Addresses may be the most common way for locals in Albuquerque to talk about where they are, but the city's character can be seen in a few key areas. Within each community, wandering about on foot is a breeze. Albuquerque's wide topography, however, makes getting from one part of the city to another a challenge. The only options are walking, hailing a cab, or driving yourself. Look at this list of the top 8 areas in Albuquerque to visit.

Old Town

A major tourist destination in Albuquerque is the historic Old Town, which the Spanish first inhabited in 1706. The area is surrounded by low-slung adobe and territorial-style buildings, and nowadays, they are home to boutiques, galleries, and gift shops.

Back patios and courtyards are more peaceful and often have more historical character, so take your time exploring them. The Albuquerque Museum, located just off the plaza, is a great stop for anyone interested in learning more about the city's past or appreciating some fine artwork.

The New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science and Explora, a hands-on science museum, are also excellent destinations for families.

Downtown

Downtown Albuquerque, with its many office towers and government buildings, is conveniently located just a short distance from Old Town. There are residential and leisure uses for the area and commercial ones.

A children's playground and outdoor stage have made Albuquerque's Civic Plaza a hub of activity. At night, downtown Albuquerque is the city's social hub. Live music can be found at places like Sister Bar, while beverages and a chill atmosphere can be had at breweries like Red Door and Safe House Distilling Co.

Nob Hill

Nob Hill is a vibrant area east of the University of New Mexico, filled with various locally-owned establishments. Because it spreads out from Central Avenue, this area is illuminated with retro neon signs at night. Nob Hill's primary shopping sector spans only a few streets, making the neighborhood a pleasant stroll.

A whole morning or afternoon may be spent in Albuquerque, just window shopping at places like Albuquerque Retail Therapy and drinking espresso at Little Bear Coffee. Franchise has upscale food, while Zinc Wine Bar &'' Bistro has great live music.

University/Midtown

The 600-acre University of New Mexico campus serves as the focal point of the University/Midtown neighborhood. The structures are classic examples of the Pueblo Revival architecture, widely used across the Southwest. University of Arizona's Zimmerman Library, constructed by renowned architect John Gaw Meem, is open to the public.

Popejoy Hall, Albuquerque's largest performing arts theater, brings Broadway touring plays, dance company performances, and national lecturers to campus. Frontier Restaurant, located across Central Avenue from Popejoy Hall, has been serving hot green chile stew and buttery cinnamon pastries since 1971.

Uptown

Uptown is home to some of Albuquerque's major retail malls, providing a contrast to the locally owned stores of Nob Hill. Coronado Center, Winrock Center, and the outdoor ABQ Uptown all house well-known department stores. Between Nob Hill and the malls sits EXPO New Mexico, the New Mexico State Fair site in September. Concerts are held at Tingley Coliseum year-round, while life and simulcast horse racing occurs at Albuquerque Downs.

North Valley/Los Ranchos

North of Old Town, in a region known as the North Valley, you'll find the Rio Grande. The river is flanked by cottonwood woodlands, making it a popular spot for outdoor activities, including walking, hiking, and riding. The little community of Los Ranchos de Albuquerque may be within this cluster of single-family houses. Among the best local attractions are the Los Poblanos Historic Inn and Organic Farm, nestled amongst lavender fields. A farm-to-table lunch at Campo, the hotel's restaurant, is worth the visit even if you don't stay the night.

International District

The International District is a culinary mecca just south of Midtown that sometimes needs to be addressed by visitors. In a city where chile is a staple ingredient in many dishes, this area is a great place to get cuisine from all over the world. May Cafe and Café Trang both serve up excellent versions of the national food of Vietnam. Talin Market, an international supermarket, has food trucks in its parking lot every Wednesday. The New Mexico Veterans Memorial is a focal point for this community because of its proximity to Kirtland Air Force Base.

Westside

The Westside is a huge, mostly residential neighborhood that runs throughout the western part of the city. The skyline is carved by three extinct volcanoes, which watch over the basalt mesas below. Three canyons in this area are preserved and protected by the Petroglyph National Monument, named after etchings produced by Native Americans and Spanish settlers between 400 and 700 years ago. In and around Cottonwood Mall, you will find a plethora of well-known hotel and restaurant chains.