Explora Science Center If you’ve ever had a hankering to become a human kaleidoscope, or ride a bicycle on a tightrope high above the ground this is a place. Clearly aimed at inquiring young minds, adults have so loved this world-class science center that Explora has even created a highly popular adult-only evening once a month. Innovative play-stations clearly appeal to adults and children who eagerly experiment with light, color, sound, create animated shorts, program robots, and more. Albuquerque’s Biopark Spread out along the Rio Grande, the Biopark is one of the city’s premier attractions. One highlight is the Children’s Fantasy Garden at the Botanical Garden. Enter through castle gates, watched over by a giant dragon. Once inside, wander underneath a simulated garden. Giant vegetables “grow” underground and a huge buzzing bee pollinates a flower. Then, be charmed by the model railroad chugging along rivers and towns. Also on the ground is the Heritage Farm, representing Albuquerque farm life in the 1920s and 1930s. The Farm offers special events and programs. “Better than ever” describes Tingley Beach, which recently reopened after extensive renovation and upgrades. Nestled up against the Bosque on one side and the three fishing ponds on the other, it was originally constructed in the 1930s as a recreation area. An over $16 million restoration maintains the original charm with the addition of new pleasures. Rent a pedal boat (for two) and enjoy the peace of being on the water. Try your hand at sailing model boats in the special protected area. All year long there’s walking along the trails, and fishing in the always-stocked ponds, including one just for children. The outfitters store in the train station sells fishing licenses, bait, even equipment. Before you leave, don’t forget to shake hands with Mr. Tingley’s statue at the edge of the water. He’s there in bronze with outstretched hand. Mrs. Tingley ' sits on a bench next to him. The narrow-gauge Rio Line travels between the Zoo and the Aquarium, with Tingley Beach taking center stage. The open-sided wooden cars pulled by a 3/4 scale replica of a coal engine take visitors on a 15 minute journey (one-way) along the Bosque and special plantings while the conductor narrates the trip. Since the train is such a treat, you might want to buy a combination ticket (includes price of admission) and travel back and forth visiting the Zoo, and the Aquarium, and Botanical Garden. Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum Albuquerque’s October Balloon Fiesta is one of the country’s largest and most popular events, so it’s natural that it would soon spawn a museum. Named after Albuquerque balloonists Ben Abruzzo and Maxie Anderson (who made history when they completed the first non-stop crossing of the Atlantic Ocean in 1978), the fascinating Balloon Museum celebrates Albuquerque’s ballooning heritage. Special treats for kids include Try This stations through out the museum where they can learn about balloon design, special fabrics, knot tying, and weaving designs for the baskets. I watched a little boy diligently try to rip a swatch of the balloon fabric – he didn’t succeed – at one station. Admire some of the original gondolas and marvel that men and women spent days floating in the air in these tiny open cabins. Fractal Friday First Friday Fractals, at the NM Museum of Natural History and Science is a for-certain family pleaser. The show takes place in the planetarium, and uses the entire dome in blazing color and complexity, to take viewers on a tour of the fractals in nature zooming in and out of infinitely complex mathematical fractals. Featuring original music, this is a unique show that entertains, amazes, and educates. Warning: You must get tickets in advance! Aerial Tramway, Tinkertown, Picnics The Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway provides a trip up the Sandia Mountain and a breathtaking view of the city below. Tinkertown, just outside of Albuquerque, is a folk art wonderland of miniature carved wooden figures including an animated western town, and circus performers. With the beautiful blue sky and the warm sunny days, a family picnic is almost required. My favorite is Elena Gallegos, part of the Cibola National Forest but within the city limits. Parking, bathrooms, picnic area, and plenty of trails makes this a family favorite for picnics and walks and the Sandia Mountains offer a spectacular backdrop, especially when the setting sun turns the mountains pink. Just a short drive north is Coronado Monument. This is a fascinating look at an ancient pueblo which has been excavated, and a kiva reconstructed. Located along the Rio Grande, there are beautiful views of the Sandias and the river, plus picnic tables and hiking trails. It makes a complete afternoon.

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