Listed below are details about the sightseeing trips, included and optional, in the 2012 Albuquerque session. The optional trips will have an additional fee- to be determined at a later date.

A couple of months prior to your session you will receive a packet of information that will include; lecture titles, all sightseeing trip descriptions, dates, and prices.

Registered participants are required to fill out the trip sign-up form indicating all trips (free or additional) that they will be attending so Senior Summer School may plan transportation accordingly. The sign-up form will need to be returned to Senior Summer School prior to arrival (due date will be indicated) along with optional trip payment.

* Senior Summer School reserves the right to adjust any trip details without notice. Final schedules will be distributed upon arrival of program. Minimum number of participants required for select trips.

Trips Included:

Albuquerque City Tour

• Experience the authentic southwest, in New Mexico’s largest city. Albuquerque boasts a multicultural heritage and offers many visual arts, ethnic museums, festivals, rich history and architecturally unique pueblos. You will learn about the Sandia Mountains and the “exotic” Rio Grande river, which runs through the desert! Enjoy panoramic views and ancient etchings during this unique city tour.

Museums of Old Town and Nob Hill

• Take a historical tour or shop at over 150 stores and galleries for unique gifts not only from the Southwest but also gathered from around the world. You will stumble across quiet hidden patios, winding brick paths, gardens and balconies that are waiting to be discovered. Next, experience Nob Hill, which consists of businesses, residents, and local communities working together with government bodies to protect the cultural diversity and the historically architectural character of the area. We will enjoy the one of a kind bistros and shops while relishing over the history.

Rio Grand Zoological Park – Aquarium, Botanical Garden, Zoo

• You will enjoy the adventures of the Rio Grand Zoological Park, exploring over 200 species of animals from around the world. You can learn about the Species Survival Plan, implemented to help endangered species, and witness various animal feedings. Next stop, the Aquarium! You will see the 285,000-gallon shark tank and all of the fresh water, estuarine, and ocean water exhibits. And of course we will visit the Botanical Garden, composed of 36 acres of beautiful gardens and conservatories. You will have an opportunity to walk through the Sasebo Japanese Garden, among others, and enter the butterfly pavilion for an amazingly aesthetic time!

Optional:

Day trip to Santa Fe with city tour and Georgia O’Keefe Museum

• We will visit the beautiful city of Santa Fe, the oldest capital in the U.S. Santa Fe is full of cathedrals and local cultural sites. We will follow up with a trip to the Georgia O’Keefe Museum which contains many exhibits of American Modernism art. This museum was dedicated to Georgia O’Keefe (1887-1986) who helped promote the phenomenon of American Modernism in the 19th century. Enjoy the various types of art to include Abstract and Landscape.

Tour of the Acoma Indian Pueblo

• Explore the evolving history of the Pueblo Indians of New Mexico. You will be amazed at the Acoma Pueblo, referred to as “Sky City” and with the native meaning of “White Rock,” nestled on top of a mesa hundreds of feet above the surrounding land. Learn about the Native American culture and history behind their creations.

Sandi Peak Tramway

• Experience the spectacular view of Sandia Peak mountain ranges on the tramway, a destination for so far over 9 million visitors. You will be able go spot the capital of New Mexico, Santa Fe and discover the history behind Sandy Peak Tramway. Additionally you will have the opportunity to learn about the technology and construction of this tourist attraction.

International Balloon Museum

• We will find over fifty displays of historically marked hot air and gas gondolas, used for leisure, warfare, espionage, scientific experiment, and space exploration. This worldwide collection celebrates balloon events and milestones, along with documentation and the development of various balloon and airship systems. The museum also holds a collection of commemorative medals, medallions, jewelry and photos, offering something for all visitors!