As already mentioned, the city of Rio Rancho is relatively young, and its history is quite recent and dates back to the 1960s. Rio Rancho is the third-largest city in New Mexico, and it’s also the only city in Sandoval County. Since Rio Rancho served as grazing land and was just an extension of Albuquerque, no development took part here. However, the story changed in 1961 when the American Real Estate and Petroleum Corporation (AMREP) purchased 55 acres of land in the Rio Rancho area. They then developed houses and called them Rio Rancho Estate. The first home was constructed in 1963, and the first two families from New York City moved to Rio Rancho later in the year. AMREP marketed the Rio Rancho area and New Mexico at large heavily, with the aim of encouraging land sales. They not only advertised the land but also enticed prospectives with dinner parties. AMREP sold the dream of escaping the crowded cities and settling in the spacious and tranquil Rio Rancho area. By 1964, the city had about 100 people, and the number shot to about 1500 residents by 1969. By 1974, Rio Rancho had more than 5000 residents, a shopping center, a fire department, an elementary school, a golf club, and churches. With more people opting for the affordable land in Rio Rancho, the area continued to grow even as people moved from Albuquerque. In 1980, Rio Rancho was incorporated as a city, opening doors to more growth and improved services to residents. By this time, the city was home to over 10,000 people. Most Rio Rancho residents had to commute to work in Albuquerque even after incorporation. In the mid-1980s, AMREP worked with the city to grow the economy by recruiting businesses and industries. By 1994, the city already had an admirable economy with plenty of job opportunities for residents. Intel, which opened in 1980, is among the oldest manufacturing companies in Rio Rancho. Having started with fewer than 25 employees, Intel is now the second-largest employer in the state of New Mexico.

Hang out with kids at the ABQ BioPark Zoo
The ABQ BioPark Zoo is a perfect place to visit with family over the weekend. The 64-acre zoo is located next to the Rio Grande and has been operating since 1927. Here, you don’t just watch animals but also get to dine and partake in different programs and activities.

The zoo is home to over 250 animals from different continents. The animals range from Sub-Antarctic penguins and kangaroos to koalas and lions.

A Park Above
Even though the park only opened in 2015, it has found a way to attract and appeal to people of all ages. The old and the young meet at A Park Above to interact and play. It’s an all-rounded entertainment facility, ideal for families.

The Park Above features a dog park, amphitheater, basketball court, outdoor exercise, musical instruments, picnic area, pedestrian path, etc. You can also host your birthday or engagement parties at the park. If you are looking for volunteering opportunities after retirement, you can help with several things at the park.

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is a renowned hot air balloon festival that happens every October in the neighboring city of Albuquerque, NM. The colorful event is the world’s largest of its kind and has been said to be the most photographed event on earth. Over 500 hot air balloons fly off from the park majestically for nine days, covering the skies with pomp and color.

You can ride in the hot air balloons or just watch and capture the spectacular event with your camera for memory's sake.