Nature Tour
(5 hours, 25 miles/40.2 kilometers)
Albuquerque’s good fortune is also your own: Few cities are located amidst such natural beauty. Discover aquatic habitats—including a 285,000-gallon shark tank—at the Albuquerque Aquarium, an African savanah, raptor aviary and more at the Rio Grande Zoo, go back to the Age of Dinosaurs at the Museum of Natural History and Science, and walk through the Bosque at the Rio Grande Nature Center. Follow the Teal tour on the map.
The Albuquerque Aquarium and Rio Grande Botanic Garden Discover aquatic habitats, including a walk-through eel cave and a 285,000-gallon shark tank. You can also see films or visit the gift shop and restaurant. The Botanic Garden showcases the natural environment of the Rio Grande Valley through specialty gardens, Children's Fantasy Garden and desert and Mediterranean conservatories.
Rio Grande Zoological Park Explore an African savannah, tropical rain forest, primate island, lobo woods, a birds of prey aviary, and more.
New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science Explore an ice cave, stand inside a "live" volcano or ride the "Evolator" back to the Age of Dinosaurs-the museum offers fun and interest for the entire family. Visit exhibits on zoology, botany, geology and paleontology; the LodeStar Astronomy Center, a high-tech planetarium; and the renovated Extreme Screen DynaTheatre, featuring large-format films every hour on the hour.
Rio Grande Nature Center State Park A park preserve for the riverside wildlife of the bosque, the cottonwood groves that line the river. Enjoy the visitors center, exhibits on local ecology, geology and history, and nature trails.
Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway Take Rio Grande Blvd through the Rio Grande Valley to Alameda and watch for pheasants, doves and roadrunners then proceed on Tramway Rd. Ride the tram 2.7 miles up to the 10,378-foot Sandia Peak, passing through four of the Earth’s seven life zones on the way. Be sure to bring your binoculars: wildlife such as bear and mule deer can sometimes be seen on the slopes below, and the view from the top is breathtaking.