With historic vessels, instruments, interactive activities and aerial artifacts, this museum provides a fascinating window into the world of ballooning.
The Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum pays tribute to the art, culture, history and science of ballooning. Discover how balloons have been used for adventure, warfare, fun, science and exploration through the museum’s vast collection of artifacts, stories and images.
Pick up insights into the history of lighter-than-air flight, which started in 1783 with the first ever balloon flight. View historical documents, including eyewitness accounts of famous voyages and see the Silver Fox gondola that carried the inventor of the modern air balloon, Ed Yost, in his Atlantic crossing attempt. Among the other historic vessels is the gondola of the Double Eagle V, the first manned balloon to make a successful crossing of the Pacific Ocean, in 1981.
Learn about the role balloons have played in wartime at the International Balloon Museum. Explore exhibits that outline the role of balloons during the American Civil War and the Franco-Prussian War and study the envelope of a Japanese Fu-Go, a fire balloon used by the Japanese during World War II. Other artifacts include uniforms, licenses and photographs from people who were in the Balloon Corps.
Continue through the museum to examine instruments used in hot air balloon flight, including altimeters, temperature probes and aeronautic radios. Make your way to the interactive area to launch model hot air and gas balloons.
The museum is located next to Balloon Fiesta Park, which hosts the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in October. This annual event features hundreds of brightly colored hot air balloons. Public transport doesn’t reach the museum, but if you drive here, use the free parking facilities.
The Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum is open every day except Mondays and some major public holidays, such as Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Admission charges apply with discounts for senior citizens and children under 12. Visit on the first Fridays of the month or on a Sunday morning for free admission.
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