San Felipe de Neri Church - a church with a steeple and two towers
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San Felipe de Neri Church

4.7
·832 reviews·Albuquerque, United States

A historic adobe church founded in 1706, San Felipe de Neri is a spiritual heart of Old Town Albuquerque.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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San Felipe de Neri Church - a church with a steeple and two towers

San Felipe de Neri Church

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic adobe church founded in 1706, San Felipe de Neri is a spiritual heart of Old Town Albuquerque.

4.7
(832 reviews)

"This sacred & beautiful #Iglesia has been in continuous use for over 200 years!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🕰️ Check Mass Times

Plan your visit around mass times if you wish to attend a service or experience the church during worship.

🛍️ Explore the Gift Shop

Don't miss the church's gift shop for unique souvenirs and friendly staff.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Adobe Architecture

Historic Adobe Architecture

Main Sanctuary

Experience the enduring beauty of this 18th-century adobe church, a testament to Spanish colonial design.

Old Town Plaza Ambiance

Old Town Plaza Ambiance

Surrounding Plaza

Soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Old Town Plaza, with the church as its historic centerpiece.

San Felipe de Neri Gift Shop

San Felipe de Neri Gift Shop

Adjacent to Church

Discover unique souvenirs and religious items in a friendly, community-focused gift shop.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Tranquility

While San Felipe de Neri Church is a historic gem, visiting during peak hours can mean crowds. Consider early mornings or late afternoons for a more peaceful experience. Check mass times if you wish to attend a service or simply soak in the spiritual atmosphere.

Embrace the History and Spirit

This adobe church, founded in 1706 and rebuilt in 1793, is a living piece of New Mexico's history.TikTok Take time to appreciate its colonial architecture and the stories it holds. Many visitors find the church to be a peaceful sanctuary, perfect for quiet reflection.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, fewer tour groups
Crowd
Medium
When
During Fiestas
Why
Lively cultural celebration
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

San Felipe de Neri Catholic Church #albuquerque #newmexico #oldtown #church #digitalnomad
@the_traveling_doc
28 likes • 602 views

🕰️ Check Mass Times

Plan your visit around mass times if you wish to attend a service or experience the church during worship. TikTok

🛍️ Explore the Gift Shop

Don't miss the church's gift shop for unique souvenirs and friendly staff. Reddit

#church #sanfelipedenerichurch #catholic #alburquerque #newmexico #travel #traveltiktok #blessed #fyp
@all_eyez_on_rube
62 likes • 2K views
Live Photos 🧡Old Town Plaza is a charming spot overlooked by 18th-century San Felipe de Neri Church. Nearby, the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science has dinosaur skeletons, while the Albuquerque Museum displays Southwestern art. #newmexico #hildatravels #travel #oldtown #halloween #fall
hildatravels
16 likes • 253 views

🚶‍♀️ Wander Old Town

Combine your church visit with exploring the charming shops and galleries of Old Town Albuquerque. TikTok

📸 Capture the Beauty

The church and plaza offer beautiful photo opportunities, especially during golden hour. Instagram

San Felipe de Neri Church. Albuquerque, NM. Built in the late 1700s. I'm not Catholic, but I do love old buildings and there is something so beautiful about old Catholic churches.
chrys.dawn
0 likes • 141 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🕰️ Check Mass Times

Plan your visit around mass times if you wish to attend a service or experience the church during worship. TikTok

🛍️ Explore the Gift Shop

Don't miss the church's gift shop for unique souvenirs and friendly staff. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Wander Old Town

Combine your church visit with exploring the charming shops and galleries of Old Town Albuquerque. TikTok

📸 Capture the Beauty

The church and plaza offer beautiful photo opportunities, especially during golden hour. Instagram

🙏 Respect Sacred Space

Remember this is an active place of worship; maintain a respectful demeanor. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(832 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise San Felipe de Neri Church for its historical significance, beautiful adobe architecture, and peaceful atmosphere. Many appreciate its role as an active place of worship and a cornerstone of Old Town Albuquerque. Some note that while the church is free to enter, donations are welcome for its upkeep.

