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Photo: Sba2 at English Wikipedia, CC BY 2.5 via Wikimedia Commons
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is a nine-day event occurring in the first full week of October in Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States. It has over 500 hot air balloons each year, far from its beginnings of merely 13 balloons in 1972. The event is the largest balloon festival in the world, as well as the most photographed annual event, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year from around the globe.
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Overlooking the balloon launch field is this very interesting museum dedicated to the science and history of ballooning, with exhibits on hot air balloons and other lighter-than-air craft (including a couple of historic craft occupying the expansive hall), collections and memorabilia from famous balloonists, and extensive exhibits on ballooning in Albuquerque. If you can't make it to the Balloon Fiesta, this is next best thing, and if you can make it to the Balloon Fiesta, this makes for an excellent complement to a morning spent at a mass ascension.
The only one which operates directly from Balloon Fiesta Park during the Balloon Fiesta.
This is just about the only amusement park in New Mexico. Fairly small, but with a good number of rides. Thrill rides (including two roller coasters), family rides, kiddy rides, and a water play area.
The center for the city's open space program, which encompasses land from around the city to preserve for environmental and recreational use. The visitor center has exhibits on the natural and cultural resources of the area, an art gallery, a nature area, and views of the bosque and mountains.
Operated by the local Unser racing family, this museum is dedicated to the racing legacy of the Unsers and to the sport of auto racing in general.
Has four rinks under one roof. A great place to sharpen your figure skating or hockey skills or just skate for fun. Cheer on the Ice Wolves, an NAHL hockey team.