The longest tramway of its type in the world, the tram (505/856-7325, www.sandiapeak.com, $1 parking, $17.50 round-trip, $9 one-way) whisks passengers 2.7 miles along a continuous line of Swiss-made cables from Albuquerque’s northeast foothills 4,000 feet up to the crest in about 15 minutes. If the wind is blowing, the ride can be a bit alarming—or thrilling, depending on your outlook.

The service runs frequently all year-round (9 a.m.–9 p.m. daily June–Aug., 9 a.m.–8 p.m. Wed.–Mon. Sept.–May), making it a convenient way to get to the Sandia Peak Ski Area; in the summer, you can ride up to the peak and then hike along the crest or even all the way back down the mountain.

Even from the base of the tram, the view across the city is very good—you may want to come to the casual Mexican restaurant here, Sandiago’s (38 Tramway Rd. NE, 505/856-6692, 4:30 p.m.–midnight, $10), for a sunset margarita (one of which, the Doogie, honors Albuquerque actor Neil Patrick Harris, who attended a nearby high school).