road trip breaking bad

A do-it-yourself Breaking Bad tour of Albuquerque

Nov 19, 2020 • 7 min read

Breaking Bad might be over, but you can still capture your favorite moments on a DIY tour of Albuquerque © Doug Hyun/AMC

Over its five seasons, TV series  Breaking Bad  became a global phenomenon, drawing in millions of viewers from around the world.

And, despite being off the air for several years now, the show has been back in the headlines recently, with the runaway spinoff success of Better Call Saul entering its final season in 2021 and the feature-length El Camino sequel to the original series released last year.

Creator and writer Vince Gilligan originally set the show in Los Angeles , but when the state of  New Mexico offered tax rebates, they picked up and moved east. Gilligan said that over the course of the five seasons, the city of Albuquerque became an integral character on the show. These beautiful, stark and sometimes lonely vistas have begun to draw set-jetters  to the Duke City in search of Heisenberg's hometown.

If excitement over the the final season of Better Call Saul has left you looking to (re)discover Walter White's city, there are lots of ways to tour Albuquerque (including some excellent tour companies mentioned below) but it's just as easy to find your own way between the locations featured in the show. So put on your Heisenberg hat and grab your best sunglasses: it's time for a do-it-yourself Breaking Bad  tour of Albuquerque.

Getting around

A fairly sprawling city, Albuquerque spreads west and south from the piercing gaze of the Sandia Mountains, which provide an easy directional from just about anywhere in town. Despite its age (founded in 1706), Albuquerque operates mostly on a grid system, making it an easy city to navigate by car. Street blocks tend to be long and, at this elevation (5312ft), even the fittest folks can find themselves huffing and puffing after a few minutes of strolling. The easiest way to get around is by car, and luckily rentals are fairly cheap.

Albuquerque is also split into quadrants by two interstate highways, I-25 from north to south and I-40 from east to west. All of the city's addresses are therefore assigned a quadrant such as NE (northeast) or SW (southwest) to indicate where in the city they are located – good to know when you're hunting out a location on one of the city's long main drags.

The Breaking Bad  locations are spread around Albuquerque, but generally cluster in two distinct areas: the Northeast Heights and Downtown. With this in mind, the easiest way to tour the sites is to check out the Northeast Heights sites by car and then opt to walk or cycle the Downtown sites (or take the cycling tour recommended below).

Northeast Heights The most recognizable of the Breaking Bad locations are situated here in the Northeast Heights, including Walter White's house and the A-1 Car Wash. If you've hired a car, this is the best place to start. Begin at Marie and Hank's house in the foothills and work your way down to the car wash, the Whites' house (it's private property, so don't intrude) and the park where Mike takes his granddaughter. While you're here, stop in at Savoy for a posh lunch at the restaurant where Walter meets Gretchen Schwartz in Season 2. Also in the Northeast Heights is Paul's Monterey Inn, a dimly lit speakeasy where Walter and Jesse meet to discuss killing thugs in Season 3.

Downtown Albuquerque's downtown area is a lovely grid of leafy, older streets where many of the classic scenes in Breaking Bad  were shot. Jesse's house is here, as is his parents', the Pinkman residence. You'll also find Tuco's hideout, which Walter blew up in Season 1, and a particularly scenic multi-story car park where Gus Fring realizes Walt has rigged his car with a bomb. Walking here is easy, but the best way to get around is by bicycle, as the streets are flat, straight and generally quiet.

You can rent a bike from Routes Rentals , who offer a multitude of cycling options from basic two-speed street cruisers to workhorse mountain bikes, starting at $15/hr. Alternatively, they run 'Biking Bad' cycling tours (1.5-2 hrs, $65pp) of the downtown area every other Saturday that take in the show's most significant sites. Led by partner-owners Josh and Heather, who are ultimate Breaking Bad  fans themselves, the tours include lots of backstory on the show, highlights and important things to note about scenes at each location. The tour guides carry laptops to show clips of scenes shot at the locations, which really adds to the ambience.

Twisters : playing the part of the inimitable Los Pollos Hermanos on the show, Twisters is in fact an Albuquerque chain that serves up New Mexican fast food specialties, from burritos to burgers.

Savoy Wine Bar & Grill : a great spot for an upmarket dinner or glass of wine in the restaurant where Walt argues with Gretchen in Season 2.

Dog House Drive In : the flashing neon sign of this Old Town drive-in became an icon of Breaking Bad throughout the seasons, including when Jesse gives away his cash to a homeless man in the final season. Food is reassuringly greasy and cheap.

The Grove : plan a Sunday brunch at this fresh, seasonally sourced restaurant where Walt and Lydia form a partnership and often meet up. The window seats are a perfect vantage point overlooking Route 66 (Central Ave.) and Downtown.

Garduños : in the final season, Walt, Skyler, Marie and Hank all meet at this staple New Mexican restaurant for a very awkward meal. The food here isn't the best example of New Mexican cuisine, but the surrounds are kitschy and fun.

Loyola's : a classic diner along Route 66 (Central Ave.), this greasy spoon serves up cheap and cheerful New Mexican dishes and heaping breakfasts, and served as a refueling point for Mike and Jesse in Season 5.

Marble Brewery : one of Albuquerque's best microbreweries, Marble was a favorite drinking spot of Bryan Cranston and the cast and crew during filming. The brewery even produced two Breaking Bad -themed beers – Walter's White Lie white IPA and Heisenberg's Dark black IPA – to celebrate the show's final season.

Zinc Wine Bar : Breaking Bad  creator Vince Gilligan called out this sultry Nob Hill wine bar as one of his favorite haunts during filming. Upstairs is a fairly swanky restaurant, while downstairs is a red-lit cavern with live jazz and a swinging wine bar.

Shopping and pampering

Zen Nail Spa: get your nails done by Saul Goodman's actual pedicurist at Zen Nail Spa, which Saul suggests Jesse buy to launder money in Season 3. The nail techs here were extras in the scene and their pedicures last for weeks.

The Candy Lady : grab a bag of "blue meth" to take home. The blue rock candy sold here was actually used as the prop meth in the show.

Gertrude Zachary : remember when Marie started shoplifting in Season 1? This local jewellery store is where she stole the diamond tiara. They don't sell tiaras in real life, but you can bag some beautiful southwestern turquoise jewellery (just make sure you pay first).

Crossroads Motel : you might not have the best night's sleep of your life at this funky Route 66 motel, which featured as a drug den in several episodes (namely, where Hank takes Walter Jr. to warn him about the evils of drugs). However, if it's a budget night's sleep in a very iconic Breaking Bad  location you're after, this is the place. Probably best for a quick photo op rather than a full night's stay.

Isleta Resort & Casino : part of Isleta Pueblo (Native American reservation) a few miles south of Albuquerque, this resort served as the setting for Jesse's stint in rehab in Season 2, as well as the hotel where the White family hides out in the final season.

And remember, many of the locations provided here are actual residences and businesses. While it may be tempting to throw a pizza on top of the Whites' house, it's important to respect the fact that people live and do business here. In other words, tread lightly.

Megan Eaves explored the Breaking Bad sights of Albuquerque as a guest of Routes Rentals. Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.

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This article was originally published in October 2013 and updated in November 2020.

This article was first published Jul 15, 2019 and updated Nov 19, 2020.

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Breaking Bad Tour: The Ultimate Albuquerque Breaking Bad Tour Map + Better Call Saul Filming Locations!

Updated on February 7, 2022

• Where does Breaking Bad take place? The entire Breaking Bad production was filmed in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
• Breaking Bad was originally going to be set in California but switched to New Mexico before shooting began.
• Many filming locations for Breaking Bad were used for both interior and exterior filming.
• Velvet Ropes Breaking Bad Albuquerque self guided tour features more filming locations than any guided tour of the city.

Breaking Bad Tour

Trying to think of things to do in Albuquerque during your visit? You owe it to yourself to take a tour of Breaking Bad locations! Part of the Land of Enchantment that is New Mexico, Albuquerque acted as the backdrop for Breaking Bad Better Call Saul – and the Netflix film El Camino !

There is a literal treasure trove of locations to visit for the Breaking Bad universe there and if you’re looking for what to do in Albuquerque and the best way to see the city, a do-it-yourself Breaking Bad tour is the way to go! From the car wash to the Walt house and more, there’s an endless supply of awesome places to visit for Breaking Bad fans.

Albuquerque Breaking Bad Tour Map

If you want a truly comprehensive tour of all things Breaking Bad, Velvet Ropes has you covered! Our self-guided tour features all the best Breaking Bad , El Camino , and Better Call Saul filming locations throughout Albuquerque as well as some awesome hidden gems you won’t see with any other guided tours in the area!

