Historic Trains of the Old West with Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
Overview
Train buffs will also enjoy time in Durango’s D&SNG Railway Museum. Chasing rainbows is easy as hundreds of hot-air balloons take flight and turn the already stunning atmosphere of New Mexico into a kaleidoscope of dizzying color during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Add this special event to witness the incredible Mass Ascension, fiery Balloon Glow, evening fireworks, and other colorful rituals of the world’s largest balloon event.
Train buffs will also enjoy time in Durango’s D&SNG Railway Museum. Chasing rainbows is easy as hundreds of hot-air balloons take flight and turn the already stunning atmosphere of New Mexico into a kaleidoscope of dizzying color during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Add this special event to witness the incredible Mass Ascension, fiery Balloon Glow, evening fireworks, and other colorful rituals of the world’s largest balloon event.
Itinerary
Welcome to Colorado!
At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome drink.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ROCKY MOUNTAIN HIGHS: At 5,280 feet above sea level, Denver is called the Mile-High City for a reason. This gateway to the Rocky Mountains is the perfect place to kick back with a view of the sunset over Mount Evans while enjoying a local IPA or coffee after dinner. Ask your Tour Director for the best eateries in LoDo (lower downtown) or other exciting venues this beautiful city has to offer.
All Aboard the Royal Gorge!
Depart on a scenic drive south to the Royal Gorge for a unique experience on the spectacular Royal Gorge Route Railroad. Later, travel to Colorado Springs to explore Garden of the Gods, featuring 300-foot towering sandstone rock formations against a backdrop of snowcapped Pikes Peak and brilliant blue skies. Enjoy dinner tonight at a local restaurant. (B/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - EPIC RIDE: When President Teddy Roosevelt rode the rails through the Royal Gorge in 1905, he described the experience as “the trip that bankrupts the English language.” You'll be speechless too on this train ride through the breathtaking scenery of the Royal Gorge as it cuts a deep path through the Rockies along the Arkansas River.
The Land of Enchantment
Leave Colorado Springs and travel south into New Mexico, the “Land of Enchantment,” to visit Albuquerque – home of the annual Balloon Fiesta. Enjoy free time this evening before an early morning adventure tomorrow! (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - SPECIAL EVENT: What began as a gathering of enthusiasts with just 13 hot-air balloons more than 50 years ago has grown into the largest ballooning event in the world – the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. This tradition has grown to an annual event drawing people from around the world to witness hundreds of brightly hued hot-air balloons ascend at once over the landscape of New Mexico. Truly enchanting!
Up, Up & Away!
Get ready for the world-famous Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta! Experience this morning's pre-dawn Opening Ceremonies and the unforgettable Mass Balloon Ascension. See Old Town Albuquerque before returning to the hotel for free time before marveling at the popular Balloon Glow and Fireworks show. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - OH SAY, CAN YOU: SEE?! Attend the uplifting opening ceremonies and mass balloon ascension where hundreds of hot-air balloons lift off and turn the sky into a virtual rainbow of designs. Leading the ascension is a balloon adorned with the American flag, rising off the ground to the national anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner.
The American Southwest
Travel via the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway to the charming city of Santa Fe. Visit the Musuem of Indian Arts & Culture to explore the history and contemporary life of the Indigenous cultures of the Southwest. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure in Santa Fe. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURE & TRADITION: Experience the rich history and culture of Santa Fe - home to an abundance of art galleries amid its diverse visual arts scene of ancient traditional art to modern contemporary works that celebrate the desert beauty of this ruggedly beautiful landscape.
ENHANCED FREE TIME - EXPLORE MORE: with free time in Santa Fe. Your Tour Director will have suggestions for additional sightseeing, shopping, and dining. Tap your GlobusGO mobile app for maps, tips, and more.
Enchanted Jewels
Begin with a captivating visit to nearby Chimayo, founded in the 17th century by Spanish settlers. Enjoy lunch in a century-old adobe home at Rancho de Chimayo, serving outstanding New Mexican cuisine. Visit Santuário De Chimayo and learn of the miraculous healing powers that still attract thousands of pilgrims each year. Return to Santa Fe, where the remainder of your day is at leisure. (B/L)
LOCAL FAVORITE - HISTORY & HERITAGE: Experience the spiritual traditions of the American Southwest in Chimayo. This historic area attracts locals and guests alike who visit its church sanctuary, which holds sacred soil known for its healing powers. Experience this legendary, authentic New Mexican tradition!
