16 Breaking Bad Filming Locations Then and Now
A Visual Journey Through Albuquerque's Iconic Sites
Breaking Bad captivated audiences with its gripping storyline and complex characters, but the show's distinctive Albuquerque setting also played a crucial role in its success. The series' creators expertly utilized various locations throughout the city to bring Walter White's world to life on screen.
Many of the iconic filming locations from Breaking Bad are still accessible to fans today, offering a unique opportunity to step into the show's universe. From Walter White's house to Los Pollos Hermanos, these sites have become popular attractions for tourists and locals alike. Some locations have changed since filming wrapped, while others remain remarkably similar to their on-screen appearances.
1) Walter White's Car Wash
The A1A Car Wash played a significant role in Breaking Bad as Walter White's workplace and later money laundering operation. Located at 9516 Snow Heights Circle NE in Albuquerque, the real-life car wash is now known as Mister Car Wash.
In the show, Walt initially worked part-time at the car wash while teaching high school chemistry. As his illegal activities expanded, he and Skyler purchased the business to launder their drug money.
The exterior of the car wash remains largely unchanged since filming, maintaining its distinctive blue and white color scheme. Fans can easily recognize the building's facade and signage from the series.
While visitors can't recreate Walt's famous "Have an A1 day!" catchphrase inside, they can still experience a car wash at this iconic location. The current owners have embraced the site's television fame, allowing fans to take photos of the exterior.
The car wash continues to operate as a functional business, offering a unique opportunity for Breaking Bad enthusiasts to immerse themselves in a key setting from the show.
2) Saul Goodman's Office
Saul Goodman's iconic office from "Breaking Bad" is located at 9800 Montgomery Boulevard NE in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The strip mall setting perfectly captures the character's flamboyant yet budget-conscious approach to legal practice.
In the show, the office's exterior features a distinctive inflatable Statue of Liberty on the roof and garish signage. These elements made it an instantly recognizable location for fans.
Since the show's conclusion, the real-life building has undergone some renovations. As a result, it no longer bears a strong resemblance to its on-screen counterpart.
Despite the changes, the location remains a popular spot for "Breaking Bad" enthusiasts. Many visitors still come to see where the colorful lawyer conducted his questionable business dealings.
The office also appeared in the spin-off series "Better Call Saul," showing Jimmy McGill's transformation into the Saul Goodman persona. This connection adds another layer of significance to the site for fans of both shows.
3) Los Pollos Hermanos
Los Pollos Hermanos played a crucial role in the Breaking Bad series as the front for Gus Fring's drug empire. The iconic fast-food restaurant was featured prominently throughout several seasons.
In reality, the location used for filming is a restaurant called Twisters. It can be found at 4257 Isleta Blvd. SW in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Twisters continues to operate as a regular fast-food establishment, serving burgers, burritos, and chicken. The restaurant has embraced its connection to Breaking Bad, allowing fans to take photos and experience a piece of the show's history.
Many Breaking Bad enthusiasts visit Twisters to see where pivotal scenes were filmed. The interior still resembles what viewers saw on screen, though without the Los Pollos Hermanos branding.
The location remains a popular stop on Breaking Bad tours of Albuquerque. Fans can sit in the same booths where Walter White and Jesse Pinkman had tense meetings with Gus Fring.
4) Jesse Pinkman's House
Jesse Pinkman's house, located at 322 16th St. SW in Albuquerque, New Mexico, played a significant role in the Breaking Bad series. The distinctive two-story residence served as the fictional home of Aaron Paul's character from 2008 to 2013.
The property became a popular tourist destination during and after the show's run. Fans would often visit to recreate memorable scenes, particularly the infamous pizza-throwing incident involving Walter White.
Today, the house remains a private residence. Its owners have taken measures to discourage excessive tourism and maintain their privacy. Despite these efforts, the location continues to hold significance for Breaking Bad enthusiasts.
The exterior of Jesse's house has undergone minimal changes since the show's conclusion. Its recognizable features, including the front porch and distinctive color scheme, remain largely intact.
Jesse Pinkman's character development is closely tied to this location. The house witnessed his struggles, personal growth, and pivotal moments throughout the series, making it an iconic Breaking Bad filming site.
5) Hank and Marie's House
Hank and Marie Schrader's residence is located at 4901 Cumbre Del Sur Ct NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111. The house sits at the end of a cul-de-sac, nestled close to the Sandia Mountains.
