The Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum has been awarded $257,500 through the New Mexico Tourism Department’s Destination Forward grant program.
This funding will support the next phase of its Outdoor Balloon Adventure, a project set to enhance the museum’s offerings with immersive, interactive experiences.
The grant specifically targets the completion of the Sky Bridge and Sky Room, architectural features that will connect educational elements, event spaces and interactive zones within the expanding outdoor exhibit area. According to a press release from the City of Albuquerque, the Outdoor Balloon Adventure will invite guests to explore the magic of flight through engaging activities, including wandering through a half-inflated hot air balloon and testing their skills at competitive ballooning. This new area is designed to blend flight, art, science, and play, creating an engaging environment for all ages.
“The Balloon Museum has dreamed of an outdoor exhibit since before opening its doors in October 2005,” Balloon Museum Director Nan Masland said in a press release. “On the eve of our 20th anniversary, we are closer than ever to breaking ground and excited to see this dream fulfilled.”
This outdoor expansion is part of a long-term initiative to create dynamic, year-round opportunities on the museum grounds. The new components will significantly enhance access to STEAM-based learning, provide additional space for community programs and events, and contribute to the cultural and tourism landscape of the Balloon Museum.
Fundraising for this project is ongoing, with a significant anchoring donation of $250,000 already received from the estate of Jim and Marlene Winker, presented to the museum by Ted and Greg Winker last fall.
The Destination Forward program is a competitive grant designed to support tourism-related infrastructure projects across New Mexico. This marks the Balloon Museum’s inaugural award from the program.
