field trips nm

11 Amazing Field Trips Every New Mexican Took As A Kid (And Should Retake Now)

Revisiting New Mexico field trip destinations as an adult can be a rewarding experience.

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During field trips, some of us were more focused on having a day out of school rather than on our actual destination. Or maybe you enjoyed field trips, but the memory of them has become hazy over time. Either way, returning to these attractions as an adult can be a surprisingly rewarding experience. Here are 11 New Mexico field trips that are well worth taking a second – or first – time.

1. The Roundhouse (Santa Fe)

If you were of school age after 1966, chances are you took a field trip here. Our state capitol building is the only round one in the country although, from above, you can see that that it’s actually in the shape of the Zia Sun Symbol. The stained glass ceiling of the Rotunda, the extensive display of work by New Mexican artists, and the small yet appealing grounds are all reasons to visit today. It is located at the corner of Paseo de Peralta and Old Santa Fe Trail.

2. The Palace of the Governors (Santa Fe)

If you were near Santa Fe, it’s also likely that you toured the Palace of the Governors, the oldest continuously occupied public building in the nation. Today, it’s a state history museum with an inventory of 15,000 items that includes the bullet-damaged clock that was in Columbus on the day that Pancho Villa raided the town. New Mexico residents can visit for free on the first Sunday of the month, with ID. Address: 105 W. Palace Avenue – on the Plaza.

3. Alameda Park Zoo (Alamogordo)

This 12-acre zoo, which contains 250 animals, is by no means the biggest in the Southwest, but it is the oldest. It was established in 1898! Here you’ll find everything from capybara to bears, along with plenty of birds. It is located at 1321 N. White Sands Boulevard in Alamogordo.

4. ABQ Biopark Zoo (Albuquerque)

Depending on where you grew up, you may have gone on a field trip to this zoo instead - bet you were excited the night before! Founded in 1927, the ABQ Biopark Zoo is a good size at 64 acres. The animals have probably changed since your field trip days, but the experience is just as fun. Watch animal feedings, attend an animal encounter show (between April and October), and see Tasmanian devils, which are part of an important captive breeding program. The zoo is located at 903 10th Street SW in Albuquerque.

5. Clayton Lake State Park (Clayton)

Perhaps, when you were growing up, this spot was little more than a tranquil park. However, in 1982, a flood revealed more than 500 well-preserved dinosaur footprints. It’s definitely a fascinating place to visit as an adult, or as a child. For more info. This state park is located at 141 Clayton Lake Road in Clayton.

6. Carlsbad Caverns National Park (near Whites City)

If you went here on a field trip, then you know how miraculous this place is and probably want to return. For anyone who has never had to good fortune to view the dramatic formations in the Big Room and beyond, add this spot to your bucket list. Here are some fun facts about Carlsbad Caverns.

7. Aztec Ruins National Monument (Aztec)

Aztec is unusual because you can walk inside the remains here, rather than skirting their edges. This makes it easier to imagine the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans who lived here between the 11th and 13th centuries. This national monument is part of Chaco Culture National Historical Park, but it is more accessible than the main portion of Chaco and is a very manageable size for a day trip. It is located at 84 County Road in Aztec.

8. Fort Stanton Museum (Fort Stanton)

As a kid, when you heard the words "fort," you got excited. However, the reality of exploring one of our state’s old forts may not have lived up to your expectations unless you were a history fan. Fort Stanton was probably still in use when you were growing up, but that’s all the more reason to embark on a fort field trip now. As an adult, it’s easier to appreciate the significance of the events that took place here. The fort has been used as an army base, a tuberculosis hospital, an internment camp, and more. It is located at 104 Kit Carson Rd, Fort Stanton.

9. New Mexico Farm Ranch and Heritage Museum (Las Cruces)

This museum opened in the 1990s and it offers an engaging peek inside the farming and ranching industries and their role in our state’s history. Here, you’ll find rotating exhibits, live animals, and plenty of vintage machinery. It is located at 4100 Dripping Springs Road in Las Cruces.

