National Geographic names Route 66 through New Mexico as one of top travel experiences for 2024
WASHINGTON – National Geographic today unveiled its selections for Best of the World 2024, which included a road trip along Route 66 through New Mexico as one of the top 20 travel experiences in the world for 2024.
National Geographic identifies a variety of accommodations, experiences and points of interest in destinations throughout New Mexico, such as historic hotels in Tucumcari, Petroglyph National Monument in Albuquerque and Native and Indigenous performances in Gallup.
Each year, National Geographic releases its “Best of the World” list to celebrate enlightening travel experiences that illuminate the diversity of communities across the globe. The annual list is selected and written by National Geographic travel editors, experts and expedition leaders.
“Exploring Route 66 in Albuquerque and throughout New Mexico offers travelers a truly great opportunity to tap the past, present and future of the Great American West,” said Acting Tourism Secretary Lancing Adams. “Celebrating the history and heritage of Route 66 will allow for us to strengthen our bond among communities and boost New Mexico’s profile as a premier destination to people around the world.”
"We are beyond thrilled that Albuquerque has been included in National Geographic’s ‘Best of the World’ list as part of the No. 7 travel experience for 2024, and the timing is perfect as the city gears up to celebrate the centennial of the Mother Road in 2026,” said Tania Armenta, President & CEO of Visit Albuquerque. “The Route 66 experience in Albuquerque is a unique blend of old and new. The historic highway runs through the heart of the city along Central Avenue, leading travelers through some of the city’s most beloved neighborhoods. Albuquerque is a one-of-a-kind destination that serves as a great home base for exploring the rest of New Mexico, and we look forward to welcoming travelers to experience the best of Albuquerque and New Mexico in 2024 and beyond.”
New Mexico is one of four U.S. destinations selected to National Geographic’s list of top 20 travel experiences for 2024. Additionally, National Geographic named Hacienda at Armendaris near Truth or Consequences as one of the best new hotels for 2024. This lodging accommodation is a four-bedroom hacienda nestled among a 360,000 acre Ted Turner property where guests can trek through a multitude of landscapes and encounter a variety of wildlife. Hacienda at Armendaris was one of four U.S. hotels selected for this list.
To prepare for the Route 66 Centennial, a $2.5 million special appropriation for the Route 66 Centennial was included in the FY25 Executive Budget Request. Through this special request, the state will be better suited to support the promotions, projects and events that the Route 66 Centennial Coordination Group may propose. Currently, the FY25 Legislative Finance Committee Budget Recommendation does not include any special appropriations for the Route 66 Centennial.