I'll be in Albuquerque in August (yes, I know it'll be hot) and am thinking about places I might like to visit. Can anyone give advice on the following places, i.e. whether they are worth seeing or whether they should be skipped? 1) Petroglyph Nat'l Monument 2) Acoma Pueblo 3) Aquarium. My interests are along the lines of scenery, archaeology, etc. Not so interested in restaurant or hotel recommendations. If anyone wants to recommend places in addition to or instead of the three I mentioned, please do. Thanks in advance!

Albuquerque is great anytime. If you have a car, see Chaco Canyon (http://www.nps.gov/chcu/) , Bandelier (http://www.nps.gov/band/) and take a ride up the tram at sunset. Of course, a hot air balloon ride at dawn is really fantastic. Lots of great SW food but they are heavy on the chilli. El Pinto has good location a bit out of town & great food (http://www.elpinto.com/)

The National Atomic Museum is free and interesting. Scandia Tram is incredible for scenery -- and hiking when you get there.

I highly recommend Acoma. The setting is incradible--red earth and intense blue sky. The pueblo remains authentic, and if you are lucky you will see the potters at work. Acoma pottery is among the most beautiful Native American pottery. We were fortunate to be there at sunset, which was breathtaking.

Thanks to those who have already given advice. One further question -- can anyone suggest any places in the Albuquerque/Santa Fe area to shop for Mexican goods? I'm not talking expensive pieces of fine art, but more everyday items, inexpensive knickknacks, toys, food, etc. (I'm thinking sort of along the lines of the big Mexican market in San Antonio).

This may be profoundly un-helpful (I hope not!) but there is some kind of large, well-advertised Mexican market-type place in/near Santa Fe and I absolutely can't remember the name of it. But there are signs, offers of discount coupons, etc. everywhere. Maybe somebody else can help out here. I've been there and I think it's the sort of place you're looking for. I know you've also had some advice about Acoma Pueblo - let me add my encouragement that you go to see it. It's an amazing place. They do close it quite frequently to the public, though; before you head out there, find out (if you can) if it's open that day.

I would recommend a drive up the Turquoise Trail. It is a road that goes from Albuquerque to Santa Fe and has many interesting places to stop and explore. One of the most interesting is the Tinkertown Museum, which is located on the road to Sandia Crest. Here is a link to the Trail:http://www.turquoisetrail.org/

I suggest taking the tram up the Sandia Mountain and so some hiking. Be careful if you are from lower elevation states, some people can get sick from the elevation. Sorry to say I've never been to the petroglyphs, but heard it was fun. Acoma Pueblo is something else I recommed. The aquarium is relatively new and interesting if you really like aquariums. I know you said you were not interested in restaurant recommendations...but New Mexico has the BEST green chile you will ever have. Try El Pinto (great scenery) or Los Cuates (for great local food). Old Town is also great place to visit.