Albuquerque is the most popular city in New Mexico, and it’s home to hundreds of fun and educational places of interest that you can visit with the whole family and have a great time. Whether you’re interested in exploring the latest hands-on exhibits for children at local museums or seeking something more exciting, like interactive science museums, you’re sure to find plenty of options.
If you’re looking for ideas to keep children engaged on a rainy day, inspire their creativity, or simply do something fun and different, here are our favorite picks of museums and attractions for kids in Albuquerque. Be sure to check out our guide before planning a family outing where learning and fun are the main goals!
Top 12 Museums & Attractions for Kids in Albuquerque
1
The National Museum of Nuclear Science and History
When it comes to interactive science museums in Albuquerque, this is a must-visit! Interested in the story of the Atomic Age? Learn about the early research on nuclear development and the uses of nuclear technology today. Everything you need to know about the past, present and future of nuclear science is here! Enjoy the many exhibits presented, and discover something new every time you visit!2
Explora Science Center
The Explora Science Center offers some of the best children’s museum programs, providing fun for all ages through a variety of hands-on activities and exhibits. Featuring the Children’s Museums, you will find classes for children, including the robotics club, engineering and physics science club, and so much more! Every member of the family is welcome to enjoy a day and to learn something new.3
International Balloon Museum
Everything you have ever wanted to know about ballooning, such as history, art, science and more, you will learn in this place. Discover how human aviation began with ballooning, the many advancements, and enjoy interactive hands-on exhibits for children. Among the children’s museum programs offered, you can enroll in S.T.E.A.M. Nights and Stories, and Music in the Sky. The whole family will love this magical place!4
Museum of Natural History and Science
Looking for museums and attractions for kids in Albuquerque? Look no further! Dinosaurs, wildlife, exhibits for all tastes, a Mars Rover, and more are what you will find at the Museum of Natural History and Science. Visit the Planetarium to discover the universe or the Dynatheater for 3D educational movies. Learn about the natural world and science in a welcoming environment for the whole family.5
Tours of Old Town
Get ready to explore one of the oldest towns in North America! This interesting, informative and walking tour will provide you with many interesting historical facts and memorable experiences for everyone! Meet the town that was here over seventy years before the United States became a country! It’s a fantastic option when searching for museums and attractions for kids in Albuquerque.6
Petroglyph National Monument
Experience the joy of visiting this breathtaking place that features designs and symbols carved onto volcanic rocks made by Native Americans and Spanish settlers 400 to 700 years ago! Spend the day with the entire family and admire this valuable record of cultural expression! The best part? Families with children can pick up a free Junior Ranger booklet suitable for all ages.7
Albuquerque Museum
Enjoy a variety of hands-on exhibits for children, educational classes for kids, live performances, guided tours, and a relaxing cafe. Don’t miss the beautiful Sculpture Garden, art workshops, family days, and so much more! The Albuquerque Museum is Albuquerque’s premier kid-friendly educational venue! You will not want to miss this super interesting place that every member of the family will enjoy!8
ABQ BioPark Aquarium
Another fantastic destination when you're looking for museums and attractions in Albuquerque is the ABQ Aquarium. Get ready to spend an amazing day with the entire family. You will see and learn about amazing aquatic animals such as sharks, turtles, lobsters and so much more. There’s plenty to see at ABQ Aquarium, so don’t miss the chance to visit and immerse yourself in a breathtaking experience.9
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
The 19 Pueblos of New Mexico are full of history, culture and art, and at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, you can learn all about it. They offer engaging children’s programs, including School Tours. Featuring a wide variety of rare artifacts and works of art, you will discover exhibits and permanent collections to enjoy and have a nice day of learning. Don’t forget to take a look at the documents and books related to the 19 Pueblos.10
ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden
Be amazed by this breathtaking garden. Learn about native New Mexico plant species, enjoy educational activities and guided tours, or the amazing exhibits such as the Old World Walled Gardens, Camino de Flores, the Desert Conservatory and so much more! This is a great place to spend time with the family and create beautiful memories in a magical place!11
American International Rattlesnake Museum
The Rattlesnake Museum offers families a unique and educational experience. It features a wide variety of rattlesnake species, rare artifacts, and interactive exhibits that highlight the fascinating world of these reptiles. With its affordable admission prices and special programs for children, the museum stands out as one of the top museums and attractions for kids in Albuquerque. While there aren’t any free museum days, children under 3 can enter at no cost.12
International UFO Museum
If you’re looking for museums and attractions for kids near Albuquerque, the International UFO Museum is a must-visit! It features a variety of exhibits, firsthand accounts, and research materials that delve into the mysteries of the universe. This engaging destination is perfect for anyone curious about extraterrestrial phenomena.Education at a young age may sound boring to little ones, but it can be quite the opposite! As we’ve seen, the museums and attractions for kids in Albuquerque offer a wealth of fun options that are great for learning, including hands-on exhibits and educational workshops.
Whether you’re looking for free places to visit with kids or other engaging destinations, such as trampoline parks, be sure to explore all these kid-friendly museums Albuquerque has to offer!