"Beautiful church to look at. Built in 1706. Spoke to a volunteer that has attended the church for 60 years!"

Irene Estlund

"We liked it all lot. It is a basilica and there is a lot of history there. We did get a chance to say some prayers and the church was so peaceful we really liked it."

Christopher Mix

"This is a House of God. It is inappropriate to review these sacred places. My experience was equally blessed, as I met staff and parishioners who were doing God’s work with children and with the homeless in Albuquerque. I will remember this place fondly and will return if I ever get the chance."

Mark Cogan

What People Like

Historic adobe architecture
Peaceful spiritual atmosphere
Central Old Town location

What People Dislike

Can be crowded during peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

San Felipe de Neri Church is located in the heart of Old Town Albuquerque at 2005 North Plaza NW. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available in the Old Town area. Public transportation options also serve the vicinity. TikTok

Yes, there are several parking lots and street parking options available around Old Town Plaza, though they can fill up, especially on weekends. TikTok

While it's a bit of a walk, it's possible to reach San Felipe de Neri Church from downtown Albuquerque, especially if you enjoy a scenic stroll through the city. TikTok

Many visitors enjoy exploring Old Town on foot, allowing them to fully appreciate the historic architecture and unique shops surrounding the church. TikTok

Absolutely! The church is surrounded by Old Town Plaza, which features numerous shops, galleries, museums like the Rattlesnake Museum, and the Albuquerque Museum. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to San Felipe de Neri Church is generally free. It is an active place of worship, and visitors are welcome to enter and experience its historical and spiritual significance. TikTok

The church's hours can vary, but it's typically open for visitors during daylight hours on weekdays. It's best to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information, especially regarding weekend hours or closures for services. Instagram

There is no admission fee to enter the church itself. Donations are always appreciated to help with the upkeep of this historic landmark. TikTok

Yes, San Felipe de Neri Church holds regular mass services. You can find specific mass times on their website or by contacting the parish office. TikTok

The gift shop's hours generally align with the church's visitor hours, but it's advisable to confirm them directly if you have a specific time in mind. Reddit

🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find beautiful religious art, historic architecture, and a peaceful atmosphere. Many visitors are struck by its age and spiritual ambiance. TikTokInstagram

While efforts are made to accommodate visitors, older historic buildings can present accessibility challenges. It's recommended to contact the church directly for specific accessibility information. TikTok

Photography is generally permitted inside the church, but it's always best to be discreet and respectful, especially during services. Avoid flash photography. TikTok

Founded in 1706 and rebuilt in 1793, it's one of Albuquerque's oldest buildings and a significant example of Spanish colonial architecture. TikTokInstagram

The church sometimes hosts events and celebrations, such as the San Felipe de Neri Fiesta, which brings a lively cultural experience to Old Town. TikTokInstagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Old Town Albuquerque is filled with restaurants offering New Mexican cuisine, cafes, and more. You can find everything from casual to more upscale dining options. TikTok

New Mexican cuisine is the star, featuring dishes like green chile stew, enchiladas, and sopapillas. Reddit

Absolutely! There are many casual eateries and cafes in Old Town perfect for a quick lunch or snack while exploring. TikTok

Many visitors recommend trying the Church Street Cafe for its atmosphere and New Mexican dishes. Reddit

Dining prices in Old Town can vary, but you can find a range of options to suit different budgets, from affordable cafes to more formal restaurants. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The church facade, the bell tower, and the surrounding Old Town Plaza offer numerous picturesque angles. The plaza at sunset is particularly beautiful. Instagram

Yes, but always be respectful. Avoid flash photography and be mindful of ongoing services or prayer. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon, during the 'golden hours,' provides beautiful lighting for capturing the church and plaza. Instagram

For commercial photography or filming, it's advisable to contact the church administration beforehand to inquire about any specific policies or permits. TikTok

A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens will work well. Even a good smartphone camera can capture stunning images, especially with good lighting. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

San Felipe de Neri Church and Old Town offer a family-friendly experience. Kids can enjoy exploring the historic plaza, discovering unique shops, and learning about the church's history in an engaging way.TikTok The open spaces of the plaza are great for little ones to move around, and the nearby museums provide educational fun.

