9 things to do during Balloon Fiesta
Oct. 6—You've woken up before the early bird, watched "The Greatest Show Off Earth," and now you might be wondering, what else can I do today? Good news, Albuquerque and New Mexico offer many unique activities to partake in, whether you're waiting for the Balloon Glow to start, or just want to explore some of the Land of Enchantment.
Here are nine things to do, in honor of the nine days of Balloon Fiesta.
Sandia Peak Tramway
Take a ride on the longest aerial tram in the Americas. The trip starts at the base of the Sandia Mountains and climbs to 10,378 feet at the crest, over 2.7 miles. Catch views of Albuquerque and beyond, or catch a bite at TEN 3.
Petroglyph National Monument
Albuquerque is home to one of the largest petroglyph sites in North America. Walk through time and learn more about the Native American symbols carved into volcanic rocks.
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
Learn about pueblo culture from the 19 pueblos of New Mexico.
Enjoy Native American dance, art, music and more, as the center hosts 10 days of special events during Balloon Fiesta.
Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad
Traveling between Chama and Antonito, Colorado, the Cumbres and Toltec offers spectacular fall views and Rocky Mountain scenery, all on board a narrow gauge steam locomotive.
Chaco Canyon National Historical Park
An International Dark Sky Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chaco Canyon contains the archaeological sites of the Ancestral Puebloan people. Learn about the people who built these massive buildings and their impact on the Southwest.
Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument
Three distinct sites make up this monument, located just outside Mountainair. Quarai, Abó and Gran Quivira are the reminders of the Spanish and Pueblo peoples' early encounters, and each site is home to the remains of Native American structures and early Spanish missions.
National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
If you've seen "Oppenheimer" and want to learn more about the story of the Atomic Age, this is the place. Visitors can explore nuclear science through exhibits, the Heritage Park and more.
Old Town
Albuquerque was founded in 1706 and Old Town has been a part of its history since then. With shops, restaurants, San Felipe de Neri church, along with several museums nearby, there is plenty to do.
New Mexico Rail Runner Express
If you've decided to take a trek to Santa Fe, consider riding the Rail Runner to the City Different. Enjoy the scenery and leave the driving to the engineer.
