Where was Breaking Bad filmed? Visit Breaking Bad filming locations in Albuquerque with this guide to iconic spots where Heisenberg built his empire.
“If that’s true — if you don’t know who I am — then maybe your best course would be to tread lightly.”
Lucky for you, we do know who you are: a die-hard Breaking Bad fan looking to walk in Heisenberg’s footsteps. Whether you want to toss a pizza on Walt’s roof (please don’t), grab a bucket of Gus’s finest, or reenact your favorite desert showdown, this guide has you covered.
Table of Contents
Where was Breaking Bad Filmed?
Grab your porkpie hat — it’s time to cook… up a legendary road trip.
#1. Walter White’s House
Yes, the house. The one where countless fans have attempted the infamous pizza toss (again, don’t — the owner has had enough). While it remains a private residence, you can still drive by and admire the exterior. Just be respectful — this isn’t a museum; it’s someone’s home.
The current owner has gone to great lengths to keep trespassers away, even installing fences and security cameras. If you want to avoid being yelled at by a real-life version of Skyler, keep your distance, snap a quick pic, and move along.
📍 Location: Albuquerque, NM (Out of respect for the owners, we refrain from sharing the Breaking Bad house address)
#2. Los Pollos Hermanos
The tastiest drug front in TV history. While you won’t find Gus Fring inside (thankfully), you will find a pretty solid chicken sandwich at Twisters, the real-life restaurant used as Los Pollos Hermanos.
The original Breaking Bad signage isn’t there anymore, but the staff is used to fans stopping by and will happily let you take pictures inside. There’s even a small tribute to the show inside the restaurant, so don’t forget to look around.
Order some curly fries, sit where Walt and Jesse once did, and just be glad you’re not being monitored by the cartel.
📍 Location: Twisters, 4257 Isleta Blvd SW, Albuquerque
#3. The Car Wash
“Have an A1 day!” Walt and Skyler’s money-laundering front is actually a working car wash called Mister Car Wash. It’s the iconic spot where Walt and Skyler “cleaned” their money — literally and figuratively.
Fans are welcome to visit, take photos, and even get their car washed, just like Walt Jr. did (minus the awkward breakfast conversations). So, why not give your ride a Heisenberg-level shine?
You won’t find Walt Jr. slamming a breakfast burrito here, but you will get a clean car and a great photo op. The iconic A1A Car Wash sign is gone, but the building still looks exactly like it did on the show.
If you’re feeling nostalgic, you can channel your inner Skyler as you pay for your wash. Just don’t expect any discounts for being a fan.
📍 Location: Mister Car Wash, 9516 Snow Heights Circle NE, Albuquerque, NM
#4. The Desert Filming Location
This vast, isolated desert is where it all went down — the RV cook sessions, Walt’s infamous confession tape burial, and that brutal season 5 showdown. This is the place to experience Breaking Bad in its rawest form.
The wide-open landscapes and breathtaking views make it easy to see why the show used this location for many pivotal scenes. It’s about an hour outside Albuquerque, so plan accordingly and bring plenty of water.
And maybe don’t reenact any of Jesse’s moments here — no need to break down sobbing in the middle of the desert.
📍 Location: To’hajiilee Indian Reservation, west of Albuquerque
#5. Saul Goodman’s Office
If you ever find yourself in legal trouble, better call… well, someone else. Saul’s iconic strip-mall office, with its Statue of Liberty inflatable and Better Call Saul charm, was filmed at a vacant building, but it’s still worth a visit for the nostalgia.
In real life, this spot was once a Hooligan’s Tavern. While you won’t find a fast-talking criminal lawyer inside, fans can still stop by, snap a photo, and channel their inner Slippin’ Jimmy.
While the office was abandoned after the show wrapped, it’s still recognizable to Breaking Bad fans. It may not be the flashiest location, but it’s a crucial stop for anyone who appreciates Saul’s ability to turn even the most hopeless situations into legal loopholes.
Just don’t expect a consultation — Saul Goodman has long since disappeared.
📍 Location: 9800 Montgomery Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM
#6. The Crossroads Motel
Ah, the Crossroads Motel, home to Wendy, the show’s most infamous… businesswoman. This run-down spot appeared multiple times in Breaking Bad and remains a fan-favorite selfie location.
The bright neon sign out front still stands, making it one of the most recognizable Breaking Bad filming locations in Albuquerque. The motel itself is still operational, though it hasn’t exactly changed much since its Breaking Bad days.