10. White Sands National Monument (Alamogordo)

Your teachers may not have wanted you to go sand sledding on a field trip, but there are no such rules now that you’re a grown up. You’ll be far from the only adult thrill seeker at this one-of-a-kind national monument. Bring a round sled or else pick one up at the gift shop. White Sands is located at 19955 Highway 70 in Alamogordo.

11. Explora Science Center and Children’s Museum (Albuquerque)

Although Explora first opened in 1983, it moved to its current location in 2003 so you probably haven't seen the new setup. Experiment with everything from electricity to bubbles at this fun museum. Go ahead and pretend you’re only here because the kids enjoy it - we won’t tell! Explora is located at 1701 Mountain Road NW in Albuquerque.

What was your favorite field trip as a kid? Have you been back to any as an adult? Let us know on the Only In New Mexico Facebook page .

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The Secret Garden In New Mexico You’re Guaranteed To Love

Discover a hidden sculpture garden at Nedra Matteucci Galleries in Santa Fe, offering a peaceful escape with integrated art and lush landscaping.

If you’ve ever read The Secret Garden  by Frances Hodgson Burnett or seen the movie, you probably associate this phrase with a hidden oasis. If so, we found a version of “The Secret Garden” in New Mexico that doesn’t disappoint. Behind the walls of the Nedra Matteucci Galleries in Santa Fe lies a peaceful paradise that you’ll want to discover. It’s one of the prettiest gardens to visit in New Mexico , and we bet you’ll love it too.

Santa Fe is filled with galleries but Nedra Matteucci is special, not only for housing a collection that features some truly recognizable names, but also for its sculpture garden.

The gallery concentrates on 19th and 20th-century American artwork and it’s worth exploring the sprawling rooms of this adobe building – even if the price tags on the items within are way beyond your budget.

Venture out back, where you’ll find a garden that shows how landscaping can be a form of art.

Sculptures are integrated into the natural setting in a thoughtful – sometimes playful - way.

Admire the strength of Don Ostermiller’s bears. This wildlife sculptor learned how to depict the essence of an animal from his father, a taxidermist.

Mosey along gently curving paths…

…to a tranquil pond, where ducks coast across the still waters...

...and an elephant is poised on the banks!

In a high desert environment, it’s unusual to encounter a spot that feels so lush and rich with foliage.

Relax on a bench and let this peaceful place erase your stress.

You could walk right past this walled garden for years, without ever guessing it was here. And that’s part of the charm of this magical place.

You can escape the world and spend time with sculptures that wouldn’t be out of place in the pages of beloved children’s stories, all in the middle of Santa Fe.

Since it’s part of a gallery, there’s no fee to enter the sculpture garden, which is open during normal business hours every day except Sunday.

The Nedra Matteucci Galleries are located at 1075 Paseo de Peralta, a short stroll away from Canyon Road, where many of the city’s other galleries are clustered. For more information about this secret garden in New Mexico, visit the website for Nedra Matteucci Galleries .

Once you've found your Zen, amble over to nearby Kakawa Chocolate House , for a cup of drinking chocolate that will complete a perfect experience.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-mexico/kakawa-chocolate-house-santa-fe/

Or consider making unique pieces of art by taking the stained glass making class in Sante Fe . It could be a fun activity for everyone!

This New Mexico Nature Center Makes For The Perfect Family Day Trip

It may come as a surprise but the town of Los Alamos is more than just the home of the Manhattan Project. In fact, nature is plentiful here, and there are even over 150 miles of trails in Los Alamos and its surrounding areas! As if that wasn't enough, you can spend time at an underrated nature center that's perfect for a day trip in New Mexico . Let's take a look at the Los Alamos Nature Center.

It's a world of discovery here at the Los Alamos Nature Center. Operated by the Pajarito Environmental Education Center (PEEC), this is a place for learning as much as it is for enjoying nature.