The pueblo-style architecture of the Schrader home blends seamlessly with the surrounding neighborhood. This distinctive design choice reflects the local Albuquerque aesthetic prevalent in the area.
Inside the house, several memorable scenes from Breaking Bad took place. The kitchen often served as a backdrop for Marie's character, who was frequently seen stirring Splenda into her hot beverages.
The garage of the Schrader residence holds significance for Hank's character development. It's where he brewed his homemade beer, affectionately named "Schraderbräu."
During the series, the house also functioned as a safe house for the White family at a crucial point in the storyline. This location played a pivotal role in some of the show's most intense moments.
Today, the Schrader house remains a private residence. Fans of Breaking Bad can view the exterior from the street, but are advised to respect the privacy of the current occupants.
6) A1A Car Wash
The A1A Car Wash, located at 9516 Snow Heights Circle NE in Albuquerque, plays a significant role in Breaking Bad. In the show, it serves as the money laundering business for Walter White and his wife Skyler.
Originally known as Octopus Car Wash during filming, the location has since become part of the Mister Car Wash chain. Both interior and exterior scenes were shot at this site, making it a recognizable landmark for fans of the series.
The car wash represents a pivotal point in Walter's transformation from a struggling high school teacher to a successful drug lord. It symbolizes his attempt to legitimize his illicit income through a seemingly ordinary business venture.
Visitors to Albuquerque can still see the exterior of the building, which remains largely unchanged since its appearance in Breaking Bad. The location continues to operate as a functioning car wash, attracting both regular customers and curious tourists.
The A1A Car Wash stands as a testament to Breaking Bad's impact on Albuquerque's landscape and tourism industry. It remains a popular stop for fans embarking on self-guided tours of the show's filming locations.
7) The Crossroads Motel
The Crossroads Motel played a significant role in AMC's "Breaking Bad" series. Located at 1001 Central N.E. in Albuquerque, New Mexico, this motel served as a backdrop for several memorable scenes.
The motel appeared in multiple episodes, including "...And the Bag's in the River" (Season 1, Episode 3) and "Bit by a Dead Bee" (Season 2, Episode 3). It gained notoriety as the residence of Wendy, a character known for her drug addiction.
One notable scene features Hank warning Walter Jr. about the dangers of drugs at this location. The motel's gritty atmosphere provided a perfect setting for this intense conversation.
Fans of the show often refer to the Crossroads Motel as "The Crystal Palace," a nickname that highlights its association with the drug-related themes in the series. The motel was also featured in a musical montage that became popular among viewers.
Today, the Crossroads Motel remains a popular stop for "Breaking Bad" enthusiasts touring filming locations in Albuquerque. Its appearance has changed little since the show aired, allowing fans to experience the authentic atmosphere depicted in the series.
8) Skyler White's Office
Skyler White's office was a key location in Breaking Bad, where she worked as a bookkeeper for Beneke Fabricators. The real-life building used for exterior shots is located in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
The office's interior scenes were filmed on a soundstage, meticulously designed to reflect a typical small business accounting department. The set featured cubicles, filing cabinets, and computers, creating an authentic work environment.
Skyler's personal workspace within the office was carefully crafted to showcase her organized and detail-oriented personality. Her desk was often seen with neatly arranged documents and office supplies, emphasizing her professional nature.
The office served as a backdrop for several important plot developments, including Skyler's discovery of Ted Beneke's fraudulent accounting practices. It also provided a stark contrast to the illicit activities of her husband, Walter White.
Today, the exterior location of Beneke Fabricators remains a point of interest for Breaking Bad fans visiting Albuquerque. While the interior set no longer exists, the building's facade continues to remind viewers of Skyler's attempts to maintain a normal life amidst the chaos of Walt's criminal enterprise.
9) Tuco's Headquarters
Tuco Salamanca's headquarters played a pivotal role in several key scenes of Breaking Bad. The location used for filming was Java Joe's, a cafe in downtown Albuquerque.
This site served as the setting for Walt and Jesse's tense meetings with the volatile drug kingpin Tuco. It was here that Walt first introduced himself as "Heisenberg" during a confrontation with Tuco.
The exterior and interior of Java Joe's were both featured in the show. While the cafe continues to operate today, it no longer resembles its appearance in Breaking Bad.
Fans can still visit the location at 906 Park Avenue SW in Albuquerque. Though the interior has changed, the building's distinctive architecture remains recognizable from the exterior shots used in the series.
Java Joe's embraces its connection to the show, often welcoming Breaking Bad enthusiasts who stop by to see this iconic filming location in person.
