Things to Do Near American RV Resort (Albuquerque · Route 66)
Old Town, Petroglyph National Monument, Sandia Peak Tramway, ABQ BioPark, and Balloon Fiesta Park—easy day-trips from your site.
Stay on Historic Route 66 and reach Albuquerque’s “must-see” places in minutes. Use this guide to pick a few favorites, then grab our itineraries for families, snowbirds, and remote workers.
Top 5 Within ~15–30 Minutes
Historic Old Town Albuquerque
Wander adobe plazas, art galleries, and patios around San Felipe de Neri (c. 1793). It’s the city’s 1706 birthplace—and still the most photogenic stroll for coffee, shopping, and museums.
300+ years of history • Galleries & shops • Easy parking
Petroglyph National Monument
See ancient carvings on dark volcanic rock at Piedras Marcadas or Rinconada; leashed dogs are welcome on these trails (6’ leash), but not at Boca Negra. Plan water, sun protection, and sunrise/sunset light.
Ancient rock art • West Mesa views • Dog-friendly options
ABQ BioPark (Zoo & Aquarium/Botanic Garden)
Families love the Zoo and Aquarium/Garden combo. Winter hours typically close on Mondays (check today’s schedule).
Animal encounters • Turtles & sharks • Botanic garden
Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway
Ride 2.7 miles to 10,378′ in ~15 minutes for panoramas and cool mountain air; dining at TEN 3 at the summit. Buy tickets ahead—sunset rides are popular.
Big views • Quick ascent • Summit trails/dining
Balloon Fiesta Park & Museum
Each October, hundreds of balloons lift off from Balloon Fiesta Park; the museum next door spans the science and history of flight. See dates and arrival tips.
Mass Ascensions • Museum next door • Bucket-list photos
Plan by Interest
Ready-Made Itineraries
2- or 3-day plans for Families, Snowbirds, Remote-Work Weeks, Fiesta.
Worth the Drive
Santa Fe + Meow Wolf
Art, history, and the immersive Meow Wolf experience; an easy day trip with rail or freeway options.
Acoma Sky City
Ancient mesa-top pueblo and cultural center with guided tours. (Check tour days/times.)
Timing Tips
Balloon Fiesta (October)
Book early; follow official traffic plans and pre-dawn tips. Dates: 2025 Oct 4–12; 2026 Oct 3–11; future dates listed here.
Winter Hours & Weather
BioPark often closes Mondays in winter; check before you go.
Where Dogs Can Go
- Petroglyph Trails: Dogs allowed (6′ leash) at Rinconada, Piedras Marcadas, and Volcanoes Day-Use; not allowed at Boca Negra Canyon. Pack water and mind hot surfaces.
- At the Resort: Fenced dog park, walking areas; cabins are pet-friendly with a $50 non-refundable deposit per pet.
Getting Around ABQ
Things to Do — FAQs
How far is Old Town from the resort?
Usually a short drive; plan ~15–20 minutes pending traffic/events. See our Directions page for route tips.
Are dogs allowed at Petroglyph National Monument?
Yes on Rinconada, Piedras Marcadas, and Volcanoes Day-Use (6′ leash). No at Boca Negra Canyon. Check NPS before you go.
How long is the Sandia Tram ride?
About 15 minutes to the summit; buy tickets in advance.
What are ABQ BioPark hours?
Generally 9–5; in winter, facilities often close Mondays—verify current hours on the City site.
When is Balloon Fiesta?
Early October; official dates and field maps are published here.