Itinerary Details
Enchanted New Mexico With The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta & Santa Fe
Day 1 ARRIVE IN ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO Welcome to Albuquerque! At 6 pm, meet your traveling companions for a welcome drink. You’ll also enjoy a special presentation from a [LF] local Balloonist who shares fascinating stories on the sport of ballooning.
LOCAL FAVORITE
CULTURE & TRADITION Enjoy a presentation from a special guest who has been a balloon pilot since the 70’s. Hear the history of the fiesta, his experience, and what special things to look for during the next day’s Mass Ascension.
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Day 2 ALBUQUERQUEUp, Up & Away! Get ready for the world-famous Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta! Experience this morning’s pre-dawn Opening Ceremonies and the unforgettable Mass Balloon Ascension. Then, visit a [LF] traditional New Mexican restaurant for a festive lunch and margaritas. This evening, catch the popular Balloon Glow, where all balloons fire up their burners and light up at the same time, and the amazing After-Glow Fireworks show. (B,L)
NOTE:
Schedule of activities vary from year-to-year and can be impacted by weather. Your Tour Director will be able to confirm the exact schedule of activities on tour.
LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES Be treated to an authentic New Mexico experience with a traditional southwestern lunch and margaritas served in a popular Albuquerque restaurant. New Mexican dishes, from enchiladas and chili rellenos to salsa and sopapillas are served in a festive atmosphere in true local style.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
INSPIRING SIGHTS Look skyward as hundreds of hot air balloons lift off and turn the sky into a virtual rainbow of colors, all led by a balloon flying the American flag to the music of The Star-Spangled Banner. What began as a gathering of 13 balloons more than 50 years ago has grown into the largest ballooning event in the world. While on the balloon grounds, enjoy breakfast at the Chasers Club followed by a visit to the International Balloon Museum, dedicated to the art, culture, science, history, and spectacle of ballooning.
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Day 3 ALBUQUERQUEAncient Arts & Modern Sciences This morning, learn about New Mexico’s legendary covert military projects, including the Manhattan Project, with a guided tour of the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History. The museum provides an objective, accessible window into the past, present, and future of nuclear science from the origins of atomic theory to modern-day advances in nuclear medicine. Then, visit the fascinating museum and crafts market of the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Tonight is at leisure. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORY & HERITAGE Explore the inspiring crafts and museum exhibits collectively run by the 19 New Mexico pueblos (villages). Learn about the history, background, and life of what now comprise the 19 pueblos of New Mexico.
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Day 4 ALBUQUERQUE–SANTA FESouthwestern Jewels Today, travel along the [LF] Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway to Santa Fe. This scenic drive passes through the foothills of the Sandia Mountains, past wide-open spaces, and dramatic scenery. Arrive in Santa Fe, the oldest seat of government in the U.S. Experience this city up close as you embark on a city sightseeing tour, including the San Miguel Mission, the Palace of the Governors, the State Capitol, and Loretto Chapel’s “Miracle Stairway.” Next, take a captivating glimpse into the diversity of folk art from around the world. The Museum of International Folk Art in Santa Fe allows you to explore a vast collection of traditional textiles, ceramics, paintings, and other unique objects that showcase the rich cultural heritage of different regions and communities. (B)
LOCAL FAVORITE
LEGENDARY LIVES The Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway covers 15,000 square miles in the heart of central New Mexico, linking Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Drive back into history through the mining towns of Golden, Madrid, and Cerrillos along this historic trail named for the aqua-hued turquoise first mined by the early Pueblo people.
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Day 5 SANTA FE Spend your day your way in Santa Fe
This morning, explore Santa Fe with your choice of included excursions. Return to Santa Fe Plaza for lunch at a celebrated local restaurant. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore the plaza. Join your Tour Director this evening for a festive farewell dinner featuring a traditional [LF] Mariachi performance. (B,L,D)
LOCAL FAVORITE
CULTURAL GEMS Enjoy a wonderful dinner to celebrate your Southwestern adventure along with the joyous sounds of traditional Mariachi music. Hear the voices of traditional singers and musicians who perform this beautifully rich music in the tradition of celebrating the joys, struggles, and triumphs of the Mexican people.
TAKE YOUR PICK
Explore your way today with your choice of excursions:
SACRED GROUNDS Join a guided tour of Bandelier National Monument and Museum. Learn about the ancient Anasazi Puebloans and their cliff dwellings and explore more of history of the rugged canyon country in the museum at Bandelier National Monument.
OR:
TRADITIONS & TREASURES Experience your choice of exceptional museums with the New Mexico Culture Pass. The entrance pass includes access to the International Folk Art Museum, Contemporary Native Arts Museum, New Mexico Museum of History, and the National Museum of the American Indian.
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Day 6 SANTA FEBones & Blossoms Today, wave goodbye to your Tour Director and Driver and spend the next two days in Santa Fe exploring on your own. Your stay includes admission to the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. You may choose to visit the New Mexico History Museum or the Palace of the Governors, talk with the locals in the historic Santa Fe Plaza, or taste world class Southwestern food at one of the many excellent local restaurants and bars. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ART & CULTURE Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum in Santa Fe to immerse yourself in the exquisitely unique paintings and artwork of this extraordinary woman. Learn of her life in the desert and her unique ability to capture the intimate beauty of flowers, bleached cattle bones, landscapes, and sky in her independent style.
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Day 7 SANTA FE Southwest Style Enjoy a free day in Santa Fe. (B)
ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE in Santa Fe with the free time to browse the beautiful crafts and jewelry along the sidewalk shops or indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine. Your Tour Director has the best tips for a great day in Santa Fe! Tap your GlobusGO mobile app for more local ideas and directions.
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Day 8 SANTA FE Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. If you choose to fly from the Albuquerque International Sunport Airport, please note it is a 1.5-hour drive from Santa Fe depending on traffic. Schedule your departing flights accordingly. (B)
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