Rio Grande Zoo

Set on 60 shady acres along the Rio Grande, the Rio Grande Zoo is home to more than 250 species. There's a lot going on here: sea lion feedings take place daily at 10:30 and 15:30; camel rides are offered in the spring and summer; and an entertaining summertime bird show happens at 11:30 and 14:00 Wednesday through Sunday. The summertime series Zoo Music (adult/child around US$10/around US$5; h19:00 Fri Jun-Aug) is also quite popular.

Next door is the Albuquerque Aquarium which boasts a 285,000-gallon shark tank. This is particularly well-loved, which isn't surprising given the state's desert environment.