Albuquerque has no shortage of family-friendly activities. However, as moms, sometimes we need to recharge and relax without the kids. Whether it’s a well-earned break, a date night, or a rare afternoon of quiet exploration, check out the list below for 10 spots to check out sans little ones.
Level 5
I am hard pressed to think of a more relaxing way to spend an evening than sitting on a rooftop admiring an Albuquerque sunset with a drink in hand and delicious food on its way. If this sounds up your alley, you need to check out Level 5 at Hotel Chaco. You can choose to sit inside or outside at one of their firepits and cozy couches. The food and drinks are just as incredible as the views, and their website makes it easy to reserve a spot online.
🍸 🍸 🍸 Other favorite date night spots ⇒ here 🍸 🍸 🍸
Campo at Los Poblanos
While I will never say no to a date night or evening with friends, I have certainly noticed that my energy wanes as the day goes on. Enter the brunch date. Campo at Los Poblanos is my favorite elevated brunch in town. The drive down Rio Grande Boulevard and up the tree-lined road to the Los Poblanos property will have you forgetting that you live in the desert. Once you arrive, the vibes of the restaurant are, as the kids say, immaculate. The open kitchen, small dining room, and farm-fresh ingredients bring a cozy yet sophisticated feeling to the meal. After your meal, you can wander the grounds and take a stop at The Farm Shop for some artisan-baked goods and lavender products. If you want to continue the kid-free shopping fun, check out this article on thrift shops to explore.
ABQ Ax
There are many reasons why throwing a hatchet at a wall may sound appealing to us moms. Whether you want to blow off steam, test your hand-eye coordination, or just get out of the house and do something you normally wouldn’t, ABQ Ax is the perfect way to spend a few child-free hours. They offer food and drink selections from Red Door Brewing, making it a one-stop shop for a date or get together with friends. You can reserve a lane in advance or walk-in for some spontaneous fun.
Slice and Dice Board Game Pizzeria
If you are anything like me, you love a board game night until you realize, midway through setting up that one, or ahem, several, of the pieces are missing. Add in a sibling fight mid-Uno game and you have a less than relaxing experience. If you love board games but miss the ease of diving into your favorite game without interruptions, Slice and Dice is the perfect spot to spend a child-free evening. They have a large menu of house-made pizzas, salads, and subs, along with a solid offering of local beers and ciders. After you order your food and drinks, you can head over to the game library to grab a seat and start playing and eating. Their game library is extensive, and their staff are experts in them all, making it the perfect place to try a new game.
Hyena’s Comedy Club
No matter what stage of motherhood you are in, we all need a good laugh from time to time. Hyena’s Comedy Club is the perfect place to sit back, relax, and giggle like a little kid. From big names to local up-and-coming comedians or even adult magic shows, Hyena’s has it all. Its uptown location makes it the perfect place to end the night after a delicious dinner.
Ten 3
Named for its location 10,300 feet above sea level, Ten 3 is the perfect spot for an unforgettable date night. When I first visited Ten 3 to grab a drink after a hike, I was blown away by the breathtaking views of the city and the horizon. However, after a few minutes, it dawned on me that this restaurant is the perfect celebration of Albuquerque. On one side you have a fine dining experience with an artisan menu and patrons dressed to the nines. At the same time, the casual side of the restaurant hosts tourists and hikers in t-shirts and shorts, grabbing a beer. And the best part is, no matter what side you choose, you get to enjoy incredible views, walls adorned with art from a local NM gallery, and delicious food.
Hands On Clay Studio
If you are looking to let your creativity flow, look no further than Hands On Clay Studio in the South Valley. Their intimate and light-drenched space is perfect for a day date with a friend, spouse, or yourself. They offer classes such as “Intro to Pottery Wheel,” “Slab Building,” and “Glazing Basics.” For intermediate and advanced ceramics, they offer assisted studio time to take your skills to the next level. If you have out-of-town guests, Hands On Clay Studio will pack and ship their creations for a modest fee.
Kelly Jo Designs by Wine
Nestled in Los Ranchos, Kelly Jo Designs by Wine offers step-by-step painting classes and drop-in pottery painting events. It is the perfect place to get together with a group of girlfriends. Wine and beer are available for purchase, and they host a seasonal mobile kitchen so you can enjoy something to eat while you create. They keep their event calendar up to date. Pro tip: Check out a Monday night Jazz night where you can leisurely paint pottery while enjoying live music from local musicians.
Betty’s Bath and Day Spa
Few things sound more indulgent to a mom than a day at the spa. From the second you walk in, Betty’s Bath and Day Spa delivers on the luxury. The soothing sounds and incredible smell will have you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated before your treatment even begins. Be sure to get there early to take advantage of their tranquil environment. I could have lounged around sipping cucumber water in the fluffy bathrobe they provide all day. Note to self, arrive earlier next time! When it comes to selecting a treatment, Betty’s has a wide range of massages, facials, scrubs, and hydrotherapy experiences. I am confident that you will not be disappointed by any of their offerings.
Explora!
Ending an article on places to check out without kids with a children’s museum may sound odd. However, when you consider that they host monthly adult-only nights, it is a no-brainer. These monthly events are free for members or $14 for non-members aged 18 – 64. Each month has a carefully curated theme and event or activity. Explora! is a great option to check out if you want to add some variety to your typical night out.
