Fall 2026
Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
Albuquerque, NM, USA

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October 1 - 7, 2026

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Only 5 seats remain

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Level 3

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Overview

Join us for an unforgettable adventure to New Mexico during the world-renowned Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta! Watch the sky come alive with color during the Dawn Patrol, Mass Ascension, and the magical Balloon Glow & AfterGlow Fireworks. Explore historic Old Town Albuquerque, ride the Sandia Peak Tramway for sweeping mountain views, and discover Native American traditions at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

Travel the scenic Turquoise Trail to visit the artistic ghost town of Madrid, the sacred Santuario de Chimayo, and the ancient Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Santa Fe, we’ll walk the historic plaza, visit iconic landmarks, and enjoy time to browse galleries and markets. With warm hospitality, vibrant culture, and breathtaking sights, this tour captures the heart and soul of the Southwest.


Cancellation Policy:

All cancellations must be in writing. The date of postmark will determine the amount of refund due. Airline tickets once written are usually nonrefundable.

Up to June 16, 2026: $100 per person administrative fee plus any lost land and air deposits will be assessed

June 17 to August 8, 2026: $400 per person plus any lost land and air deposits will be assessed

After August 8, 2026: No Refund

Tom’s Christian Tours exists to provide quality travel experiences in a Christian atmosphere. Tours include devotions, singing, and opportunities for fellowship with old and new friends. Tom’s Christian Tours continues to travel forward as the company will move into the hands of Tom and Becca Monroe in July 2025. (The new owners are Scott and Tammy’s son and daughter-in-law.) Many new travel opportunities are now available with Tom’s Christian Tours.

What's included

  •  FLIGHTS

All Air Transportation

  • AIRPORT TRANSFERS

Deluxe Motor Coach Transfer to ORD

  • TRANSPORTATION ON TOUR

Deluxe Motor Coach

  • MEALS

Listed in Itinerary

  • ACCOMMODATIONS

Superior and moderate first-class hotels

  • ADMISSION

all activities indicated in the itinerary except those listed as optional

  • LUGGAGE HANDLING

one piece per person at hotels where available

What's not included

  • MEALS

not indicated on itinerary

  • BEVERAGES

except with breakfast

  • END OF TOUR GRATUITIES

for coach driver & tour manager

  • OPTIONAL INSURANCE

or health, baggage and cancellation.

Itinerary

Pre-night in Chicago


We depart Green Bay by coach bus to Chicago where we overnight near the airport for our morning flight.

Day 1

Friday October 2, 2026


Our journey begins as we board our flight to Albuquerque, New Mexico. Upon arrival we meet our Tour Director and transfer to our hotel. This evening, we enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. 

Day 2

Saturday October 3, 2026


Albuquerque

Today we experience why Albuquerque is the Balloon Capital of the World at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. We start early at Fiesta Field with the Dawn Patrol and breakfast at the Chasers Club, followed by the Mass Ascension in a rainbow of colors. Later, we tour Albuquerque, the "The Jewel of the American  Southwest,” stopping at historic Old Town to explore the Albuquerque Museum, hidden courtyards, covered portals, specialty stores, and galleries around the charming tree-lined Plaza. We return to the hotel with the evening free. 

Day 3

Sunday October 4, 2026


This morning, we ride the Sandia Peak Tramway for spectacular views as we ascend one of America’s most stunning urban peaks. Reaching the 10,378-foot crest of the Sandia Mountains, an 11,000 square mile panoramic view awaits us. Next, we visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center to learn about the Pueblo tribes’ way of life and cultural traditions. We relax at the hotel before heading to Balloon Fiesta Park for dinner at the Chasers Club with direct access onto Fiesta Field for a Balloon Glow and AfterGlow Fireworks Show. The Balloon Glow starts when all the balloons fire their burners and light up at the same time. It is perhaps the most spectacular single moment in all of Balloon Fiesta. The Balloon Glow is followed by New Mexico's most spectacular fireworks display.  

Day 4

Monday October 5, 2026


Today we check out of our hotel and enjoy a drive along the Turquoise Trail, named after the exquisite mineral that was once mined here. We visit the real-life ghost town of Madrid, where the only sign of life now is the artists who come to paint this picturesque place, and who display their wares to the interested buyer. Next, we visit Chimayo, home to the Santuario de Chimayo and where the descendants of Spanish weavers and woodcarvers still ply their craft. We then head to the world class resort town of Taos. We explore Taos Plaza with free time to wander the streets, and enjoy the local cuisine, unique atmosphere, and the offerings of many artists who have come here to capture the allure of this delightful place. Next, we visit the UNESCO World Heritage site named Taos Pueblo, an 800-year-old village whose adobe structures have changed little since the first Spanish explorers saw them in 1540's. As we drive to Santa Fe, we stop for a scenic view of the Rio Grande. We check into our hotel with the evening free for dinner on our own. 

