Getting Around Town

ART (Albuquerque Rapid Transit)

Launched in Fall 2019, Albuquerque Rapid Transit (ART) serves the Central Avenue corridor and combines many features of rail transit with the flexibility of buses. It can take visitors quickly from UNM to the historic Old Town and nearby museums to the trendy shops and restaurants of Nob Hill and Uptown with three major shopping malls. Tickets can be purchased from vending machines at the ART stations. There are two stations on Central Avenue, right next to the UNM campus. The "UNM-Popejoy" station is the closest ART stop for most conference activities.

ABQ Ride (Bus System)

The ABQ Ride bus system serves the entire city of Albuquerque, with many convenient lines connecting the University of New Mexico to popular surrounding areas. For more information on bus routes and schedules, visit the ABQ Ride website or call 505-243-RIDE (7433).

New Mexico Rail Runner (Train)

The NM Rail Runner commuter train makes day trips to Santa Fe and surrounding communities easy. The scenery on the 80-mile trip between Santa Fe and Albuquerque hasn’t changed much since Santa Fe’s founding more than 400 years ago. The one half hour train ride grants access to historic churches, regional cuisine, and the interactive experiences of Meow Wolf. WiFi is available onboard.

Rental Cars

All major rental car companies serve Albuquerque. Don’t forget to check American Express, Costco or AAA when searching rates, as they offer some great discounts. Please note parking on campus is limited, so you may choose to rent a car after the conference to enjoy the city and state. 

App-Based Ride Share Providers

Albuquerque is served by both Lyft and Uber.  We also have zTrip, a hybrid service that you can use on an app, by phone or hail on the street.  

Biking

The City of Albuquerque has more than 400 miles of bike paths and trails. Our vast network of biking trails has even garnered national attention such as being ranked ‘third-best bicycling city’ by Bicycling Magazine. However, the locals would tell you our best bike paths are in more remote locations and best for exercise and adventure versus commuting.

Local Taxi and Shuttle Services

Taxis can be found parked outside of baggage claim. Please note Albuquerque has a limited inventory of taxis and at times you may need to wait for a cab, especially in the late evening. Also, if using taxis for local travel, plan on wait time.

Other Transportation Information

The Transportation Information Center (TIC) is located on the bottom floor of the Student Union Building (Building #60), next to the Nusenda Credit Union near the Mercado and Lobo Card Office. The TIC has friendly, knowledgeable representatives ready to help you explore all of the transportation options available to you here at the University of New Mexico, including ABQRide and Rail Runner routes and schedule information.  

TIC Hours: Monday Through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

TIC Contact: 505-277-1920 | TIC@parking.unm.edu

Weather

We bask in 310 days of sunshine and are blessed with a mild, dry climate and four distinctly beautiful seasons. Albuquerque lies at an elevation of over 5,000 feet and enjoys a high desert climate. Days are generally sunny and warm but as the sun sets, the temperature falls. Be aware that low humidity and lots of sunshine means visitors need to stay hydrated by drinking lots of water as well as using lotion and sunblock for protection.

Average high temperature: 92°F / 33°C61 

Average Low Temperature: 61°F / 16°C.  

Electricity

Electric power is standardized in all states across the USA. It is set at 110 Volts and 60 cycles. Standard electric plugs have two flat blades. The plugs on some newer appliances have a third, round grounding pin. 

Currency Exchange

Albuquerque does not offer currency exchange at the Albuquerque International Airport or in local banks. The best way to obtain US Dollars is through a direct withdrawal from an ATM.  

Smoking

Under current legislation, smoking has been banned in all public areas and workplaces, including enclosed restaurants, pubs, and bars. There are substantial penalties in place for those found to be in breach of these regulations.

Drinking

New Mexico has rather strict alcohol laws so plan on being asked for your identification (driver’s license or passport) no matter how old you are, this includes restaurants and at all conference events.  Please note that alcohol is not permitted in any of the dorms on campus. 

Time

New Mexico is on Mountain Standard Time.