Today you'll explore New Mexico's myriad cultural influences, from Pueblo tribes to innovations of the Atomic and Nuclear ages. A guided sightseeing tour of Albuquerque includes historic Nob Hill, the University of New Mexico, downtown districts and Old Town Albuquerque. On a visit to the National Museum of Nuclear Science, a private welcome and introductory talk by a museum docent provide insights on New Mexico's unique role in the history of the Nuclear Age. After lunch, get a closer look at the history and accomplishments of the Pueblo people, from pre-Columbian to current times, with a visit to the unique Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, a showcase of puebloan history and culture operated by 19 Native American pueblo communities. Return to your hotel late afternoon; dine tonight at the resort. Note: The largest hot air balloon festival in the world, the annual 9-day Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta takes place in early October. Guests on the September 30, October 2, 3, 4, 5 and 7 departure dates can enjoy an optional early morning (5:00 AM) excursion today (day 2) to see the mass ascension of balloons; ask for details at booking.

Start your day with a private lecture that shares insights on Pueblo life. A guided excursion to continually inhabited multistoried Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases a unique way of life that has remained unchanged for almost ten centuries. Storyteller Roberta Meyer enriches your visit with tales of regional legends before your crossing over the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge; enjoy the rest of the day and evening as you please in Taos.

As the crossroads of the historic Southwest, Santa Fe's unique culture and ambiance are a blend of Spanish, Native American and Old West influences. Experience this diverse cultural mix on a guided walking tour of Santa Fe's centuries-old center, on which you'll see the city's historic plaza, terminus of the storied Santa Fe Trail, and America's oldest public building, the Palace of the Governors; and visit St. Francis Cathedral, the Manhattan Project site, and famous Loretto Chapel, adjacent to your hotel. Discover the tasty secrets of southwestern cuisine at a private presentation by a local chef, followed by lunch highlighting the city's diverse heritage at the Santa Fe School of Cooking. Later, a special private guided tour of the New Mexico History Museum offers a close-up look at the legacy of the Spanish Colonial era that is so prevalent here. Choose from among an amazing array of choices for dinner as you please tonight in Santa Fe.

Tour ends: Albuquerque. Fly home anytime; a transfer is included from Eldorado Hotel & Spa in Santa Fe to Albuquerque International Sunport. Allow a minimum of 2 hours for your flight check-in. Ask at booking about extending your stay with additional hotel nights.