Style : Group tour
Historic Trains of the Old West with Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta tour
Albuquerque Colorado Historic Trains of the Old West with Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta Trip

Historic Trains of the Old West with Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

Globus
By Globus
4.7 . Excellent
98%
Travel Style: Array Mixed
Physical Level: Normal generally flat walking in urban or suburban environments. Very Easy
Lodging Level: 3 to 4 star western hotel equivalents. While not all lodging will be 'luxury' they will be quite comfortable by western standards. Comfort (4*)
11 days
From: $ 4,549 $ 414 / day
Checking price

Overview

Highlights (Bullets)

  • Denver: Sightseeing; farewell dinnerROYAL GORGE
  • Take a ride back in time on an escorted vacation in Colorado and New Mexico
  • Begin with sightseeing in the “Mile High City” of Denver, including the historic Union Station in stylish lower downtown (LoDo)

Short Description

If the closest thing to time travel is train travel, then you’ll love riding the rails into the unspoiled scenic past of Colorado. This off-the-beaten path tour of the U.S. West is just the ticket to chug through the untamed beauty of the Royal Gorge aboard the Royal Gorge Route Railway; through the magnificent mesas and canyons of San Juan National Forest aboard the Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge Railroad; and through the rugged splendor of the Rockies aboard the historic Georgetown Loop Railroad. You’ll also pick up steam with visits to Colorado Spring’s Garden of the Gods, Mesa Verde’s ancient cliff dwellings, Chimayo’s famous pilgrimage site, and Glenwood Spring’s historic Hotel Colorado, a favorite of President Theodore Roosevelt’s. Train buffs will also enjoy time in Durango’s D&SNG Railway Museum, as well as a trolley tour through charming Santa Fe. All aboard! For one week in October, chasing rainbows is easy as hundreds of hot-air balloons take flight and turn the already stunning atmosphere of New Mexico into a kaleidoscope of dizzying color. Add the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta to your U.S. West vacation to witness the incredible Mass Ascension, fiery Balloon Glow, evening fireworks, and other colorful rituals of the world’s largest balloon event.

Style Group tour
See all the highlights and popular spots on a classic tour.
Itinerary Focus Classic Highlights
3 to 4 star western hotel equivalents. While not all lodging will be 'luxury' they will be quite comfortable by western standards.
Lodging Level Comfort (4*)
Flight & Transport Inclusions N/A
Start City DENVER, COLORADO
End City DENVER

Destinations

United States

Attractions & Cities Visited

Albuquerque Colorado Denver Santa Fe

Activities & Interests

Culture

N/A
See more

Itinerary

Day 1: ARRIVE IN DENVER, COLORADO

Welcome to Colorado! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome drink.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ROCKY MOUNTAIN HIGHS At 5,280 feet above sea level, Denver is called the Mile-High City for a reason. This gateway to the Rocky Mountains is the perfect place to kick back with a view of the sunset over Mount Evans while enjoying a local IPA or Colorado coffee after dinner. Ask your Tour Director for the best eateries in LoDo (lower downtown) or other exciting venues this beautiful city has to offer.

Day 2: DENVER–ROYAL GORGE ROUTE RAILROAD–COLORADO SPRINGS

All Aboard the Royal Gorge!
Depart on a scenic drive south to the Royal Gorge for a unique experience on the spectacular Royal Gorge Route Railroad. Later, travel to Colorado Springs to explore Garden of The Gods, featuring 300-foot towering sandstone rock formations against a backdrop of snowcapped Pikes Peak and brilliant blue skies. (Breakfast)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
EPIC RIDE When President Teddy Roosevelt rode the rails through the Royal Gorge in 1905, he described the experience as “the trip that bankrupts the English language.” You’ll be speechless too on this train ride through the breathtaking scenery of the Royal Gorge as it cuts a deep path through the Rockies along the Arkansas River in Colorado Springs.

Day 3: COLORADO SPRINGS–ALBUQUERQUE

The Land of Enchantment Leave Colorado Springs and travel south into New Mexico, the “Land of Enchantment,” to visit Albuquerque – home of the annual Balloon Fiesta. Enjoy free time this evening before an early morning adventure tomorrow! (Breakfast)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
SPECIAL EVENT What began as a gathering of enthusiasts with just 13 hot-air balloons more than 47 years ago has grown into the largest ballooning event in the world – the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. This tradition has grown to an annual event drawing people from around the world to witness hundreds of brightly hued hot-air balloons ascend at once over the landscape of New Mexico. Truly enchanting!

