Rio Grande Botanical Gardens, Albuquerque, New Mexico

The Rio Grande Botanic Gardens are the perfect place for families to relax and enjoy a bit of fresh air. Blooming with lily ponds, flowering crab apples, prickly cacti, stately sculptures and winding paths, this lovely spot along the famous Rio Grande is not to be missed. Situated squarely in the desert, the variety of plant life and exhibits might surprise visitors. Boasting both a Mediterranean and desert conservatory, the Rio Grande Botanic Gardens -- encompassing the Rio Grande Heritage Farm (complete with furry and feathered residents) and Sasebo Japanese Garden -- are a must-see on the Albuquerque tour. While parents are admiring the Curandera Garden and the Old Country Walled Garden, kids will delight in the Butterfly Pavilion and the Children’s Fantasy Garden. Then the whole family can go dragonfly spotting at the nearby Dragonfly Sanctuary Pond. For a richer experience, families can easily book space on the Japanese Garden Tours or catch some tunes at one of the Old-Time Music shows at the Heritage Farm. The Garden Gift Shop and Wildflower Café are great spots to sit and relax from all that.