TIME TO PLAY
It’s easy to see why Outdoor Magazine ranks Albuquerque as one of the top 10 cities for active families.
RECREATION
Perhaps the most beloved aspect of living in Albuquerque is the wide array of recreational opportunities one can enjoy close to home. Albuquerque is centrally located in the “land of enchantment,” with its temperate climate perfect for outdoor activities. Within close proximity to 17 golf courses and 8 major skiing/snowboarding destinations, there are plenty of options for outdoor enthusiasts.
Albuquerque’s International Balloon Fiesta (AIBF) – the Fiesta attracts more than 800,000 visitors from all over the world each October. Hundreds of hot air balloons fill Albuquerque’s blue sky at dawn for ten days every October. The AIBF is one of the most photographed events in the world.
Skiing – New Mexico’s major mountain peaks make for wonderful skiing and snowboarding. Ski areas in Southern Colorado are within close reach as well.
Golf – explore the state’s 83 major golf courses year round, thanks to sunshine and great weather.
City of Albuquerque Biopark Zoo and Aquarium and Botanical Gardens – this is a great venue to take your family and friends with featured events yearlong.
Albuquerque Bike Trails and Open Space – the area is home to over 400 miles of bike paths and trails and 30,000 acres of parks and open space! Albuquerque is a very bike friendly town with accessible, safe trails and bike lanes running throughout the city.
The Sandia Mountain foothills – are open for those who want to go for a hike right here in town! The foothills are home to many bike paths and hiking trails. The City of Albuquerque also promotes urban gardening by setting aside dedicated space open to the public.
Camp, boat, raft, fish, hunt – New Mexico has long been known as a haven for outdoor adventurers. The State’s diverse terrain, rivers and lakes are accessible for outdoor sporting activities.
Statewide Destinations – geographically, New Mexico is the 5th largest state in the country! Get out and explore all there is to see and do around the state.
University of New Mexico Lobos’ Athletics – as part of the Mountain West Conference, the UNM Lobos boast a Division I athletic program, including basketball, football, baseball, softball, volleyball and soccer. UNM is home to the world famous Pit arena, which has undergone a $60 million renovation that rank it among the best facilities in men’s and women’s college hoops.
Albuquerque Isotopes (CO Rockies’ AAA affiliate) – come out and enjoy a game at Isotopes Park, a.k.a. “the Lab,” which holds 13,279 fans.
Albuquerque Sol – new soccer club that is part of the Premier Development League.
High School Sports – high school sports are very popular in Albuquerque. Many of the public and private schools have active sports teams that are designed to promote entertainment, character, participation, and leadership
Community Sports – participate in one of the area’s adult or youth sports leagues, including softball, flag football, basketball, soccer and much more.