Clayhead Trail | New Shoreham

The Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum is a museum dedicated to ballooning, located in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Visual Characteristics

The museum building is a circular structure with a domed roof, designed to evoke the shape of a hot air balloon. The exterior is clad in light-colored stucco. The interior features high ceilings and open exhibition spaces.

Location & Access Logistics

The museum is situated in Balloon Fiesta Park, at 4501 Guitar Road NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110. It is approximately 10 kilometers northeast of the Albuquerque city center. Access is via I-25 North, taking exit 230 for Tramway Boulevard NE, then turning east onto Balloon Fiesta Parkway. Ample free parking is available on-site. The ABQ Ride bus system serves the area; Route 151 stops near Balloon Fiesta Park.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The museum was established in 2005. It is housed in a building originally constructed for the 1981 International Balloon Fiesta. The museum's purpose is to preserve and interpret the history and science of ballooning and lighter-than-air flight.

Key Highlights & Activities

Exhibits include historical balloons, artifacts from significant flights, and interactive displays on the science of flight. Visitors can view a full-size replica of the 1783 Montgolfier balloon. The museum also hosts educational programs and special events related to ballooning.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the museum. Limited shaded areas are present in the outdoor park surrounding the museum. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable in the vicinity. Food vendors are typically present during major events at Balloon Fiesta Park, but not on a daily basis within the museum itself.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is open year-round. For optimal lighting on exhibits, midday visits are recommended. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, held annually in October, offers a unique opportunity to see numerous balloons in flight, though this is a separate event from the museum's daily operations.

Facts & Legends

The museum holds the official title of "International Balloon Museum" granted by the Smithsonian Institution. A unique artifact on display is a piece of the balloon fabric from the first successful trans-Atlantic balloon crossing.

Nearby Landmarks

• Balloon Fiesta Park (0km)
• Tijeras Pueblo Archaeological Site (2.5km Southwest)
• Elena Gallegos Open Space (4.0km East)
• Indian Pueblo Cultural Center (6.0km Southwest)