10) Gus Fring's Laundry
Gus Fring's laundry facility served as a front for his massive meth lab operation in Breaking Bad. The industrial laundry building used for filming is located at 1617 Candelaria Rd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87107.
In the show, this location housed a state-of-the-art underground meth lab disguised beneath an operational laundry business. The facility played a crucial role in Walter White and Jesse Pinkman's work for Gus Fring.
Today, the building remains standing and continues to operate as a working laundry facility. Fans can drive by to see the exterior, though access to the interior is not permitted.
The laundry's appearance in Breaking Bad made it an iconic location for the series. It represented Gus Fring's meticulous planning and the scale of his criminal enterprise.
While the super lab itself was a set constructed for the show, the exterior shots of the laundry helped ground the fictional operation in Albuquerque's real landscape.
11) Jane's Apartment
Jane's apartment was a significant location in Breaking Bad's second season. The duplex, situated at 323 Terrace Street SE in Albuquerque, served as the residence for Jesse Pinkman and his girlfriend Jane Margolis.
This location played host to several pivotal scenes in the series. It was here that Jesse and Jane's relationship developed and ultimately took a tragic turn. The apartment became the site of Jane's fatal drug overdose, a moment that deeply impacted Jesse and altered the course of the show.
Today, the duplex still stands at the same address in Albuquerque. While some minor changes have occurred, such as the removal of a few trees, the building remains largely recognizable to fans of the show.
The apartment's exterior continues to draw Breaking Bad enthusiasts who want to see this important filming location in person. Its enduring presence serves as a tangible reminder of the series' impact and its deep ties to Albuquerque.
12) Saul Goodman's Mansion
Saul Goodman's opulent mansion stands as a stark contrast to his humble beginnings as Jimmy McGill. Located in a prestigious Albuquerque neighborhood, the property showcases Saul's financial success and extravagant tastes.
The exterior features a Mediterranean-style design with stucco walls and a red tile roof. Lush landscaping surrounds the home, including palm trees and meticulously manicured lawns.
Inside, the mansion boasts high ceilings, marble floors, and ornate furnishings. Saul's office within the home is particularly noteworthy, featuring dark wood paneling and a large desk befitting his legal persona.
The mansion's backyard includes a swimming pool and patio area, perfect for Saul's lavish parties and gatherings. Security cameras and a gated entrance add an element of privacy and protection for the controversial lawyer.
While the exact address remains undisclosed to protect the privacy of the current owners, fans can still admire the mansion's exterior from a respectful distance. The property serves as a testament to Saul Goodman's rise to power and wealth in the Albuquerque criminal underworld.
13) The RV Junkyard
The RV junkyard played a crucial role in Breaking Bad as the location where Walter and Jesse disposed of their mobile meth lab. This iconic site was filmed at an actual salvage yard in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
The junkyard's gritty, industrial atmosphere perfectly captured the show's tone. Rows of abandoned vehicles and piles of scrap metal created a stark backdrop for some of the series' most tense moments.
Today, the junkyard continues to operate as a working salvage yard. While it's not open for public tours, fans can catch a glimpse of the exterior from nearby public roads.
The RV junkyard scenes were pivotal in the show's storyline, representing the characters' efforts to cover their tracks and evade law enforcement. The location's authenticity added to the realism that Breaking Bad was known for.
Though time has passed since filming, the junkyard retains much of its original appearance. It stands as a testament to the show's commitment to using real Albuquerque locations to bring its fictional world to life.
14) Denny's Diner
Denny's Diner played a memorable role in Breaking Bad, serving as a meeting spot for Walter White and Jesse Pinkman. The restaurant is located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where much of the series was filmed.
In the show, Walt and Jesse visit Denny's after a particularly intense event involving Victor's death. They appear wearing matching brown Kenny Rogers t-shirts and white pants, likely purchased as replacement clothing.
The scene at Denny's captures a stark contrast between the characters' states of mind. Jesse orders pancakes, seemingly unfazed by recent events, while Walt remains visibly shaken.
Today, the Denny's used in filming still operates as a regular restaurant. Fans of Breaking Bad can visit this location to experience a piece of the show's history firsthand.
The diner's appearance in the series has made it a popular stop for tourists exploring Breaking Bad filming locations in Albuquerque. It stands as a testament to the show's impact on local businesses and tourism.
15) Walt and Jesse's RV Cook Site
The remote desert location where Walter White and Jesse Pinkman first cooked methamphetamine in their RV holds special significance for Breaking Bad fans. This pivotal site is situated along Trail 7089, about one mile west of Canoncito, New Mexico.
