Shop New Mexico
Shopping local is an important part of the New Mexico experience. The state’s artists, artisans, and small business owners produce amazing products that can only be found in The Land of Enchantment. Local shops are always fun to check out and you’ll find that New Mexican’s are some of the nicest people around. While you are out and about, be sure to experience New Mexico’s agriculture products. Generations of proud farmers and ranchers have worked hard to produce some incredible products such as pistachios, pecans, fresh fruits, lavender, and New Mexico’s world famous red and green chile. I’ve listed places that I think runners would find helpful including local running stores, fun places to enjoy the local New Mexico experience, and places that have mainstream things you may need/want when in New Mexico.
Local Run Shops
Heart & Sole Sports has been a pillar in the Albuquerque running community for 22+ years. They have two convenient locations, each with its own unique character. At both locations, you’ll walk in and you’ll find yourself an awesome shop with a super solid selection of running shoes, insoles, and gear. They can perform a running analysis and point you to products that work best for you. These guys have you covered for pretty much any running situation you can think of including products that are not easy to find at brick and mortars - think stuff like Maurten, VaporFly, Endorphin Pro, Fuel Cell RC, & Hyperion Elite. Their staff consist of runners that are super friendly, knowledgeable, and provide running analysis. If you’re a running shoe geek like us be sure to check out their collection of vintage running shoes at the original San Mateo location. The Eubank location houses running focused yoga and massage studios. Be sure to check out their monthly Full Moon Run which is a perfect way to have fun with members of the local running community.
Sport Systems is a great local store that focuses on the New Mexico outdoor recreation scene including a sizeable section dedicated to running. On the running front, the first thing you’ll notice is they have a really awesome selection of gear designed by New Mexico’s own Bosque Running Company. Their designs are beautifully New Mexico and literally can’t be found anywhere else. Sport Systems also has a comprehensive selection of running shoes and gear and you will always find something that works for you. Their ski, boarding, and bike selection is excellent so be sure to check those things out while there because its always fun. Last but not least, their great team always takes good care of their customers.
Rail Yards Market
The Rail Yards Market of Albuquerque is basically a next level local farmers market. Located in the historic Barelas neighborhood, The Rail Yards showcases an amazing selection of quality local New Mexico agriculture, food, artisan products, music, and art. The city has done an excellent job in transforming a portion of the abandoned rail yard area into a super cool and vibrant venue that is family friendly. There are tons of outdoor vendors and food trucks along with really great views of the nostalgic yards. The main hall has soaring ceilings, is dressed up in rail yard industrial chic, and has plenty of fresh air flow. It is well worth a visit if you want to experience awesome New Mexico vibes! The Rail Yards Market is only open on Sundays from 10am to 2pm and only operates during warmer weather months. Be sure to get there early because it can get crowded. Of final note, we are looking forward to seeing the city continue to expand the redevelopment of this area and are particularly excited about the proposed Rail Trail because it will add another amazing way to experience Albuquerque’s rich cultural history!
Historic Nob Hill
Nob Hill is a really fun and nostalgic part of Albuquerque to walk around and experience a modern take on Historic Route 66. The business area of this neighborhood has all sorts of really awesome indie shops, boutiques, cannabis shops, record stores, and other neat places. If you’re looking for a cool local alternative, this is the spot to be. Nob Hill is also home to the New Mexico United Team Store which is the state’s soccer team and a big supporter of the local community. While walking around be sure to check out the great coffee shops, restaurants, bars, and breweries because they are pretty excellent!
Old Town
Albuquerque was founded in 1706 and Old Town has always been its center Walking through the historic plaza and checking out the centuries old streets and buildings is like taking a step back in time to Albuquerque’s rich past. There are many amazing local shops such as Old Barrel Tea Company, great local galleries, fun boutiques, fantastic museums, good restaurants, the historic San Felipe Church, and plenty of tourist focused gift shops. This can easily be incorporated into a run and we plan to release a route soon!
Rio Grande Shops
The Rio Grande Shops At Flying Star Plaza is a really neat local shopping venue off the beaten path. They have has some of the coolest boutique stores and you’re certain to find that unique something you didn’t know you needed but suddenly do. You will find an awesome selection of books at Bookworks, beautiful jewelry at Lily Barrack, and all sorts of cool paper specialties at Pennysmiths to name a few. While you’re there grab some coffee and food at Flying Star Cafe. There is not a website for this shopping center which is why we linked the stores directly but the street address is 4022 Rio Grande Boulevard, NW.
New Nuevo
Look no further than New Nuevo for a really awesome curation of local New Mexico goods that are perfect for you or anyone that you’d like to get a thoughtful gift for. You can buy each item individually or they can help you build a super cool New Nuevo gift box filled with unique New Mexico stuff. These boxes are the perfect choice whether looking for that perfect holiday gift or when hosting a special event because the owners truly care about delivering high quality and value. We’d also note that the owners are truly invested in the community and are always giving back to others meaning that each purchase also helps greater good which we absolutely love.
Uptown ABQ
We are including Uptown because we realize that sometimes you need stuff from mainstream stores and when you do, this is a great place to go. This outdoor venue features brands such as Lululemon, The North Face, The Gap, and Apple. There are plenty of food options ranging from sushi to donuts and everything in between. There is also a Target right across the street as well as more shopping at the adjacent Winrock Town Center where you’ll find stores such as Dillards and Nordstrom Rack.