North Valley, New Mexico 2025

Location: Bernalillo County, New Mexico, USA

Incorporated: January 1891

North Valley, New Mexico, a town in Bernalillo County, is situated in the northwestern region of the state. Albuquerque, the largest city, borders the north valley to the south. The Rio Grande River runs through it from north to south.

Early settlers cultivated crops along the Rio Grande and lived in the mountains east of the river. The town grew, and in January 1891, it was officially incorporated.

Population:

The town had 10,463 residents as of the 2020 census.

What makes North Valley Special?

The North Valley is a hidden gem in New Mexico that offers an off-the-beaten-path experience for visitors willing to explore beyond Albuquerque's city limits. While the town may appear small and rural, It has three important claims to fame, a unique setting, rich history, and a food truck that serves some of the best green chile cheeseburgers in the state.

Local Attractions:

Petroglyph National Monument is directly west of the town, while the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park is to the south. A network of routes and trails ideal for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking can be found in the monument area. The Rio Grande Nature Center offers hiking paths, birdwatching, and ranger-led programs. Both locations provide opportunities to observe various bird life and learn about New Mexico's unique ecosystem.

Culture:

A unique attraction in the town is a blimp hanger built in 1927 to house US military blimps. It is now part of the National Park Service's Petroglyph National Monument. The National Hispanic Cultural Center, located just south of the blimp hangar, celebrates and promotes the arts, history, and culture of New Mexico's Hispanic communities. Next door is a National Hispanic Cultural Center Museum, showcasing art exhibitions across Hispanic communities through its art, literature, music, dance, and film.

Food:

The green chile cheeseburger at Owl Cafe, a small roadside diner in the North Valley of Albuquerque, was named one of the state's best burgers by the Food Network. The Owl Cafe, a local institution, was founded in 1983 and is well-known for its green chile cheeseburger. In 2011, USA Today named it one of the nation's top ten burgers. It's not the only delicious local dish. The menu also includes tasty breakfast items, burgers, sandwiches, and traditional New Mexico cuisine.

People:

Laurence "Larry" Abraham, an inspiring resident, was the first Person elected to the New Mexico House of Representatives in 1950. He served three terms in the New Mexico House of Representatives and two in the New Mexico Senate.

Humor:

While there aren't many punchlines here, the Owl Cafe serves excellent food, and locals joke that eating their green chile cheeseburger may be a humorous experience for your tastebuds.