If you’re looking for the ultimate Breaking Bad locations map, Velvet Ropes’ self-guided tour lineup is a must!

Breaking Bad Filming Locations

If you’ve ever wondered “Where was Breaking Bad filmed?” both Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul have been filmed in just about every corner of Albuquerque, NM!

The series was originally going to be shot in Los Angeles, CA – but was later changed to New Mexico due to financial incentives to film there. Plus, one look at the Sandia Mountains and you have to imagine the creators behind the show instantly fell in love with the place.

Walter White House

The Breaking Bad house , aka Walter White house, is a must-see for those looking to get the full Breaking Bad experience. While the interior of the home was never used in the show, the exterior front and back were both featured in many episodes throughout the series.

In its current form, the home bears a slightly different look than what was seen in the show. There is now a security gate around the entire residence as well as a sign asking visitors to take photos across the street from the home rather than directly in front.

The reason for the security addition was due to fans of the show actually recreating the infamous pizza scene by throwing entire pizzas onto the roof of the home like Walter White (yuck!). On busier days, the house may see up to 300 visitors coming to pose for photos.

Mrs. Padilla, the current owner, was given $400k for using her house for the series. She was later offered an additional $800k from someone looking to turn the home into a Breaking Bad Museum – an offer that she actually turned down.

Jesse Pinkman House

Located in an upscale Albuquerque neighborhood is the Jesse Pinkman house – this was where Walt and Jesse cooked while the residence was vacant and up for sale. It was originally owned by Jesse’s parents until Jesse purchased it himself.

With the exception of more vines growing along the exterior walls of the 4,544 square foot, Spanish Colonial revival home, it hasn’t changed a bit since being featured on Breaking Bad. In its early appearances on the show, the exterior and interior were both used for the Jesse house until a replica of the interior was built on a soundstage.

While the show depicted Jesse throwing wild, drug-fueled parties at the home, that probably wouldn’t have flown with the neighborhood IRL. In reality, it’s actually a super quiet place where the most activity you may find is people jogging or taking a stroll with their furry friends.

A1A Car Wash

What was once Octopus Car Wash, aka A1A Car Wash in the show, is now part of the larger “Mister Car Wash” chains in New Mexico. The location was used for both interior and exterior shots in Breaking Bad and is easily a must for any Breaking Bad tour of Albuquerque.

One of the coolest parts about the Breaking Bad car wash is that you’re not limited to just snapping a few shots outside – you can actually go inside where the show was filmed!

Well, obviously not where the cars are being washed – but there is a section of the building you can walk through and find cool photos from the show, autographed Breaking Bad posters, and at the end of the hall there’s even a vending machine dedicated to Breaking Bad merch!

Los Pollos Hermanos

Is there really a more iconic filming location for both Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul than Los Pollos Hermanos? One step inside the restaurant, which is actually part of the popular restaurant chain “Twisters” in real life, and you instantly recognize this as the site of Los Pollos Hermanos.

Filming was done both inside the building and outside – and that’s made evident by just how little the inside has been changed. You really feel like you’re having lunch at Los Pollos Hermanos when you eat at Twisters – except you won’t be able to get Gus’s chicken since it’s a Mexican restaurant (order the Twisters Burrito and I promise you won’t be disappointed!!)

This Twisters fully embraces its status as Gus Fring’s restaurant – having not only a massive Los Pollos Hermanos logo on the wall but also this awesome little shrine dedicated to photos from filming and autographs from your favorite Breaking Bad stars.

Tuco’s Headquarters

Tuco’s headquarters, aka Java Joe’s, is a popular coffee shop that’s been around for over 20 years and loved by many long before it made its television debut.

Thanks to Breaking Bad, however, the shop has had an influx of tourists visiting the location regularly to snap pictures at what is commonly recognized now as Tuco Salamanca’s former headquarters. Filming for the show was focused on the exterior of the building, but the explosion you see at the location was very real.

While it’s awesome that the production opted for realism here, it didn’t completely go off without a hitch. Remember the AC unit that flew off the building from the explosion? Yeah, that was 100% real and NOT supposed to happen.

Additionally, the explosion itself cracked the side of the building, leading to a hefty payout for the owner of the shop in order to make repairs.  

The Crossroads Motel

Coined “The Crystal Palace” by DEA agent Hank Schrader in Breaking Bad, the Crossroads Motel is a real motel operating out of Albuquerque. The motel was used for exterior shots and is most notably remembered as being Wendy’s place of business.

For those that don’t remember – Wendy, played by actress Julia Minesci, was a prostitute in the series. Julia, who is actually a local of Albuquerque, was completely transformed through makeup to play Wendy on the show. Her costume was apparently so convincing that she was propositioned by men several times while filming at the Crossroads Motel (yikes!).

The Abandoned Warehouse

The former site of Santa Fe Railway shops in Albuquerque, this location consists of 18 buildings created between 1915 and 1925. In the series, the rail yard was used as the location where drug dealers deposited payments for Gus Fring.

In addition to Breaking Bad filming here, the rail yard has also reportedly been used for many films and series that shoot in Albuquerque.

The Dog House

The Dog House drive-in restaurant was used in both Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul several times throughout the filming of both series. In Breaking Bad, it was the spot where Jesse Pinkman sold drugs before he attempted to sell to Tuco.

In Better Call Saul, it was the place where Saul started his cell phone selling side hustle. If you want to visit some seriously iconic locations during your Breaking Bad city tour, Dog House is a must – though you won’t find the picnic benches that were featured on the show since those were added exclusively for filming.

Saul Goodman Office Better Call Saul

Of course, we had to include some Better Call Saul filming locations, too! Day Spa & Nail, the location where Jimmy McGill maintains a closet-sized office space in the back, is actually a real nail salon and spa – and the sign featured on the outside is actually for the real business (minus the phone number).

The series also did use the interior of the real salon for filming, and even now the place looks almost exactly like what you see on the show. So, if you want to visit a cool Better Call Saul location AND get that Mani-Pedi you’ve been wanting – this is the place for you!

Chuck House Better Call Saul

Though filming at Chuck’s house in Better Call Saul was focused on the exterior, it’s definitely still worth a visit during your film location tour.

The gorgeous 3,428 square foot home acted as the residence of Chuck McGill, Jimmy’s brother, in Better Call Saul. The exterior still looks exactly like it did on the show, but don’t expect to find the mailbox where Chuck’s guests were forced to hide their electronics – that was added for the series!

The Candy Lady

The Candy Lady shop was never used in the series, but it’s an absolute must-stop for fans of Breaking Bad and especially those with a sweet tooth!

In addition to all the other tasty goodies The Candy Lady offers, they also have some Breaking Bad-themed “Blue Sky” sugar candy that’s delicious! (And only mildly addictive). Fans of the show can also have a photograph of themselves standing in front of a massive tub of the blue candy as a souvenir.

The Breaking Bad Store

If you want to pick up some sweet Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul merch during your trip, there’s no better place than The Breaking Bad Store. Here, you’ll find everything from mugs and figurines, to T-shirts and even a Breaking Bad Monopoly game!

Once you’re done spending some of that vacation money on cool souvenirs, you can also pop into the store’s mini museum. Pose for photos at the replica of Saul Goodman’s office or check out the real Breaking Bad costumes on display – there’s so much to see here!

Breaking Bad RV Tour

Being a resident of New Mexico and a major fan of Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, I’ve actually experienced a Breaking Bad RV Tour firsthand. The guided tour was cool and our tour guides had great enthusiasm for what they did and for the show, but my husband and I both agreed it wasn’t really how we wanted to experience a tour.

The seating was pretty cramped and the bus itself was hot (no matter how often the guide tried to cool it down for everyone). Additionally, there were a lot of locations the bus couldn’t visit because of time constraints and just the sheer size of the vehicle itself.

Breaking Bad Self Guided Tour

When I was given the opportunity to take the self-guided tour, I had an absolute blast! My husband and I started the tour at the time we wanted, stops were taken when WE needed them, and we got to see way more locations than literally any guided tour offers.

