Day 1 : Arrive in Albuquerque

We arrive in Albuquerque this afternoon and check in to our beautiful accommodations near the airport. This newly renovated hotel offers comfortable rooms for maximum relaxation, two onsite dining experiences, free high-speed Wi-Fi, laundry services, and more. Enjoy the convenience of unpacking only once as we stay in this same hotel throughout our entire trip.

Day 2 : City Sights & Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

Delight in an included breakfast each morning. Our adventure begins with a guided tour of Albuquerque with the opportunity to view iconic landmarks including downtown, Nob Hill business district, and Old Town. Afterward, we gather for a wonderful 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, discover how Pueblo culture has transformed since ancient times with intriguing exhibits. The evening is at leisure.

Day 3 : International Balloon Fiesta

Today we cross off an iconic bucket list item and witness the world’s largest balloon event! We board our motorcoach early this morning to catch the Mass Ascension, a launch of all the spectacular hot air balloons. Enjoy a guaranteed prime viewing location 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.

Day 4 : National Museum of Nuclear Science & History

After a restful morning, we’re off to tour the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History to learn about historic events with comprehensive exhibits that peer into the past, present, and future of nuclear science. Discover restored aircraft and missiles outdoors, gain a better understanding of the after-effects 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.

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 rest of the day is yours to explore this fascinating city known as the “heart and soul” of the Southwest. Later, we return to Albuquerque with a drive along Historic Route 66 and celebrate our New Mexico adventures with a lovely Farewell Dinner.

Day 6 : Return Home

We fly home today with incredible memories of our time in the Southwest.