Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum

The first hot-air balloon rally in Albuquerque was in 1972, and the scene has been going strong ever since—more than 500 balloons take to the sky every October for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. This museum may seem to cater only to those select few who participate in the fiesta, but in fact, it’s surprisingly fascinating, covering the history of the sport from the earliest hare-brained experiments to triumphs like Ben Abruzzo and Maxie Anderson’s record-setting traverse of the Pacific in the Double Eagle V. Despite a slightly distressing wing devoted to the Hindenburg, you might very well be inspired to take a ride in a balloon when you’re done here—the folks at the info counter can advise.

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