Before exploring the outdoor areas, it's best to spend time perusing the informative displays and interactive exhibits throughout the center. You can learn about the geology of the Pajarito Plateau that Los Alamos sits upon as well as native wildlife and plants.

There's even a topographical map of the area that's absolutely fascinating to see.

The center also features a planetarium with regular programs and shows held. You'll be able to get an in-depth look at our solar system as well as the skies above Northern New Mexico.

Head outdoors to explore the nature center's expansive property with trails, a children's area, a garden, and more.

You can always go for a hike to view the flora and fauna found in Northern New Mexico. There are docents and experts available to ask any questions about what you see.

Kids will love the indoor Children's Discovery Area which has a mini Pajarito Plateau along with puppets, books, and other fun learning tools. Outside, they can run wild in the Nature Play Area and climb around on the Rotary Treehouse.

Adults and children alike can explore the native flower gardens to see what's growing. There's also the Jemez Mountain Herbarium with over 3,000 plants that grow around the area. There's so much to see at the wonderful Los Alamos Nature Center!

Would you take a day trip in New Mexico to the Los Alamos Nature Center? I think you should, and feel free to bring the whole family, too. To learn more about this incredible place, head to the Visit Los Alamos website. You can also follow the Pajarito Environmental Education Center's Facebook page for updates on the Los Alamos Nature Center.

If you plan on spending the night in Los Alamos and need accommodations, check out Casa Little Bird , a charming vacation rental in town.

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New Mexico Field Trips

Nm curriculum          nm classroom visits          nm water           nm gardens         nm artists          nm  nature centers        nm films.

When students leave the classroom, they see the connections between what is happening at school and in the ‘real-world.’ Opportunities abound for outdoor field trips to explore the land of enchantment and indoor field trips to gain new perspectives.

Northern New Mexico

Pajarito environmental education center, los alamos.

The Pajarito Environmental Education Center offers field trips to its Los Alamos location. Field trips are offered by grade level to K-12 students and include a guided visit of their exhibits, a planetarium show, and a guided hike on their nearby trails or time to explore their nature play area. Field trip topics range from local wildlife to space, and trips are 2.5 hours long.

Albuquerque Area

Albuquerque bernalillo county water authority.

The RIO (River Is Ours) is a free field trip to the river for all 4th-grade classes with free bus transportation for Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) Students. Schools outside of APS can schedule a field trip, but transportation is not provided. Two-hour tours of the Southside Wastewater Reclamation Plant   are available for students in grade 4 and up. There are even virtual tours   for those who can’t make it in person, and each stop includes an activity or questions for your students. 

BEMP: Bosque Ecosystem Monitoring Program

The Bosque Ecosystem Monitoring Program (BEMP)  offers f ield trips to the bosque. During the trip, students will collect data for a long-term phenology (seasonal change) study that contributes to a national scientific database through Nature’s Notebook .  BEMP has limited funding for transportation.

Rio Grande Nature Center State Park

Located in the bosque, the Rio Grande Nature Center offers field trips , learning activities, and events for families.   The park has interpretive nature trails,  a hands-on Discovery Room,   library, an outdoor classroom, garden, and a  Discovery pond where students can sample aquatic life under the microscope.  They offer weekend bird walks and storytime hours.  There are activities for the whole family to experience 270 acres of woods, meadows, and farmland flourishing with native grasses, wildflowers, willows, and cottonwoods.

Sandia Moutain Natural History Center

The Sandia Mountain Natural History Center (SMNHC) leads an Ecology Field Program field trip on-site in Cedar Crest for every 5th-grade student in Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) and Rio Rancho Public Schools (RRPS), as well as other schools that request it. Transportation is included for APS students.  This program gets students out on the trail learning about the parts of an ecosystem (abiotic, producers, consumers, decomposers) and their inter-connectedness and importance. Students participate in hands-on scientific observation and activities. A wide variety of topics are covered, from plant identification to animal sign and behavior to forest fires. SMNHC educators also take this program on the road to teach students at state parks and other natural areas statewide. The field trip is aligned to Next Generation Science Standards and Common Core State Standards.

