Keeping your kids busy is always a challenge, especially in summer when they have lots of free time on their hands. Whether you’re looking for things to do during the days or the hot summer nights and weekends we’ve got a wide variety of family friendly things do over the summer.
1. Picnics and Scavenger Hunts at Sandia Park
No matter the season, driving up to the Crest is always refreshing. Pack a lunch for a picnic and take a stroll. Even better plan out a scavenger hunt for the kids.
2. Fishing at Tingley Beach
Kids can fish a well-stocked pond or watch model boats. You can also explore the nearby wetlands and trails. Bikes and paddleboat rentals are available throughout the summer. You can also access the Bio Park train nearby to take to the Aquarium/Botanical Gardens and the Zoo.
3. National Museum of Nuclear Science and History
Have you ever checked out the Nuclear Science Museum? If you have children under the age of 5 they get in for free. Visit their website for information on activities and hours.
4. Los Poblanos Fields
Los Poblanos offers a variety of popular special events and programs and their lavender fields are blooming! They also have a community garden and hands-on educational activities for the kids. Visit their website for more information, some of their events require you to sign up in advance, and activities can fill up quickly.
5. Activities in the Bosque Open Space
The City offers free activities at the open space, upcoming free events include:
July 3 –
Bosque Wild Guided Nature Walk 7-9:30am
August 13
– An Artful Mid-Summer’s Day 9am – 4:30pm
Calligraphy Workshop and “Weathergram” demos by Escribiente
6. Movies in the Park
Take in a movie under the stars. The there are several parks throughout Albuquerque and Rio Rancho offering family friendly movies throughout the summer.
Albuquerque:
- July 15 – Jurassic World – Los Padillas Community Center
- July 16 – Big Hero 6 – Wilson Park
- July 22 – Hotel Transylvania 2 – Raymond G Sanchez Community Center
- July 23 – Cinderella – North Domingo Baca Community Center
- July 30 – Star Wars The Force Awakens – Los Duranes Community Center
Rio Rancho:
- July 8
- July 15
- July 22
- July 29
7. Regal Summer Movie Express
In case you still need more movie options Regal theaters have special to watch a G or PG rated movie for a dollar on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10am at Cottonwood 16 and Four Hills 10 Theaters.
8. Swimming Pools and Spray Parks
Swimming is always great family-friendly fun for everyone. There are plenty of options for indoor and outdoor pools for the kids. Don’t forget to check out the spray parks. These are great options to cool off on a hot day.
9. Take an Adventure to the Library
The libraries around the city offer fun storytimes and activities, as well as special events for kids and adults.
10. Kids Bowl Free Program
Stay cool this summer indoors, check out the Kids Bowl Free Program for registration and participating bowling alleys.