Ancient Cultures
Depart Santa Fe and explore the ancient Anasazi Puebloans, their cliff dwellings, and the museum at Bandelier National Monument. Visit the adobe town of Taos for free time. Continue into Colorado for Durango, a town born in the Gold Rush and silver-mining era. Tonight, spend free time browsing the many shops on Main Street or enjoy a cold pint at one of the city's local breweries. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURAL GEM: Explore the age-old dwellings of Bandelier National Monument. Envision a way of life long since passed to gaze at mesas, sheer-walled canyons, and several thousand ancestral Pueblo dwellings sharing 33,000 acres of designated wilderness. Bandelier's human history is traced to over 11,000 years ago when nomadic hunter-gatherers followed migrating wildlife across the land. By 1150 AD, ancestral Pueblo people began to build more permanent settlements. This incredible site is as inspiring as the Pueblo blessing: “Hold on to what is good, even if it is a handful of earth.”
Stone Houses
Today, visit Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Return to Durango for a guided tour of the D&SNG Railway Museum with free time to see the exhibits including an extensive model train layout. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ANCIENT DWELLINGS: See Spruce Tree House, one of the best-preserved cliff dwellings. Also, visit the museum that depicts the story of the people who once thrived on this 8,000-foot ancient plateau (now Mesa Verde National Park). Stop at a great vantage point for pictures of Cliff Palace (one of the largest of the 700-year-old Anasazi dwellings)
All Aboard in Durango!
Board the Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge Railroad for a scenic ride through San Juan National Forest from Durango to Silverton. Continue to Glenwood Springs for an overnight stay at the historic Hotel Colorado. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - EPIC RIDE: Board the legendary Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge Railroad steam train as it hugs steep canyon walls to wind its way through Rio de las Animas Canyon. Arrive in Silverton, once a major mining town where an early miner proclaimed: “We have no gold, but silver by the ton!”
LOCAL FAVORITE - ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT: Enjoy a stay at the historic Hotel Colorado in beautiful Glenwood Springs. This elegant Rocky Mountain retreat has been a welcomed respite for travelers for more than 125 years is near the town's famous hot springs. Special guests President Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt and the “Unsinkable” Molly Brown have enjoyed its gracious accommodations in the heart of the Colorado Rockies; it's storied history also includes time as a Naval Hospital in the 1940's and playground for notorious characters such as the Chicago gangsters during the Roaring 20's.
Making Tracks in the Old West
Travel through the beautiful Colorado Rocky Mountains to historic Georgetown for a scenic ride on the Georgetown Loop Railroad. Continue east to Denver, where your Tour Director hosts a special farewell dinner. Wonderful conversation and cuisine make the perfect finale for your vacation. (B/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - EPIC RIDE: Climb aboard the historic Georgetown Railroad and be immersed in the rugged beauty of the Rockies. Envision the old railroad days as you roll through stunning views of aspen trees, pines, and firs with views of Clear Creek Canyon.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. Want to explore more in Denver? Additional nights are available for purchase. (B)
Welcome to Colorado!
At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome drink.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ROCKY MOUNTAIN HIGHS: At 5,280 feet above sea level, Denver is called the Mile-High City for a reason. This gateway to the Rocky Mountains is the perfect place to kick back with a view of the sunset over Mount Evans while enjoying a local IPA or coffee after dinner. Ask your Tour Director for the best eateries in LoDo (lower downtown) or other exciting venues this beautiful city has to offer.
All Aboard the Royal Gorge!
Depart on a scenic drive south to the Royal Gorge for a unique experience on the spectacular Royal Gorge Route Railroad. Later, travel to Colorado Springs to explore Garden of the Gods, featuring 300-foot towering sandstone rock formations against a backdrop of snowcapped Pikes Peak and brilliant blue skies. Enjoy dinner tonight at a local restaurant. (B/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - EPIC RIDE: When President Teddy Roosevelt rode the rails through the Royal Gorge in 1905, he described the experience as “the trip that bankrupts the English language.” You'll be speechless too on this train ride through the breathtaking scenery of the Royal Gorge as it cuts a deep path through the Rockies along the Arkansas River.
