Along the historic Route 66 you will find Acoma Sky City. This was by far my favorite stop while driving Route 66 and is well worth a visit, along with one other stop.
To visit Acoma Sky City you must buy tickets at the Cultural Center and a shuttle will take you up, even if you come with your own car. This is actually very beneficial as you will get to experience the climb down from where the city lays. Therefore make sure to wear good footwear and no slippers on this day.
Where is Acoma Sky City?
It is in the state of New Mexico where the closest large town is Albuquerque.
With car it will take you about an hour drive from Albuquerque to get to Acoma Sky City.
There are two roads leading into Acoma Sky City, but when leaving the area I highly recommend to drive towards the viewing point of the city. Just to take it all in from afar.
About Acoma Pueblo
Archaeologists has estimated that the village has been lived in for over 1000 years, making it the oldest inhabited community in United States.
The stunning buildings are made from sun-dried mud bricks and sandstones. On the mesa itself there is no running water and no electricity, which makes the residents live traditionally.
The Sky City is still a spiritual center for the Acoma people and to visit you need to book a tour.
Descending from Sky City
The descent down is very steep at some places, but it is a wonderful walk and experience. If you are not sure if this is for you or you have an injury, do not worry. The shuttle that took you up, will return to take you down the mesa.
However, climbing down and walking back to the Cultural Center is very rewarding as you get to experience the original climb that is part of Acoma´s history.
Acoma Sky City is my favorite stop along the famous Route 66, but there is another stop that was just as magical for me. They are tied for first place, do you want to know the second location?
Rover Saga 