The Absolute Best Things to Do in Albuquerque with Kids [Updated 2025]

Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover the magic of this vibrant city or a visitor eager to explore, I’ve got you covered. After countless adventures and a healthy dose of trial and error, I’ve rounded up 12 top locations that promise fun and unforgettable memories for families.

As a mom who has navigated the ins and outs of family-friendly activities, I totally understand the importance of finding spots that keep both kids and parents happy. Trust me, these gems have been tested and approved by my own crew, so you can dive right in without the guesswork. Let’s unravel the wonders of Albuquerque together!

Explora Science Center and Children's Museum of Albuquerque

Highlights
Interactive hands-on exhibits
Fun for all ages
Friendly and helpful staff
Consistently engaging activities
Well-maintained and clean facility

Explora Science Center and Children's Museum of Albuquerque is an absolute gem for families seeking a playful yet enriching day out! From the moment we stepped inside, the interactive hands-on exhibits ignited a sense of wonder in both my kids and me. Each corner we turned offered a new opportunity for learning through play.

The museum truly caters to fun for all ages; whether you have toddlers or pre-teens, there’s something captivating in every nook. The friendly and helpful staff were as enthusiastic as the exhibits, enriching our experience with their knowledge and encouragement. We tackled the myriad of engaging activities available, which made every visit a new adventure.

The layout is exceptionally easy to navigate, ensuring that we had plenty of room to explore without feeling crowded. I also appreciated the well-maintained and clean facility, which contributed to a stress-free outing. It felt great to let the kids get lost in exploration while knowing they were in a safe environment.

I wholeheartedly recommend spending a day at Explora. It wasn’t just a fun outing—it was a memorable journey into the world of science and creativity that my kids still rave about!

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New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science

Highlights
Dinosaur exhibits galore
Interactive earthquake experience
Engaging 3D presentations
Space and volcano displays
Kid-friendly indoor activities

The New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science is an absolute gem for families looking to explore the wonders of the natural world together. Walking through the entrance, my kids' eyes widened in awe at the towering dinosaur exhibits; you can practically feel their excitement bubbling over! Each display is meticulously crafted, offering a blend of education and awe that captivates both children and adults alike.

One of the standout features was the Interactive earthquake experience—my kids laughed and shrieked as they felt the simulated tremors, learning about seismic activity in a fun way. The museum didn't stop at dinosaurs; we journeyed through engaging 3D presentations that whisked us through everything from the cosmos to fiery volcanoes, making our adventure even more thrilling.

In addition, the kid-friendly indoor activities allowed my little ones to unleash their creativity while getting hands-on with science, reinforcing their learning through fun. The museum seamlessly combines education with entertainment, making it a perfect family-friendly destination. If you’re searching for an enriching experience in Albuquerque, look no further—this museum is a delightful must-visit that the kids will remember for years!

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Hinkle Fun Center

Highlights
Family-friendly activities
Great for all ages
Wheelchair accessible
Helpful and friendly staff
Affordable fun-filled experience

Hinkle Fun Center is an absolute gem for families looking to enjoy a day of unlimited fun! From the moment we stepped through the door, the vibrant energy enveloped us, making it clear that this was going to be a fantastic experience for kids of all ages.

The array of attractions, including go-karts, mini-golf, and an arcade, offered something for everyone. I was particularly impressed by the wheelchair accessibility, which shows their commitment to ensuring that everyone can join in on the fun. The staff members were not only helpful but incredibly friendly, making my family feel welcomed and valued throughout our visit.

What truly stood out was the affordability of the activities, providing a wonderful way to create lasting memories without breaking the bank. Watching my kids excitedly race around in go-karts and conquer the mini-golf course reminded me of the simple, joyous moments that make family outings so special. If you’re in Albuquerque and seeking a place where laughter meets adventure, I wholeheartedly recommend Hinkle Fun Center for an unforgettable day of thrills with your loved ones!

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Cliff's Amusement Park

Highlights
Affordable food options
Family-friendly atmosphere
Variety of rides available
Thrilling roller coasters
Full day of fun

Cliff's Amusement Park is an absolute gem for families looking to spend a day bursting with fun and excitement in Albuquerque. The moment we arrived, I was drawn in by the family-friendly atmosphere, filled with laughter and smiles. The park has a delightful mix of rides, ensuring that there's something for everyone—thrill-seekers and little ones alike.

One of the highlights for our family was navigating through the park's variety of rides. From the adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to the gentler attractions, we found each ride to have its own unique charm. The younger kids loved the carousel, while my older ones couldn't get enough of the twisty coasters that made our stomachs do flip-flops in the best way!

Another aspect that stood out was the affordable food options, which made keeping everyone's energy up a breeze. We enjoyed a delicious lunch without feeling like we broke the bank.

Overall, if you’re searching for an adventure-packed day and a full day of fun, Cliff's Amusement Park is undoubtedly worth the visit. It’s a place where lasting memories are crafted and smiles are abundant!

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Jungle Jam

Highlights
Fun birthday party experience
Friendly and welcoming staff
Clean and well-maintained facility
Easy online reservation
Kids enjoy the activities

Jungle Jam: A Playful Paradise in Albuquerque

Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting Jungle Jam in Albuquerque, and let me tell you, it's an absolute gem for families seeking fun! From the moment we walked in, the friendly and welcoming staff made us feel right at home. The facility was impeccably clean and well-maintained, a refreshing sight that set the tone for our adventure.

For any parent looking to celebrate a special day, Jungle Jam offers a fantastic birthday party experience, ensuring that your little ones will have a memorable time. As the kids dashed from one activity to another, giggles and squeals of laughter filled the air—a delightful reminder of childhood joy. The variety of activities meant that there was never a dull moment, and I was equally entertained watching the children explore.