The Land of Enchantment
Leave Colorado Springs and travel south into New Mexico, the “Land of Enchantment,” to visit Albuquerque – home of the annual Balloon Fiesta. Enjoy free time this evening before an early morning adventure tomorrow! (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - SPECIAL EVENT: What began as a gathering of enthusiasts with just 13 hot-air balloons more than 50 years ago has grown into the largest ballooning event in the world – the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. This tradition has grown to an annual event drawing people from around the world to witness hundreds of brightly hued hot-air balloons ascend at once over the landscape of New Mexico. Truly enchanting!
Up, Up & Away!
Get ready for the world-famous Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta! Experience this morning's pre-dawn Opening Ceremonies and the unforgettable Mass Balloon Ascension. See Old Town Albuquerque before returning to the hotel for free time before marveling at the popular Balloon Glow and Fireworks show. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - OH SAY, CAN YOU: SEE?! Attend the uplifting opening ceremonies and mass balloon ascension where hundreds of hot-air balloons lift off and turn the sky into a virtual rainbow of designs. Leading the ascension is a balloon adorned with the American flag, rising off the ground to the national anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner.
The American Southwest
Travel via the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway to the charming city of Santa Fe. Visit the Musuem of Indian Arts & Culture to explore the history and contemporary life of the Indigenous cultures of the Southwest. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure in Santa Fe. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURE & TRADITION: Experience the rich history and culture of Santa Fe - home to an abundance of art galleries amid its diverse visual arts scene of ancient traditional art to modern contemporary works that celebrate the desert beauty of this ruggedly beautiful landscape.
ENHANCED FREE TIME - EXPLORE MORE: with free time in Santa Fe. Your Tour Director will have suggestions for additional sightseeing, shopping, and dining. Tap your GlobusGO mobile app for maps, tips, and more.
Enchanted Jewels
Begin with a captivating visit to nearby Chimayo, founded in the 17th century by Spanish settlers. Enjoy lunch in a century-old adobe home at Rancho de Chimayo, serving outstanding New Mexican cuisine. Visit Santuário De Chimayo and learn of the miraculous healing powers that still attract thousands of pilgrims each year. Return to Santa Fe, where the remainder of your day is at leisure. (B/L)
LOCAL FAVORITE - HISTORY & HERITAGE: Experience the spiritual traditions of the American Southwest in Chimayo. This historic area attracts locals and guests alike who visit its church sanctuary, which holds sacred soil known for its healing powers. Experience this legendary, authentic New Mexican tradition!
Ancient Cultures
Depart Santa Fe and explore the ancient Anasazi Puebloans, their cliff dwellings, and the museum at Bandelier National Monument. Visit the adobe town of Taos for free time. Continue into Colorado for Durango, a town born in the Gold Rush and silver-mining era. Tonight, spend free time browsing the many shops on Main Street or enjoy a cold pint at one of the city's local breweries. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURAL GEM: Explore the age-old dwellings of Bandelier National Monument. Envision a way of life long since passed to gaze at mesas, sheer-walled canyons, and several thousand ancestral Pueblo dwellings sharing 33,000 acres of designated wilderness. Bandelier's human history is traced to over 11,000 years ago when nomadic hunter-gatherers followed migrating wildlife across the land. By 1150 AD, ancestral Pueblo people began to build more permanent settlements. This incredible site is as inspiring as the Pueblo blessing: “Hold on to what is good, even if it is a handful of earth.”
Stone Houses
Today, visit Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Return to Durango for a guided tour of the D&SNG Railway Museum with free time to see the exhibits including an extensive model train layout. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ANCIENT DWELLINGS: See Spruce Tree House, one of the best-preserved cliff dwellings. Also, visit the museum that depicts the story of the people who once thrived on this 8,000-foot ancient plateau (now Mesa Verde National Park). Stop at a great vantage point for pictures of Cliff Palace (one of the largest of the 700-year-old Anasazi dwellings)
All Aboard in Durango!