Southern New Mexico

Asombro institute for science education, las cruces.

The Asombro Institute for Science Education offers  field trips  to the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Park for every grade level. Click the education tab at the top of the home page to see the offerings for each grade. Field trips feature hands-on activities using tools that actual scientists use to understand the Chihuahuan Desert ecosystem and a hike to learn about native plants and wildlife and geologic features. Field trip stations are aligned to Next Generation Science Standards and Common Core State Standards.   

NM Curriculum          NM Classroom Visits          NM Water           NM Gardens         NM Artists           NM Nature Centers          NM Films

Three Excellent Ideas for The Ultimate NM Field Trip

After many months of being stuck inside and juggling remote learning, your kids must be itching for an adventure. Make your own socially distanced field trip with Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch! The ultimate NM field trip awaits your family in southwest New Mexico. Our remote location in the 3.3. million acre Gila National Forest is perfect for an extended screen break. While you are here, you will learn about history, horse care, local wildlife, vegetation, and much more! With so much to discover, you and your children will love learning everything about this enchanting place, while reconnecting with nature and disconnecting from technology!.   

To start planning the perfect multi-day field trip to our southwest New Mexico dude ranch, all you need to do is request your personalized New Mexico Itinerary . We’ll then create an unforgettable getaway for the entire family and deliver it right to your inbox, for free.   

Request Your Field Trip Itinerary

The Ultimate NM Field Trip Ideas for Families   

Experience unique learning opportunities  .

The Gila is filled with incredible learning opportunities at every turn. Each guided tour will lead riders to a new place in the Gila National Forest. Through ancient Mimbres pottery, pictographs and cliff dwellings dating back to 200 AD, we’ll get a glimpse of the area’s captivating Native American culture . Then, as we ride through fascinating rock formations, 500-foot deep canyons and incredible mountain scenery, we’ll get to see more of the region’s one-of-a-kind flora and fauna . That’s not all! As we navigate through the Land of Enchantment, we’ll also get to see many of the wildlife species that call the Gila “home.” With so much to see and even more to learn about, there’s no doubt this is the ultimate NM field trip!   

Bond with New Mexico’s Best Horses  

One of the best parts of visiting our dude ranch is the horses ! We have a beautiful herd of 30 well-trained  horses that allow us to show you the breathtaking beauty of t he Gila . For the best experience, we pair every rider with a horse for the duration of their trip ! We also encourage riders to learn about and care for the animals by brushing their horse at the end of each day. This way, the rider and horse can create an extra special bond!  

Visit New Mexico’s Iconic Landmarks  

Before or after your time at Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch, you must make a stop at one or more area attractions . Whether your kids are in elementary, high school, or college, you can’t pass up the opportunity to see some of the Land of Enchantment’s greatest treasures.   

Here are just a few places you should visit:   

• Bandelier National Monument    
• White Sands National Park    
• Carlsbad Caverns National Park  
• Geronimo Springs Museum   

Create Unforgettable Memories at Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch  

One of the best ways to enjoy your socially distanced field trip is to make it a fun experience for everyone. Hands-on learning in the Gila will help you do just that! There’s always something to do at Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch , from watching the sunrise in the mornings to exploring the Gila in the afternoons to stargazing in the evenings. With so much to do, your family will never get bored here!

Check our availability and start planning an incredible family field trip to southwest New Mexico!  

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18 Best Places to Visit in New Mexico, According to Locals

Come to see historic small towns, scenic hiking trails, the "Grand Canyon of New Mexico," and more.

For a true taste of the American Southwest, consider a trip to New Mexico. Spanning approximately 121,000 square miles, the state is famous for its rich Indigenous history, vast landscapes (from towering dunes to subterranean caves), amazing archaeological sites, national landmarks (cliff dwellings, well-preserved adobe buildings, and centuries-old churches, to name a few), and an incredible arts and culture scene. It’s no surprise, then, that New Mexico is nicknamed the Land of Enchantment.

