Place guide
Isleta Pueblo
A large pueblo south of Albuquerque anchored by the historic Mission of San Agustín dating to the 1600s.
📍GPS: 34.908374, -106.69339
Isleta Pueblo (Shiewhibak - Knife laid on the ground to play whib)
Located just south of Albuquerque along the Rio Grande, Isleta Pueblo is one of New Mexico’s 19 Pueblo communities. The pueblo was established in the 1300s and remains home to a Southern Tiwa-speaking community with roots in the Middle Rio Grande Valley. Isleta is especially known for its historic San Agustín de la Isleta Mission, one of the oldest mission churches in New Mexico, as well as its pottery, feast days, and strong cultural traditions.
San Agustín Mission & Pueblo Life
The most interesting landmark in Isleta Pueblo is the San Agustín de la Isleta Mission, one of the oldest mission churches in New Mexico. The original mission church was built in 1621, though the building was damaged during the Pueblo Revolt in 1680 and later rebuilt. Its long history reflects both the deep Tiwa roots of Isleta Pueblo and the Spanish colonial period that reshaped the Rio Grande pueblos. Some Isleta people also went south with the Spanish retreat after the Pueblo Revolt, helping establish the related Ysleta del Sur Pueblo near El Paso.
Isleta Resort & Casino
Isleta Resort & Casino is the main visitor attraction in Isleta Pueblo, located just south of Albuquerque near I-25. The resort has a casino, hotel, restaurants, golf course, and entertainment venues, making it a convenient stop for travelers heading between Albuquerque and southern New Mexico.
Feast Days & Public Ceremonies
Some events may be open to visitors, while others are private, restricted to community members, or closed without notice. Access, schedules, and photography rules can change, so visitors should confirm directly with the Pueblo before attending.
- April – Easter Weekend — Basket & Corn Dances
- Easter Sunday — Various Dances
- July 28 — St. Augustine Feast Day Mass followed procession and traditional dances
- December 24–28 — Christmas Dances (times and locations vary)
Visiting Respectfully
New Mexico’s pueblos are living communities, not museums. They are sovereign tribal nations with their own governments, laws, and traditions. When visiting, remember that you are a guest on tribal land.
- Obey all posted signs and respect areas marked as private or off-limits.
- Do not photograph people, homes, religious activities, or ceremonies without permission.
- During dances and ceremonies, remain quiet and avoid crossing ceremonial areas.
- Do not remove pottery shards, artifacts, plants, or other objects from pueblo lands (you will be cursed).
- Observe all posted speed limits and traffic laws. Going 5 mph over can get you a ticket.
Nearby places
Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge
An urban wildlife refuge in Albuquerque's South Valley that attract birds.
Albuquerque
New Mexico's largest city, known for the International Balloon Fiesta, historic Route 66, and the Sandia Mountains.
Rio Grande Nature Center State Park
A peaceful bosque refuge with cottonwood trails, river access, ponds, and bird watching.