Board the Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge Railroad for a scenic ride through San Juan National Forest from Durango to Silverton. Continue to Glenwood Springs for an overnight stay at the historic Hotel Colorado. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - EPIC RIDE: Board the legendary Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge Railroad steam train as it hugs steep canyon walls to wind its way through Rio de las Animas Canyon. Arrive in Silverton, once a major mining town where an early miner proclaimed: “We have no gold, but silver by the ton!”
LOCAL FAVORITE - ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT: Enjoy a stay at the historic Hotel Colorado in beautiful Glenwood Springs. This elegant Rocky Mountain retreat has been a welcomed respite for travelers for more than 125 years is near the town's famous hot springs. Special guests President Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt and the “Unsinkable” Molly Brown have enjoyed its gracious accommodations in the heart of the Colorado Rockies; it's storied history also includes time as a Naval Hospital in the 1940's and playground for notorious characters such as the Chicago gangsters during the Roaring 20's.
Making Tracks in the Old West
Travel through the beautiful Colorado Rocky Mountains to historic Georgetown for a scenic ride on the Georgetown Loop Railroad. Continue east to Denver, where your Tour Director hosts a special farewell dinner. Wonderful conversation and cuisine make the perfect finale for your vacation. (B/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - EPIC RIDE: Climb aboard the historic Georgetown Railroad and be immersed in the rugged beauty of the Rockies. Envision the old railroad days as you roll through stunning views of aspen trees, pines, and firs with views of Clear Creek Canyon.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. Want to explore more in Denver? Additional nights are available for purchase. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Ride the Royal Gorge Route Railroad
- Visit Garden of the Gods
- Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, including Opening Ceremonies and Mass Balloon Ascension
- Visit Old Town Albuquerque
- Balloon Fiesta at night for the Balloon Glow and Fireworks show
- Travel the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway
- Guided sightseeing in Santa Fe and Santuário de Chimayo
- Visit Bandelier National Monument and Taos
- Discover Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Guided tour of D & SNG Railway Museum
- Ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge Railroad
- Ride the Georgetown Loop Railroad
- Breakfast daily, 1 Lunch, 2 Dinner
- Denver: Hilton Denver City Center (Superior First-Class):
Sleek Hotel on the first 19 floors of the 43-story Hilton Tower in heart of downtown financial district. - Colorado Springs: The Antlers Hotel:
The hotel has an indoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, gift shop, business center, restaurants, pub, coffee kiosk, and room service. Guestrooms feature cable TV, coffee maker, hairdryer, iron/ironing board, bath amenities, and Internet access. - Albuquerque: DoubleTree by Hilton Albuquerque (First-Class):
Hospitality is number one at the DoubleTree in Albuquerque, where you're welcomed by the signature DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie, comfortable accommodations, modern amenities, and a superb location. Situated downtown, it's the closest hotel to the Albuquerque Convention Center and is connected by underground concourse. Complimentary shuttle service is available to shopping, dining and entertainment within a three-mile radius. Offering stunning views of the Sandia Mountains, this Albuquerque hotel provides a unique, relaxing setting in the heart of the city. - Santa Fe: La Posada de Santa Fe (Superior First-Class):
Welcome to La Posada de Santa Fe. This beautifully decorated hotel has lots to offer. Enjoy the rich history of New Mexico and enjoy all the modern amenities. - Durango: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Durango (First-Class):
This hotel is located along the Animas River's banks. A five-minute stroll gets you to the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and historic Downtown Durango. The San Juan National Forest, which contains Colorado's largest wilderness region, is ten miles away and offers outdoor fun. - Glenwood Springs: Hotel Colorado (First-Class):
Settle into the enriching history of this hotel in the charming mountain town of Glenwood Springs. As host to dozens of presidents and well-known people throughout history, there is a lot to explore at this hotel. Not to mention the ghost stories! The hotel sits nestled between the gorgeous Colorado mountains and directly across the street from the famous Glenwood Hot Springs. Enjoy the hot spring pools, cocktails on the hotel patio, or a little shopping and dining in downtown Glenwood Springs.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- 2026: Enjoy spectacular fall colors on our Fall Foliage departures: September 30 and October 7 (Mother Nature permitting).
- Guests should be prepared for sustained walking and standing.
- The Globus Family of Brands insurance does not allow us to arrange hot air balloon rides for our guests. Hot air balloon rides should be scheduled on Day 2 of the tour and any missed sightseeing will not be refunded. Balloon Fiesta schedule of events is subject to change and will be confirmed on tour.
