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Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
ADOBE STOCK
Up, Up and Away!
An exciting itinerary centered around the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta showcases the scenic beauty of New Mexico.
By Jason Frye
For nine days in early October, hundreds of hot air balloons soar over Albuquerque, New Mexico, painting the sky with acres of bright fabric as they take flight in the world’s largest ballooning event. From Oct. 4–12, balloonists and enthusiasts will gather for the 2025 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, but AAA members can enjoy exclusive perks as part of the Inspiring Journeys travel experiences. AAA’s four-night, five-day Balloon Fiesta itinerary offers wow-worthy moments at the international celebration, opportunities to connect with the arts and cultures of New Mexico, and a posh stay at a AAA Four Diamond property.
Sandia Resort and Casino
SANDIA RESORT AND CASINO
As part of AAA’s Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta trip, AAA members spend four luxurious nights at the Sandia Resort and Casino, a AAA Four Diamond property where the spa, 18-hole golf course and casino invite relaxation, excitement and indulgence (if you can tear yourself away from the plush bedding or the sights of nearby balloons, that is). Take advantage of exclusive access to the Chasers’ Club, providing direct access to Balloon Fiesta Park and up-close observation of the Special Shape Glowdeo, one of the festival’s biggest draws. Watch in awe as special shape balloons fire their burners and glow with wild light as the sun sets. If that’s not enough color, a fireworks display caps the night.
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Mass Ascension at sunrise
The true highlight of the Balloon Fiesta is the Mass Ascension; as Chasers’ Club and AAA members on the tour, you hit the balloon field at dawn for coffee and breakfast. As the sun’s first rays break the horizon, hundreds of balloons inflate and ascend in a synchronized dance, creating a mesmerizing display that offers too many photo opportunities to count. Stroll the ranks of balloons, pausing to ask the daring pilots and crews before they take flight about their balloons, flight plans and favorite moments of the festival.
Old Town Albuquerque
GETTY IMAGES
Though the balloons steal the spotlight on this trip, they’re not the only part of New Mexico to experience. The Turquoise Museum details the history of the gorgeous namesake stone, from mining to mind-boggling specimens in an array of colors and shapes. Plus, wonder over plenty of jewelry and other objects. At the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, journey through contemporary Pueblo arts and culture through a lens of ancestral lifeways and an eye toward the future. After touring these art- and culture-filled attractions in Albuquerque and Old Town, wander through bespoke boutiques and art galleries, hunting for the perfect souvenir. Then, travel farther afield to other sights and sites: Taos Pueblo, an inhabited village filled with adobe structures that have remained relatively unchanged for 800 years, and artsy Santa Fe, which is home to Loretto Chapel, a miniature version of Paris’ Sainte-Chapelle.
Ancient dwellings of Taos Pueblo
With so much to love and do in Albuquerque, you could spend a month here, so if you extend your stay, be sure to visit the Sandia Mountains and ascend to the peak via the Tramway for sweeping, picture-perfect views. Use your AAA membership for a discount on sunrise hot air balloon flights (be sure to book early, as balloon rides fill quickly around the Fiesta), a ghost walk through Old Town, a guided bicycle tour, murder mystery dinner shows and more. Dine at AAA Three Diamond restaurants Savoy Bar and Grill Albuquerque, Level 5, and The Artichoke Cafe. Or, spend your extra days soaking up New Mexico’s exceptional nature, basking in the luxury of Sandia Resort’s spa, or resting and recharging your way.
To book your inspiring trip to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta or to learn more about the five-day itinerary, contact your AAA Travel Agent or visit AAA.com/InspiringJourneys.
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