Consider visiting during a time when there are fewer crowds to make the experience more relaxed. The church itself can be a quiet place for children to learn about different cultures and religions. Don't forget to check out the gift shop for small souvenirs that can serve as lasting memories of your visit. TikTok

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, San Felipe de Neri Church is a treasure trove. Its origins date back to 1706, making it one of the oldest churches in the United States and a direct link to Albuquerque's Spanish colonial past.TikTokInstagram The adobe architecture and the stories of its continuous use offer a fascinating glimpse into centuries of history.

Take your time to absorb the details of the church's construction and its role in the development of Albuquerque. The surrounding Old Town Plaza further enhances the historical immersion, with its preserved adobe buildings and museums that complement the church's narrative. TikTok

🙏 Spiritual Seekers

San Felipe de Neri Church is a deeply spiritual place, offering a peaceful sanctuary for prayer and reflection. Many visitors find the atmosphere within the church to be incredibly serene and conducive to quiet contemplation.TikTok+1 Whether you are Catholic or simply appreciate sacred spaces, the church's history and enduring faith are palpable.

Attending a mass service can be a profound experience, connecting you with the ongoing spiritual life of the parish. Even if you're not attending a service, the quiet reverence inside the church allows for personal reflection and a moment of peace amidst your travels. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Living Piece of History

San Felipe de Neri Church is more than just a building; it's a cornerstone of Albuquerque's heritage. Founded in 1706, it stands as one of the city's oldest structures, originally serving as a mission church before being rebuilt in its current adobe form in 1793.TikTokInstagram This enduring presence makes it a vital link to the Spanish colonial past of New Mexico.

The church's architecture reflects traditional colonial styles, with thick adobe walls and a simple yet profound beauty. It has been in continuous use for centuries, serving its parishioners and remaining a spiritual center for the community.TikTok Visitors often remark on the peaceful and sacred atmosphere within its walls, a testament to its long history of devotion.

Beyond its religious function, the church is a focal point for Old Town Albuquerque. Its presence anchors the historic plaza, drawing visitors who come to explore the surrounding shops, galleries, and museums. The church and its grounds offer a tangible connection to the past, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture. TikTok

Experiencing Old Town Albuquerque

San Felipe de Neri Church is nestled within the charming Old Town Plaza, a vibrant hub that transports visitors back in time. This historic district is a delightful maze of adobe buildings housing unique shops, art galleries, and local eateries.TikTok+1 It’s the perfect place to wander, discover local crafts, and soak in the distinctive New Mexican atmosphere.

Beyond the church, Old Town offers a variety of attractions. You can explore the Rattlesnake Museum, delve into regional art at the Albuquerque Museum, or even find unique souvenirs at the Breaking Bad Store. The plaza itself often hosts events and live music, adding to its lively ambiance.TikTokInstagram

When visiting San Felipe de Neri Church, dedicating time to explore Old Town is highly recommended. It provides a rich context for the church's historical significance and offers a full day of cultural immersion. Don't forget to sample some authentic New Mexican cuisine while you're there! Reddit

Community and Spirituality

San Felipe de Neri Church is not just a historical monument; it's a thriving parish that plays an active role in the Albuquerque community. Visitors have shared heartwarming encounters with staff and parishioners who are dedicated to serving others, including those experiencing homelessness.Reddit This sense of community spirit is palpable and adds another layer to the church's significance.

The spiritual aspect of the church is deeply felt by many who visit. Whether attending a service or simply seeking a moment of quiet reflection, the peaceful ambiance provides a sanctuary for prayer and contemplation.TikTok+1 The church's long history of devotion has imbued it with a profound sense of peace that resonates with visitors from all walks of life.

For those interested in the religious heritage of New Mexico, San Felipe de Neri Church offers a genuine and moving experience. It's a place where history, community, and spirituality converge, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit. Instagram

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