Day 4: ALBUQUERQUE

Up, Up & Away! Get ready for the world-famous Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta! Experience this morning’s pre-dawn Opening Ceremonies and the unforgettable Mass Balloon Ascension. See Old Town Albuquerque before returning to the hotel for free time before witnessing the popular Balloon Glow and Fireworks show. (Breakfast)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
EPIC EXPERIENCES Attend the uplifting opening ceremonies and mass balloon ascension where hundreds of hot-air balloons lift off and turn the sky into a virtual rainbow of designs. Leading the ascension is a balloon adorned with the American flag, rising off the ground to the national anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner.

Day 5: ALBUQUERQUE–SANTA FE

The American Southwest Travel, via the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway, to the charming city of Santa Fe. Dinner this evening is at a local restaurant. (Breakfast,Dinner)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURE & TRADITION Experience the rich history and richer culture of Santa Fe - home to an abundance of art galleries amid its diverse visual arts scene of ancient traditional art to modern contemporary works that celebrate the desert beauty of this ruggedly beautiful landscape.

Day 6: SANTA FE. EXCURSION TO CHIMAYO

Enchanted Jewels Today, begin with a captivating glimpse into the diversity of folk art from around the world. The Museum of International Folk Art in Santa Fe allows you to explore a vast collection of traditional textiles, ceramics, paintings and other unique objects that showcase the rich cultural heritage of different regions and communities. We then visit nearby Chimayo, which was founded in the 17th century by Spanish settlers. Enjoy lunch at the Rancho de Chimayo, located in a century-old adobe home, serving some of the best New Mexican cuisine. Visit [LF] Santuario De Chimayo and learn about the miraculous healing powers that still attract thousands of pilgrims each year. Return to Santa Fe, where the remainder of your day is at leisure. (Breakfast,Lunch)

LOCAL FAVORITE
HISTORY & HERITAGE Experience the spiritual traditions of the American Southwest in Chimayo. This historic area attracts locals and guests alike who visit its church sanctuary, which holds sacred soil known for its healing powers. Experience this legendary, authentic New Mexican tradition!

Day 7: SANTA FE–BANDELIER NATIONAL MONUMENT–TAOS–DURANGO

Ancient Cultures Leave Santa Fe, stopping to explore the ancient Anasazi Puebloans, their cliff dwellings, and the museum at Bandelier National Monument. Visit the adobe town of Taos for free time to explore. Continue into Colorado for Durango, a town born in the Gold Rush and silver-mining era. Tonight, spend free time browsing the many shops on Main Street or enjoy a cold pint at one of the city’s local breweries. (Breakfast)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEM Explore the age-old dwellings of Bandelier National Monument. Envision a way of life long since passed to gaze at mesas, sheer-walled canyons, and several thousand ancestral Pueblo dwellings sharing 33,000 acres of designated wilderness. Bandelier's human history is traced to over 11,000 years ago when nomadic hunter-gatherers followed migrating wildlife across the land. By 1150 AD Ancestral Pueblo people began to build more permanent settlements. This incredible site is inspiring as the Pueblo blessing: “Hold on to what is good, even if it is a handful of earth.”

Day 8: DURANGO. EXCURSION TO MESA VERDE NATIONAL PARK

Today, visit Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Return to Durango for a guided tour of the D&SNG Railway Museum with free time to see the exhibits including an extensive model train layout. (Breakfast)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ANCIENT DWELLINGS See Spruce Tree House, one of the best-preserved cliff dwellings. Also, visit the museum that depicts the story of the people who once thrived on this 8,000-foot plateau, and stop at a great vantage point for pictures of Cliff Palace (one of the largest of the 700-year-old Anasazi dwellings).

Day 9: DURANGO–NARROW-GAUGE RAILROAD–SILVERTON–GLENWOOD SPRINGS

All Aboard in Durango! Board the Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge Railroad for a scenic ride through San Juan National Forest. Continue to Glenwood Springs for an overnight stay at the historic [LF] Hotel Colorado. (Breakfast)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
EPIC RIDE Board the legendary Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge Railroad steam train as it hugs steep canyon walls to wind its way through Rio de las Animas Canyon. Arrive in Silverton, once a major mining town that owes its name to the bragging statement by an early miner: “We have no gold, but silver by the ton!” Later, enjoy a stay at the historic Hotel Colorado, a Rocky Mountain retreat for more than 125 years where special guests like President Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt and the Unsinkable Molly Brown have stayed.

Day 10: GLENWOOD SPRINGS–GEORGETOWN LOOP RAILROAD–DENVER

Making Tracks in the Old West Travel through the beautiful Colorado Rocky Mountains to historic Georgetown for a scenic ride on the Georgetown Loop Railroad. Continue east to Denver, where your Tour Director hosts a special farewell dinner. Wonderful conversation and cuisine make the perfect finale for your vacation. (Breakfast,Dinner)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
EPIC RIDE Climb aboard the historic Georgetown Railroad to be immersed in the rugged beauty of the Rockies. Envision the old railroad days as you roll through stunning views of aspen trees, pines, and firs with views of Clear Creek Canyon.