To narrow down the state’s best attractions, we reached out to local experts for their top recommendations. Without further ado, here are the best places to visit in New Mexico, from sprawling national parks to tiny towns and everything in between.

White Sands National Park

Mary Robnett/Travel + Leisure

Spanning 275 square miles, White Sands National Park is the world’s largest gypsum dune field, and it looks and feels like an entirely different planet . The wave-like, powder-white sand dunes resemble mounds of snow, and visitors can hike or sled down them any time of year. It’s also worth noting the park is home to a handful of white-hued animals — which have changed to a lighter color over time to adapt to the environment — including mice, lizards, crickets, spiders, and moths. 

Couse-Sharp Historic Site

Visit New Mexico

Angelisa Murray, CEO of guided tour operator Heritage Inspirations in Taos, describes the Couse-Sharp Historic Site as a “true gem” and “one of [her] favorite museums.” Here, you’ll find the former homes and art studios of Taos Society of Artists (TSA) founding members Joseph Sharp and E.I. Couse. “Our guests can see the actual moccasins and pottery that Couse painted in his paintings ... and journey back in time to get a real feel of Taos in the early 1900s,” says Murray.

“ Abiquiú is one of my favorite small towns to take our guests,” says Murray. The town, which was settled by the Spanish in the mid-18th century, looks and feels like it was plucked out of a classic Western, and visitors may even recognize it from fan-favorite flicks like Indiana Jones . However, it’s also famous for being the home of renowned American artist Georgia O'Keeffe. Don’t leave without visiting the O’Keeffe Home and Studio and Ghost Ranch (the artist’s summer home, about 20 minutes northwest). Murray also recommends popping into the state’s first general store, Bodes , which “offers an otherworldly experience for the intrepid traveler,” according to Murray.

Bandelier National Monument

JHVEPhoto/Getty Images

Known for its magnificent mesas, canyons, and ancestral Pueblo dwellings, this national monument spans more than 33,000 acres of rugged landscape, making it a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers alike. The 1.4-mile Pueblo Loop Trail winds through various archaeological sites and is a popular hike. If you’re looking for more thrills, hop on one of the ladders along the route to climb into small human-carved alcoves. Alternatively, experienced hikers may opt to tackle the challenging Frijoles Canyon and Rim Trail (eight miles one way). Keep in mind those who wish to visit Frijoles Canyon and the Pueblo Loop Trail will be required to take a shuttle, which runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily (mid-June through mid-October).

Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

The Washington Post via Getty Images

For a first-hand look at Pueblo culture, head to the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque. Spanning more than 80 acres, the center is owned and operated by the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico. On-site offerings include a museum, exhibition galleries, murals from Pueblo artists, and the Indian Pueblo Kitchen , which serves freshly prepared Native American cuisine. Don’t leave without stocking up on some souvenirs, including Native American artwork and a wide selection of traditional and contemporary crafts, jewelry, pottery, rugs, and more. Pro tip: Check the events calendar for a schedule of the latest programming.

Santuario de Chimayo

Diana Robinson Photography/Getty Images

Marama Nengel, chef concierge at Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection , recommends taking an afternoon trip to Santuario de Chimayó , about 27 miles from Santa Fe. According to Nengel, thousands visit this picturesque adobe church — now a National Historic Landmark — each year. It’s best known for its holy dirt, which is believed to have healing properties. Per Nengel, no trip here is complete without a visit to the Centinela Traditional Arts gallery to see eight generations of Trujillo weavers. Finally, when hunger calls, tuck into some Southwestern fare at Rancho de Chimayó .