If you’re looking for a truly immersive experience, you could book a room, but fair warning — it’s about as sketchy in real life as it was on the show.
📍 Location: 1001 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM.
#7. Jane and Jesse’s Apartment
This humble rental became home to Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul) and Jane Margolis (Krysten Ritter), making it one of Breaking Bad’s most memorable — and gut-wrenching — filming locations.
It’s where the two bonded over art, banned substances, and dreams of a fresh start, only for things to spiral into one of the show’s most heartbreaking moments.
Fans will recognize the exterior and the infamous balcony where Jesse once talked about ditching Albuquerque for New Zealand (because, in his words, they “got a national bird that’s a lizard”).
While the apartment remains a private residence, you can swing by for a respectful drive-by — just don’t expect to find Jesse inside blasting Fallacies on his sound system.
📍 Location: 323 Terrace St SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106
#8. Mike Ehrmantraut’s Final Scene
A tragic end to one of Breaking Bad’s most beloved characters. Mike Ehrmantraut’s heartbreaking final scene is thought to be filmed in Bosque of the Rio Grande, on the Sandia Reservation.
This quiet, desolate spot served as the perfect backdrop for one of Breaking Bad’s most gut-wrenching moments – Walt’s shocking betrayal of Mike.
After a tense standoff with Walt, Mike chooses to spend his final moments in peace, overlooking the water before uttering his last words: “Shut the hell up and let me die in peace.”
Fans can visit this location for a solemn tribute to everyone’s favorite no-nonsense fixer — just don’t linger too long unless you want to start looking over your shoulder. It’s a scenic but somber visit, so maybe pour one out for the guy who really didn’t need Walt’s drama.
While Breaking Bad had its fair share of brutal deaths, this one still stings the most. If you go, take a moment of silence for the most competent man in the entire show.
📍 Location: Algodones, NM
#9. The Superlab
The underground meth empire that made Walt and Jesse millionaires was actually just a soundstage, but the laundromat above it — Lavandería Brillante — still stands. No hidden lab (as far as we know), but it’s an essential stop for fans.
In Breaking Bad, this unassuming facility was the front for Walt and Jesse’s large-scale operation—complete with secret underground access and some serious moral descent.
The building looks exactly as it did in the show, and while you won’t find any secret doors leading to a high-tech drug operation, you will find a working laundromat.
Just standing in front of it is enough to make you appreciate the sheer genius of Gus Fring’s business model. Stop by for a photo, but unless you’re looking to get into the empire business, maybe leave the hazmat suit at home.
📍 Location: 1617 Candelaria Rd NE, Albuquerque, NM.
#10. The Breaking Bad Store ABQ
Fans of Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul will love this spot, located near Albuquerque’s Old Town Plaza. This store is a treasure trove of memorabilia, collectibles, and show-themed merchandise.
From T-shirts and posters to replica props and autographed items, it’s the ultimate destination for superfans. The shop even features photo ops, including a life-size cutout of Saul Goodman and a recreated Los Pollos Hermanos booth.
If you want a unique souvenir from your Breaking Bad adventure, this is the place to get it. Just don’t try to negotiate prices like Saul — this isn’t a legal office.
📍 Location: 2047 S Plaza St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104
Best Time to Visit Albuquerque
If you want to experience Albuquerque at its absolute best, aim for late August to late November. The fall season brings crisp air, stunning mountain foliage, and the unbeatable aroma of freshly roasted chile drifting through the city.
Plus, if you time it right, you’ll get to witness the world-famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, where hundreds of colorful hot air balloons take to the sky. It’s an epic backdrop for Breaking Bad photo ops.
That said, Albuquerque’s beauty isn’t seasonal — there’s never a bad time to visit. Winters bring a light dusting of snow in the mountains (perfect for skiing), while summers are warm but dry, with plenty of sunshine and low humidity.
If you can handle the heat, you’ll get fewer crowds at the iconic Breaking Bad filming spots.
How to Get Around Albuquerque
So, you’re making the pilgrimage to Breaking Bad’s stomping grounds — smart move. Albuquerque, New Mexico, is your gateway to the Breaking Bad universe, and getting there is easier than cooking a batch of blue.
To get the full experience, you’ll want to time your visit right, know the best ways to explore Albuquerque, and fuel up with some killer local eats.
Here’s your insider’s guide to doing Breaking Bad tourism the right way.
