Breaking Bad Filming Locations: A Guide To Albuquerque

Hey guys! Ever since "Breaking Bad" hit our screens, Albuquerque, New Mexico, has become almost as famous as Walter White himself. If you're planning a trip to ABQ to soak in some of that Breaking Bad atmosphere, you're in for a treat. This guide will walk you through some of the most iconic filming locations, so you can feel like you're right in the middle of the action. Let's cook!

Walter White's House

Address: 308 Negra Arroyo Lane (actually 3828 Piermont Dr NE)

Let's kick things off with the most recognizable spot: Walter White's humble abode. You know, the place where it all began. This unassuming house in a quiet residential neighborhood served as the backdrop for countless scenes of family drama, clandestine meetings, and the occasional pizza-on-the-roof incident. When visiting Walter White's house, remember this is a real private residence. So, while you're totally welcome to snap a picture, be respectful of the owners and their neighbors. No trespassing, loud noises, or attempts to recreate the pizza scene, please! Think of it as visiting a piece of TV history, but with the manners you'd show at your grandma's house. The owners have, understandably, become a bit weary of the constant stream of visitors, so keeping a low profile is key. Park a bit away and walk over and don't block the driveway. In this neighborhood, you might expect seeing other fans stopping by to take pictures or even just to soak in the atmosphere. The house looks pretty much the same as it did on the show, though there might be some minor changes or additions that the owners have made over the years. Seeing it in person really brings the show to life and lets you imagine Walt's journey from a high school chemistry teacher to a drug kingpin. Be sure to check out the surrounding area as well. The neighborhood itself is quite charming, with well-maintained houses and tree-lined streets. It’s a great place to take a stroll and get a feel for the everyday life that Walt was trying to both escape and protect. Keep an eye out for other subtle filming locations in the vicinity – you never know what you might spot! Most importantly, remember to be a good tourist. Respect the neighborhood, take your photos, and leave with nothing but memories. After all, nobody wants to be the reason they put up a giant fence around the White residence!

Twisters (Los Pollos Hermanos)

Address: 4257 Isleta Blvd SW

Next up, let's head over to Los Pollos Hermanos, the fast-food chicken restaurant that served as a front for Gus Fring's drug empire. In reality, this is a local restaurant called Twisters, and it's still serving up delicious New Mexican cuisine. When you walk through the doors of Twisters, you're stepping into a Breaking Bad mecca. The restaurant has fully embraced its role in the show, with plenty of memorabilia and photo opportunities for fans. You can sit in the booth where Walt and Gus had their intense conversations, or snap a picture in front of the Los Pollos Hermanos logo. And, of course, you've gotta try the chicken! Twisters offers a range of classic New Mexican dishes, from burritos and enchiladas to, yes, fried chicken. It's a great way to fuel up while immersing yourself in the Breaking Bad universe. Even if you're not a die-hard fan of the show, Twisters is worth a visit for its tasty food and friendly atmosphere. The staff are usually happy to chat about the show and share some behind-the-scenes stories. Plus, it's a chance to support a local business that has become an integral part of Albuquerque's identity. While you're there, be sure to check out the details that made Los Pollos Hermanos so iconic in the show. Look for the familiar layout, the color scheme, and the overall vibe that made it such a memorable location. It's amazing how much of the show's atmosphere is preserved in the real-life restaurant. And don't forget to take some photos! Twisters is a must-visit spot for any Breaking Bad fan, and you'll want to capture the memories of your pilgrimage. Whether you're there for the food, the photo ops, or just to soak in the atmosphere, Twisters is an experience you won't forget. Plus, it's a great way to support a local business that has become an integral part of Albuquerque's identity.

Hank Schrader's DEA Office

While the interior shots of Hank's DEA office were filmed on a soundstage, the exterior is a real building in Albuquerque. Though you can't go inside and fight crime with Hank, it's still cool to see the place where he parked his car and contemplated the mysteries of Heisenberg.

Address: The real exterior shots were filmed at the One Park Square building, located at 600 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Ave NE, Albuquerque.

Visiting the exterior of Hank Schrader's DEA office is a must for any Breaking Bad enthusiast looking to complete their Albuquerque pilgrimage. While the intense, high-stakes drama that unfolded inside those office walls was brought to life on a soundstage, the exterior shots provide a tangible connection to the show's narrative. Standing outside the One Park Square building, you can almost picture Hank pulling up in his car, ready to tackle the latest lead in the Heisenberg case. The building itself may not scream excitement, but knowing its significance in the show adds an extra layer of intrigue. Take a moment to imagine the scenes that played out just beyond those walls – the tense phone calls, the brainstorming sessions, and the ever-present pressure of bringing down a drug empire. While you won't be able to step inside and explore Hank's actual office, the exterior is still worth the visit. It's a chance to connect with the show on a deeper level and appreciate the realism that the location brought to the series. Plus, it's a great photo opportunity for fans looking to document their Breaking Bad adventure. When you visit, take some time to explore the surrounding area as well. The building is located in a bustling part of Albuquerque, so there's plenty to see and do nearby. Grab a bite to eat at a local restaurant, check out some of the shops, or simply soak in the atmosphere of the city. And who knows, you might even stumble upon another hidden Breaking Bad filming location while you're at it! Just remember to be respectful of the building and its occupants. This is a working office space, so keep your distance and avoid causing any disruptions. Snap your photos, soak in the atmosphere, and leave with a newfound appreciation for the role that this unassuming building played in one of television's most iconic dramas.