Day 5

Tuesday October 6, 2026


Today we enjoy a full day exploring the first state capitol in the United States, "The Royal City of the Holy Faith of Saint Francis," better known as Santa Fe. Founded in 1609, the city offers many historic and scenic delights. We enjoy a walking tour to the many famous sights including the historic Santa Fe Plaza with a view of the Palace of the Governors, the Loretto Chapel, a miniature model of the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris, and the oldest church in New Mexico and more. After lunch on our own, we enjoy free time to explore shops, galleries, and the Indian Market. This evening, we enjoy a special farewell dinner as we finish exploring this enchanting land.

Day 6

Wednesday October 7, 2026


After breakfast, we transfer to the Albuquerque airport for or journey home, carrying with us wonderful memories of the American Southwest.

  • Who is Tom’s Christian Tours?

    We are a Christian-based tour company that plans and leads worry-free travel experiences. From motorcoach getaways to international adventures, we handle the details so you can enjoy the journey. Our home base is in the Lake Country Region of Southeast WI.

  • Do you only do tours for individuals, or do you work with groups too?

    Both! We welcome individuals, friends and couples on our scheduled tours, and we also specialize in coordinating custom trips for churches, schools, and other groups.

  • Do I have to be a member of a church to travel with you?

    Not at all. While our tours are Christ-centered and often include devotions, all are welcome to join us.

  • What if your tour dates do not work with my schedule?

    No Worries. Tom’s Christian Tours can work with you to schedule you on a group tour anywhere in the world.  *these tours would not have a TCT host/guide along on the tour

  • Who leads the tours?

    Our experienced tour directors travel with you to ensure everything runs smoothly, while also providing Christian fellowship along the way. Exact tour director will vary by tour.

  • What should I pack?

    Each traveler receives a packet with travel tips, luggage requirements, and packing suggestions specific to their tour 3-4 weeks prior to departure.

  • Is there time for personal exploration?

    Yes! Our itineraries include guided activities as well as free time to relax or explore at your own pace.

Starting At

$4,500 (Double Occupancy)

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Testimonials

What Our Travelers Are Saying

"It was wonderful to have everything nicely planned out for us but still have time to explore on our own… it was a trip that will have lasting memories. A great group, knowledgeable guides, and wonderful bus driver."

Melissa P.

Alaska 2025

"We had a wonderful time. It was nice meeting all of our fellow travelers. This was our first trip with Tom's Christian Tours. Based off of this, there will be more. We're looking forward to our next one."

Peter M.

New England in Fall 2025

"I had a fabulous time! The scenery is gorgeous, the food and accommodations were top notch and the people were very friendly and became like family. Highly recommend!"

Linda B.

Alpine Adventure

"This was a trip of a lifetime for us. Tom's selected the best hotels, meals, and tours… Guides were personable experts and the pace was perfect for us. Looking for our next travel with Tom's to Egypt!"

Clayton A.

Alpine Adventure

Three decades of faith, fellowship, and unforgettable journeys.

For over 30 years, we've helped travelers explore the world through carefully planned adventures that combine inspiring destinations, Christian fellowship, and lasting memories.

+10k

Travelers Served

+30 Years

of Trusted Christian Travel

+40

Countries

+50

States

99%

Customer Recommendation

Experience thoughtfully planned adventures that combine exceptional destinations, genuine fellowship, and the comfort of traveling with a trusted Christian community.

Tour Directors Who Pray With You, Not Just Greet You

Our directors lead the devotions, share their own faith stories, and join the dinner conversation. They aren't hired guides reading a script; for them, leading Christian travel is a calling, not a paycheck.

A Midwest Family Company, three Generations Deep

Scott and Tammy ran TCT for 13 years and their son Tom and his wife Becca run it today. Call us and you'll reach a real human: no call center, no hold queue, no outsourced bookings desk.

Premium Travel Without the Luxury Markup

We don't pretend to be Four Seasons or Viking Cruises. We pick mid-to-premium hotels, well-run restaurants, and quality experiences without the luxury markup, so you get comfort and real value without paying for a brand name

Comfortable Pacing, Designed for the Long Haul

We don't cram 14 cities into 7 days. Our itineraries leave room for free afternoons, sit-down meals, and the kind of pacing that lets you come home rested instead of running on fumes.

Christian Travel That Goes Beyond Bible Lands

Most Christian tours specialize in Israel and Egypt. We travel all across the US and around the world because we know it’s not the destination that matters, it's the like-minded people that make every place feel closer to home.

A Fellowship That Feels Like Family

Most tour groups scatter at the end of the trip and never speak again. Our guests trade Christmas cards, host each other for dinner back home, and rebook the next trip together year after year