- By Air: The Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) is the closest major airport, with direct flights from most U.S. cities. Once you land, it’s just a short drive to the heart of town — no need to hijack a refrigerated truck.
- By Train: Amtrak’s Southwest Chief stops in Albuquerque for a stress-free ride, and the Rail Runner Express offers an easy day trip from Santa Fe. No need to call Saul if you miss your stop — there’s always another one coming.
- By Car: If you’re road-tripping, I-40 and I-25 intersect in Albuquerque, making it an easy drive from nearby states. Whether rolling in like the Salamanca twins in a shiny Cadillac or cruising in an RV (minus the mobile lab setup), the highways are smooth and scenic.
Once you’re in town, ride shares, taxis, and city buses are readily available. But if you came in by air or train, renting a car is your best bet. After all, you’ll want the freedom to visit all the legendary spots at your own pace — just maybe skip the bullet-riddled Aztek.
Transportation Tips for Your Trip
Albuquerque is spread out, but getting from one Breaking Bad location to another is easier than you think.
🚗 Renting a car is the most convenient option, letting you explore filming locations at your own pace. Most major spots are within 20 minutes of each other, so you won’t be stuck in traffic for long.
🚊 Public transport is a solid backup. The city’s pilot program for ABQ Ride offers free bus rides throughout town, making it a budget-friendly way to hit up key locations.
🚖 Rideshares & taxis are everywhere. If you’re planning a trip to To’hajiilee (the desert filming location), this may not be ideal, but for in-city stops like Saul’s office or Los Pollos Hermanos, Uber and Lyft work just fine.
🚆 Heading to Santa Fe? The Rail Runner commuter train is a scenic, affordable, and stress-free way to explore beyond Albuquerque—ideal for those who want to expand their New Mexico adventure.
What Else to See in Albuquerque
Beyond the iconic Breaking Bad filming locations, Albuquerque offers a mix of cultural landmarks, scenic parks, and unique museums that showcase the city’s rich history and vibrant character.
- Old Town Albuquerque – Wander historic streets, browse colorful shops, and visit the city’s oldest church, San Felipe de Neri.
- Turquoise Museum – Discover rare turquoise and jewelry inside a grand castle mansion.
- Albuquerque Museum – Showcasing New Mexico’s art, history, and culture in a pueblo-style building.
- American International Rattlesnake Museum – Home to one of the largest collections of live rattlesnake species.
- Rio Grande Nature Center State Park – Birdwatching, hiking trails, and wildlife along the scenic Rio Grande.
- New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science – Featuring dinosaur fossils, a planetarium, and hands-on exhibits.
- Tiguex Park – A peaceful green space with shaded paths, exercise stations, and a playground.
- San Felipe de Neri Church – A historic 18th-century Catholic church with a museum and gift shop.
- Tingley Beach – A relaxing retreat with fishing ponds, walking trails, and wildlife watching.
Heisenberg-Approved Food Stops
All this Breaking Bad sightseeing is bound to work up an appetite. Luckily, Albuquerque’s food scene is legendary. Whether you’re a green chile connoisseur or just dipping your toes into New Mexican cuisine, here’s where to go:
🍹 New Mexico Flavors Tour of Old Town Albuquerque – Stroll past historic landmarks like San Felipe de Neri Church and Capilla de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe while sampling local dishes and alcoholic beverages.
🌮 Frontier Restaurant is a half-century-old institution known for its homemade tortillas, green chile stew, breakfast burritos, and the famous Frontier Sweet Roll (a must-try).
🌶️ El Pinto is an Albuquerque staple serving authentic New Mexican cuisine in a gorgeous hacienda-style setting. Order the red and green chile — it’s what the locals do.
🍳 Duran Central Pharmacy – Yes, it’s a pharmacy, but also a no-frills, all-flavor restaurant with some of the best green chile in town.
☕ Satellite Coffee – If you need a caffeine fix between filming locations, this local coffee chain is a community favorite with multiple locations around town.
Tread Lightly… or Go All In
With the best time to visit top Breaking Bad filming locations and essential food stops locked in, your adventure in Albuquerque is set to be unforgettable.
Whether you’re snapping a selfie outside Saul’s office, standing where Walt buried his millions, or chasing the scent of roasted chile through Albuquerque’s streets, you’re walking through Heisenberg’s world now.
So, are you just passing through, or are you in the empire business? 😏
Breaking Bad is the property of AMC and Netflix. No copyright infringement is intended.
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