To and from Balloon Fiesta

To and from of Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta - October 9-12, 2026

Fall color, Bishop's Castle, Alburquerque Balloon Fiesta, LaCieneguilla Petroglyphs, Pecos National Historic Park, Bandelier National Monument, Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument, New Mexico Enchanted Circle drive, New Mexico Vietnam Memorial State Park, LaVieta Pass and much more! (travel notes for ABQ at bottom)

Saturday 10/10

Sunday 10/11

Monday 10/11

Going to Balloon Fiesta Field is easier and faster from the north, via I-25, so staying in Bernalillo is best. Reservation are needed many months in advance, preferably a year. This Motel6 is nicer that most but still a Motel 6. Once off I-25 you'll have to "push" the attendents to get close ADA parking. We paid 3 times (and refunded twice) to get close to walk up entrance. Plenty of parking but gotta get to it. Blue Dot lot, it's called. Electric carts available just inside the park entry for $55. Super great! No reservation needed if in early. We got in about 530a so left Berlinillo about 430a. Must return cart by 10a, which is fine (we've always been ready to go before that) and check out times are generaly 11a so no need to pack up before before leaving room at 430a.