FAMILY ATTRACTIONS / EXPLORATION
New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science
1801 Mountain Road NW
Albuquerque 505-841-2800
www.nmnaturalhistory.org
Home to the Lodestar Astronomy Center with its own interesting lineup of programs, this innovative and “hands-on” educational museum features an active volcano, an ice-age cave, dinosaurs, a time machine, and the larger-than-life Dynamax Theater.
Rio Grande Nature Center
2901 Candelaria NW
Albuquerque 505-344-7240
http://rgnc.org
Situated on the central Rio Grande flyway, this state park features a delightful nature center that is home to Canada geese, sandhill cranes, and various species of ducks and other waterfowl. A trail system along the river, classrooms, and an extensive library with viewing areas add to this valuable resource.
Rio Grande Zoo
Albuquerque Biological Park
903 Tenth Street SW
Albuquerque 505-768-2000
www.cabq.gov/biopark/zoo
This world-class institution features rocky outcrops, grassy meadows, towering cottonwoods, shimmering waterfalls, and tranquil pools that create an oasis for exotic and native species. Visitors can enjoy a close encounter with more than 1,000 animals of every shape and size, from seals and polar bears to wolves, elephants, simangs, cheetahs, and bison in theme exhibits like Africa.
Sandia Peak Ski & Tramway
30 Tramway Road NE
Albuquerque 505-856-7325
www.sandiapeak.com
Just minutes from the heart of Albuquerque, the world’s longest aerial tramway lifts you 2.7 miles to the breathtaking top of Sandia Peak. Attractions include a ski area filled with exciting runs, fine dining, and scenic adventures like summer mountain biking.
Stone Age Climbing Gym
4130 Cutler Avenue NE
Albuquerque 505-341-2016
http://climbstoneage.com
The gym offers a wide variety of adventures just for the younger set to foster the talent of “natural climbers” and encourage the development of coordination, strength, and balance in ways that are entertaining and fun.
Tinkertown Museum
121 Sandia Crest Road
Sandia Park 505-281-5233
www.tinkertown.com
The entire family will be mystified at this amazing collection of bottles and memorabilia that fills 22 rooms. Unusual carvings and collections include a miniature Western village, a circus exhibit, and glass bottle house.
Wildlife West Nature Park
87 West Frontage Road
Edgewood 505-281-7655
www.wildlifewest.org
This 122-acre, hands-on environmental education center features plants and animals indigenous to the Southwest in natural habitats. The park is also a renewable energy project incorporating recycled building materials in its buildings and habitat constructions.
World Balloon Company
6390 Coors Boulevard NW
Albuquerque 505-293-6800
www.worldballoon.com
New Mexico’s oldest and largest hot-air balloon company has been offering passenger rides in the City of Albuquerque for more than two decades.
New Mexico Festivals
Albuquerque’s rich and spirited blending of cultures and interests opens the door for a wealth of special events, festivals, and celebrations. From world-class ballooning in October to a nationwide powwow in April, you won’t want to miss one colorful moment. The Internet is a good way to stay up to date, since the whirlwind of fairs, fiestas, sporting events, and activities are constantly in motion.
Calendars & Information
Albuquerque Convention & Visitors Bureau
800-284-2282
www.visitalbuquerque.org
New Mexico Department of Tourism
505-827-7336
www.newmexico.org
Major Regional Festivals
Albuquerque Antiquarian Book Fair
4900 Balloon Fiesta Parkway NE
Albuquerque 505-345-1945
www.abqbookfair.com
Albuquerque Fiber Arts Fiesta
Albuquerque
www.fiberartsfiesta.org
Albuquerque Gem & Mineral Club Show
Albuquerque
www.agmc.info
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
Albuquerque
505-821-1000
888-422-7277
http://balloonfiesta.com
Corrales Harvest Festival
Corrales
www.corralesharvestfestival.com
EXPO New Mexico & State Fair
Albuquerque
505-222-9700
www.exponm.com
Freedom 4th & Music Fest
Albuquerque
505-768-3556
www.cabq.gov/culturalservices
Gathering of Nations Pow Wow
Albuquerque
505-836-2810
www.gatheringofnations.com
La Luz Trail Run
Albuquerque
www.abqroadrunners.com
New Mexico Wine Festival at Bernalillo
Bernalillo
575-649-8994
www.nmwine.com
Rio Grande Arts & Crafts Festivals
Albuquerque
505-292-7457
www.riograndefestivals.com
Santa Fe Indian Market
Santa Fe
505-983-5220
www.swaia.org
Sizzling Summerfest
Albuquerque
505-768-3556
www.cabq.gov/culturalservices
Twinkle Light Parade
Albuquerque
505-768-3556
www.cabq.gov/culturalservices