It was so much fun pulling up to a location on the tour and trying to see who could spot the filming site first. The self-guided Breaking Bad tour Albuquerque was honestly the most fun we’d had during our entire trip. If you’re looking for a true tour of Better Call Saul and Breaking Bad sites Albuquerque – the Velvet Ropes self-guided tour is where it’s at!

https://www.cheatsheet.com/entertainment/breaking-bad-how-much-jesse-pinkmans-house-sold-real-life-minus-meth-lab.html/

https://www.grubstreet.com/2018/01/los-pollos-hermanos-returns-for-breaking-bad-anniversary.html

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Fe_Railway_Shops_(Albuquerque)

https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/jesse-pinkman-house-sale-buy-811624/

https://breakingbad.fandom.com/wiki/Dog_House

.css-16urd06{margin:0;font-family:Roboto,sans-serif;font-weight:400;font-size:1rem;line-height:1.5;} .css-1eo6nkc{color:rgb(0, 0, 238);font-size:24px;-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;cursor:pointer;} Sarah Paschall

Sarah has written and edited for numerous media outlets in a variety of different niches – though entertainment is her all-time favorite topic to cover. When she is not hard at work researching and writing about Hollywood’s top talents for Velvet Ropes, Sarah enjoys working on her fiction novels, developing her blog, and gaming. You can follow Sarah on Twitter at: Twitter.com/tuspock91

11 'Breaking Bad' and 'Better Call Saul' filming locations you can visit in real life

Have you ever been watching your favorite TV show and thought to yourself, "Man, it would be cool to see that place in person"? For Mad Men and Downtown Abbey enthusiasts that's a no-brainer, but consider the gritty western world of Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul . A mini-break to the dusty, drug-filled neighborhoods of New Mexico doesn't sound nearly as appealing.

Or does it?

If you're a die-hard fan of either — or both — series, it very well might. Imagine it: You could one day be standing in the same spot where Walter White , played by Bryan Cranston, and Jesse Pinkman, played by Aaron Paul, robbed a train of methylamine. Or loiter outside Saul's strip-mall office building and search the nearby cars for tracking devices. Good times, right?

Seriously, though, if this sounds like a blast to you, you're not alone. There are plenty of fan sites that, through a little reconnaissance work, found many of the iconic locations Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul fans have come to know and love.

Here's a collection of the most memorable spots so you can finally take that road trip through meth country that you've been setting aside vacation days for.

Walter White's House — 3828 Piermont Drive, Albuquerque, New Mexico

All it's missing is the pizza on top of the roof. The White's residence in Albuquerque is actually owned by Frances Padilla , who's lived there for over 40 years. She probably had no idea she'd start seeing over 200 fans a day driving by to snap pictures when she originally leased it to the production company in 2008.

The A1A Car Wash — 9516 Snow Heights Circle, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Who could forget the car wash Skyler, played by Anna Gunn, gets her husband Walter to buy when they're looking for a way to account for his drug business funds? The real thing is actually called Octopus Car Washes , and believe it or not, there's an RV tour service that will take you right there. Pretty cool, huh?

Saul Goodman's Office — 9800 Montgomery Boulevard, Albuquerque, New Mexico

While Jimmy from Better Call Saul may not yet reside in the strip mall office pictured above, we know he's going to get down to that level eventually. According to Newscastic and fans who've visited the site, it's being turned into a restaurant, but the new owner is keeping the set door.

Los Pollos Hermanos — 4257 Isleta Boulevard Southwest, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Didn't that fried chicken always look so scrumptious? Well, if you want some, you'll have to head to Kentucky Fried Chicken, because Gus Fring's infamous Pollos Hermanos is actually a Twisters . It's a Mexican restaurant that specializes in burritos, but they do have chicken nuggets, if you want to stay true to the show.

Chuck McGill's house — 1607 San Cristobal Road, Albuquerque, New Mexico

G ood ol' Chuck — Jimmy's older brother whose "condition" keeps him away from anything that requires batteries — spent most of his time in the dark in this lovely abode. If you plan to visit, please make sure to leave your phone in the mailbox (no really, don't).

The first cook spot — To'hajiilee Indian Reservation, New Mexico

This beautiful, relatively unspoiled terrain is the site of two iconic moments on Breaking Bad : when Jesse and Walter first cooked meth in the Winnebago together, and the moment above, when Hank gets fatally shot in arguably the best episode of the series, " Ozymandias ." It's actually a Native American reservation that belongs to the Navajo Nation, so even without its fictitious roots, it's a pretty cool spot to visit.

Crossroads Motel — 1001 Central Avenue, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Who could forget the Crossroads Motel (aka the "Crystal Palace" ) where Wendy would proposition men in the parking lot for a dime bag or two? It's actually a pretty cool place to check out and even spend the night. You'll be right off the historic old Route 66, and there's a pool and free wifi.

Jimmy's first office and nail salon — 160 Juan Tabo Boulevard, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Whether you have a legal matter to discuss or you want to get your nails done (or both), Jimmy's first office doesn't disappoint.

Mike's tollbooth — 1st and Marquette (at the north end of the Albuquerque Convention Center), Albuquerque, NM.

Ah, the parking lot at the court house — the fateful spot where Mike Ehrmantraut, played by Jonathan Banks, and Jimmy meet for the first time, and begin their profitable yet arduous relationship. That's a must-see locale.

Mike's (and Jimmy's) meeting place restaurant — 4500 Central Avenue, Albuquerque, New Mexico

You might remember this spot more from when Mike would meet Lydia Rodarte-Quayle there to discuss business, but Jimmy's starting to utilize it as well. Check it out, have a tea and see if anyone suspicious-looking sits behind you.

Scrap yard in Breaking Bad — 5711 Broadway Boulevard, Albuquerque, New Mexico

And finally we have the scrap yard — the site where Walter White's drug deal escapades began. This is where Walter meets Tuco, played by Raymond Cruz, and learns quickly that he's trouble. The scrap yard is in fact a real recycling facility called Ace Metals where you can "get more cash for your scrap," according to the company's website. Perhaps the perfect spot to end your Breaking Bad road trip and head home, where it's safe.

Mic has ongoing Better Call Saul coverage. Please follow our Better Call Saul hub here .

Home > Road Trip Itineraries > West Coast > New Mexico Road Trip Itineraries > Take a Tour of the Breaking Bad Filming Locations in Albuquerque

Take a Tour of the Breaking Bad Filming Locations in Albuquerque

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Whether you happen to be in Albuquerque , located along Route 66 in New Mexico , by chance or on purpose, if you are a fan of Breaking Bad and its prequel Better Call Saul , you can use this guide to help you organize a trip to the most famous filming locations of the two series .

Breaking Bad Locations Tour Map

Los pollos hermanos, home of jesse pinkman, jesse and jane’s apartment, hank’s house, home of walter white, gus’ laundromat.

• Nail Salon / Saul Goodman’s Studio (In Better Call Saul)

Saul Goodman’s Studio

Crossroads motel, breaking bad location rv tour, extra: four corners monument.

Before you start to plan, however, we should tell you first that most of the places you will visit are private properties and, also because of the stunts some people pull, the owners are wary of strangers. Make sure to be polite and respectful of the privacy of others and try to take a souvenir photo or enjoy your experience without being too intrusive! Don’t blame them too much, if you were in their shoes, you wouldn’t like to have a crowd of tourists always in front of your house. So let’s set off on our  Breaking Bad Tour in Albuquerque.

The place owned by Gus Fring is also a fast-food restaurant and the only thing that makes it different from the restaurant in the TV series is the name. Above the entrance, you will see the sign of Twisters even if inside the restaurant you will find murals and posters that all refer to the most famous alter ego. You can also consider it not only for a souvenir photo but also for a lunch break. Address: 4257 Isleta Blvd

Houses of the Protagonists

The recommendation made at the beginning of the article should be headed especially when visiting the houses. You are visiting private homes . These are more than just film locations, so be respectful of the people who live there.

We’re referring to Jesse’s parents’ house, which he will then buy to use for his very lively parties. Address: 322 16th St SW

When he was forced to leave his previous home, Jesse moved into this apartment where you will see some of the most memorable scenes from the series. Address: 325 Terrace St SE

You’ll find it in a very nice area of Albuquerque at 4901 Cumbre del Sur Ct.

For this reason, the owners are particularly sensitive (and vigilant) about maintaining their privacy, so the advice is not to go beyond the curb to avoid problems. Address: 3828 Piermont Dr

Together with Walter White’s house, the car wash is perhaps one of the most iconic locations in the series. Even if you don’t need to wash your car, I suggest you take a ride inside it because you can find many gadgets inspired by the series including the reproduction of the ad distributed on the streets of Albuquerque when Walter “disappeared” mysteriously. Address: 9516 Snow Heights Circle

When the demand for production becomes higher, in order to be able to meet the demand, you must first of all have a more practical workplace than a motorhome and this is the reason for the workshop under the laundromat. Personally, I only visited the outside because on Saturday it was closed and I can’t tell you if the inside can be visited or not. However, you can try to ask once you are at 1617 Candelaria Rd NE.

