Members' Frequently Asked Questions

If you don’t see your question or answer here, please contact our Membership office at (505) 764-6280.

Q: Why should I join the New Mexico BioPark Society?

A: Your Membership entitles you to free unlimited admission to all BioPark facilities which include: Rio Grande Zoo, Botanic Garden and Albuquerque Aquarium, as well as many other benefits listed on the main membership page.

Q: How can I join the New Mexico BioPark Society?

A: You can join online by clicking the “ Join Now” link, by telephone at (505) 764-6280 or while visiting any of the facilities.

Q. What happened to the Zoological Society?

A. In April of 2006 the Zoological Society and the Friends of the Aquarium and Botanical Gardens merged to become one society. The former office of the Zoological Society is now the New Mexico BioPark Society.

Q. Can I renew my membership online?

A. Yes, it’s a quick and easy way to renew. While renewing, you can also upgrade, ad a guest, make changes or additions.

Q. When will I get my new membership cards?

A. Your new membership cards will be mailed within 3-4 weeks after your membership application and payment are received. If you have not received your cards after this time, please contact the membership office at (505) 764-6280.

Q. Can I use my new membership before I receive my membership cards?

A. Yes, after your membership application and payment are received, you can show your I.D. at the administration office at the park. If you purchased online, your printed receipt will act as a temporary pass and if you mailed in your application, please contact the membership office to confirm receipt.

Q. How do I make changes to my membership card?

A. You can contact the membership office at (505) 764-6280 or visit the administration office at one of the parks.

Q. How can I make corrections to my online application?

A. If you processed your application online and need to make corrections or changes, please contact the membership office at (505) 764-6280.

Q. Why do I have to show my picture I.D. when going to the parks?

A. As a nonprofit organization that relies heavily on membership and attendance for support, we need to prevent misuse of our membership cards. We also want to protect our members should their cards be lost or stolen. We try very hard to keep our membership prices affordable for as many people in our community as possible. If memberships were shared by families and neighbors, our revenues which support our facilities and projects, would be severely reduced.

Q. What if I lose my card?

A. You may visit the facilities by presenting your photo I.D. at the administration offices. The first time replacement will be free. After that there will be a $5 replacement fee for lost or stolen cards. You may order replacement cards by calling the membership office at (505) 764-6280.

Q. Will lost or stolen guest passes be replaced?

A. No. We are unable to track guest passes, as they are valued at up to $12 each. Please keep them in a safe place.

Q. Can someone other than the primary cardholders (such as a nanny or babysitter, relative or friend) use my card?

A. No. Membership is not transferable and is only valid for those named on the card. Photo I.D. is required.

Q. What ages are considered for adult and child memberships?

A. An adult admission age is 13 or over. A child is age 3 to 12. Children under the age of 3 are free.

Q. What if a child reaches ages 3 or 13 during the year?

A. The child will keep the current membership status until the next annual renewal.

Q. Can my child use my card without an adult member being present?

A. Because we require a photo I.D. from an adult cardholder, they would only be allowed to use the card if they have a valid photo I.D. and their name appears on the card as an adult member.

Q. Can I save my admission receipt and apply it toward a membership at a later date?

A. No, but you can apply your admission fee towards a membership at one of the facilities administration offices “the same day” your general admission fee was paid.

Q. Can I buy a membership for only one of the facilities such as the zoo?

A. Memberships are no longer available for just one park. One of the wonderful benefits of merging all three facilities into the Albuquerque BioPark, is your New Mexico BioPark Society membership is good for all three parks.

Q. Can I purchase a membership for more than one year?

A. No, memberships are good for one year from the date of purchase.

Q. Do members have free access into the “ River of Lights”?

A. No, the River of Lights is a fundraising event, which helps bring financial support to our various programs like the Biovan. We have adjusted the prices to make it affordable for the general public. There are discounts however to the “Summer Nights” and “Zoo Music” concerts.

Q. Can members get behind the scenes tours?

A. Club members are entitled to a behind the scene tour. The “Explorer Club” includes behind the scene passes for 4, to your choice of one of the following: Catwalk, Shark Tank or Garden Conservatories. The “Adventure Club” includes a tour for 4, to one of the three facility parks. Please contact our membership offices at (505) 764-6280 if you are interested in becoming a “Club” member and for more information.

Q. Do you have any members-only events?

A. Yes, in August we will feature the “Feast with the Beasts” members-only picnic. See the member calendar for details.

Q. What is a reciprocal zoo or aquarium?

A. As a New Mexico BioPark Society member, you receive free or discounted admission to more than 120 zoos and aquariums nationwide. Please visit the “ reciprocal zoo and aquarium list” for details. We recommend contacting the facility you wish to visit before hand due to the list being changed throughout the year. Also have your membership card present.

Q. Is my membership payment tax deductible?

A. Yes. Your payment, less the fair market value of the benefits you receive, is deductible for income tax purposes. Please consult you tax advisor for details.

Q. Are there any black out dates during the year?

A. Memberships are good throughout the year during regular operating hours (except holidays in which the parks are closed).