Situated at the foot of the Sandia Mountains beside the state's major river the Rio Grande, Bernalillo progressed from a string of haciendas along the river in the 1600's to a commercial center of trade among the pueblos and the Mexican settlers in the 1800's.

The main street in Bernalillo is rich in history. The street, Camino del Pueblo, is synonymous with three other historical attributes. Route 66, El Camino Real and Old Highway 85. The road, rich in history runs through the town and was the major link with the outside world for several hundred years, connecting Santa Fe to Mexico City.

It is one of the oldest historical trails in the United States. The wine grape was introduced here in the 1620's and vineyards flourished in Bernalillo with each family making its own wine. Wine making became a major industry, but floods, drought, and prohibition upset the market. Today New Mexico's wine industry is healthy and celebrates each Labor Day with a wine festival in Bernalillo.

Bernalillo is the gateway to the Sandia and Jemez mountains which have many recreational sites. The exploration of both the Sandia and Jemez mountains are unique and different for any and all outdoor activities. Don't miss a visit to the beautiful and scenic Placitas (Spanish for little town) with its wonderful homes and hiking trails.