Puye Cliff Dwellings

CampPhoto/Getty Images

Located in Los Alamos, this National Historic Landmark was once home to 1,500 Pueblo Indians. It’s no surprise, then, that the site boasts some stunning Pueblo architecture and well-preserved cliff and cave dwellings. The panoramic valley views are an incredible added bonus. It’s worth noting that guided tours are available Monday to Thursday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Santa Fe Plaza

benedek/Getty Images

Santa Fe Plaza is both a beloved tourist attraction and a popular gathering place for locals. This National Historic Landmark, established by the Spanish in the early 17th century, is renowned for its Spanish Pueblo architecture. The bustling location hosts a slew of events throughout the year, including the Traditional Spanish Market in the summer months. Come holiday season, the square gets decked out in twinkling lights, making it even more magical. In recent years, the area surrounding the Plaza has evolved into a buzzy hot spot with dozens of eclectic restaurants, shops, museums, and hotels.

El Rancho de Las Golondrinas

Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

El Rancho de Las Golondrinas (“The Ranch of the Swallows”) is a historic ranch-turned-living history museum near downtown Santa Fe, though its rural surroundings make it feel worlds away, What’s more, a visit to this 200-acre site, which is dotted with striking adobe buildings, feels like a step back in time to New Mexico in the 1800s. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the ranch served as an official rest stop for travelers on El Camino Real, which stretched from Mexico City to Santa Fe. Note the site is closed for general admission between November and March.

Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway

grandriver/Getty Images

The 65-mile Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway — named for the precious stone the Pueblo mined here centuries earlier — links Santa Fe and Albuquerque. As such, it makes for an excellent day trip from either city. The historic route winds through old mining and ghost towns such as Madrid , Golden , and Los Cerrillos . Carve out some time to stop at Casa Grande Trading Post , Cowgirl Red , and Tinkertown Museum , as well as Sandia Peak Tramway to soak up the postcard-worthy views from up high.

Sangre de Cristo Mountains

Daniela Duncan/Getty Images

According to Hans Loehr, adventure center architect at the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe , the Sangre de Cristo Mountains offer something for everyone, including scenic trails for hikers of all experience levels. Additionally, he tells Travel + Leisure , "Guests can enjoy exploring forests of aspen, ponderosa, and pinyon-juniper and meadows filled with colorful wildflowers, relaxing near alpine lakes, bagging some high mountain peaks, and pausing to take in breathtaking views from ridgetops and mountain summits.”

Rio Grande Gorge

Stretching nearly 50 miles, the magnificent, 800-foot-deep Rio Grande Gorge is considered the Grand Canyon of New Mexico. Soak in sweeping views of the rugged landscape from the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge , which, at 650 feet above the ground, is one of the country’s highest bridges. It’s also a popular spot for hiking.

Courtesy of Meow Wolf

Sontanna Sanchez, a concierge at the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe, recommends visiting Meow Wolf for a unique and immersive art experience. The kaleidoscopic “House of Eternal Return” features “more than 70 rooms, taking participants on a macrocosmic adventure only found in Santa Fe,” says Sanchez. All in all, the playful exhibit is sure to delight art lovers of all ages.

San Miguel Chapel

Michael Warren/Getty Images

Located along the Old Santa Fe Trail in Santa Fe’s Barrio de Analco Historic District , this Spanish colonial mission church is considered the oldest in the United States. While initially constructed in 1610, it has since been rebuilt twice (most recently in 1710). In terms of design, prepare to be dazzled by the adobe architecture; the interiors are equally spectacular with centuries-old wooden beams and the 750-plus-pound San Jose bell, which has its own fascinating history.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

milehightraveler/Getty Images

This national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the Chihuahuan Desert in the southern part of the state. The enchanting attraction is home to nearly 120 caves. Travelers can easily spend the entire day exploring these captivating caverns, admiring the mystical stalagmites and stalactites, and spotting wildlife like bats and cougars. Don’t miss the Big Room, North America’s largest single cave chamber by volume. The 1.25-mile trail is a relatively easy 90-minute trek.

Old Town Albuquerque

Alex Potemkin/Getty Images

With its narrow winding streets and adobe architecture, Old Town Albuquerque oozes small-town charm. While lots has changed since its 1706 establishment, this dynamic destination has remained the city's heart. Despite its tiny 10-block radius, Old Town is packed with more than 150 independent restaurants and boutiques. It also hosts more than 40 events annually, including a car show, live music performances, and the world-famous Balloon Fiesta Week .

