Bus Travel

If you're not planning to explore much beyond Old Town, Downtown, and Nob Hill, the city's public bus system, ABQ Ride, is a practical option. Rapid Ride lines ply Central Avenue every seven to eight minutes from early to midnight or 1 am; one-, two-, and three-day passes ($2–$6) are available on the bus or online. In the works, but not yet operational as of this writing, the electric ART (Albuquerque Rapid Transit) will eventually replace Rapid Rides along Central Avenue; ART tickets will need to be purchased in advance. You can download trip-planning apps or obtain a customized trip plan at the city's public bus website, ABQ Ride.

The Alvarado Transportation Center Downtown is ABQ Ride's central hub and offers direct connections to the NM Rail Runner Express train service north to Santa Fe and to the South Valley suburbs. Buses accept bicycles at no additional charge, although space is limited. Service is free on the Downtown D-RIDE shuttle route (available only on weekdays), or if you are transferring (to any route) from the Rail Runner; otherwise, the fare is $1 (bills or coins, exact change only). Bus stops are well marked.

Bus Contact

ABQ Ride. 505/243–7433; www.cabq.gov/transit.