Painted Desert Quilts

Welcome to Albuquerque! Experience the Southwest’s warm hospitality at our downtown city-center hotel. Our evening Welcome Meeting introduces you to your Tour Manager and fellow travel companions who will share this journey with you.

After breakfast, prepare for a day of exploration in Albuquerque. Your first stop is the Albuquerque Balloon Museum, where you can celebrate the art of “hot air” that has made Albuquerque famous, thanks to its namesake festival. Marvel at the colorful displays and learn about the history of ballooning. Next, visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center to delve into the culture and traditions of the Pueblo people. Make sure to try the local flavors at the cultural center restaurant, where traditional dishes highlight the region’s culinary heritage. In the afternoon, take a thrilling ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway. Ascend to the top for breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscapes.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast before journeying to beautiful Santa Fe. Stop at Santa Fe Quilts and indulge in fabric shopping for high-quality quilting cottons. This is a paradise for quilters, offering a kaleidoscope of prints, notions, kits, and more. Next, immerse yourself in the world of watercolor at the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. Explore the works of this iconic artist and the legacy of her creative process. This afternoon, enjoy lunch on your own in historic downtown Santa Fe. Later, join an expert-guided History Tour of Santa Fe and discover the rich history and cultural heritage of this iconic Southwest city. This evening, enjoy a sunset train ride back to Albuquerque on the Rail Runner Express before tucking in for the night.

Start your day with breakfast before departing for Flagstaff, Arizona. Your journey begins along the Purple Heart Trail with a visit to the El Malpais National Monument Visitor Center, where you’ll learn about the geological wonders of the area. Pause for a photo at Church Rock, a striking natural formation rising from the desert. Next, visit Ortega Indian City Arts for Native American handcrafts and souvenirs. Continue to the Painted Desert Indian Center for local lunch options and handcrafted gifts. Later, arrive at  Painted Desert Quilts where rows of luscious, Southwestern-style quilting cottons fill the shelves along with dazzling quilt kits and patterns. Tonight, check into our downtown hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening at the Manager’s Reception, then savor dinner on your own.

After breakfast, visit Odegaard’s Sewing Center, a third-generation quilt shop known for its high-quality fabrics, sewing machines, and endless notions and trims. Next, visit Quilter’s Quarters where their huge selection of cottons includes Southwest prints and panels that reflect the region’s unique style. Enjoy a break for lunch at the charming Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village where a  variety of shops and eateries are ready to please. Don’t miss Quilts LTD, which features unique fiber arts and wearable pieces. Later, visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross, an architectural marvel set amidst stunning red rock formations. Then, explore Frontier Town, a village that captures the spirit of the Old West. Finally, check into our downtown Phoenix hotel, where you can relax and unwind for the remainder of the evening.

Enjoy breakfast before heading to QuiltCon for a full-day admission to the Modern Quilt Guild’s annual show. Partake in QuiltCon’s broad selection of classes, demos, and workshops, immersing yourself in the world of modern quilting, learning new techniques, and discovering the latest trends. Admire the creative exhibitions and contests, and browse the wares of the local vendors. QuiltCon is a modern quilter’s paradise. Tonight, join fellow travelers at our customary Farewell Dinner and celebrate the wonderful experiences you’ve had and the friendships you’ve made during this memorable trip.

After breakfast, enjoy another full-day admission to QuiltCon. Take your time to explore any exhibits or classes you may have missed. When you’re ready, depart at your leisure, taking with you unforgettable memories and newfound inspiration.