Taos Downtown Historic District

Despite its small size, Taos packs in plenty of charm and character. What’s more, this storied mountain town is renowned for its many galleries , scenic hiking trails, and, in the winter, world-class skiing. At the center of town is the Downtown Historic District , where you’ll find the 1796-era Taos Plaza. Here, locals and visitors alike gather to listen to live music and attend farmers markets and other events, including dozens of art-forward programming. An abundance of shops and galleries can also be found within easy walking distance. When it's time to refuel, head to one of the nearby cafes and restaurants . 

Taos Pueblo

Kathleen Messmer/Travel + Leisure

About three miles northwest of Taos Plaza lies the Taos Pueblo , which is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark. The Pueblo has been inhabited for more than a millennium, and many of the adobe structures appear the same as when the Spanish first arrived in New Mexico in the 1500s. Hlauuma (north house) and Hlaukwima (south house) are the location's most famous buildings, and they’re considered the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the country.

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School and Youth Group Field Trips

Field trip links, staff led adventures, order lunch.

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• What to Expect

Staff-Led Adventures

BioPark educators will lead your group through your choice of field trips at the Zoo, Botanic Garden or Tingley Beach. Programs vary in topic and may be custom designed for students' grade level and class size.

Cost is $75 for 30 minutes or $100 for 45-minute programming. Entry tickets are not included and must be purchased separately here . 

Learn More: Staff-Led Adventures

Self-Guided Field Trips

School and youth group self-guided field trips are available year-round via either our school season option or our summer season option. Prices vary depending upon season.

School season: September 2-May 30

Cost for self-guided field trips is $1.50 per student and $3 for accompanying adults.

Summer Season: May 31-September 1

Cost for self-guided field trips is $3 per student and $3 for accompanying adults.

Please see Summer Youth Group Visits .

Reservations are required. Book and pay now at artsandculture.cabq.gov or request a date by filling out a Self-Guided Field Trip Request Form .

Eligible Groups

• Public and private schools
• Day care centers following a preschool curriculum
• Home schools and home school co-ops with a Notification of Home School form
• Youth groups
• Schools or programs that serve adult students with developmental or other disabilities
• University classes

Additional Information

Groups must consist of at least 10 students and one adult. At least one chaperone for every 10 students is required.

School and Youth Group Admission Fees for Self-Guided Field Trips

Tickets are for Zoo OR Aquarium & Garden.

• Student (pre K-12): $1.50
• There must be at least one adult chaperone per 10 students.
• The number of adult chaperones may not exceed the number of students. Additional adults will need to purchase a full price ticket.
• Call if you have students who require additional accommodations.

A single payment for the group is preferred in advance. We accept purchase orders, Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover cards.

Reservations Required

Reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance to receive the group discount. School field trips are scheduled only on weekdays.

Pay now: book your field trip at artsandculture.cabq.gov .

Pay later: complete the Self-Guided Field Trip Request Form . Once your date is reserved, you will receive a confirmation email.

For more information, e-mail  [email protected] .

Cancelations

To cancel or reschedule a field trip, call  311  at least 72 hours before your scheduled visit.

ABQ BioPark

505-768-2000

[email protected]

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This link will take you to a site over which the City of Albuquerque has no control. The City assumes no responsibility for the content of the material contained at that site or for the accuracy of any information that is found there. The contents of any site or link not maintained by the City does not necessarily reflect the opinions, standards or policies of the City of Albuquerque, its officials, agents or employees.

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New Mexico Museum of Natural History Foundation

Advancing the educational, scientific, and cultural programs of the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science by raising funds and generating community support.

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Our Virtual Field Trips explore STEAM and cultural topics for every grade level. We make it easy for educators to provide a complete, well-rounded lesson plan to inspire their students using the power of film.

Offered FREE to K-12 School Groups Statewide

About steam trek.

Each trip includes a 40-minute film, teacher prep notes, discussion questions, and an optional hands-on activity.

