• 6 Days
  • From $4,599
  • Airfare Included

Flying Colors: Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Tour Style:
Land
Activity Level:
Moderate
Highest Elevation:
7,000 feet
8 Meals:
5 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 2 Dinners

Experience the largest balloon festival and most photographed event in the world during a spectacular getaway in the Land of Enchantment! Enjoy the convenience of staying at the same wonderful hotel throughout the week, plus a perfect blend of planned attractions and time for individual exploration on our Southwest trip. Highlights include the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, guided city tours in Albuquerque and Santa Fe, Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway, and Historic Route 66. At the International Balloon Fiesta, take advantage of premier viewing in a reserved club to watch the Mass Ascension, Balloon Glow, and AfterGlow™ Fireworks Show.

Trip overview may vary by departure.

  • Day 1: Fly to New Mexico
    Upon arriving in Albuquerque, we check in to our beautiful accommodations for the week and enjoy the convenience of unpacking only once.
  • Day 2: City Sights & Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
    Delight in an included breakfast each morning of our trip. Our adventure kicks off with a city tour of Albuquerque, led by a local guide who shares fascinating insight on top landmarks like Old Town and Nob Hill business district. Afterwards, we gather for a Welcome Lunch and get to know our fellow travelers, then visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Known as the Gateway to the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico, this museum tells the story of how Pueblo culture has transformed since ancient times with intriguing exhibits. The evening is at your leisure.

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Day 3: International Balloon Fiesta
    Today, we cross off an iconic bucket list item and witness the world’s largest balloon event! We rise before the sun to catch the Mass Ascension, a launch of all the spectacular hot air balloons. Enjoy a guaranteed prime viewing location in a reserved club and scheduled activities (weather dependent and may vary), such as a chainsaw carving show. We return to our hotel mid-afternoon to relax and freshen up before tonight’s Balloon Glow, where the colorful balloons illuminate our evening. Following an included dinner, our spectacular day concludes with the AfterGlow™ Fireworks Show.

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

  • Day 4: National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
    After a restful morning, we’re off to tour the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History to learn about historic events with comprehensive exhibits that peer into the past, present, and future. Discover restored aircraft and missiles outdoors, gain a better understanding of the aftereffects in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, hear about the Cold War, and much more. The rest of the day is yours to soak up everything Albuquerque has to offer! Explore the delicious culinary scene, embark on a moderate hike to Petroglyph National Monument, take in beautiful views on the Sandia Peak Tramway, or visit the Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum.

    Meals Included: Breakfast

  • Day 5: Santa Fe & Historic Route 66
    Our day begins with a leisurely drive to Santa Fe along one of New Mexico’s most beautiful routes, Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway. We travel through the mining towns of Cedar Crest, Golden, and Madrid, whose mines once yielded precious metals and turquoise. Arriving in America’s oldest capital city, embark on a guided walking tour to visit some of the most well-known attractions. See the historic Sante Fe Plaza, St. Francis Cathedral, Palace of the Governors, and legendary Loretto Chapel, with its famed miraculous staircase. The afternoon is yours to explore this charming city known as the heart and soul of the Southwest. Later, we drive along Route 66 and soak in the nostalgia of the Mother Road – celebrating its 100th anniversary this year – before returning to Albuquerque for a wonderful Farewell Dinner.

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

  • Day 6: Return Home
    We fly home today with incredible memories of New Mexico adventures.

    Meals Included: Breakfast

What's Included

All Accommodations

  • 5 nights 5 nights at Embassy Suites by Hilton Albuquerque

Attractions & Highlights

  • Albuquerque guided city tour feat. Old Town
  • Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
  • Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta feat. AfterGlow™ Fireworks Show
  • National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
  • Time at leisure in Albuquerque & Santa Fe
  • Historic Route 66
  • Santa Fe guided walking tour feat. Loretto Chapel
  • Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway

8 Excellent Meals

  • Daily breakfast
  • Welcome Lunch near Old Town
  • Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant

Learn more about what's included with the Holiday Advantage.