History

The location

Many moons ago, the now defunct pre-1968 VW Bus club “The Route 66 Splits” started camping in a field during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. This event became Buses and Balloons. Over the many years since then the city grew, and the field with a once decent view of the rio grande valley became a church parking lot in a neighborhood. Anyone who has been to Buses and Balloons recently knows that the location, while close to a Wendy’s and an autozone, has left something to be desired.

For a long time we’ve been looking for a rad location close to the balloon fiesta. In 2018 we finally found it!

So what’s the big deal?

As you can see, it’s literally blocks from Balloon Fiesta Park. It’s about a 15 minute walk or a 5 minute bike ride directly down a really nice bike path.

This means that the balloons should be directly overhead (weather permitting) during the mass ascensions.

Bring your Bike!

Bike ABQ , A local bike advocacy group runs a free bike valet at Balloon Fiesta Park. This means you can bring your bike, ride it to the Balloon Fiesta and have it locked and securely stored while you stroll around the Balloon Fiesta Park.

Getting there:

Due to the proximity to Balloon Fiesta park, traffic will be somewhat heavy, and your best bet for getting in and out smoothly will be from 11am-4pm. Avoid times when there are events planned at the park, usually early morning and dusk.