Nail Salon / Saul Goodman’s Studio (In Better Call Saul )

Even the nail salon, which is inaugurated in the prequel Better Call Saul , is real. You’ll find it in an area of Albuquerque that is not very interesting, but the owners are very happy to let you take a souvenir photo. It is located at 160 Juan Tabo Blvd NE

You can photograph the exterior of Saul’s studio near a large parking lot at Montgomery Blvd NE

The motel where Wendy “works” can be photographed at 1001 Central Ave

These are definitely the stops I think you should make, but once you’re in town you can have fun discovering more Breaking Bad locations literally on every corner and build your own personal Breaking Bad self-guided tour of Albuquerque! Above you can see the map that shows the most important points that we have described, but if you are interested in a 3-hours Breaking Bad Guided Tour on an RV similar to Walter White’s, take a look here !

• Tour Highlights : Jesse’s House, Chucks, The Dog House, Peekaboo house, Tucco’s, Badgers corner, Combo’s Corner, The Railyard, Jessie’s RV Junkyard, Walt’s Mechanic,Jesse’s Porta Potty, Los Pollos Hermano’s, El Mechicano, The Grove, Crossroads Motel, Jane’s apartment, Danny’s, The Car Wash, Walt’s House, Sauls office, The Super Lab and more

Breaking Bad RV Tour

If you find a spot in the suggested tour, you can also look here .

If you’re planning on doing a road trip in the area around Albuquerque and you’re a big fan of the series why not include an episode at Four Corners ? In addition to visiting one of the most curious attractions in the United States, you can step into Skyler White’s shoes and let a coin decide what your next stop will be.

Warning: Operating hours can change and closures for extraordinary events can occur, so we strongly suggest to check the venues official websites.

Filippo Nardelli

I have a degree in History of North America and have always been fascinated by the United States.

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1 thought on “take a tour of the breaking bad filming locations in albuquerque”.

I was born in Albuquerque and I am watching the show for the first time. My father (91 years old) let me know they were filming in his neighborhood. He was fascinated by how efficient they were in filming several morning days in one day. It is fun to see places I know in Albuquerque especially a car wash I’ve brought my car to 100 times.

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This Albuquerque bike tour covers 'Breaking Bad' filming locations. Here's what it's like.

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – The temperature hovered near 100 degrees as we biked past seedy motels, drug dens, dive bars and abandoned warehouses.

It’s the most fun I’ve had on a two-wheeler in years.

Our group of eight – including guide Brad Frye – was on the Biking Bad tour through downtown Albuquerque to see a dozen sites where the iconic television series “ Breaking Bad ” was filmed.

The show, which aired on AMC from 2008-13 and can still be seen on Netflix, won 16 Emmys and is listed in the Guinness World Records 2014 edition  as the highest-rated TV series of all time based on its ranking of 99/100 on metacritic.com. 

“Breaking Bad” told the story of Albuquerque high school chemistry teacher Walter White – played by four-time lead dramatic actor Emmy winner Bryan Cranston – who was diagnosed with terminal cancer. To secure his family’s financial future before he died, White partnered with a former student – Jesse Pinkman (three-time supporting actor winner Aaron Paul) – to build a crystal-methamphetamine empire.

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True, the tour – which, according to the website lasts three hours and covers 7 miles –tour took us past some of the less-attractive parts of Albuquerque’s downtown. Frye, who has been leading Biking Bad tours for six years for Routes Bicycle Tours & Rentals and binge-watched the show three times, described the tour as an up-close look at the city’s “gritty Western charm.”

But we also pedaled past beautiful tree-lined neighborhoods with homes dating back more than a century and saw the progress of an ongoing downtown multimillion-dollar revitalization project. It’s led to the opening of upscale bars, theaters and art galleries along Albuquerque’s Central Avenue corridor – the historic Route 66.

'Breaking Bad' put spotlight on Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque’s sunny climate, wide-open desert spaces with expansive views of the Sandia Mountains just east of the city, cultural diversity and generous tax incentives have made it a popular filming location for movies and TV shows. No production has elevated the city’s visibility more than “Breaking Bad.”

“We definitely saw an uptick in tourism as a result of that show,” said Brenna Moore, communications manager for Visit Albuquerque , the city’s tourism board. “It raised the awareness of the city, particularly in international markets.”

“Breaking Bad” finished its run eight years ago. A popular spinoff called “Better Call Saul” – telling the story of Walter’s ethically challenged attorney Saul Goodman (four-time Emmy nominee Bob Odenkirk) – is still being filmed in Albuquerque.

Most of the prominent “Breaking Bad” filming locations can be seen on the bike tour, although a few – including Walter White’s house in the eastern part of the city – require a car ride. Here are my favorite “Breaking Bad” sites.

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Jesse Pinkman’s house

Bad things happened inside this stately, two-story Spanish Colonial home on a quiet street just a few blocks from downtown Albuquerque. Built in 1920, the 3,500-square-foot house went on the market in 2015 for $1.6 million . “Meth lab not included,” the listing agent for Coldwell Banker noted in a tongue-in-cheek press release.

Jesse’s fictional parents lived in an even older home just a few blocks away.  The Pinkman family house dates to 1909 .

The Candy Lady store

This shop in Old Town is a must-see for “Breaking Bad” aficionados who want to experience the dark humor that helped make the show so enthralling.

Owner Debbie Ball – “ the candy lady ” – first became well-known in Albuquerque when she started making X-rated cakes and candies in the 1980s. When “Breaking Bad” started production, she was approached by the show’s prop master to whip up a sugary concoction that looked like methamphetamine.

“The sex was good until the drugs started,” she joked about the evolution of her store.

Ball produced 150 pounds of blue-tinted rock candy that was used in the show’s first three seasons. Today, she says 20% to 30% of her sales are from “Breaking Bad” memorabilia, including packets of blue rock candy .

I ingested some while I channeled my inner Skinny Pete and Badger, two of the show’s meth-dealing characters. I didn’t get high, but I did get a tummy ache.

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Walter White’s house

“Breaking Bad” diehards know the address by heart – 308 Negra Arroyo Lane . Of course, that isn’t the real address of the White residence, a modest three-bedroom ranch in a section of town known as Northeast Heights.

Many of the show’s most dramatic – and amusing – scenes were filmed here. One of the most memorable is the episode from Season 3 in which Walt – upset that his wife Skyler wouldn’t let him dine with the family – tossed the pizza he'd brought home onto the roof . The pizza stuck.

Numerous fans have since tried to replicate Walt’s feat in a twisted sort of pilgrimage. It got so bad that the homeowner erected fencing around the property to keep pizza-slinging fans away and show creator Vince Gilligan issued a public plea for them to stop . There are also red cones on the street in front of the house to prevent gawkers from parking too close.

It is a private residence, so if you decide to visit, don’t linger. I took a photo from a block away and quickly departed. The homeowner was sitting in the front yard and it was clear she wasn’t keen on having company. Hard to blame her.

A-1 Car Wash

Fans of the show know that in the first season, Walt worked part time at a car wash to help make ends meet. Later in the series, he and Skyler bought the car wash as a front to launder millions of dollars of meth money.

That business, known as the  A1A Car Wash (“Have an A-1 day!” was a frequent line in the show) is a five-minute drive from the White residence. It’s now called Mister Car Wash , part of a Tucson, Arizona-based chain that owns more than 300 car washes in 21 states.

Los Pollos Hermanos, the Dog House and that motel

Our Biking Bad tour took us to several downtown eateries that were used as filming sites.  Java Joe’s , which drug dealer Tuco used as his hangout, is worth seeing for the colorful mural painted on the east side of the building.

The Dog House drive-in was a popular filming location and the place where Jesse gave away his cash to a homeless man. The restaurant’s retro neon sign with a tail-wagging dog is fun to see after dark.

Walt and meth conspirator Lydia frequently met at the Grove Café on Central Avenue, a popular breakfast spot. It’s where Walt poisoned Lydia with ricin-laced Stevia .

“People like to make the joke, ‘Be careful of the Stevia at the Grove,’” general manager Andrew LoBue said, adding that the restaurant’s appearances on the show “helped put us on the map.”

Just down the block from the Grove is the Crossroads Motel . The low-end lodge was depicted as a drug den and spot for other illicit activities. From the looks of it today, the Crossroads was perfectly cast.

Los Pollos Hermanos , which drug kingpin Gus Fring used as a base of operations, is really a fast-food restaurant called Twisters. It’s about a 20-minute drive south of downtown Albuquerque.

Seemingly every restaurant and hotel in the city has some sort of connection to “Breaking Bad.” We stayed downtown at the Hotel Andaluz , named after a region in Spain called Andalusia. When it opened in 1939, it was the first building in New Mexico with air conditioning.

