Trip Planner 2017-18 Trip Planner For Student Travel | Page 24

I Want to Go There U.S. West DENVER Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway “Albuquerque’s rich and diverse culture is evident in our public art, impressive collection of museums, traditional and contemporary adobe architecture, and unique restaurants,” says Audrey Johnson, director of marketing for Visit Albuquerque. “Visitors are drawn to cultural events such as Native American feast days and markets, Latin and flamenco dance events, food festivals and mariachi celebrations.” The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is one of the state’s popular attractions. Students learn about the traditions of New Mexico’s 19 pueblo groups as they see artwork, make pottery, cook frybread and watch authentic dance performances. Albuquerque is also an excellent destination for all levels of adventurers. Visitors can take the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway, the longest in North America, to the mountain’s top for panoramic views. The Sandia Mountains also offer mountain biking, rock climbing, hiking and skiing. “With clear blue skies, 310 days of sunshine annually and an abundance of wide-open spaces, it’s no wonder Albuquerque is highly ranked for outdoor adventure,” says Johnson. To learn more, contact Maureen Chavez of Visit Albuquerque at [email protected] or go to visitabq.org. TOP EDUCATIONAL ATTRACTIONS Petroglyph National Monument, the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, the National Hispanic Cultural Center TOP RECREATIONAL ATTRACTIONS Sandia Peak Ski Area, Paseo del Bosque Trail TOP LOCAL FESTIVALS Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (Oct. 7–15, 2017 and October 6–14, 2018), Gathering of Nations Powwow (April 26–28, 2018) 22 NTA Trip Planner for Student Travel History Colorado Center Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater has welcomed headlining performers since it opened more than 110 years ago, making it one of Denver’s headlining attractions. The venue is located west of downtown Denver, and the amphitheater’s rows of seats are surrounded by enormous, natural rock walls. Influential bands such as the Beatles and U2 have made tour stops at at Red Rocks Amphitheater, and its visitor center includes a performers’ hall of fame with memorabilia from notable musicians. A summer concert series runs from May through September and features jazz, rock, pop and bluegrass musicians. Red Rocks Park, which surrounds the amphitheater, is a free city park with hiking trails. Student groups visiting Denver can also check out the History Colorado Center, which engages its guests with stories, exhibits and programs about the Rocky Mountain West. Interactive experiences include a virtual ride in a Ford Model T, a ski-jump simulator and detonating dynamite in a circa-1880s mine. For more information, contact Jenna VanOort of Visit Denver at [email protected] or go to visitdenver.com. TOP EDUCATIONAL ATTRACTIONS The Denver Museum of Nature & Science, the Denver Art Museum TOP RECREATIONAL ATTRACTIONS Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park, Rocky Mountain National Park TOP LOCAL FESTIVAL Music Festivals to You at Elitch Gardens (May) ALBUQUERQUE