Plus the following FREE gifts:

A 10-minute virtual tour of the Museum

A FREE classroom experiment-in-a-box

A FREE Museum Logo gift for each child

A FREE 4-person pass for each child to see a movie at the Verus Research DynaTheater with their family

Field trips run approximately 2 hours if the optional activities are used, and can include up to 30 students. 

Available Field Trips

Choose from thirteen exciting and educational films with a variety of STEAM topics ranging from engineering and national parks to outer space, underwater adventures, and dinosaurs.

Coral Reef Adventure

Film Run Time: 46 minutes

Follow two underwater filmmakers on a 10-month expedition across the South Pacific to explore and document some of the world’s most beautiful and endangered coral reefs. Coral Reef Adventure is an adventurous and emotional account of two extraordinary individuals doing what they can to help save the coral reefs.

What You Would Need

Virtual classrooms require access to an internet connection, and equipment to stream vimeo, such as chromecast, airplay (on compatible apple devices), or other casting methods. certain smart tv brands have built-in casting apps. (be sure to test your streaming connection.) an alternative method is to watch vimeo on individual computers..

Book a Field Trip

Virtual Field Trips are provided on a first-come, first-served basis as funds are available. Once registered, you will be notified and sent field trips links via email.

Questions? Contact Sharlene Argyres: [email protected]

Share STEAM Trek

Do you know a teacher or educator who would be interested in STEAM Trek? Did you know Virtual Field trips are also available to homeschool classes?

Share this webpage or the select the poster below to share it with an educator you know today!

STEAM TREK is FREE to all school groups, made possible by the generosity of our sponsors.

Presenting Sponsor:

Additional Sponsor:

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TheHomeSchoolMom

Homeschooling help and encouragement from experienced homeschoolers - find out how homeschooling works and how to start, get tips & ideas for when things need adjusting, read curriculum reviews before buying, learn how online schools work, gain confidence about homeschooling high school, and more.

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Homeschooling in New Mexico

Interested in homeschooling? You can begin homeschooling at any time during the school year in all 50 U.S. states and DC. Whether you are interested in homeschooling your kindergartner or will be homeschooling high school , you can rest assured that grown homeschoolers are succeeding in all walks of life. They are going to college and trade schools, are entering the work force, and are leading productive, fulfilling lives.

Families have found that the benefits of homeschooling are many and varied, and a wide variety of homeschooling options from homeschool curriculum to local homeschool programs are available to meet your child's academic needs. If you are looking for New Mexico accredited homeschool programs or free New Mexico homeschool curriculum, be sure to check out our information on online schooling .

Local homeschoolers are often a helpful resource for understanding homeschool regulations, so getting connected early can help reduce anxiety for new homeschoolers. Online homeschool communities can provide encouragement and crowdsourcing of resources in a virtual environment, and in person communities can provide opportunities through field trips, co-ops, classes, and outings. Whichever type of community you prefer, avoiding isolation is a key to homeschool success.

The above buttons link to many valuable New Mexico homeschool groups, resources, and activities to meet social & activity needs: co-ops, homeschool activity groups, sports and arts opportunities, field trips, and more.

How to Homeschool covers the information you need to start homeschooling—from the logistics of day to day schedules to resources for helping your child learn.

New Mexico Homeschooling Requirements

As you investigate New Mexico home school requirements, be aware that homeschool laws are set by the state rather than the federal government. That means that what homeschoolers in another state need to do to comply with their state's homeschooling requirements may be vastly different from what is required in New Mexico.

Your statewide homeschool organization will be the most help in interpreting any homeschool requirements, but there is no substitute for knowing what the state law says. We've gathered links to the relevant information for you below.

New Mexico Homeschool Law

• New Mexico Public Education Department - Home Schools
• New Mexico Homeschool Law (from CAPE-NM)

Although we try to keep our links up to date, state laws change regularly. The information at the links provided above may or may not be current. Be sure to verify information with your state homeschool organization(s).

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