The Andaluz hosted the wrap party for the cast and crew at the completion of the show’s final season.

Things to do in Albuquerque

• Visit Albuquerque:  https://visitalbuquerque.org .
• Routes Bicycle Tours & Rentals:  http://routesrentals.com .
• Hotel Andaluz:  https://hotelandaluz.com .

Dan Fellner of Scottsdale, Arizona, is a freelance travel writer. Contact him at  [email protected] or visit his website at https://global-travel-info.com .

How to do a self-guided Breaking Bad tour in Albuquerque

Breaking Bad fans just have to visit Alburquerque New Mexico and visit the Breaking Bad Filming Locations on a self guided Breaking Bad tour.

My husband and I are big fans of Breaking Bad.

We started watching it when we traveled around South America on one of our first big trips. It took us more than the 3 months that we were traveling to complete the series and when we were traveling around North America on our 3 month road trip across the States , we knew we had to stop off in Albuquerque, NM.

We’ve smashed through the series of Better Call Saul and enjoyed the Breaking Bad film, El Camino. I know we’re not the only ones, this series has something of a cult following.

When we lived in London I snapped up tickets to the Breaking Bad cocktail experience (it was held in a replica RV from the show and was so much fun).

Breaking Bad tour in Albuquerque? We just had to do it!

We didn’t know much about Albuquerque in New Mexico , other than the fact that Breaking Bad, and the spin-off show, Better Call Saul, were set there. Turns out it’s quite a nice town to explore. Old Town Albuquerque in particular was very nice.

But, the real reason you’re here reading this is for Breaking Bad so let’s get to it!

I’ve also included a Breaking Bad self guided tour map so you can see where all these places are.

If you’re looking for Breaking Bad locations to visit then you’re in the right place. Let’s cook!

Breaking Bad Tours in Albuquerque

There are several companies who run Breaking Bad tours throughout Albuquerque but, to our surprise, there are very few other companies cashing in on the show.

There was a doughnut store making Breaking Bad doughnuts (they have blue icing and blue ‘meth’ (sugar)), and a shop selling just the blue sugar, but not much else at all.

The tours range a lot in price and length. Some last all day and even take you out to the desert locations.

If you’d like to take an organized tour of the Breaking Bad film locations, this company seems quite fun. You’ll go past many of the filming locations mentioned in this post while riding in an RV like Walter White’s. 

Otherwise, it’s easy enough to organize and plan your own self-guided breaking bad tour in Albuquerque.

Here are some of the Breaking Bad tour locations to add to your list when you head out on your Breaking Bad driving tour. 

Your self guided Breaking Bad tour

PLEASE NOTE: These are real businesses and real peoples’ homes. In most cases, only the outside of the building was used in the show.

Do not walk all over their property and don’t hang around for ages.

Drive past, get your picture, reminisce (briefly), and move on. You’ll notice that at Walter White’s House, the couple who live there sit outside on their lawn all day. Apparently, the woman gets a little angry when people get out and take pictures on their Breaking Bad self tour.

Breaking Bad tour map in Albuquerque 

Add this map of my Albuquerque Breaking Bad tour to your phone to do your own self-guided Breaking Bad tour in Albuquerque. This Breaking Bad Albuquerque map has the top filming locations you’ve got to see. 

By adding it to your Google Maps app you can see the Breaking Bad locations map while you’re driving around.

Breaking Bad Filming Locations

Using the Breaking Bad tour Albuquerque map above, you can learn more about all of the filming locations for Breaking Bad featured in it by reading below.

Walter White’s House

One of the main stops on a Breaking Bad Albuquerque tour is Walter White’s house.

The two owners sit outside the house all day, every day so don’t make this an extended stop. Or they were when I visited. I believe they now have big gates and fences around their house instead these days.

Their anger is understandable when you know that people have thrown pizza up onto their roof and tried to peer inside.

Only the exterior was used in Breaking Bad and, although it’s been painted since, you should recognize it pretty clearly.

If you drive past slowly as we did you should get away without any abuse thrown at you.

You’ll find the Breaking Bad house address on the map above just off Montgomery BLVD.

Hank and Marie’s House

Hank and Marie’s house is in a pretty plush area. There are big houses and lovely desert views. This Breaking Bad self-guided tour stop also has some nice hikes at the back of it for a good view of Albuquerque.

If you’re keen on visiting the houses then add this to your Breaking Bad house tour! 

Twisters – Los Pollos Hermanos

In real life, Los Pollos Hermanos is called Twisters. It doesn’t sell fried chicken either, but burritos.

There are a few Twisters around Albuquerque but the one used as a Breaking Bad filming location is the one I’ve marked out on the map above. There’s also a huge Los Pollos Hermanos mural on the wall.

If you’re hungry for some New Mexican fast food, pop in!

The Breaking Bad Car Wash – Mister Car Wash

Who knew a car wash could have such a seedy secret? In Breaking Bad Walt and Skyler use their A1A car wash to hide their cash influx.

You can pull in here for a wash which I recommend since you’ll find man gadgets inside inspired by the series. This includes a reproduction of the ad distributed on the streets of Albuquerque when Walter mysteriously disappeared.

Or, you can of course just snap some photos from the outside during your DIY Breaking Bad tour. 

Casa Tranquila

Casa Tranquila is the nursing home and assisted living facility where Hector “Tio” Salamanca lived after his nephew Tuco Salamanca was killed.

It was the location of the bombing that killed Gustavo ‘Gus’ Fring, Hector Salamanca, and Tyrus Kitt.

The Laundromat – Delta Linen Supply

I don’t think there’s a super meth lab underneath this laundry, but who knows?

This is the location that set the stage for tense moments in season 4 of Breaking Bad when Walt used the basement as his meth lab.

Hooligans Tavern – Saul Goodman’s office

Hooligan’s Tavern, now The Dirty Bourbon, is what was used as the exterior of Saul’s office. was shot and no Breaking Bad tour would be complete without a nod to Saul Goodman. You’ll find his office filming location at Hooligan’s Tavern.  

Why not pop in and grab a beer whilst paying your respects to the sleaziest lawyer in the Southwest?

Jesse Pinkman’s Home

This is the location of Jesse Pinkman’s first home where we saw hydrofluoric acid, a dissolving body in the bathtub, and a heap of fleshy bits all over the hallway.

The location changed during the second series of Breaking Bad – but the second location is not too far away on 16th Street.

Jesse and Janes House

When Jesse had to leave his parents’ home (above), he moved into this apartment which is where you’ll remember some of the most memorable scenes from Breaking Bad taking place.

to leave his previous home, Jesse moved into this apartment where you will see some of the most memorable scenes from the series.

Crossroads Motel

Known as the “The Crystal Palace” in Breaking Bad, it was home to Wendy.

It was used many times throughout the series, located along Central Avenue (Old US 66), next to Interstate 25.  You will see the sign on the highway.

Java Joe’s

Tuco’s headquarters stands out thanks to the art on the side of the building.

Java Joe’s is really a local coffee shop that serves up great breakfast food, baked goods, and some live music from time to time.

To’hajiilee Reservation

Start or end your self-guided Breaking Bad tour here, this is where Walter and Jesse first parked their RV meth lab and where important final scenes were filmed.

The dry, rocky terrain of the To’hajiilee Reservation, formerly known as the Canoncito Indian Reservation, is both isolated and beautiful.

La Palomita Park

Another of the top Breaking Bad tour stops is this quiet, peaceful park. This is the park where Mike takes his Granddaughter to play many times throughout the show.

There was no one else there when we went and it’s a great spot to chill for a while.

Zen Nail Spa

Saul suggests Jesse buy this nail spa in Breaking Bad series 3.

Though you used to be able to actually get your nails done by Saul Goodman’s real pedicurist at Zen Nail Spa since the nail techs here were extras in the scenes

These days it’s unfortunately permanently closed. You can still view it from the outside though!

BONUS Breaking Bad locations in Albuquerque

Here are a couple more Breaking Bad, Albuquerque sites to add to your list.

They’re not quite Breaking Bad filming locations, but these Albuquerque Breaking Bad sites are good spots to get some Breaking Bad-inspired treats.

The Candy Lady

The Candy Lady has cashed in on Breaking Bad’s success. She makes blue meth sugar which you can buy for yourself and fellow Breaking Bad fans. Apparently, the sugar was even used as props on set!

Rebel Donuts

* Permanently closed now*

Grab yourself a tasty blue meth doughnut.

These doughnuts are covered in blue icing and blue meth sugar. They’re delicious!

