Don’t miss the most photographed event in the world…the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta! Coupled with the Native American artifacts, artwork and culture of Santa Fe and Taos, this tour encompasses all of the great features of the Southwest.
DAY 1 – ALBUQUERQUE, NM
Upon arrival in Albuquerque, we'll visit the fascinating Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, which tells the story of New Mexico's Pueblo Indian culture through exhibits and live demonstrations. Late this afternoon we'll check in for a two-night stay, ideally situated. After our trip orientation “get-together,” we'll enjoy a Southwestern "welcome" dinner. ClubHouse Inn & Suites (or similar) – Albuquerque, NM (D)
DAY 2 – ALBUQUERQUE INTERNATIONAL BALLOON FIESTA
We'll get up early for this morning's "Mass Ascension" at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (weather permitting)... here we'll experience the spectacle of hundreds of colorful hot air balloons, including special shapes, moving silently through clear blue New Mexico skies, plus arts, crafts, and a wide variety of food booths along the Midway . Next, our guided tour of the city will include such sights as San Felipe de Neri Church, Rio Grande Park, the University of New Mexico, the Ernie Pyle Home, and residential areas. We'll also stop to explore Old Town Plaza, where the city began in 1706. Then, returning to the Fiesta, we'll attend this evening's "Balloon Glow" event. Here hundreds of illuminated balloons "light up" against the New Mexico night skyline. ClubHouse Inn & Suites (or similar) – Albuquerque, NM (B)
DAY 3 – SANTA FE, NM
First is a ride on the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway to the mountain's 10,378-foot summit, affording thrilling panoramic views. Please note that should the previous day’s “Mass Ascension” have been cancelled due to inclement weather, today we’ll make a second attempt to view this major daily event of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, which would (likely) then replace the Sandia Peak trip. Next we set our sights on Santa Fe, the oldest seat of government in the United States. Famous for its mix of Spanish and Indian cultures, Santa Fe is filled with buildings of distinctive design, adobe houses, and interesting shops. Our afternoon guided walking and coach tour of this historic city features such sights as the Mission of San Miguel, the historic Plaza, New Mexico's circular State Capitol, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, and the Georgia O’Keefe Museum. We'll spend the next two nights in downtown Santa Fe, and dine this evening at the Blue Corn Café. Sage Inn (or similar) – Santa Fe, NM (B,D)
DAY 4 – SANTA FE, NM
Today we’ll have time to discover the great museums of Santa Fe that are operated by the State of New Mexico…the Palace of the Governors, the Museum of International Folk Art, plus the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture. Then, plenty of leisure time this afternoon allows ample opportunity for browsing in the extensive array of downtown shops and galleries near our hotel. After a full day of exploration a delicious dinner is included. Sage Inn (or similar) – Santa Fe, NM (CB,D)
DAY 5 – TAOS, NM
Resuming our northward journey on the route of Spanish colonists, we follow the "High Road" to Taos through the ancient villages of Chimayo, Cordova, Truchas, and Las Trampas...here are beautiful old Spanish chapels and the shops of master craftsmen, including woodcarvers and weavers. The influence of both Spanish and Native American cultures are also felt in Taos, where art galleries, shops and studios surround the town plaza. This afternoon we'll visit the Millicent Rogers Museum and age-old Taos Pueblo, one of the most picturesque of Southwestern pueblos, which is home to over 1,000 Taos Indians. We'll be guests for two nights in Taos and dine this evening amid the eclectic decor of Ogelvie's Plaza Restaurant. Best Western Kachina Lodge (or similar) – Taos, NM (CB,D)
DAY 6 – TAOS, NM
We head north this morning to board the comfortable coaches of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, for an extraordinary full-day trip between Antonito, Colorado, and Chama, New Mexico. Our trip on this old narrow-gauge, steam-powered train features breathtaking views of spectacular mountain scenery, including the San Juan and Sangre de Cristo ranges, the Phantom Curve and Toltec Gorge. Lunch is served at Osier Station mid-day. Returning to Taos, our “farewell” evening at our hotel features both a tasty dinner and an exhibition of traditional Native American dances. Best Western Kachina Lodge (or similar) – Taos, NM (B,L,D)
DAY 7 – ALBUQUERQUE, NM
After breakfast, we’ll return to the Albuquerque airport filled with memories of an outstanding vacation. Our homeward-bound flight departs this afternoon. (B)
Arrival: Albuquerque no later than 1:00pm
Depart: Albuquerque after 3:00pm