Jesse Pinkman's House

Jesse's house saw its fair share of drama, from wild parties to emotional breakdowns. While the house is a private residence, you can still drive by and see the exterior.

Address: 9808 Margo Ave NE

Driving by Jesse Pinkman's house is an essential stop on any Breaking Bad tour of Albuquerque. This unassuming house, located at 9808 Margo Ave NE, served as the backdrop for some of the show's most memorable and often chaotic moments. From wild parties and drug-fueled escapades to moments of profound despair and vulnerability, Jesse's house was a central hub of activity throughout the series. While the interior shots were filmed on a soundstage, the exterior of the house is instantly recognizable to fans. As you stand outside, you can almost hear the echoes of loud music, the shouts of partygoers, and the anguished cries of a young man struggling to find his way. The house itself is a modest, single-story dwelling, typical of the neighborhood in which it's located. It's not particularly remarkable in appearance, but its significance in the show gives it a certain aura. Knowing the events that transpired within those walls adds an extra layer of intrigue to this otherwise ordinary-looking home. When you visit Jesse's house, remember that it is a private residence. Be respectful of the owners and their neighbors, and avoid trespassing or causing any disturbances. Park your car a bit down the street and take a few photos from the sidewalk. You might even see other Breaking Bad fans stopping by to pay their respects. While you're in the area, take some time to explore the surrounding neighborhood. It's a quiet, residential area with well-maintained houses and tree-lined streets. It's a far cry from the chaotic scenes that were often depicted on the show, but it provides a glimpse into the everyday life that Jesse was trying to escape. As you drive away from Jesse's house, take a moment to reflect on the character's journey. From a troubled young man struggling with addiction to a complex and often sympathetic figure, Jesse Pinkman left an indelible mark on the Breaking Bad universe. And his house, with all its flaws and imperfections, will forever be associated with his story.

Java Joe's (Better Call Saul)

Okay, so this one is technically from "Better Call Saul", but it's still part of the Breaking Bad universe! Java Joe's is where Jimmy McGill met his clients, and it's a real coffee shop in Albuquerque.

Address: 906 Park Ave SW

Stepping into Java Joe's is like stepping into the world of "Better Call Saul," the acclaimed spin-off of Breaking Bad. While not directly featured in the original series, Java Joe's holds a special place in the hearts of fans for its role as a frequent meeting spot for Jimmy McGill, the charismatic but morally flexible lawyer. Located at 906 Park Ave SW in Albuquerque, this cozy coffee shop served as the backdrop for numerous scenes where Jimmy met with clients, hatched schemes, and navigated the complex legal landscape of Albuquerque. As you walk through the doors of Java Joe's, you'll immediately feel the familiar atmosphere that was so integral to "Better Call Saul." The warm lighting, comfortable seating, and aroma of freshly brewed coffee create a welcoming ambiance that invites you to linger and soak in the surroundings. Take a seat at one of the tables where Jimmy might have sat, and imagine the conversations that could have taken place there. Picture him schmoozing clients, negotiating deals, or plotting his next move. Java Joe's is more than just a coffee shop; it's a tangible connection to the world of "Better Call Saul." It's a place where fans can immerse themselves in the show's atmosphere and feel like they're part of the story. Whether you're a die-hard fan of the series or simply looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a cup of coffee, Java Joe's is worth a visit. The friendly staff, delicious drinks, and welcoming atmosphere make it a great place to relax and unwind. And who knows, you might even catch a glimpse of Jimmy McGill himself (or at least someone who looks like him) while you're there!

The Crossroads Motel

Address: 1001 E Central Ave, Albuquerque

The Crossroads Motel, located at 1001 E Central Ave in Albuquerque, may not be the most glamorous or inviting location, but it holds a significant place in the Breaking Bad universe. This seedy motel served as a backdrop for some of the show's most gritty and unsettling scenes, representing the underbelly of Albuquerque's criminal world. It's a place where drug deals went down, secrets were revealed, and characters found themselves in desperate situations. As you approach the Crossroads Motel, you can almost feel the tension and unease that permeated the air in the show. The weathered exterior, dimly lit parking lot, and overall sense of neglect create an atmosphere that is both intriguing and unsettling. It's not a place where you'd want to spend a vacation, but it's a must-see location for Breaking Bad fans looking to immerse themselves in the show's dark and gritty world. While you may not want to venture inside (it's still a functioning motel), simply standing outside and taking in the atmosphere is an experience in itself. Imagine the characters who walked those same sidewalks, the deals that were made in those rooms, and the secrets that those walls hold. The Crossroads Motel is a reminder of the darker side of the Breaking Bad story, a place where the consequences of choices were often harsh and unforgiving. It's a place that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits, a testament to the show's ability to create a world that is both captivating and disturbing.

Wrap-Up

So there you have it – a Breaking Bad tour of Albuquerque! Remember to be respectful of private property and enjoy your trip down memory lane. Who knows, maybe you'll even spot a Heisenberg hat along the way. Happy travels, and stay out of trouble!