FAQs about this Breaking Bad Tour Albuquerque

Where was breaking bad filmed.

Breaking Bad was primarily filmed in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA. The city provided a unique Southwestern backdrop that greatly contributed to the show’s aesthetic.

Where is Breaking Bad set?

Breaking Bad is set in Albuquerque, New Mexico. From the desert stretches to car washes and homes, Albuquerque plays a pivotal role in representing the transformation of Walter White in the series.

Final thoughts on this tour and Breaking Bad Filming Locations map

And that’s the end of this Breaking Bad Tour Albuquerque. Hopefully, you’ve found the Breaking Bad self tour map useful as you relive your favorite moments from this awesome TV series.

From Walter’s House to Jesse Pinkman’s House, the laundromat. and the car wash, this do it yourself Breaking Bad Albuquerque tour includes some of the best sites from the show.

Since Better Call Saul was also filmed in Albuquerque and features a lot of the same buildings, you can also use this a little bit as a Better Call Saul Tour.

Don’t forget to use the Breakin bad locations map to see where to find all these spots!

If you’re visiting Albuquerque as part of a longer USA road trip like we were, be sure to check out the city of Austin, and the best things to do in Marfa as well as what to do in El Paso as we visited those places before making our way over to New Mexico.

I also recommend stopping in White Sands National Park, or heading over to the Grand Canyon in Arizona if you’re headed West.

Last Updated on July 18, 2023 by Hannah

Hannah started That Adventurer after graduating back in 2013 and has documented all of her adventures since then. From backpacking South America to city breaks in Europe , a 3 month road trip across the USA in a self-converted van and 6 years living in Canada , you’ll find posts on all of this.

Hannah specialises in active travel and on That Adventurer you’ll find hiking, walking, biking, skiing and all sorts of active travel guides to allow you to see a destination in an adventurous way.

Now back in Europe, you’ll find new guides as Hannah and her husband spend the next year ‘digital nomading’ from Norway to Portugal, Switzerland to Scotland and places in between.

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Brilliant – me and my fiance are driving coming from the UK and driving from New York to Florida and then west all the way to Las Vegas to get married, with a 2 day stop in Alburquerque. Can’t wait to do this 😀

That sounds awesome and congratulations!

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“Breaking Bad” Filming Locations You Can Visit

Thursday, August 5, 2021 9:00 AM by Brittney

“Breaking Bad” has ended its drama series, but here in Albuquerque, locals celebrate the show daily by interacting with the businesses that were featured on the show. Fans from all over the world flock to see Walter White’s house and Jesse’s condo, but what about the other iconic places that had some of the most memorable scenes on television? 

Below is a list (and some fun facts) of a few places you can visit in Albuquerque that will excite even the biggest fan—just remember to tread lightly.

Java Joe’s

Tuco’s Headquarters. Tuco, the calm, always happy, distributor, was quick to beat up Jesse. Not long after that, Walt gets involved and blows up Tuco’s office. 

( Fun Fact : Java Joe’s is known for its coffee, but it also has a wide selection of breakfast options including crepes.)

Casa Furniture

Formerly known as Best Quality Vacuum, which was the legitimate name of a business here in Albuquerque, this was the place to go when someone needed to be “extracted.” 

Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum

Made to look like a store where Marie was first seen shoplifting shoes. 

This is also where Walt and Gretchen have their first scene together talking about “the chemical makeup” for Gray Matter.

First Plaza Center

Skyler’s lawyer’s office is located Downtown and is home to several attorneys’ offices.

( Fun Fact : The offices of Visit Albuquerque are in the same building. Stop in to learn more about what there is to do while visiting.)

Dirty Bourbon Dance Hall & Saloon

Though this isn’t exactly where Saul Goodman’s office is, it is just steps away from the real location. 

Reynolds Auto Services

Who can forget Badger? Badger asked his cousin if Jesse could store his RV in his lot. This is also where Jesse has his porta potty incident. 

Rio Grande Fruits & Vegetables

In the episode titled “Peek-a-boo,” Spooge and his lady steal the ATM located inside the store and plan to break it open to get the money inside. 

The Grove Cafe & Market

Chamomile tea and Stevia, please! The end of Lydia. 

( Fun Fact : The Grove is known for exquisite breakfasts and lunches, as well as for its freshly baked goods.)

Savoy Bar & Grill

After Gretchen discovers that Walter lied to his family about her and Elliott paying for his cancer treatment, they meet to chat. The discussion escalates, and Walter insults her. 

Isleta Resort and Casino

This resort serves as the rehab center Jesse attends, known as Serenity. The resort is also where Walt moved his family temporarily, after Jesse broke into the White residence and soaked the house in gasoline. 

( Fun Fact : The resort has so many things to do! When you visit, you can play a round of golf, take the family bowling, catch a live show and of course try your luck at the slots.)

Loyola’s

A favorite dining/meet-up spot for Mike to conduct his business.

The original Los Pollos Hermanos where Walt first meets Gus. 

Louie’s Pub & Grill

Another favorite hangout place for Mike. Also where Mike beats up Walt after he asks Mike to set up a meeting with Gus. 

Hinkle Family Fun Center

Saul attempted to convince Walter and Skyler to invest in a laser tag business to launder their money. “Scientists love lasers”

Gertrude Zachary Jewelry

The store where Marie stole the tiara and gives it to the baby at Skyler’s baby shower.

( Fun Fact : The store does not sell any kind of crowns. Don’t ask.)

Delta Uniform & Linens

Gus’ laundry service that is the front for the lab.

Civic Plaza

Hank and Gomez arrange for Jesse to wear a wire and meet with Walter at Civic Plaza in order to trick Walt into confessing that he was Heisenberg.

Holocaust & Intolerance Museum

When a group of jocks started making fun of Walt Jr.,Walter got angry and he snapped and beat up a kid.

Dog House Drive In

Jesse sat in his car and gave money to a homeless man who knocked on his window before driving off.

Simms Building

The Drug Enforcement Administration’s headquarters for the Albuquerque and the El Paso Division.

Crossroads Motel

Nicknamed by Hank “The Crystal Palace.” 

Gonzalez Mechanical

The Beneke offices where Ted and Skyler work together.

( Fun Fact : The name “Beneke” is a play on “Ben E. Keith,” an actual food and alcohol distribution business with a warehouse in Albuquerque.) 

Albuquerque International Sunport

When Walter pretended that he was going to visit his mother, he was dropped off here by Skyler. As soon as Skyler was out of sight, Jesse arrived in the RV and they left the airport. 

Mister Car Wash

“Have an A1 day!” A1 Car Wash that Walt and Skyler buy to launder their money. 

( Fun Fact : Walt’s former boss (eyebrows) at the car wash is a chemist in real life.)

Garduno’s Restaurant

Walter, Skyler, Hank and Marie met here after Hank became aware that Walt was in fact “Heisenberg.” What an awkward dinner. 

Albuquerque Rail Yards

This location serves as a backdrop for the “Breaking Bad” promotional artwork.

( Fun Fact : Every Sunday from May through October, the Rail Yards are filled with local vendors and food. Open to the public and the perfect place to find some local treats.)

Gino’s New York Style Pizzeria

Formerly known as Venezia Pizza. The place where Walter got the pizza that he throws on the roof of his house.

( Fun Fact : The house that served as the exterior of Walter and Skyler’s home is a private residence, and the homeowners will not allow people on their premises. “Stay out of my territory.”) 

Author: Brittney

Isleta Pueblo and New Mexico Native, Brittney is a designer and artist at heart. Passionate about culture and art, Brittney finds ways to incorporate New Mexico's unique lifestyle into something visual. She is always out catching a show at venues all over the city and sharing Albuquerque's accomplishments. Brittney was the Interactive & Graphics Designer for Visit Albuquerque. The opinions shared on this blog are her own.

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Road Trip USA - A Breaking Bad Pilgrimage to Albuquerque

What qualities do you look for in a road trip companion? I'd hazard a guess that a compatible personality and common interests may play a part. But may I suggest that someone that doesn't flinch when you suggest throwing a pizza on a roof might be someone suitable?

Part of the impetus for our cross American road trip was my complete obsession with the television show Breaking Bad. Every week I look forward to a new episode and I became enthralled with the writing, cinematography and performances. One of the features was the unique Albuquerque landscape featured so prevalently in the show.

So why couldn't we just make Albuquerque one of our stops on the road trip? Why not indeed!

Much of Breaking Bad was shot in Albuquerque and there are plenty of sources all over the internet that detail the addresses of the locations and homes. But to get our bearings, we start off with a tour of Albuquerque by the ABQ trolley company.

