Albuquerque is a city that offers so much more than just a desert backdrop and a famous balloon festival. Its rich history, mysterious ghost stories, and scenic landscapes make it a prime destination for tour lovers. We particularly like the Ghost Tour of Old Town, because it combines storytelling with historical sites, making it both spooky and educational. Walking through dark alleys and hearing about long-forgotten battles in the same tour is a unique way to experience the city. If you prefer soaring into the sky, the Hot Air Balloon Rides—either at sunrise or sunset—offer breathtaking views that are hard to match. These tours give you a chance to see Albuquerque from a whole new perspective, while the trolley tour offers a broader look at the city’s neighborhoods and landmarks. For a blend of history and legend, the Old Town guided strolls are a perfect pick.
Whether you’re interested in haunted history, adventure in the skies, or cultural insights, Albuquerque’s tours deliver authentic, memorable experiences. Here’s a detailed look at the top options, each with its own appeal.
Quick Overview
Albuquerque’s tours cover ghost walks, hot air balloon rides, city sightseeing, guided walking tours, and specialty museum visits. For a spooky night, the Ghost Tour of Old Town ranks high for its storytelling and dark secrets. For soaring above the Sandia Mountains, the Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride provides a private, scenic flight with champagne. The Old Town Guided Stroll is perfect for history buffs who enjoy relaxed walking tours. Each of these experiences captures a different aspect of Albuquerque’s spirit, making it easy to tailor your trip based on your interests and schedule.
1. The Ghost Tour of Old Town – New Mexico’s oldest Ghost Walk – Since 2001
At number one we have the Ghost Tour of Old Town. This tour explores over 300 years of haunted history in Albuquerque’s historic neighborhood. It’s a lantern-lit, 105-minute guided walk where you’ll visit haunted buildings, hidden cemeteries, and dark alleys that conceal long-forgotten secrets from battles, murders, and hangings. The tour is well-loved, boasting a 5.0-star rating from 773 reviews, and is featured on shows like Dead Files.
Guides like Mary make the stories come alive, sharing EVP clips and spooky tales that keep everyone entertained. The tour is suitable for all ages, with a certificate of bravery for those who dare. The experience is both fun and informative, making it a top choice for anyone interested in Albuquerque’s ghostly past. Expect a short walk, some sitting, and plenty of photo opportunities. This tour offers good value at $34.55 per person for almost two hours of ghostly entertainment.
Bottom Line: Perfect for night owls and fans of the supernatural, this tour combines history, mystery, and a dash of fright.
2. Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Rides at Sunrise
Number two on our list is the Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride. Albuquerque is famous worldwide for its balloon festival, and this tour lets you experience the magic firsthand. Flying at dawn, you’ll witness the sun rising over the Sandia Mountains while floating over the desert. The tour is limited to small groups, ensuring a personal experience, and includes a toast with bubbly afterward to celebrate your flight.
The actual flight lasts about 40 minutes, but the entire experience takes around 3 hours, including set-up and landing. The 5.0-star reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the crew, with many noting how the views surpass expectations. The tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a once-in-a-lifetime perspective on Albuquerque. The price of $199.00 offers a great balance of exclusivity and value, especially when you consider the stunning scenery and the chance to participate in a tradition that’s part of the city’s identity.
Bottom Line: For those seeking a breathtaking, personal adventure in the sky, this tour delivers unforgettable panoramic views.
3. 12pm – Public High Noon History, Legends & Lore Tour – Guided Old Town Stroll
The Old Town Guided Stroll is a relaxed, 1 to 2-hour walking tour that takes you through Albuquerque’s oldest neighborhood. Led by expert guides, this tour explores the famous San Felipe de Neri Church, secret back alleys, and historical landmarks, all while sharing stories of legends, folklore, and colorful characters. It’s a wonderful way to learn about Old Town’s evolution from a Spanish settlement in 1706 to today’s cultural hub.
Guests love how knowledgeable the guides are and appreciate the opportunity to see hidden spots and hear authentic stories. The tour is suitable for all ages, with a gentle pace, and costs $34.55. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts, families, or travelers who prefer a more leisurely exploration with plenty of insights and a chance to ask questions.
Bottom Line: A friendly, comprehensive introduction to Old Town’s stories and sights, ideal for those who want a deeper understanding of Albuquerque’s roots.
4. ABQ City Guided History Tour
Number four is the ABQ City Guided History Tour. This narrated journey on Albuquerque’s open-air trolley covers key sites in downtown, Nob Hill, and the University of New Mexico. It offers a broader look at the city’s past and present in about 1 hour and 40 minutes, making it a quick but insightful snapshot of Albuquerque’s development.
Tour guides like Blake keep the ride lively, sharing stories about local landmarks, the university, and regional cuisine. Reviews praise the tour as fun, educational, and a good way to familiarize yourself with the city’s different neighborhoods. The $35 price point provides good value considering the comprehensive narration and scenic stops.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a quick, historical overview of Albuquerque without the hassle of walking or multiple bookings.
5. Guided Bicycle Nature Tour of Albuquerque – Daily
For those who prefer active exploration, the Bicycle Nature Tour is a fantastic choice. Covering over 20 stops, including Old Town, Tingley Beach, and the Rio Grande Nature Center, this 2-hour ride is both scenic and educational. Heidi, the guide, makes the experience engaging with her wit and deep knowledge of Albuquerque’s eco-systems and cultural sites.
The small group size (up to 10) ensures a relaxed pace suitable for all fitness levels. Guests mention Heidi’s friendliness and her ability to share fun facts, which makes the ride memorable. The price of $125 per person reflects a well-organized, personalized experience that captures the city’s natural beauty and history.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want to see Albuquerque’s outdoors and learn about its environment in a fun, relaxed way.
6. Private Hot Air Balloon Flights with Elevated New Mexico
Number six is the Private Hot Air Balloon Flight. This exclusive experience is perfect if you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a more personalized adventure. With nearly 30 years of pilot experience, the FAA-certified crew will tailor your flight, offering aerial views of the Rio Grande River Valley, volcanic landscapes, and the Sandia Mountains.
Guests rave about the professionalism of the crew and the seamless experience. The flight lasts about 3 to 4 hours, including setup and landings, with snacks and drinks included for celebrating your journey. The $349.50 per person price is justified by the private nature of the trip and the chance to enjoy Albuquerque from the sky in complete comfort.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or families seeking a private, memorable hot air balloon experience in Albuquerque.
How to Choose
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, pace, and budget. For spooky stories and ghost lore, the Ghost Tour of Old Town offers a thrilling night out. If you’re after aerial views, the Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride or the Sunset Balloon Flight give you spectacular scenery and a touch of adventure. For those wanting a broader city overview, the ABQ Trolley Tour is quick and comprehensive, while history buffs will find the Old Town Guided Stroll perfect for deeper insights.
Consider your fitness level—biking tours require some activity, but they provide a different perspective—plus, they’re a great way to see parts of Albuquerque buses might miss. If you’re celebrating or want privacy, the Private Balloon Flight or a Private Old Town Tour are excellent options.
Final Thoughts
Albuquerque offers a diverse selection of tours that reveal its haunting secrets, sky-high adventures, and urban stories. Two standout options are the Ghost Tour of Old Town for history and chills, and the Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride for unforgettable aerial views. Families, history lovers, and adventure seekers will all find something here to match their interests.
Remember to book early during peak seasons, especially for balloon rides, as they sell out quickly. Whether you choose a ghost walk, a scenic flight, or a city tour, Albuquerque’s tours promise authentic experiences that will leave lasting memories.