Traveling with the whole fam in an RV? Then you already know the stakes are high.

You’ve gotta find things that’ll entertain the kids, won’t bore the adults, and—most importantly—don’t leave everyone hangry or cranky before lunch.

Lucky for you, Albuquerque is packed with family-friendly attractions that strike the right balance between fun, learning, adventure, and straight-up awe. Whether you’re rolling through for a weekend or staying a while, this town’s got plenty of activities that’ll keep all ages happy.

Let’s dive into the best things to do with your crew while you’re parked in Albuquerque.

Start With the Albuquerque RV Park (Yep, That’s Us)

Before we get into the adventures, let’s talk home base.

Our RV park isn’t just a spot to plug in and sleep—it’s part of the experience. With clean amenities, nearby walking trails, and easy access to all the family attractions Albuquerque NM has to offer, it’s a laid-back, comfy place to rest in between outings.

Check out what makes us family-approved here: (https://albuquerquervpark.com/about/)

Now let’s get to the fun stuff.

1. Ride the Sandia Peak Tramway

If your kids (or you) are into jaw-dropping views and mild thrills, Sandia Peak Tramway is a must. This thing climbs 2.7 miles up the side of a mountain in just about 15 minutes, and the view from the top?

Let’s just say—phones come out, jaws drop, and even the teenager might crack a smile.

At the top, you’ll find nature trails, a little café, and cooler temps if you’re escaping the summer heat. Just remember: it gets windy up there. Bring layers, even when it’s hot down below.

2. Visit the ABQ BioPark — Zoo, Aquarium, Botanic Garden & Tingley Beach

This is four attractions rolled into one, and you can knock out as many (or as few) as your day allows. We recommend doing it over two days if you want to avoid meltdowns and really enjoy the spots.

• The Zoo is walkable and lush, with a good mix of animals and shady spots
  
• The Aquarium is small but really well done—plus, it’s right next to…
  
• The Botanic Garden, which is gorgeous and features a kid-favorite Fantasy Garden with giant veggies and fairytale scenes
  
• Tingley Beach offers paddle boats, ducks to feed, and space to chill out

Pro tip: Bring snacks and plenty of water. There are food vendors, but the lines can get long.

3. Explore the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science

Dinosaurs. Space exhibits. Volcanoes. Interactive displays.

If your kids are even remotely into rocks, fossils, or pretending to be scientists for a day, this museum is gonna be a hit.

The DynaTheater shows educational films on a huge screen (think IMAX-style), and there’s a Planetarium that’s great for all ages—especially if you’re RVing at night and pointing out constellations under the stars.

This one’s a good way to sneak in some learning without making it feel like school.

4. Walk Through Old Town Albuquerque

Old Town’s kinda like the heartbeat of the city. Cobblestone streets, adobe shops, musicians playing on the plaza, and a bunch of little gems hidden in corners you’d miss if you weren’t looking.

Sure, it’s more mellow than “kid-crazy” fun, but if you plan it right, the whole family will enjoy:

• Picking out handmade souvenirs
  
• Stopping for ice cream or churros
  
• Watching glassblowers or weavers at work
  
• Touring the San Felipe de Neri Church (super old, super pretty)

You’ll want to pair this outing with a slower-paced day. And maybe a nap after.

5. Learn at the Explora Science Center

This is not one of those “look, don’t touch” museums. Explora is interactive from top to bottom.

Water play areas, physics experiments, building zones, and rooms full of gadgets and buttons—it’s one of those places where both toddlers and teens can have fun at their own pace.

Parents, you’ll low-key love it too. Just… try not to hog the bubble stations.

6. Go For a Hike (Yes, Even With Kids)

Albuquerque’s full of outdoor space—and no, not every trail is a death march through the desert.

A few easy family-friendly trails:

• Paseo del Bosque Trail – Paved and shady, with views of the Rio Grande
  
• Embudito Trailhead – More rugged, but short loops for casual hikes
  
• Petroglyph National Monument – Tons of ancient rock carvings and fairly flat terrain

Bring water (seriously), hats, sunscreen, and snacks. Always snacks.

7. Ride the Rail Runner to Santa Fe

Okay, this one’s a bit of a day trip, but it’s easy and super fun for families.

Hop on the New Mexico Rail Runner Express, a scenic commuter train that runs from ABQ to Santa Fe. The kids will love the ride, and you get a full day of exploring New Mexico’s artsy capital without having to drive.

In Santa Fe, you can stroll the plaza, visit the Children’s Museum, or check out the weird and wild Meow Wolf exhibit (best for older kids or teens).

8. Hot Air Balloon Spotting

If you’re in Albuquerque during early October, do not miss the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Even if you’re not an early riser, make an exception—the sunrise launches are unforgettable.

But even outside of Fiesta season, hot air balloons are often spotted in the skies. Keep a lookout in the mornings, especially near the river valley or from your own RV site.

And yes, you can book a family balloon ride (with age/weight restrictions). Pretty unforgettable memory.

9. Catch a Show at the Planetarium or a Local Theater

On those days when everyone’s just a little… tired? Head indoors for something chill.

The Rio Grande Planetarium offers regular shows, some aimed at kids, others just plain cool.

Or check the local listings for puppet shows, children’s theater, or even local music in the park. Albuquerque’s a creative town—you’d be surprised what you might stumble into.

10. Don’t Overdo It — Balance Busy With Bored

Here’s the realest tip we can give you: don’t try to cram it all in.

RV life isn’t about doing everything. It’s about doing enough, then having time to relax. Albuquerque’s got more to offer than most families can fit into one stay, and that’s fine.

Mix up your days:

• One day packed with museums and walking
  
• One day lounging around your site, letting the kids bike around
  
• One day hiking and grilling out after
  
• One day napping and catching up on your favorite RV show

You’re not just on vacation—you’re living out here.

(And if you want more tips on balancing adventure with rest, we talk about that a lot on the blog: https://albuquerquervpark.com/blog/)

Final Thoughts

Albuquerque hits that sweet spot for family RV travel: just enough city, just enough nature, and a whole lotta heart.

Whether you’re chasing dinosaurs at a museum, hiking among petroglyphs, riding a tram into the clouds, or just watching balloons drift by in the morning light—this place makes memories. The kind that stick.

So if you’re traveling with kids, grandparents, or anyone in between, you’ll find plenty to do and space to just be.

Your RV might be your home-on-wheels, but while you’re here, Albuquerque can feel like home too.