They also do Breaking Bad tours but these are sold out for months ahead and they don't seem to be in a hurry to schedule in any more. Their regular city tour incorporates some Breaking Bad stops. They are also called Jesse and Mike (both Breaking Bad characters). There are only two tours a day and both are very full carrying about 50 people in the stucco decorated trolley.

The tour goes through several types of neighbourhoods starting with an affluent neighbourhood - Breaking Bad fans might recognise this as Jesse Pinkman's house at 322 16th street, SW Albuquerque. Houses in this area fetch over $1million USD and considering the average house price in Albuquerque is $179,000USD, it is certainly an expensive suburb.

This is Ted Beneke's house-where he had that accident-sorry is that a spoiler? Okay a warning, there are some early season spoilers in this

They explain that because New Mexico has so many different types of neighbourhoods, it's often used as a filming location. This is given extra impetus because of the state's 25% tax rebate. Each episode of Breaking Bad cost $2.7 million US dollars and $1 million USD from each episode was put back into the state through monies spent and people employed.

We drive through East Downtown where we learn some interesting facts about the Parq Hotel where we're staying. It used to be a railroad hospital, psychiatric hospital and a T.B. hospital. And now it's a hotel where we are staying! It's said to be the best hotel in town but we found the rooms quite peculiar and missing what are normal features like a writing desk and chair and a mini bar.

Before Route 66, this area was known as TB Avenue. People travelled here to get rid of TB and at one point 25% of people living here had TB. The mild winter, low humidity and sunshine that meant that TB couldn't flourish.

Nob Hill, where Bryan Cranston bought his home (which is also the condo where Walter White lived when Skyler first threw him out) is full of bungalows in Puelo Revival style. People are friendly all over Albuquerque and every time we pass a crowd, people wave. Some people are more unusual than others. At one stop a woman weaves over to us, she could have been an extra in Breaking Bad and we all breathe a sigh of relief when she stops short of getting on the trolley.

We pass through Barelas, a working class neighbourhood and the Hispanic centre of Albuquerque. The abandoned railyards although looking quite desolate, are used for building enormous sets including ones for Breaking Bad.

One of my favourite stops was the infamous Crossroads hotel where prostitute Wendy entertained Jesse Pinkman. Incidentally, it is diagonally across the road from our hotel and we contemplated staying there for about a second ;)

The tour is over and it's time for Belinda and I to go off exploring on our own. Belinda and I had read that the woman that owns the Crossroads Motel was less than fond of Breaking Bad fans coming in and gawking and then leaving without paying so we decide to offer to pay the tariff in order to take a peek at the hotel room by ourselves.

We walk into the reception area and inquire about the room rate. She asks for how many people and I answer one person. "It's $38.55 for one person but that's just one person" she says eyeing up Belinda suspiciously.

I figure we should probably fess up so we tell her that we are Breaking Bad fans and that we'd love to stay in the room that they filmed the episodes in and pay for it. She tells us that the guest in the room, #211 has just checked out and that it hasn't been clean so she can't let us have the room.

She queries us about the show clearly perplexed at the show's appeal. At least 20 people a day stop by and taking photos but "It's a show that glorifies drugs-why do you like it?" We explain that it's well written and acted and she concedes that her son is an enormous fan. Given the drug related scenes that were shot at the motel, she's still reluctant to embrace it.

"I just had someone call me and say 'Can I speak to Wendy?'" she says outraged. "It's just a movie! It's just a movie!" she says repeatedly.

And as if on cue her son Guy enters and she explains to him that we've come from Australia to do a Breaking Bad tour. "Cool!" he says and he is keen to talk about the show. They point out the couch on which the actress that played Wendy (Julia Minesci who works at a nearby casino) sat and had her teeth painted over to look like an addict. There is a display selling tinned chilli, luncheon meat and beans for guests to buy.

He's more than willing to show us the doorway although his mum won't let us in the room. He explains that room 211 and 212 are popular because they are adjoining rooms that allowed the crew to store their equipment in one room while filming in another. The movie "Sunshine Cleaning" was also shot in those rooms.

The crew of Breaking Bad also brought in a lot of their own furniture and even his mother said that they were very pleasant to work with. Guy points out the place where they put the vending machine which was a set item.

He mentions that the cast were very friendly. Both Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul bought houses here in Albuquerque. Unfortunately for Aaron Paul, his place was broken into twice.

Guy has to go back to work so we bid him goodbye and head to our next stop: Twisters aka El Pollos Hermanos. Unlike Crossroads Motel, the store embraces the link with Breaking Bad. Incidentally, it isn't a chicken fast food place but a Mexican fast food establishment.

There are several locations but the one at Isleta Drive is where filming took place. You can take a seat at the table where Walt first met Gus (the one on the right). It's completely empty today and we look at the menu and order something.

A sign at the front door tells us that they now sell milk and confusingly, a sign for El Pollos Hermanos induces a fried chicken craving but alas there is none here.

I wish I could say that I liked the food but we didn't. The chips were underdone and pale and the chilli sauce and burrito was not a good example of each.

Every location seems to be about 14 minutes drive away from each other and it would be completely remiss to not visit the White house. Shooting on the series has completely wrapped so there's no sign of Walter, Skyler or Walt Junior here today. Located at Piermont Drive NE Albuquerque we recognise it as soon as we drive up Orlando street to Piermont Drive seeing the familiar view.

"There's no way you could throw a pizza on that roof" we both observe standing in front of Walt and Skyer's house. The roof is very smooth and we are not sure how close we can get to it without disturbing the peace.

A neighbour (not Carol) has already clocked us as Breaking Bad fans as several hundred make the pilgrimage every month to see the house. Apparently the woman who owns the house is very friendly but we are reluctant to knock on the door. We retreat back to the car after a while.

Our car is in desperate need of a debugging and it's good timing as the Octopus Car Wash is nearby. We stop by the location of Walt and Skyler's business.

There's a Breaking Bad shirt and the Candy Lady Blue Sky rock candy for sale alongside some Hello Kitty trinkets. The checkout counter is differently laid out to that on the show where it is closer to the door. There are plenty of framed, signed posters on the walls.

Three other people there are also Breaking Bad fans, two from out of state who have made the pilgrimage. One is a local who desperately wants to talk about the latest episode which we have yet to watch. About 10 minutes later, our car is ready-they didn't do a bad job-apart from the massive smudge on the driver's side!

One of my favourite characters is Saul Goodman and his law offices are located at 9800 Montgomery Blvd NE, Albuquerque. There's no trace of the blow up Statue of Liberty. Now it is a dance hall and saloon.

About 12 minute's drive from here is Hank and Marie's house. Closer to the mountains, the neighbourhood is full of stunning houses. It's a neighbourhood I can easily imagine living in and we figure that Hank must be doing well at the DEA and Marie as an X ray technician to afford living there. The house on Cumbre Del Sur Court Northeast, Albuquerque looks exactly like it does on the show. We can almost picture a small toy car buzzing at our heels.

One of the funniest and most excruciating scenes is a recent episode in Season 5 where Walt, Skyler, Marie and Hank try and have a discussion about the future at Garduno's. Their waiter repeatedly comes back to their table and his last offer is for a guacamole. "You gotta try our guacamole, we make it for you right at the table." They never did get the guacamole...

So around 7pm, we decided that we were done with the location scouting and would make our way to dinner at Garduno's - to have the guacamole at the table of course.

It's an enormous restaurant with a front bar area. The whole restaurant is brightly and attractively themed and is incredibly busy this Tuesday night. Our waitress asks to see our IDs which is Belinda's highlight of the trip. "God bless you" she says to the woman.

The guacamole has become a popular menu item because of the show. The table where the four sat is occupied when we arrive but we sit at the table next to it. We order a margarita flight which changes daily. Today's is a house margarita, blood orange, blue acapulco and silver corn margarita.

Our waitress brings a trestle and tray to our table and starts preparing the guacamole. She explains the process to us and the ingredients and checks for allergies. The ingredients include Hass avocados, pimentos, tomato, onion and garlic. "The garlic is very important" she says and she starts pressing the garlic in oil and then adds in the rest of the ingredients. It takes about five minutes at the table. She tells us that on Friday nights, there is one person dedicated to making the guacamole.

And how does the guacamole taste? It's actually very tasty and completely moreish. Despite the fact that we have dinner at another location, we manage to polish off quite a bit of this enormous bowl. The manager stops by and our waitress tells him that we've come from Australia and he asks if we can come back another day to sit at the table. Sadly, we are off early the next day but it was nice of him to offer.

