Downtown & Rail Yards Walking Tours – Balloon Fiesta 2025

October is my favorite time of year in Albuquerque. The mornings are crisp, the smell of roasted chile drifts through the markets, and balloons fill the sky. It’s also the perfect time to slow down, take a walk, and see the city in a new way.

This Balloon Fiesta, I’m bringing back free walking tours of Downtown Albuquerque and the historic Rail Yards for two weekends only. Whether you’re visiting for the Fiesta or hosting family and friends, come join me for a closer look at the stories and architecture that make Albuquerque special.

Downtown Albuquerque Walking Tour - Saturdays

Take a guided stroll through the heart of the city and explore how Albuquerque grew over the last century. From Pueblo Deco treasures like the KiMo Theater to mid-century modern icons on the skyline, you’ll see downtown in a whole new light.

🗓️ October 4 & 11 - 10:00 AM (about 1 hour)

RSVP for October 4

RSVP for October 11

Rail Yards Walking Tour - Sundays

Step inside on of Albuquerque’s most iconic landmarks. The Rail Yards walking tour brings you through massive industrial shops that once kept steam locomotives running and now serve as a hub for art, food, and community.

🗓️ October 5 & 12 - 11:00 AM (about 45 minutes)

RSVP for October 5

RSVP for October 12

Tours are free and open to all. RSVPs are encouraged so I know who to expect. Walk-ups are welcome, but tours may be canceled if no one registers in advance.

Bring your family, bring your visitors, or just bring yourself. I’ll be the one with the blue-and-yellow umbrella and the orange “Free Walking Tours” sign, ready to share why October in Albuquerque is the very best time of year.

Hasta pronto!

Eric

P.S.

Tours are on a limited run this year, but you can always get info on any upcoming events on the Walking Tours page.

Back on Track: Free Tours at the Rail Yards This Sunday

Yes, I’ve been a little MIA on the blog lately (don’t worry, I missed you too). Between work projects, daily life, and a much-needed California vacation, I haven’t been able to offer as many downtown walking tours as I’d like.

What better way to get back in the rhythm than History Day at the Rail Yards Market?

This Sunday, July 14, I’ll again be offering free walking tours highlighting the Rail Yards’ rich past — from its heyday as Albuquerque’s largest employer to the exciting rebirth it’s experiencing today.

Join me for a 40-minute tour starting at 10 a.m.

>>Reserve your spot here — or just swing by the meeting point near the Tender Repair Shop to hop on the tour.

Can’t make it that early? No worries — I’ll be around for the rest of the morning. If you miss the 10 a.m. tour, swing by and ask about the next one. I may offer additional rounds depending on interest.

Short on time? Just say hello and ask for my two-minute Express Tour — a bite-sized version with the main highlights and none of the walking.

Hope to see you there. As always, I’ll be the one with the bright blue and yellow umbrella.

>Registration and more info<

Hasta pronto!

Eric

P,S.

That California break I mentioned? It was exactly what I needed — a little rest, a little recharge, and now I’m ready to finish the tour season strong.

The 2025 Walking Tour Season is Here!

I’m excited to share that the 2025 season of my walking tours officially kicks off next weekend!

This season, I’m doing things a little differently. Instead of setting a full schedule months in advance, I’ll be announcing tours as they come together—giving me the flexibility to offer the best experiences possible while balancing life’s other priorities. If you’ve been waiting for your chance to join a tour (or come back for another one!), be sure to stay tuned for updates and announcements.

The first tour of the season is right around the corner:
Opening Day at the Rail Yards Market
Sunday, May 4, 2025
10:00 a.m.

Registration is open now! You can sign up and reserve your spot here.

I’m looking forward to another season of sharing Albuquerque’s stories with you—one step at a time.

An Unofficial Kickoff: Earlier this week, I had the honor of leading a special walking tour for visitors attending the Mother Road Consortium Summit, a national celebration of 100 years of Route 66. It was an incredible way to gear up for the season ahead. Here’s a snapshot from our gathering at the Clyde Hotel before we headed out to explore Downtown Albuquerque.

Thank you, as always, for your enthusiasm and support.

Hasta pronto!

Eric