- Ride the Royal Gorge Route Railroad
- Visit Garden of the Gods
- Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, including Opening Ceremonies and Mass Balloon Ascension
- Visit Old Town Albuquerque
- Balloon Fiesta at night for the Balloon Glow and Fireworks show
- Travel the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway
- Guided sightseeing in Santa Fe and Santuário de Chimayo
- Visit Bandelier National Monument and Taos
- Discover Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Guided tour of D & SNG Railway Museum
- Ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge Railroad
- Ride the Georgetown Loop Railroad
- Breakfast daily, 1 Lunch, 2 Dinner
- Denver: Hilton Denver City Center (Superior First-Class):
Sleek Hotel on the first 19 floors of the 43-story Hilton Tower in heart of downtown financial district. - Colorado Springs: The Antlers Hotel:
The hotel has an indoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, gift shop, business center, restaurants, pub, coffee kiosk, and room service. Guestrooms feature cable TV, coffee maker, hairdryer, iron/ironing board, bath amenities, and Internet access. - Albuquerque: DoubleTree by Hilton Albuquerque (First-Class):
Hospitality is number one at the DoubleTree in Albuquerque, where you're welcomed by the signature DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie, comfortable accommodations, modern amenities, and a superb location. Situated downtown, it's the closest hotel to the Albuquerque Convention Center and is connected by underground concourse. Complimentary shuttle service is available to shopping, dining and entertainment within a three-mile radius. Offering stunning views of the Sandia Mountains, this Albuquerque hotel provides a unique, relaxing setting in the heart of the city. - Santa Fe: La Posada de Santa Fe (Superior First-Class):
Welcome to La Posada de Santa Fe. This beautifully decorated hotel has lots to offer. Enjoy the rich history of New Mexico and enjoy all the modern amenities. - Durango: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Durango (First-Class):
This hotel is located along the Animas River's banks. A five-minute stroll gets you to the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and historic Downtown Durango. The San Juan National Forest, which contains Colorado's largest wilderness region, is ten miles away and offers outdoor fun. - Glenwood Springs: Hotel Colorado (First-Class):
Settle into the enriching history of this hotel in the charming mountain town of Glenwood Springs. As host to dozens of presidents and well-known people throughout history, there is a lot to explore at this hotel. Not to mention the ghost stories! The hotel sits nestled between the gorgeous Colorado mountains and directly across the street from the famous Glenwood Hot Springs. Enjoy the hot spring pools, cocktails on the hotel patio, or a little shopping and dining in downtown Glenwood Springs.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- 2026: Enjoy spectacular fall colors on our Fall Foliage departures: September 30 and October 7 (Mother Nature permitting).
- Guests should be prepared for sustained walking and standing.
- The Globus Family of Brands insurance does not allow us to arrange hot air balloon rides for our guests. Hot air balloon rides should be scheduled on Day 2 of the tour and any missed sightseeing will not be refunded. Balloon Fiesta schedule of events is subject to change and will be confirmed on tour.
Don't waste your precious time queueing up, skip the lines with special VIP access at the must-see sites. Read more
Travel with expert Tour Directors and Local Guides who share their vast knowledge of the USA. Read more
Globus has the recipe for a great vacation. Savour the flavours of the USA through its regional cuisine. Read more
Globus' selection of hotels in unforgettable places ensure you stay right in the heart of each destination. Read more
Globus' coaches offer one of the most comfortable, stress-free and eco-friendly ways to travel. Read more
Do as the locals do and enjoy unique experiences that you wouldn't find touring on your own. Read more
Don't waste your precious time queueing up, skip the lines with special VIP access at the must-see sites. Read more
Travel with expert Tour Directors and Local Guides who share their vast knowledge of the USA. Read more
Globus has the recipe for a great vacation. Savour the flavours of the USA through its regional cuisine. Read more
Globus' selection of hotels in unforgettable places ensure you stay right in the heart of each destination. Read more
Globus' coaches offer one of the most comfortable, stress-free and eco-friendly ways to travel. Read more
Do as the locals do and enjoy unique experiences that you wouldn't find touring on your own. Read more
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