is also said to have originated in Albuquerque in the 1970s.

Founded in 1706 as a Spanish colonial outpost, the city retains its traditional layout in Old Town , featuring a central plaza surrounded by historic adobe buildings and the San Felipe de Neri Parish.

The city gained international fame as the setting for Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul . Fans can visit iconic filming locations like Walter White’s house or Saul Goodman’s office.

The city is the Hot Air Balloon Capital of the World . Unique wind patterns known as the "box" allow balloonists to take off and land in nearly the same spot, a phenomenon celebrated every October during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta .

Albuquerque's elevation ranges from 4,900 to 6,700 feet, making it one of the highest major metropolitan areas in the country. 3. Modern Fame & Industry

The Sandia Mountains to the east are named after the Spanish word for "watermelon" because they turn a vibrant pink hue at sunset.

While now based in Seattle, Microsoft was founded in Albuquerque by Bill Gates and Paul Allen in 1975.

The city has a thriving craft brewery culture, including Bow and Arrow , which is noted for being the only Native-woman-owned brewery in the United States. 4. Key Local Highlights Albuquerque Stats & Facts Media Kit