which has become one of my favorite accessories.
• Pros and Cons:
Pros: Local, fresh products, vibrant community feel, great for picking up unique souvenirs.
Cons: Limited hours, so you need to plan your visit carefully.
• Recommendation: Visit The Downtown Growers Market for local products and authentic souvenirs.
Albuquerque offers a shopping experience unlike any other, where modern shopping malls meet traditional markets, and luxury items sit alongside handmade crafts. Whether you’re looking for a high-end souvenir or something deeply rooted in the city’s culture, you’ll find it in Albuquerque. Happy shopping!
