With upwards of 1.5 million visitors each year, it's no surprise that ABQ BioPark is the top tourist attraction in New Mexico. Whether it's your first visit or fifth, there's always something new to see. Our brokers take a look at what makes ABQ BioPark such a beloved attraction near Albuquerque homes for sale.

Botanic Garden

Travel Channel rates the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden among the top 12 in the country. The garden's 32 acres allow plenty of room for exhibits of plants from the American Southwest and around the world. Each garden has a specific focus, such as Cottonwood Gallery, Desert Conservatory, and Sasebo Japanese Garden. Kids flock to the BUGarium, one of the more comprehensive exhibits in the U.S. featuring tarantulas, Malaysian walking sticks, and other fascinating creepy crawlies. On the other side of the coin, the Butterfly Garden surrounds visitors with 40 species of these colorful insects, along with non-stinging bees and other native pollinators. 

Aquarium

Adjacent to the botanic garden, the ABQ BioPark Aquarium takes you on a journey "from Albuquerque to the Gulf of Mexico." Get an up-close view of deep-water denizens such as zebra sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays, many of which are vulnerable or endangered species. Exhibits showcasing topics such as "Shallows & Shores," "Working on the Water," and "Atlantic Coral Reef" provide a greater understanding of life on and underwater. 

Zoo

Situated on the banks of the Rio Grande, the ABQ BioPark Zoo has been a popular destination for locals and tourists since 1927. The 64-acre facility is home to an incredible range of native and exotic animals. Much like the residents of the aquarium, many of the species found in the zoo are vulnerable or endangered. Take in thrilling sights of cheetahs, orangutans, elephants, kangaroos, and other delightful animals. If you're not squeamish, check out the reptiles, including Komodo dragons, anacondas, crocodiles, and dying poison dart frogs. Kids love riding the carousel with replicas of 30 endangered species, including a one-of-a-kind Tasmanian devil created exclusively for ABQ BioPark.

Tingley Beach

ABQ BioPark covers all the bases with Tingley Beach, a spot where visitors can enjoy local nature and outdoor activities. Onsite fishing ponds are open free of charge to anyone with a valid New Mexico fishing license, while a separate pond is open for model boats. Explore the pet-friendly hiking and biking trails as you watch for waterfowls. Charcoal grills are available, so pack a picnic lunch. 

Plan Your Visit

• Botanic Garden and Aquarium: 2601 Central Ave. NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily. Tickets, which include admission to both attractions, are $5-$14.50
  
  
• Zoo: 903 10th St. SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily. Tickets are $5-$14.50.
  
  
• Tingley Beach: 1800 Tingley Dr. SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102. Hours are sunrise to sunset daily and admission is free.
  
  
• Combo tickets, which include all three attractions, are available for $7-$22. Tickets include an option for shuttle service, which runs Wednesday through Sunday.
  
  
• Tickets are available online up to two weeks ahead. A specific time of entry is required, and you may arrive anytime within that hour.
  
  
• ABQ BioPark memberships include unlimited complimentary admission and a number of additional perks. There are options for individuals, couples, seniors, and families, with annual pricing from $39-$134.
  
  
• The garden, aquarium, and zoo all feature onsite gift shops and dining options.

Plant a beautiful garden of your own at your forever home in Albuquerque. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Legacy to learn more.