Albuquerque is not a spot that most people think of visiting while they’re in New Mexico, but it really isn’t a place to be missed. There is plenty there to keep the whole family entertained. From museums to food, you won’t want to miss out on what Albuquerque has to offer.
Here are five things to do with the kids while you’re there that are sure to make everyone happy:
Explora!
Museums are great for vacations because they not only get you out of the hot sun, but it also gives you a chance to explore new things. Kids love being able to get hands-on in this museum with plenty of experiments and activities to keep them busy for a few hours.
The cost is $7 for adults and $3 for kids under 11.
Petroglyph National Monument
For a little outdoor adventure, take the kids to the Petroglyph National Monument. You can inspect more than 20,000 carved images among the rocks. Take turns guessing what each image is, what the symbols mean. You can also hike along the park’s trails to view the amazing landscape.
The Petroglyph National Monument is just $1 per person during the week and $2 on the weekends.
BioPark
This is the city’s combination of Botanic Gardens, zoo and aquarium, making it a place to spend an entire day, easily. Inside the Botanic Garden is the Fantasy Garden, which is full of things for the kids to do. There are sculptures to play on, such as giant watering cans, carrots and other vegetables. You can wear out your camera taking pictures of them as they run, laugh and explore.
Go to the zoo area to visit with the wildlife and see rare animals, like the baby rhino and Tasmania wombat. In the aquarium, you can see the sea life, including sharks, seat turtles and jellyfish. You can also visit Tingley Beach to fish, hike, sail a model boat or ride a bike.
The BioPark is open from 9-5 daily and tickets are$20 for adults and $6 for kids under 12. Kids under 3 are free.
Volcano Park
You can take a hike to explore the remnants of five cinder cone volcanoes that were formed over 100,000 years ago. You can take a picnic lunch and follow the trail around the park or climb to the top of the extinct cones to enjoy the view over the plains and out over the city. This is a very interesting journey for everyone to enjoy.
Rattlesnake Museum
You can learn many interesting facts about the rattlesnake, along with other reptiles. Look at the exhibit animals, including the largest collection of rattlesnake species. You’ll probably be surprised at how misunderstood these creatures are and walk away with a new respect and understanding.
Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for kids.
Albuquerque is full of great things that you and the family will enjoy. It is a great place to visit on its own or as a place to stop and explore on your way to other interesting sites, such as the Grand Canyon.
