Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in Albuquerque, NM

With Christmas coming soon, chances are you might be hosting out-of-town friends and family.  Let your preschoolers play tour guide and choose some of their favorite local places.  If you'll have children visiting, they would especially enjoy a tour of Albuquerque - preschooler style!  It also gives your children a chance to learn a little more about their surroundings.

If you need some ideas,  here are some great places to take your visitors.  These places provide a good mix of what Albuquerque's all about and some fun too.

Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum - You may be very familiar with hot air balloons, but Grandma and Grandpa might not be!  This museum is fun for the kids and informative for the adults (and the kids will probably learn something too!).  The museum is located near Balloon Fiesta Park (near Alameda and I-25).  Admission is free on the first Friday of the month and every Sunday morning.

Explora - If there are any cousins visiting, then Explora will be a hit.  Even the grandparents will have fun playing alongside the kids.  Explora will definitely bring out the kid in everyone.  If you just have little ones in your group, Explora has a special toddler time each Monday at 9 am.  Explora also hosts occasional adult nights, so find a sitter and enjoy the museum without the little ones.  Explora is located near Mountain and Rio Grande NW.

Old Town - The kids will love a trip to The Candy Lady and there are plenty of restaurants to choose from so you can introduce your guests to some tasty New Mexican Cuisine.  The shops aren't all preschooler friendly, but the little ones will have fun exploring the sidewalks and the central plaza while the adults take turns browsing the different shops.  Old Town is located near Central and Rio Grande NW.

Sandia Peak Tramway - Unless, of course, someone in your group is deathly afraid of heights, this is a great way to show your guests a beautiful view of Albuquerque.  The tram runs daily, but hours vary.  It is located at the eastern edge of town at the end of Tramway Rd.

What are you favorite places to take out-of-town guests?