Our final destination on our home made Breaking Bad tour was one that didn't exactly feature on Breaking Bad but was one of the star Bryan Cranston's favourite places to eat, El Pinto. He claims that it exemplifies New Mexican cuisine.

It's quite a bit further away but that doesn't seem to matter to patrons as the car park is full this evening. Patrons take a number and wait for the number to be called - much like yum cha although the enormous size means that there are several tables free.

Our waitress is very friendly and dissuades us from ordering an extra salad because the servings are enormous. They also tell us that they have their own salsa factory on location that makes the salsa in a mild or medium heat.

The most famous dish here are the red chilli pork ribs. In fact the whole time I was in Albuquerque they were all I was thinking of. They're smothered in dried red chillies and cooked until so moist, tender and spicy. We chose a side of rice and beans and a salad with ranch dressing and it's a meal that could easily feed a hungry beast-or just two gals, your choice :)

The Wall Street Journal called these the best nachos in America in 2006. It's safe to assume given the size that we barely made a dent in these nachos. It was a half serve and I can't imagine how large a full serve would be. It's made up of yellow and blue corn tostadas topped and double stacked with cheddar and monterey jack cheese, pinto beans, guacamole, sour cream, green chile, and fresh jalapeños and shredded lettuce.

Completely full, we go back to our room with blue ice crystals, chilli fudge and finally get a chance to watch the Breaking Bad episode. It's the perfect end to a Breaking Bad day...

So tell me Dear Reader, are you a Breaking Bad fan? If you could be in any show, what would it be?

ABQ Trolley Tour

http://www.abqtrolley.com/

Want to do your own Breaking Bad Tour? These addresses are all easily found on the internet but here's a quick guide. Some places have multiple locations and the ones below are the locations where shooting took place.

Jesse Pinkman's House

322 16th Street SW, Albuquerque, New Mexico 8710

Ted Beneke's House

Visited during the ABQ trolley tour

The Dog House

1216 Central Ave SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102

Crossroads Motel

1001 Central Ave NE Albuquerque, NM 87106, United States +1 505-242-2757

Twisters (El Pollos Hermanos)

4257 Isleta Blvd SW, Albuquerque, NM 87105, United States Phone:+1 505-877-2727

White Residence

3828 Piermont Drive NE Albuquerque

Octopus Car Wash

9516 Snow Heights Circle NE, Albuquerque, NM 87112

9621 Menaul Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87112

Saul Goodman's Office

9800 Montgomery Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111

Schrader Residence

4901 Cumbre Del Sur Ct NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111

2100 Louisiana Blvd NE, Albuquerque +1 505-880-0055

10500 4th St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114, United States Phone:+1 505-898-1771

Read these next: » Quirky Albuquerque, New Mexico » Road Trip USA: There's Nowhere Like New Orleans Part 1 » Road Trip USA - Turning Cajun in Lafayette, Louisiana » Road Trip USA: The Big Daddy of Fairs, The Dallas State Fair » USA Road Trip: Shreveport To Tyler, Texas » Hoedown In Houston » USA Road Trip: Spicy San Antonio, Texas! » USA Road Trip: New Mexico to San Antonio, Texas » Road Trip USA - A Pilgrimage To Lockhart, The BBQ Capital of Texas » USA Road Trip: Dallas, Texas

Published on 2014-02-06 by Lorraine Elliott .

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Reel Travels: Breaking Bad Fun in Albuquerque, New Mexico

In March, I embarked on a three-week road trip from New York to Phoenix, Arizona. I met my son, and we then flew to Los Angeles to see Wrestlemania 39! Honestly, Wrestlemania was one of the best things I’ve ever done, and sharing the premiere event with my son was incredible. It took me weeks to plan this road trip, but I knew that one of my stops would be Albuquerque to visit the Breaking Bad Store.

I am a huge Breaking Bad fan. It is one of the best-written shows on television in the last 20 years. I remember when my son first told me about it. It typically isn’t the type of show I would get into on my own, but he said, “Mom, get through the first episode. Trust me. You’ll be hooked.” He was so right.

A few years ago, I had the pleasure of interviewing the owners of the Breaking Bad Tours for the Reel Travels podcast. The tour sounds wonderful, but it’s three hours, and I was on a short visit through town. Unfortunately, I put that tour on the back burner until the next time I was in town. I would still highly recommend it to any Breaking Bad fan.

Breaking Bad Store AND Museum!

But if you only have a short time to visit Albuquerque, you must go to the Breaking Bad Store . Now here’s the catch. I did not know that this store also had a Breaking Bad museum in the back!!!! You should have seen me when I went through this doorway! It lead to so much of the memorabilia from the show — costumes, props, artwork, etc. I was so excited! (You can’t buy any of the memorabilia, but there are many photo ops.) My visit went from a quick run-in to buy a souvenir to more than an hour’s visit because I was looking through all of the stuff they had. Don’t get me wrong. I still bought many, many, many souvenirs. LOL

Above is a photo of various wardrobes they have on display, and I’m sure that you recognize the shirt and underwear from the pilot episode (I didn’t ask, but I read that someone paid $10,000 for the original underwear and this shirt looks slightly different than the pictures I see from the show, but they have other costumes that are marked with authenticity numbers).

I realized that I didn’t take as many photos as I wanted — I took many videos! So I will be posting the videos on my Instagram for my website, The Virgin Traveler.

Here are some of the photos I took. First up, I sat on the Better Call Saul ad bench (call me!). Next, there is a photo opp in Hector Salamanca’s wheelchair and you can step behind a mock Los Pollos Hermanos counter! Or visit the real Twisters in Albuquerque like I did, which stood as Los Pollos Hermanos in the show (keep scrolling).

Souvenir City

I left with some of the famous products made by Walter and Jesse (which is really just peppermint candy). I also bought the store’s candy version of what they call “crack,” which is just yummy popped cheese snacks. My haul also included two drinking glasses (one for my son), the Jesse ‘bitch’ notebook, and even a Walter White Christmas ornament. LOL I don’t know why I bought a Walter White Christmas ornament, but I did and it will go on my tree this year.

After a long time visiting this store (and a shout out to the really sweet owners, Ed Candelaria and Marq Smith, who I had a chance to talk to and tell them about my blogs), I went to Twisters, which is home to Breaking Bad’s Los Pollos Hermanos. Keep in mind if you visit, there are a couple of locations, so make sure you go to the right one on Coors Rd SW. Here I am, and don’t mind the hair. It was a very windy day.

I tried one of their delicious burritos, but I have to admit, it had too much of a kick for me to finish (Ej gladly finished it for me). Once I was done here, there was time for one more stop, and it had something to do with pizza.

Walter White’s House

Remember, it’s a windy day! Oh, that hair! I also want to say that the pizza in my hands was added in digitally by my daughter. I didn’t have a pizza and no pizzas were thrown in the making of this photo. If you’re not a Breaking Bad fan, the pizza refers to a scene in the series where Walter throws a pizza on top of his roof. Check it out here (Bryan Cranston did that on the first take!). Walter White’s house is not too much farther away. It’s readily available on the internet, but I’m not posting it here. The homeowners are nice enough to allow people to come by and take photos, but there are some stipulations. First, there is a sign out front asking fans to stand across the street and take their photos. If their garage door is open, there is a cover over their license plate. Have respect for these people, please. Don’t go closer than across the street. You will get a good shot.

I had so much fun visiting these three places, but I also know there is so much more to see as a Breaking Bad fan, including the car wash and Jesse’s home, but I had to get on my way and get to Phoenix to see my son!

Author: Lisa Iannucci

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• Albuquerque

Breaking Bad RV Tours

1919 Old Town Rd NW, Albuquerque , New Mexico 87104 USA

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Learn more about this business on Yelp .

Miss Breaking Bad and love Better Call Saul take a tour in the RV just like the one on the show. We tour over 20 Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul Locations. Tour include a light lunch or dinner and we get out and take pictures at Los Pollos Hermanos, The Car Wash, Walts House, Better Call Sauls Office, The Super lab. Locations can change daily depending on filming Sechedule. To book a Tour go to our website

Reviewed by Elyse J.

We went with Frank on the Breaking Bad RV Tour in Albuquerque, and it was a blast! Plenty of sights to see from both Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, plus even some spots in El Camino too. You... Read more

Reviewed by Melissa S.

We had an excellent tour in the RV. Had to book well in advance to get an option to ride in the RV but it was worth it for the experience and to have a bit smaller group tour (the bus looked nice... Read more

Reviewed by Courtney S.

Frank, our host, was so entertaining and engaging. Very fun tour that included video supplements from the shows along the way, along with some great comedic clips relating to the show (that may... Read more

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