Albuquerque is a dynamic city where cultures blend, natural beauty abounds and history can be found around every corner. It’s the ideal destination for offering a variety of enriching experiences beyond the meeting room and conference center. From outdoor adventures to cultural excursions, Albuquerque offers an array of group tours tailored to a wide range of interests and group sizes.
If you're planning a conference, convention or group event, here are the top tours to consider for your attendees to explore Albuquerque in a meaningful way.
Hot Air Balloon Rides
No visit to Albuquerque is complete without experiencing the thrill of a hot air balloon ride. Renowned as the Ballooning Capital of the World, Albuquerque is famous for its vast blue skies, especially during the ExxonMobil Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in October. For groups looking to make the most of the landscape, Rainbow Ryders, World Balloon and other companies offer private hot air balloon rides for corporate groups, perfect for a post-conference adventure.
This activity is ideal for team-building, offering breathtaking views and a fantastic opportunity to bond outside of the convention setting. Take in sweeping views of the Sandia Mountains and enjoy the peaceful serenity of the early morning sky above the city.
Guided Tours of Historic Old Town
Historic Old Town is the heart of Albuquerque. As the city’s founding site, it offers a glimpse into Albuquerque’s Spanish colonial past. It is home to San Felipe de Neri Church, “Museum Row” (including the Albuquerque Museum) and charming plazas and shops lining the cobblestone streets.
The ABQ Trolley Co. offers a 90-minute guided tour through the city’s oldest district, highlighting its vibrant culture and history. This tour provides a perfect mix of history, architecture and local culture for groups of up to 30 people, making it an excellent option for convention attendees to explore during their free time.
A walking tour is also a great way to explore Old Town and learn about the city's fascinating history in a comfortable, group-friendly environment. A Taste of Old Town Walking Tours adds its own culinary spin by including savoring delicious local cuisine while exploring the ins and outs of Old Town. #ABQTours offers a variety of history and ghost tours of Old Town, giving visitors a leisurely exploration of the sights, sounds and folklore of the historic neighborhood.
Breaking Bad Tours: A Must-See for Fans
One of Albuquerque’s most famous modern attractions is its role as the backdrop for the hit television series Breaking Bad. For fans of the show, or anyone curious about its impact on the city, a Breaking Bad tour is a must-do activity. Local tour companies like Breaking Bad Luigi’s Tours offer specialized group tours that visit iconic filming locations from the series.
Groups can explore the city's connection to the series and learn behind-the-scenes facts about the making of the show. This tour offers a fun, engaging experience that is unique to Albuquerque, making it a great choice for groups looking for something memorable and interactive outside of a conference or meeting.
Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway
For groups looking for a scenic escape, the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway offers one of the most stunning views in Albuquerque. As the longest aerial tram in North America, the tram takes visitors from the base of the Sandia Mountains up to the summit, providing a unique perspective of the city and surrounding landscapes. As groups ascend, they are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Albuquerque and the mountains.
At the top, guests can relax and unwind while enjoying the beauty of the Sandia Mountains, with options to dine at TEN 3, the mountaintop restaurant, which offers delicious meals with a view. The area also features outdoor activities like hiking and photo opportunities, making it an ideal spot for team-building or simply enjoying a peaceful retreat. It’s the perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty for any group.
Winery Tours: Discover Local Flavors
For groups looking to experience Albuquerque’s vibrant wine scene, a winery tour with Vino Vans is the perfect choice. This customizable tour takes attendees to some of the region’s best local wineries, where they can taste award-winning wines, learn about the winemaking process and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
With comfortable transportation provided, Vino Vans ensures a relaxed and social atmosphere for groups to bond over local flavors. Whether your attendees are new to wine tasting or seasoned connoisseurs, this tour offers an educational and enjoyable way to explore Albuquerque’s unique wine culture. It’s a fantastic option for team-building or a leisurely group outing after a busy day of meetings.
Explore Albuquerque on Two Wheels
For groups looking for an active and fun way to explore Albuquerque, Routes Bicycle Tours offers guided bike tours that take participants through the city’s most scenic routes. Whether your group wants to explore the Rio Grande Bosque, ride through Historic Old Town or discover Albuquerque's unique public art installations, Routes offers a range of cycling tours tailored to different levels and interests.
The tours can accommodate groups, and the bikes are designed for comfort, allowing attendees to enjoy the sights while getting a bit of exercise. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, these tours provide a fun and energetic way to bond with colleagues and enjoy Albuquerque’s natural beauty.
Taste the Sweet Side of Albuquerque
For groups with a sweet tooth, Eldora Chocolate has you covered. Eldora Chocolate offers an immersive, behind-the-scenes look at the chocolate-making process. During the tour, guests will learn about the art of crafting fine chocolate, from bean to bar, and have the chance to sample a variety of rich, hand-crafted local chocolates.
The tour is both educational and indulgent, offering a unique opportunity for groups to bond over a shared love of chocolate while exploring the fascinating world of artisan confections. It’s the perfect treat for groups looking to add something fun and flavorful to their Albuquerque experience.
