Exploring New Mexico: A Guide to Iconic Movie Locations You Can Visit

Step into the Scene: Must-Visit Movie Hotspots

New Mexico's diverse terrain, from its dramatic deserts and mountains to its charming historic towns, has attracted filmmakers for decades. Here are some must-visit locations for any movie buff:  

Albuquerque: Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul Territory: Fans of these critically acclaimed television series will instantly recognize the streets and buildings of Albuquerque. Take a self-guided tour to see iconic spots like Walter White's house, the Pollos Hermanos restaurant (Twisters Grill), and Saul Goodman's office. While you can't go inside some private residences, just seeing the exteriors is a thrill for any fan. Remember to be respectful of the residents and businesses in these areas.  

Santa Fe: Wild Hogs and More: The vibrant arts scene and historic architecture of Santa Fe have also made it a popular filming location. Remember the hilarious motorcycle gang comedy Wild Hogs? The charming town of Madrid, just southwest of Santa Fe, served as the backdrop for much of the film. Wander through Madrid's quirky shops and art galleries, and you might just feel like you've stumbled onto the set. Santa Fe itself has also been featured in numerous other productions, so keep your eyes peeled!

Northern New Mexico: Epic Western Landscapes: New Mexico's rugged beauty has long been synonymous with Western films. While the provided search results focus on locations outside of New Mexico for The Lone Ranger, the state boasts its own impressive Western film history. Imagine riding through the vast landscapes that have graced the silver screen in countless cowboy classics. While specific locations for older Westerns might be harder to pinpoint without more directed research, areas around Santa Fe and near the border with Colorado offer the kind of dramatic scenery you'd expect in a Western.

Beyond the Big Names: Other Notable Locations

While Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul, and Westerns might be the first things that come to mind, New Mexico has hosted a wide variety of productions. Keep an eye out for filming locations from movies like No Country for Old Men, Thor, Avengers, and Cowboys & Aliens, which have all utilized the state's unique visual appeal.  

Tips for Your Movie Location Road Trip

Do Your Research: Before you go, try to find specific filming locations for the movies or shows you're interested in. Websites like IMDb (as seen in the search results) often list filming locations.  

Be Respectful: Remember that many filming locations are private residences or businesses. Always be respectful of people's property and privacy.

Embrace the Journey: Sometimes, finding an exact location can be part of the fun! Enjoy exploring the diverse landscapes of New Mexico along the way.

Check for Tours: In some cases, you might find organized tours that focus on specific filming locations, like those for Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul in Albuquerque.  

Experience the Magic Firsthand

Visiting movie locations in New Mexico offers a unique blend of travel and pop culture immersion. It's a chance to connect with your favorite stories on a tangible level and see the landscapes that brought these narratives to life. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to shout "Action!" on your very own New Mexico movie adventure.