The area's stark landscape provided the perfect backdrop for the show's initial meth-cooking scenes. Its isolation emphasized the secretive nature of Walt and Jesse's operation as they began their illicit venture.
This location later reappeared in the series as the spot where Walt buried his money drums. It also served as the tragic setting for Hank and his partner's final confrontation with Walt's associates.
Visitors should note that the road is sometimes referred to as 7039 on tribal signposts, which may cause confusion when trying to locate the exact spot. The discrepancy between GPS listings and local signs has led some fans to miss the site on their first attempt.
While the actual RV is no longer present, the unchanged desert scenery allows fans to easily imagine the iconic vehicle parked among the scrub brush and sand.
16) The Courthouse
The Bernalillo County Courthouse in Albuquerque played a significant role in Breaking Bad. This imposing concrete structure served as the backdrop for several pivotal courtroom scenes throughout the series.
Located at 400 Lomas Boulevard NW, the courthouse remains an active legal center today. Its brutalist architecture, characterized by stark concrete facades, continues to make it a recognizable landmark in downtown Albuquerque.
In Breaking Bad, the courthouse featured prominently in storylines involving legal proceedings against various characters. Viewers may recall tense moments as Walt, Jesse, and other key players navigated the justice system within its walls.
While the exterior shots in the show were of the actual courthouse, interior courtroom scenes were typically filmed on soundstages. This allowed for greater control over lighting and camera angles during crucial dramatic moments.
Today, Breaking Bad fans can easily view the courthouse exterior, though public access to the interior is limited due to its ongoing judicial functions. The building stands as a tangible reminder of the show's deep connections to Albuquerque's urban landscape.
Historical Significance of Filming Locations
Breaking Bad's filming locations in Albuquerque have become iconic landmarks, deeply ingrained in popular culture. These sites have transformed the city's image and bolstered its tourism industry.
Impact on Albuquerque
Breaking Bad put Albuquerque on the map as a filming destination. The show's success attracted other productions to the area, boosting the local economy. Film tourism increased, with fans flocking to see familiar locations from the series.
The city's unique landscape and architecture became characters in their own right, showcasing Albuquerque's distinct aesthetic to a global audience. This exposure helped reshape perceptions of the city, highlighting its cultural and visual appeal.
Local businesses featured in the show, like Los Pollos Hermanos (based on real-life Twisters), saw increased patronage. The series also created job opportunities for locals in the film industry, contributing to the growth of Albuquerque's creative sector.
Tourism Influence
Breaking Bad tours became a major draw for visitors to Albuquerque. Fans can explore key locations like Walter White's house, the car wash, and Saul Goodman's office. These tours provide an economic boost to local businesses and tour operators.
The city's tourism board capitalized on the show's popularity, promoting "Breaking Bad experiences" to attract visitors. This strategy has extended the series' impact years after its conclusion, creating a lasting tourism legacy.
Souvenir shops now offer Breaking Bad-themed merchandise, from blue rock candy to Los Pollos Hermanos shirts. This memorabilia allows fans to take a piece of the show's history home, further cementing Albuquerque's connection to the beloved series.
Preservation of Iconic Sites
Breaking Bad filming locations have become cultural landmarks, attracting fans from around the world. Preserving these sites presents unique challenges and opportunities for the local community.
Challenges in Maintaining Authenticity
Maintaining the authenticity of Breaking Bad filming locations faces several obstacles. Property owners must balance preservation with practical use. Some sites, like Walter White's house, experience high visitor traffic, leading to wear and tear.
Privacy concerns also arise for residents living in or near famous locations. The owners of the White residence installed a fence to deter trespassers and protect their property.
Balancing tourism interests with neighborhood tranquility remains an ongoing issue. Local authorities work to manage fan visits while respecting residents' rights.
Community Efforts
Albuquerque residents and businesses have embraced their city's connection to Breaking Bad. Many participate in preservation efforts to maintain the show's legacy.
Local tour companies offer guided visits to key locations, helping to manage tourist impact. Some business owners, like those at Los Pollos Hermanos (Twisters in real life), preserve show-related decor to attract fans.
Community groups collaborate with city officials to establish guidelines for responsible tourism. These efforts aim to protect both the filming sites and local quality of life.
Fundraising initiatives support the upkeep of public locations featured in the show. This community involvement helps ensure that Breaking Bad's physical legacy in Albuquerque endures for years to come.