Another aspect I appreciated was how easy it was to make an online reservation. This convenience takes the stress out of planning family outings. Whether you're a local or just visiting, I wholeheartedly recommend Jungle Jam as a top destination for family fun in Albuquerque. It's a playful paradise where kids can truly let loose and create cherished memories!

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Kids Empire Cottonwood Mall

Highlights
Fun for kids and adults
Safe toddler area
Friendly staff and clean facilities
Comfortable seating for parents
Great for neurodivergent kids

Kids Empire Cottonwood Mall is an absolute gem for families looking to let their kids burn off some energy while having loads of fun! Upon arrival, I was instantly impressed by the amazing variety of play structures that cater to all age groups. The safe toddler area is perfect for little ones to explore, ensuring they can have a blast without any worries.

What truly stood out to me was the friendly staff who were not only welcoming but also attentive, making sure everyone was enjoying themselves. I noticed that the facilities were impeccably clean, which is always a plus for parents. While the kids dove into adventures galore, I appreciated the comfortable seating available for us grown-ups to relax and enjoy the moment without feeling left out.

The environment is designed with inclusivity in mind, making it great for neurodivergent kids as well. It was heartwarming to see kids of all abilities playing together. Overall, Kids Empire is a delightful paradise where joy knows no bounds. I highly recommend planning your visit—it’s a wonderful way to spend a day in Albuquerque!

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Escape in Time

Highlights
Beautiful party rooms
Friendly and excellent staff
Affordable birthday party options
Fun build-a-bear style experience
Memorable ice cream treats

Escape in Time in Albuquerque is an absolute gem for families seeking adventure and excitement! On my recent visit, I was immediately struck by the beautiful party rooms—the perfect backdrop for birthday celebrations or any group event. The staff here are incredibly friendly and attentive, elevating the experience with their enthusiasm and support.

One of the standout features is the affordable birthday party options. As a parent, it can be tricky to find venues that don’t break the bank while still offering fun. Escape in Time does just that! They also provide an engaging build-a-bear style experience, allowing kids to create their unique stuffed animals, combining adventure with creativity.

After all the brain-teasing escape room challenges, we indulged in some memorable ice cream treats that were simply divine. It was the perfect cherry on top of a fun-filled day! If you're looking to bond with your children while unraveling puzzles and enjoying delicious sweets, I wholeheartedly recommend Escape in Time. It's more than just an escape room—it's a cherished family memory in the making!

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#AbqTours - History & GHOST Tours of Old Town

Highlights
Engaging and exciting stories
Comfortable walking pace
Family-friendly atmosphere
Knowledgeable and friendly guides
Immersive Old Town experience

When we set out for #AbqTours - History & GHOST Tours of Old Town, I wasn't sure what to expect, but what a delightful surprise it turned out to be! The moment we arrived, I was enchanted by the charming atmosphere of Old Town, which set the perfect backdrop for our adventure. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, weaving together engaging stories that truly brought the history of Albuquerque to life.

As we strolled through the cobblestone streets, my kids were captivated by tales of the city’s spooky past and fascinating legends. The comfortable walking pace made it enjoyable for the whole family, keeping everyone involved without feeling rushed. I loved how the tour was designed to engage kids, blending education with entertainment—a true win-win!

What I particularly appreciated was how interactive the experience was; my kids were eager to ask questions, and our guide always had a fun fact ready to share. This wasn’t just a tour; it felt like stepping into a living storybook. For families seeking playful, educational fun in Albuquerque, I can't recommend it enough! #AbqTours truly delivers a memorable outing that you won't want to miss!

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ABQ BioPark Aquarium

Visiting the ABQ BioPark Aquarium was a delightful adventure for me and my kids! From the moment we entered, the vibrant displays of marine life captured our imaginations. The tropical rainforest exhibit was a standout, immersing us in a lush habitat filled with colorful fish and fascinating creatures. My children were particularly enchanted by the interactive touch pool, where they got to feel the smooth skin of a stingray. This aquarium truly offers an engaging blend of fun and education. If you're seeking a captivating experience in Albuquerque, the ABQ BioPark Aquarium is an unforgettable choice for families!

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Electric Playhouse

Stepping into the Electric Playhouse was like entering a vibrant wonderland! My kids were immediately captivated by the interactive digital exhibits and immersive play areas. The combination of art, technology, and play creates an exhilarating atmosphere that sparks creativity and imagination. From virtual reality adventures to engaging group games, there's something for everyone. The space is designed for families, ensuring a fun yet safe environment for play. I loved how it encourages both physical activity and social interaction. Electric Playhouse is truly an unforgettable experience that transforms fun into learning—perfect for a day out with the kids in Albuquerque!

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Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park

During our trip to Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park, my kids bounced with joy from the moment we stepped in. The park boasts a plethora of trampolines, climbing walls, and obstacle courses, ensuring everyone gets their fill of fun. The staff were friendly and attentive, making it a safe environment for energetic play. Watching my little ones soar through the air was a delight, and the various attractions kept their excitement soaring. Whether you're diving into foam pits or navigating the ropes course, this place is a must-visit for families seeking adventure in Albuquerque!

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Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum

Visiting the Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum was a delight for both me and the kids! The vibrant exhibits and interactive displays captured their imaginations as we explored the fascinating world of ballooning. From the history of hot air balloons to the breathtaking videos of the annual Balloon Fiesta, every corner of the museum was both educational and entertaining. The highlight? Climbing into a real balloon basket for a unique photo op! This gem is perfect for a family outing, providing tons of fun while igniting a passion for flight. Don’t miss this uplifting experience on your Albuquerque adventure!

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