Discovery Series – Albuquerque

This city in New Mexico has never received a Starbucks mug before. To add more to that, the Discovery Series Albuquerque is the first city mug from this state.

Albuquerque was founded in 1706 as a Spanish colonial outpost along the Rio Grande. The railroad’s arrival in 1880 transformed it into a regional hub, while World War II brought Sandia National Laboratories and Kirtland Air Force Base. Today, Albuquerque is New Mexico’s largest city, balancing Spanish colonial heritage, Native American influences, and modern growth as a center for technology and tourism.

Here are some of the symbols, landmarks, and foods to try from the design of the Albuquerque mug:

– “Flamenco Capital of North America” is a title Albuquerque earned through hosting the annual Festival Flamenco, the largest celebration of this Spanish art form outside Spain since 1987. The city’s deep Spanish colonial roots and artistic community have fostered exceptional flamenco instruction and performance. This cultural distinction connects Albuquerque to its Iberian heritage while creating unique arts programming.

– Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta fills October skies with hundreds of hot air balloons in the world’s largest ballooning event, drawing pilots and spectators from around the globe. The nine-day festival features mass ascensions, glowing night displays, and competitions against the backdrop of the Sandia Mountains. The Balloon Fiesta has become synonymous with Albuquerque and drives significant tourism.

– Sandia Mountains rise dramatically along Albuquerque’s eastern edge, their pink granite peaks glowing at sunset and providing year-round recreation just minutes from the city. The Sandia Peak Tramway carries visitors 10,378 feet to panoramic views spanning 11,000 square miles. The mountains define Albuquerque’s geography and offer hiking, skiing, and escape from desert heat.

– Route 66 and Central Avenue preserve America’s most famous highway through Albuquerque’s heart, with vintage neon signs, classic motels, and diners maintaining nostalgic appeal. Central Avenue follows the historic Mother Road through the city, showcasing Route 66 heritage and Southwestern roadside architecture. This corridor connects Albuquerque to mid-century road trip culture.

Here are two signature dishes that are worth trying when visiting Albuquerque:

– The green chile cheeseburger is New Mexico’s signature dish, combining beef patties with roasted Hatch green chiles and melted cheese at restaurants throughout Albuquerque. The spicy, smoky chiles define New Mexican cuisine and spark fierce debates about the best preparations. This burger embodies Albuquerque’s culinary identity and chile obsession.

– Tamales are beloved throughout Albuquerque, with traditional New Mexican versions featuring red chile pork or chicken wrapped in masa and corn husks. Families make tamales for Christmas and special occasions, while restaurants serve them year-round.