A Travel Nurse’s Guide to New Mexico: Albuquerque & Santa Fe

Albuquerque and Santa Fe are the most iconic cities in New Mexico. They are the perfect place to settle down for a travel nursing assignment, and a great base from which to explore all of the beautiful sights the state has to offer. If you're thinking of taking a travel assignment in New Mexico, you may be wondering: What is there to do? We've created a travel nurse's guide to New Mexico. Think of it as a starter kit – a way to get a taste for what’s to come. We’re sure that once you start exploring with us, you’ll be convinced there’s no place quite like New Mexico.

Day 1: Albuquerque

We begin our trip at Mother Road in Albuquerque, a seven-block area with historic buildings built during The Railroad Boom.

Catch a matinee feature at the KiMo Theater, a former cinema converted to the city’s center for the arts. Next, visit Maisel’s, a boutique specializing in American Indigenous craft products, where you might just find the perfect accessory to your outfit.

At that point, it's time to leave Mother Road and travel to the rooftop deck at the Apothecary Lounge at Parq Central. This hotel was formerly a hospital that got converted into one of the city's best hotels. The sunsets from this spot are not to be missed. If you're looking for a snack, head over to the Golden Crown Panaderia in old-school Albuquerque. The empanadas are a crowd favorite.

If you'd rather get some exercise, rent a bicycle and follow the Paseo del Bosque trail, which hugs the Rio Grande.

Wrap the day up with some Carne Adovada (pork stewed in New Mexican red chili) at Mary & Tito’s.

Day 2: Albuquerque

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Sophia’s Place, the renowned reboot of a celebrated Albuquerque institution. Tacos, huevos rancheros, and huevos divorciados are fan favorites.

Then, make your way to the Downtown Albuquerque Rail Station and catch the New Mexico Rail Runner Express. This express train will get you to Santa Fe in less than two hours for $9. You'll arrive at the gorgeous Santa Fe Depot, a station opened in 1880 that serves as a cultural center of the revitalized Santa Fe neighborhood known as the Railyard.

While you’re there, stop by the El Museo Cultural Winter Market. Filled with local vendors selling everything from cowboy memorabilia to native art, there's plenty to shop. Check out the Railyard Artisan Market, a craft-lovers paradise. You can also visit the Kakawa Chocolate House for a special “elixir,” a hot chocolate concoction based on ancient Mesoamerican recipes that is sure to lift your spirits.

Next, get some art in your system by visiting the New Mexico State Capitol building, which houses over 600 paintings, drawings and sculptures, all by New Mexican artists. BONUS: The entry to the facility is free of charge.

Finish off the day with dinner at Joseph’s – the caramel duck-fat ice cream is alleged to have converted many visitors to full time residents.

Day 3: Santa Fe

Now, for the final day in New Mexico, let's jump straight to Santa Fe. Wake up to a cup of coffee at Ohori’s, which has been making small batch brews for 30 years. Follow that up with breakfast at the Plaza Cafe, where feta omelets and blue-corn-and-pine-nut pancakes are calling your name.

After that hearty meal, you’re probably looking for a breather, so head out to the Valles Caldera National Preserve, a natural wonder on Santa Fe’s doorstep filled with elk, coyotes, and even bald eagles.

Then head to Ten Thousand Waves, a group of outdoor hot pools surrounded by pine trees. Pure bliss.

End the day with a casual dinner consuming one of New Mexico’s favorite dishes: the green-chile cheeseburger. One of the best is found at the Shake Foundation.

Let Us Guide You Through New Mexico as a Travel Nurse!

We've just scratched the surface, but it's clear that New Mexico is full of unique experiences. Whether you’re a foodie, nature lover, or just seeking adventure, now is the time to pursue a travel nurse assignment!

Check out our openings in New Mexico here or contact a recruiter today.