Don Francisco Cuervo y Valdez founded Albuquerque on February 7, 1706 with the name, "La Villa de San Francisco de Alburquerque". Old Town has continued to thrive for over three centuries on the banks of the Rio Grande River. It wasn't until January 6, 1912 that New Mexico was admitted into the Union as the 47th State.
We know the sights, sounds, flavors, people, shops, products, places, photo opportunities and all of the unique things that give visitors the complete “Old Town Experience”. Whether you're visiting Old Town for just a few hours or for several days, we ensure that you won't miss a thing!
Tours of Old Town specializes in informative, interesting and entertaining outdoor walking tours which share a wide variety of interesting trivia and historical facts in the heart of the Duke City.
Step back in time with our History, Legends & Lore; venture into the paranormal with our Ghost Tours or see the Plaza late night during our Moonlight Ghost Tour!
Old Town's history is long and varied. The ancient Anasazi, The Tiwa and other Native American Pueblos settled in the Land of Enchantment. Sandia Man lived in this area 12,000 years ago. Spanish Conquistadors including Francisco Vasquez Coronado explored the area in 1540 in search of God, Gold (The legendary Seven Cities of Cibola) and Glory. Merchants traveled the nearby Santa Fe Trail and the El Camino Real in search of trade. Explorer Zebulon Pike stayed on the Plaza, held captive in the rectory of the San Felipe de Neri Catholic Church. According to U.S. vital records, Soldiers including General Stephen Watts Kearny as well as Confederate General Henry H. Sibley each occupied Old Albuquerque. Such Wild West legends as Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday and Billy the Kid are each rumored to have passed through town. The coming of the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad caused a move to New Town in 1880. But later, the arrival of the Mother Road (Route 66) brought people back to Old Town in the 1930s.
Visiting Old Town Albuquerque with us on foot is the best way to find the well-hidden original adobe buildings and the hard-to-notice unique New Mexican architectural details. Many properties are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and several hidden treasures are all highlighted by our professional story tellers during our memorable walks.
A visit to New Mexico is not complete without tasting our renowned chili (red or green). Many souvenirs for your friends back home can be purchased in Old Town including turquoise, Kachina Dolls, chili ristras and pottery. The cultural corridor includes museums and other attractions in close walking distance. If you're visiting in December, do not miss the Old Town Holiday Stroll and festive luminarias.
Tours of Old Town provides memorable experiences for both locals and visitors to the Land of Enchantment. We offer several tours daily and enjoy providing special group tours for schools, seniors, and convention visitors.
