Balloon Discovery Center

  1. Home
  2. Balloon Discovery Center

Each year at Balloon Fiesta, balloon enthusiasts can get hands-on experience to learn about the sport and science of ballooning.

Located at the north end of Balloon Fiesta Park next to the Artisans tent, the Balloon Discovery Center (BDC) draws more than 35,000 visitors of all ages each year.

  • Admission is FREE once inside Balloon Fiesta® gates.
  • Hours: 5:00 AM to 10:00 AM 3:30 PM to 7:30 PM
  • Youth 12 and under can complete a passport activity by visiting the many interactive exhibits. Here are a few of the exhibits for this year:
  • Participate on a 64” interactive table where users using the wind direction you race other competitors to be the first to land on the “X” and win the game! Learn how to navigate the hot air balloon and test your flying skills!
  • Another interactive table illustrates how wind and weather might affect a hot air balloon flight. Test your prediction skills by setting wind speed and see if you are a Student Pilot, Private Pilot, or the highest ranking, a Commercial Pilot!
  • The Albuquerque Box and its unique weather and wind patterns make out city unique and perfect for flying balloons. This interactive exhibit illustrates how the “box effect” sits over Balloon Fiesta Park and surrounding areas.
  • Wicker Weaving: Some aspects of ballooning remain low-tech, and the basket, also called the Gondola, is one of them. Most gondolas are made from wicker to minimize the additional weight that the balloon must lift. When the wicker is soaked in water, it becomes pliable. It is woven in a pattern in and out of the vertical supports. As it dries, it becomes rigid. Come test your skills in weaving wicker!
  • Have you ever stood inside a hot-air balloon? Many of us haven’t! Come meet Inspire, the Balloon Discovery Centers hot-air balloon. She is a ¼ the size of a regular balloon but brings all the excitement!
  • Sit at the art center and choose from a variety of art activities all focused on ballooning, of course!

*The BDC is always looking for wonderful volunteers to assist guests within the tent! To learn more about volunteering for the BDC, look for the “Volunteer” tab on our website, or contact Tracey Hawkins the Balloon Discovery Center Manager at thawkins@balloonfiesta.com.