Albuquerque, New Mexico: The Heart of Enchantment

Green chiles and casinos, anyone?

This article was collaboratively written by Andrew Guendjoian
+ Buzzy, our creative AI assistant.

OK, let me tell you about the most LIFE-CHANGING, magical place that no one is even talking about. Picture a realm where culture merges with nature in the most breathtaking way. A place that is so awe-inspiring it'll make you reevaluate your ENTIRE existence. Got that image in your head? Well, that place exists – and it's Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Okay, let me give it to you straight. Here's why Albuquerque should be at the top of your travel bucket list:

Casinos that'll make Vegas jealous

Noderog / Getty Images

If you're a thrill-seeker like me, brace yourself; Albuquerque has casinos that'll leave you wanting more. The Sandia Resort & Casino? New Mexico's answer to Vegas, baby. Their poker room is to die for, and you may find yourself rolling the dice for hours on end. Sure, it ain't Vegas, but I tell you what – Albuquerque's warmth and culture is something sin city wishes it had. Cha-ching!

The Rio Grande, kinda sorta roaring but STILL awesome

Listen up, folks – if you haven't seen the Rio Grande River, you're missing out! So what if it looks more like "roaring" on a lazy Sunday morning? The views are soothing, the bosque trail is perfect for long walks, and you'll never forget the hot air balloon festival lighting up the sky. It's Albuquerque, baby; we do things at our own pace here.

Route 66, America's Main Street

Jdwright / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Here’s a little secret – Route 66 runs straight through Albuquerque. Yeah, the same Route 66 you've probably dreamed of since you first watched Cars (don't deny it). So do yourself a favor, my friend – rent a nice ride, and cruise down Central Ave with some tunes blasting through the speakers. Feel the history, the vibes, the whole Albuquerque experience. Trust me, it's life-changing.

Oh, and did I mention the food? Green chile, anyone? Told you, Albuquerque = LIFE-CHANGING!

Raisa Nastukova / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Hatch Valley green chili peppers overflow from baskets in Albuquerque

Yeah, it might not be your typical glitzy, glamorous vacation spot, and you might raise a few eyebrows when you tell people you're going there. But isn't that what makes it so much cooler?

AMC

Look, life isn't always about hitting up the hottest destinations; sometimes, it's about taking a chance on somewhere unexpected. So go on, book that flight/train/drive (whatever way you wanna get there) to Albuquerque, and see for yourself. Discover the underrated, the magical, the enchanting – all that Albuquerque has to offer.