Our recent research for a project in Northern New Mexico revealed some exciting new hospitality-related developments happening in the area. These developments will have an impact on tourism, employment, and the general economy in Albuquerque, Santa Fee, and the surrounding areas in 2025 and beyond.

• For the second year in a row, readers of Travel + Leisure ranked Santa Fe number two on the list of the “15 Best Cities in the U.S.” in 2024. The publication’s rankings also named Bishop’s Lodge and Ten Thousand Waves Japanese Spa Resort among the top 15 properties in their respective categories in 2024. These recognitions confirm Santa Fe’s status as a prime leisure travel destination.

• In 2024, Santa Fe was selected as one of six finalist cities in a bid to host the Sundance Film Festival in 2027. While Santa Fe was later dropped from consideration, this widely publicized distinction raised the city’s profile as an arts destination and increased the likelihood of such events coming to the area in the future.

• In August 2024, Singapore-based Maxeon Solar Technologies announced plans for a new solar cell and panel factory on a 160-acre site in the Mesa del Sol neighborhood of Albuquerque, with production slated to begin in 2026. Representing a total investment of more than $1 billion, this massive facility will create about 1,800 jobs and have a major impact on the region for years to come.

• Netflix Studios recently completed a major expansion of its Mesa Del Sol campus in Albuquerque, growing from 28 acres to 108 acres. This project involved the development of four new soundstages, a production office, and support buildings. Since opening in 2018, Netflix Studios has supported almost $900 million worth of film production, generating thousands of jobs in the region.

• In February 2024, Cinelease Studios announced plans for a major expansion of its existing facilities in Albuquerque. The company will invest $95 million to add five soundstages and two ancillary buildings, roughly doubling its current footprint. This move signals a long-term commitment to the northern New Mexico area and will create hundreds of temporary and permanent jobs going forward.

• A major renovation is now underway at the Albuquerque International Sunport, the primary commercial airport serving northern New Mexico. This project includes a new TSA screening checkpoint that opened in late 2023, as well as new retail offerings, a new food hall, art installations, and updated seating and carpeting. Representing a total investment of about $87 million, this project is expected to be finished by mid-2025.