• Where is Bernalillo, New Mexico located?
    • Approximately fifteen miles north of Albuquerque, Bernalillo is set on the Sandia Mountains’ northwest slope.
  • What is Bernalillo best known for?
    • The town is perhaps best known for the Pueblo of Santa Ana and the Santa Ana Casino.
  • What historical attractions can visitors explore in Bernalillo?
    • Bernalillo is home to the Coronado Historic Site.
  • Why is Bernalillo a popular destination?
    • With its historic Native American sites, casino, and restaurants, the quintessential New Mexican town of Bernalillo has become a popular destination in the greater Albuquerque Metropolitan Area, offering a good escape from the busy city nearby.

Coronado Historic Site

Coronado Historic Site

© Kit Leong/stock.adobe.com

The Tiwa people over seven hundred years ago settled Kuaua Pueblo on the fertile banks of the Rio Grande. Francisco Vásquez de Coronado, the Spanish explorer, camped near what is now known as the Coronado Historic Site in 1540. The pueblo was abandoned during the latter part of the sixteenth century and in 1935, a square kiva was excavated. Visitors today can explore the Coronado Historic Site to learn about the Kuaua Pueblo people and see the reconstructed adobe walls. An interpretive trail meanders through the historic site, guiding visitors to ruins and the reconstructed excavated kiva.

485 Kuaua Rd, Bernalillo, NM 87004, Phone: 505-867-5351

Pueblo of Santa Ana

Pueblo of Santa Ana

© Pueblo of Santa Ana Department of Transportation

Located between the cities of Santa Fe and Albuquerque, the Pueblo of Santa Ana lies on more than 70,000 acres, including the Rio Grande Valley of New Mexico. The Pueblo provides opportunities for live entertainment, gaming, outdoor recreation activities, and rich cultural experiences. The people of the Santa Ana Pueblo have occupied their current central New Mexico site since at least the latter part of the 1500s, with the Old Santa Ana Pueblo established during the late 1600s, after being occupied for a time by Spanish rule. This Old Pueblo is usually only open to visit during Feast Days.

Phone: 505-867-3301

Santa Ana Casino

Santa Ana Casino

© Victor Moussa/stock.adobe.com

The Santa Ana Casino in Bernalillo, New Mexico is a Native American casino, located at the Pueblo of Santa Ana. Situated just to the north from Albuquerque, the casino aims to provide an unmatched entertainment experience for guests, offering an array of venues for fun and food, top-notch service, and world-class gaming. Established by the Tamaya, this casino and hotel first opened to the public in 1993 and consists of two championship-style golf courses, the Choices Food Court, and the Juniper Steakhouse. As for gaming options, the casino offers over 1,600 slot machines and more than twenty table games.

54 Jemez Canyon Dam Rd, Bernalillo, NM 87004, Phone: 505-867-0000

Bad Ass Coffee Company

Bad Ass Coffee Company

© Room 76 Photography/stock.adobe.com

The Bad Ass Coffee Company started on the Island of Hawaii in 1989 with a mission of sharing premium, American-grown Hawaiian coffee from Ka’u, Kona, Moloka‘i, Maui, Oahu, and Kauai with the coffee lovers of the world. It didn’t take too long for Bad Ass Coffee to reach the mainland United States as visitors to Hawaii started bringing back the coffee, t-shirts, and hats home with them and helped spread the word about their new favorite coffee. Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii today still serves premium Hawaiian coffees, as well as other international coffees “with a kick.”

965 W, US-550, Bernalillo, NM 87004, Phone: 505-867-1778


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming desert landscapes, ideal for outdoor adventures. Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort & Spa – A luxurious resort with stunning mountain views. Explore Coronado Historic Site – Visit ancient pueblo ruins and learn about local history.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and dry, great for rafting on the Rio Grande and cultural events. Santa Ana Star Casino Hotel – Modern accommodations with entertainment and dining options. Attend the Bernalillo Wine Festival – Sample local New Mexican wines and enjoy live music.
Fall (September-November) – Cooler temperatures, perfect for scenic drives and hot air ballooning. Holiday Inn Express Bernalillo – Comfortable and convenient stay near Albuquerque. Take a day trip to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta – Experience the world-famous event in nearby Albuquerque.
Winter (December-February) – Quiet and cool, great for exploring local art and historic sites. Days Inn by Wyndham Bernalillo – A budget-friendly option for winter travelers. Visit local breweries and restaurants – Enjoy New Mexican cuisine and craft beers in a relaxed setting.

Plan Your Trip


Table of Contents: