A Fan’s Guide to Breaking Bad Filming Locations in Albuquerque

by | Jun 30, 2025 | Albuquerque | 0 comments

On Location: Breaking Bad Sites Around Albuquerque

It’s been nearly a decade since Breaking Bad ended, yet its impact is as strong as ever. Fans around the world continue to binge this Emmy-winning masterpiece, and its Albuquerque backdrop has become iconic in its own right. From Walter White’s rise (and fall) to the slippery dealings of Saul Goodman, these characters and their stories are etched into TV history.

For fans and visitors, Albuquerque offers a chance to step into the Breaking Bad universe. From Walter White’s car wash to The Dog House, this guide takes you to iconic shooting locations. You’ll also find behind-the-scenes facts, tips, and insights into how Albuquerque became a key part of this legendary story.

If you’re ready to relive the magic and drama, here’s your ultimate guide to Breaking Bad filming locations around Albuquerque.

Why Albuquerque Was the Perfect Setting for Breaking Bad

Albuquerque wasn’t the original plan for Breaking Bad. Vince Gilligan, the creator, initially pictured the story unfolding in Los Angeles. However, budgetary concerns led the production team to New Mexico, and as fate would have it, Albuquerque turned out to be the perfect fit.

The city’s Southwestern charm, with its adobe-style architecture, vast desert landscapes, and sprawling blue skies, created a visually striking backdrop for the show’s intense narrative.

Its natural beauty juxtaposed against the moral decay unfolding on-screen heightened the story’s themes of duality and transformation.

Albuquerque also brought a sense of authenticity. The relaxed pace of life here grounded the series in reality, making Walter White’s descent into chaos all the more chilling. It wasn’t just the backdrop as Albuquerque became an inseparable part of the story.

Must-Visit Breaking Bad Locations in Albuquerque

For Breaking Bad fans, Albuquerque is like a living map of memorable moments from the show. The city is filled with iconic filming locations that played a major role in shaping the series’ impact. If you’re planning a Breaking Bad-themed trip, here’s your guide to must-visit spots that every fan should know about.

Walter White’s Car Wash (A1A Car Wash)

Real-life name: Mister Car Wash (formerly Octopus Car Wash)

Address: 9516 Snow Heights Cir NE, Albuquerque, NM 87112

This unassuming car wash became a pivotal location in the series after Walter and Skyler purchased it as a front for laundering money from their meth empire.

Fans of the show will recognize the building’s distinct exterior and signage, which is perfect for snapping that nostalgic photo. The A1A car wash is still fully operational, so while you’re at it, why not give your vehicle a shine?

Pro tip: The O.G. fans of “Breaking Bad” can stand outside the building to recreate that iconic “Have an A1 day!” moment.

Saul Goodman’s Office (Strip Mall)

Address: 9800 Montgomery Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111

The infamous strip mall where Saul Goodman’s colorful (and slightly shady) office resided remains one of the show’s most recognizable locations. Complete with that over-the-top Statue of Liberty balloon on the roof during the series, this was where Saul worked his magic as the “criminal lawyer.”

While the office itself no longer exists in the same form, and the strip mall has been repurposed for other businesses, its filming history makes it worth a stop.

Fun fact for fans of Better Call Saul: this spot got its fair share of screen time in the prequel series, deepening its connection to the Albuquerque universe.

Los Pollos Hermanos (Twisters Restaurant)

Real-life name: Twisters

Address: 4257 Isleta Blvd SW, Albuquerque, NM 87105

Who wouldn’t want to visit Gus Fring’s fast-food empire that doubled as the front for his illicit meth operation? Twisters, the real-life location of Los Pollos Hermanos, still proudly embraces its Breaking Bad legacy.

Inside, you’ll find memorabilia and signs paying homage to the series, setting the perfect backdrop for fan photos. And while you’re there, grab a bite! Twisters is renowned for its New Mexican fare, so be sure to try their burritos or sopapillas as part of your visit.

Walter White’s House

Address: 3828 Piermont Dr NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111

If you’re in Albuquerque, you can’t miss Walter White’s iconic home, where that unforgettable pizza-tossing scene took place (fun fact: it was shot in one take and completely unscripted!). Located in a quiet suburban neighborhood, the home looks just as it did during the show, making it a prime destination for photos.

However, this is a private residence, so it’s important to respect the homeowners’ privacy. Visitors are encouraged to take pictures from the street, and please, don’t throw any pizzas on the roof!

Crossroads Motel

Address: 1001 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106

Nicknamed the “Crystal Palace” by fans, the Crossroads Motel gained notoriety in Breaking Bad as the go-to spot for some of the grittier scenes, especially involving Jesse Pinkman.

Its gritty aesthetic provided the perfect backdrop for the show’s darker moments, and to this day, the motel retains much of its retro charm.

While it’s still a functioning motel, visitors can swing by to admire its vibe and take photos outside—just don’t expect anything fancy inside.

The Dog House Drive-In

Address: 1216 Central Ave SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102

A classic staple in Albuquerque, The Dog House Drive-In made memorable appearances in both Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. Its retro neon signage and old-school drive-in aesthetic give it an instantly recognizable charm.

Add to that the delicious food (their chili dogs are a must-try), and you’ve got all the ingredients for a perfect fan outing.

Pro tip: Visit after sunset to see the neon lights in all their glory—it’s a picture-perfect nod to the show’s nostalgic vibe.

How to Explore Breaking Bad Sites

Whether you want to hit the streets on your own or join fellow fans on a guided adventure, Albuquerque has plenty of ways for you to see these iconic locations.

Breaking Bad RV Tours

One of the most popular options is a Breaking Bad RV tour. You’ll ride around in a replica of Walter’s infamous RV “lab” with guided stops at major filming locations. Expect to learn insider trivia, revisit unforgettable moments from the series, and maybe even snap a selfie inside the RV! Advanced booking is highly recommended.

Self-Guided Tour Tips

Prefer to explore at your own pace? Here’s how to plan your self-guided adventure:

Relive the Drama: Touring Breaking Bad’s Albuquerque Legacy

Albuquerque is not just the backdrop for Breaking Bad. It feels like a main character. The neighborhoods, the desert views, the familiar streets all helped tell Walter White’s wild story.

From the A1A Car Wash to Saul Goodman’s office, every spot feels like stepping right into the show. If you are checking out these iconic locations, take your time. Look around. You will notice little details that made the show so unforgettable.

Whether you are standing outside Los Pollos Hermanos or taking in those epic desert views, every place has its own story. Just a quick reminder to be respectful of private property and the people who live here. Albuquerque’s connection to Breaking Bad is something special. Go explore it, soak it in, and enjoy walking in Heisenberg’s footsteps.

 

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