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Best Date Spots Near Rio Rancho

Posted on January 25, 2022

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner which means it’s time to make plans with your special someone. Rio Rancho and the surrounding area is home to some great date spots for the big night or any romantic occasion. Whether you’ve been married for decades, or this is your first Valentine’s Day together, we’ve picked our favorites to make sure your day is truly extraordinary, all within the Albuquerque and Rio Rancho area.

Joe’s Pasta House in Rio Rancho

Joe’s has a cozy and ambient atmosphere with a delicious Italian menu and friendly staff. Owners Joe and Kassie Guzzardi bring their NYC baking and culinary expertise to New Mexico with a delicious selection featuring alfredo, gnocchi, green chile ravioli, as well as steak and seafood options.

• Address: 3201 Southern Blvd SE
• Distance from Mariposa: 20 minutes
• Pricing: $$

M’tucci’s Moderno in Rio Rancho

At M’tucci’s Moderno, you can enjoy a moderately priced Italian menu built on a foundation of both traditional and contemporary recipes. Along with a bar and large seating area, you’ll be able to experience M’tucci’s delicious pizza, shrimp campanelle, fried brie and much more.

• Address: 1908 Wellspring Ave SE
• Distance from Mariposa: 20 minutes
• Pricing: $$

Private Hot Air Balloon Ride in Albuquerque

With Fly Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Tours, you and your date can soar over the beautiful New Mexico landscape. Explore the scenic Rio Grande River Valley with a private tour for just you and your date along with an experienced flight crew. Flights are typically three hours long.

• Address: 417 Richmond Dr SE
• Distance from Mariposa: 40 minutes
• Pricing: $$$

Round 1 Albuquerque

Located at Albuquerque’s Coronado Shopping Center, Round 1 is a great place to have fun for those looking to ditch the typical date night. Choose from bowling, karaoke, arcade games, pool, darts and a large selection of food and drinks.

• Address: 6600 Menaul Blvd NE
• Distance from Mariposa: 40 minutes
• Pricing: $$

Kelly Jo Designs by Wine in Los Ranchos de Albuquerque

Perfect for the artsy couple who want a painting to commemorate their special night, Kelly Jo Designs has many experienced instructors who guide you through the joy of painting while unlocking your inner artistic nature. Sip and paint while you create your own unique masterpiece.

• Address: 6829 4th St NW
• Distance from Mariposa: 35 minutes
• Pricing: $$

Electric Playhouse in Albuquerque

If you’re looking to dance, play and let loose on your date, look no further than the Electric Playhouse. Get lost in the magic of this projection-based digital gameplay arena that also features a dance floor, DJs, live music and plenty of food.

• Address: 5201 Ouray Rd NW
• Distance from Mariposa: 40 minutes
• Pricing: $$

Il Vicino in Albuquerque

If you’re looking for a refined, traditional wood-fire pizza experience, Il Vicino has you covered. Their menu includes gourmet-inspired toppings such as goat cheese, fiery shrimp or roasted chicken. They also serve up amazing calzones, Panini sandwiches, fresh signature salads, baked lasagnas and pastas. You can also choose from their wide selection of premium wines and beers.

• Address: 3403 Central Ave NE
• Distance from Mariposa: 40 minutes
• Pricing: $$

Sandia Peak Tramway in Albuquerque

Enjoy a scenic trip on North America’s longest aerial tram ride. This New Mexico icon offers a stunning journey up the mountain with dramatic elevation gains from the high desert. You and your date will witness beautiful granite boulder formations all the way to the majestic pine-topped peak.

• Address: 30 Tramway Rd NE
• Distance from Mariposa: 35 minutes
• Pricing: $$

Sarabande Bed and Breakfast in Albuquerque

A bed and breakfast featuring an excellent culinary experience with huevos motulenos, shakshuka, sandwiches and more. Be sure to taken advantage of nearby Albuqeurque and the endless list of places to visit during your stay.

• Address: 5637 Rio Rande Blvd NW
• Distance from Mariposa: 35 minutes
• Pricing: $$

Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm in Albuqeurque

An ideal setting for a romantic retreat for your Valentine’s weekend, Los Poblanos features one of the most prestigious historic properties in the Southwest. Set amongst acres of cottonwood, lavender fields and gardens, you and your date can choose from several different reservation packages while enjoying a cuisine from locally grown resources, spa, farmers market, nature walks and so much more.

• Address: 4803 Rio Grande Blvd NW
• Distance from Mariposa: 38 minutes
• Pricing: $$

Jeff Highlander Hearts on your Sleeve Benefit Fashion Show in Albuquerque

On Feb. 10 from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m., the Albuquerque Marriot Pyramid North will be hosting a 21+ event to raise money for those living with ALS. You and your date can sip on Tito’s vodka cocktails and win, shop for new styles from local boutiques, enjoy delicious food and great new music. The cost is $100 per person.

• Address: 5151 San Fransisco Road NE
• Distance from Mariposa: 30 minutes
• Pricing: $$$

Looking for a new home or custom homesite near Albuquerque? Just about 80 miles from Bandelier National Monument is Mariposa, a master-planned community 30 minutes north of Albuquerque in the appealing town of Rio Rancho. Near so much of what New Mexico offers, Mariposa is designed for living naturally. Mariposa and offers a fully equipped fitness center, indoor lap pool and outdoor pools, parks, sports courts, miles of trails, abundant open space and endless views at the 2,200-acre Mariposa Preserve and surrounding mountains. Learn more at https://liveinmariposa.com/