Between working to stick to your budget, making trips to different stores, and finding just the right items for each person on your list, you already have a lot to worry about when it comes to holiday gift-giving. Trying to shop local on top of all that may feel like an impossible task.  

Our real estate agents know how challenging this dilemma can be. That's why we've compiled this list of our favorite independent shops in Albuquerque. Visit these five stores around the city to find meaningful gifts and support local small businesses at the same time.  

5 Local Shops for Thoughtful Holiday Gifts in Albuquerque 

The Breaking Bad Store 

Address: 2047 S Plaza Street NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104 

The Breaking Bad Store is exactly what it sounds like: a store devoted entirely to merchandise for AMC's hit shows Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. Despite their official-sounding name, though, the business is run by an independent retailer with just as much passion for the series as their customers. Stop by to find exciting themed gifts like: 

• Action figures and toys 
• Cups and dishware 
• T-shirts and tote bags 
• Posters and cardboard standees 

If you've got some time left over, you can also visit the store's museum section for an additional $5 per person. This area contains real show memorabilia and is a must-see attraction for local fans. Consider promising to take the superfan in your life to see it as part of your gift! 

Flyby Provisions 

Address: 201 Coal Avenue SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102 

Flyby Provisions takes the stress out of special occasions with curated gift boxes stuffed with locally-made goodies. These pre-packed crates are both extremely convenient and great for offering out-of-state friends and family a taste of New Mexico. Depending on the box you choose, the package might contain: 

• Specialty tea blends, cookies, hot sauce, and other food items 
• Guidebooks, tea towels, art prints, and other items with New Mexico theming 
• Soaps, body wash, and beauty supplies made by local small businesses 

You can also buy many of these products on their own if you're not ready to commit to a full box.  

New Mexico Piñon Coffee 

Address: 2420 Comanche Road NE, Albuquerque, NM 87107 

New Mexico Piñon Coffee is the state's largest independent coffee roaster, and its main outlet store happens to be right here in Albuquerque. They've got everything from K-cups and cold brew cans to tumblers, mugs, and storage canisters – and of course, plenty of bold unflavored coffee fresh from the in-house roasters.  

Want a quirky gift for your favorite coffee fanatic? Try one of their novelty gift items, like coffee-flavored lip balm and breath mints. If you have a little more to spend or just want to make wrapping easier, you can also get one of their special variety gift boxes. These packages come with three 12-oz bags of coffee inside, each with a different flavor to savor. 

Grey Dog Trading  

Address: 1925 Old Town Road NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104 

Grey Dog Trading sells new and vintage jewelry, pottery, and other art from local Native American tribes. They get most of their stock from skilled craftspeople from the Pueblo, Navajo, Zuni tribes who live close by.  

They even operate a small on-site museum dedicated to preserving older examples of these treasures and educating the public on their cultural significance. If you're interested in purchasing one as a gift, the staff will happily recommend a few options to match your recipient's personality and life goals.  

Desert Bird Mercantile 

Address: 206 1/2 San Felipe Street NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104 

Desert Bird Mercantile has everything you need to make the sewing fans in your life jump for joy this holiday season. You won't find this stuff anywhere else, and avid sewers love getting new supplies they've never had access to before. The store even has some project ideas and free beginner-friendly patterns to help newer crafters get the most out of their products. 

No sewing fans on your shopping list? No problem. The shop also offers:  

• Handmade furniture and pillows 
• Custom furniture made by local carpenter Neal Wenderlich 
• Books and stationery 
• Jewelry and accessories 
• Art prints 

Shop 'til You Drop in New Mexico's Capital City 

There are small stores like these all over Albuquerque, just waiting to be explored. Living local is the best way to make sure you get to see them all. Contact us today to explore our portfolio of Albuquerque properties and discover the one that resonates with you.