Day 11: DENVER

Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (Breakfast)

Availability

Checking price
Price From $ 4,549
Price Per Day: $ 414 per day
Checking price
Start DateFinish DateBase PriceDeparture GuaranteedAvailability 
Oct-02-2024Oct-12-2024$ 4,549YesAvailable Reserve
Oct-02-2024Oct-12-2024$ 4,549YesAvailable Reserve
Oct-09-2024Oct-19-2024$ 4,549YesAvailable Reserve
Oct-09-2024Oct-19-2024$ 4,549YesAvailable Reserve
Oct-01-2025Oct-11-2025$ 5,009NoAvailable Reserve
Oct-01-2025Oct-11-2025$ 5,009NoAvailable Reserve
Oct-08-2025Oct-18-2025$ 5,009NoAvailable Reserve
Oct-08-2025Oct-18-2025$ 5,009NoAvailable Reserve

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10,827 Globus Travel Reviews & Ratings

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Historic Trains of the Old West with Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

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Our tour guide and driver were amazing

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Our tour guide and driver were amazing. The country of Ireland is beautiful.

You may want to review the hotels that you have the tourist stay in. Hospitality was not so great.
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Flights were cancelled and we got no…

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Excursion in Athens at 8 p too late w a wake up at 6 am. Globus no longer takes group pictures which they had done for years which is a big miss. Santorini was a waste and inefficient use of time. 2 night advertised is a misadvertisement w getting to santorini at 10pm the first night. Not to mention half of stuff closed. Other than that great trip.
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Globus South Africa Tours are Amazing

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The tour director was so knowledgeable and gave ever guest just what they needed throughout. The choice of accommodations and pace of the tour were excellent. I'd recommend this Globus tour to anyone who wanted to experience South Africa.
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Great guide and sites

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Awesome trip to Turkey

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Awesome trip to Turkey. We had a fantastic guide, who was excellent with his explanations and also recommendations on local restaurants. We sit on the tour were lovely. Turkey is a big country, so there is a fair amount of time on the bus but it was all planned properly. Highly recommend this tour.
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Details

Optional Activities

NC|Historic Trains of the Old West
NCS|With Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

Group Size

Standard Group - 25 + people

Accommodations

Hilton Garden Inn Denver Downtown

Enjoy the modern surroundings of the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Denver hotel with convenient and comforting amenities. Great technology keeps you connected, entertained, and relaxed - take advantage of the complimentary Wi-Fi, spacious work desk, 32-inch HD TV, and adjustable Garden Sleep System® bed. Wake up weekday mornings to a complimentary newspaper and enjoy your morning cup of coffee. Comfort and convenience meet on this downtown corner of Denver at the perfectly placed and modern Hilton Garden Inn.

Denver

United States

1400 Welton St.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Colorado Springs

Located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains within close proximity to the Air Force Academy and Garden of the Gods, this all-suite hotel offers a one of a kind tropical atrium, spectacular views of Pikes Peak, spacious guestrooms with convenient amenities, fitness center, and swimming pool.

Colorado Springs

United States

7290 Commerce Center

Embassy Suites Albuquerque

Embassy Suites Albuquerque is within two miles of downtown Albuquerque and the historic Old Town. Balloon Fiesta Park. Free made-to-order breakfast and modern amenities, indoor pool, and more.

Albuquerque

United States

1000 Woodward Pl NE

La Posada de Santa Fe

Welcome to La Posada de Santa Fe. This beautifully decorated hotel has lots to offer. Enjoy the rich history of New Mexico and enjoy all the modern amenities.

Santa Fe

United States

330 East Palace Avenue

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Durango

You can find the DoubleTree by Hilton Durango at the Animas River's banks. The San Juan National Forest, which has the largest wilderness region in Colorado, is 10 miles away and offers outdoor fun. They are a five-minute stroll from the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and the historic Downtown Durango. When you arrive, take advantage of the hot tub, indoor pool, and DoubleTree Chocolate Chip Cookie.

Durango

United States

501 Camino Del Rio

Hotel Colorado

Settle into the enriching history of this hotel in the charming mountain town of Glenwood Springs. As host to dozens of presidents and well-known people throughout history, there is a lot to explore at this hotel. Not to mention the ghost stories! The hotel sits nestled between the gorgeous Colorado mountains and directly across the street from the famous Glenwood Hot Springs. Enjoy the hot spring pools, cocktails on the hotel patio, or a little shopping and dining in downtown Glenwood Springs.

Glenwood Springs

United States

526 Pine Street

Trip ID#:

globus-NCS

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