After breakfast, we head to Santa Fe. We’ll head north along the picturesque Turquoise Trail and stop in the artist colony, Madrid. In Santa Fe, the oldest capital city in the US. You can visit one of the wonders of Santa Fe’s historic district, Loretto Chapel. Constructed in 1873, this striking Gothic chapel houses the Miraculous Staircase, a marvel of architectural ingenuity that some claim was designed and built by St. Joseph himself!

For the shoppers, Santa Fe is a Southwestern haven. Governor’s Plaza is home to various shops and artists’ studios. Enjoy a relaxing ride on the motor coach to Albuquerque where the evening is at your leisure. Order a pizza and wait to a local restaurant for dinner.

Wake up Early! Today, we attend the Balloon Fiesta Opening Ceremonies and “Mass Ascension” at sunrise. A sight not to be missed.

Up, Up, and Away! Imagine a blue sky filled with a kaleidoscope of dazzling colors and shapes. That’s what you’ll experience at the world’s largest balloon event, the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta”. Your spirits will soar as you watch more than 700 balloons from all over the world ascend into the skies over Albuquerque.

After the balloons are gone… we will ride the Sandia Peak Tramway! Sandia Mountain dominates the east side of Albuquerque with its 5,000 vertical rise. The tram ride itself is 15-minutes and travels through a few biological life zones, revealing deep canyons and an awe-inspiring at the peak.

Note: Due to elevation, 10,378 individuals with heart conditions or respiratory problems should consult their doctor before riding the tram. Dress in layers, the temperature can be cold at the top.

We will rest before attending tonight’s balloon glow, a signature Fiesta event that sets the night sky ablaze.

The balloons are tethered on the fiesta grounds, in unison, the pilots set their burners aglow, creating a luminous, magical display, followed by a spectacular fireworks show. It’s a pyrotechnical display you’ll not soon forget. You can also get your fill of junk food at the festival.

Morning free to take a hot air balloon ride, relax or explore on your own. Then, it is time to journey back in time to Old Town, established as a colonial farming village in 1706. Albuquerque’s Old Town neighborhood still bears the mark of its Spanish founders. Through narrow brick pathways to Spanish-style plazas and 18th-century adobe architecture, explore the heritage of Albuquerque’s varied past. It’s a festive time at Albuquerque Plaza.

We’ll enjoy an early dinner at Garduno’s of Mexico before we attend tonight’s glow. 

Attractions are added to Balloon Fiesta every year. Most recent additions are the Balloon Discovery Tent, the Haunted House, and Team Fastrax Skydivers with fireworks on their heels that land with pinpoint precision!

Our wonderful weekend in Albuquerque comes to an end. Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before you are transferred to the airport according to your individual flight schedule. Have a safe flight home.