The Balloon Museum's entrance exhibit of the first balloons, showcasing the first human flight in a balloon by the Montgolfier brothers (far right) and the first human flight in a hydrogen (gas) balloon, the Charliere (far left). And featuring in the background, the Blanchard English Channel gas balloon crossing and the LZ-127 Graf Zeppelin above.
Photo by Abby Boling
About the Balloon Museum:
The Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum was named in honor of aeronaut legends Maxie Anderson and Ben Abruzzo. The Museum took flight in 2005—initiated by the family-led foundation and funded through both city and state resources as well as private donations. Today the Balloon Museum is owned and operated by the City of Albuquerque.
Albuquerque is world-renowned for ballooning due to the unique environmental and weather conditions and for the famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® —making it the ideal location for the Balloon Museum. While the Balloon Museum, the Foundation, and the Balloon Fiesta are separate entities each have played a role in helping make ballooning an integral part of the fabric of New Mexican culture.
The Balloon Museum is open year-round and has welcomed visitors of all ages, from across the state and around the world. The Balloon Museum's staff is passionate about building community, igniting imaginations and encouraging visitors to "think outside the basket."
Our Mission and Vision:
The Balloon Museum's mission is to inspire a spirit of exploration, play, discovery, and achievement through experiences that engage our visitors in the history, science, sport, and art of ballooning. To fulfill our vision, we seek to create a vibrant, accredited museum, one that enriches people’s lives and brings people together - whether from across town or from around the world - to learn, grow, share, and celebrate.