University of New Mexico Duck Pond
A tranquil oasis on the UNM campus, perfect for relaxing, wildlife watching, and peaceful strolls.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
University of New Mexico Duck Pond
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil oasis on the UNM campus, perfect for relaxing, wildlife watching, and peaceful strolls.
"This is a little hidden treasure of Albuquerque. It's two duck ponds that hosts lots of ducks and turtles!"
Bring a picnic basket :sandwich:
Ideal spot for a relaxing picnic with plenty of grassy areas and benches.
Observe the wildlife :duck:
Enjoy watching the ducks and turtles; they're a highlight for many visitors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Quacking Residents
The Pond
Watch ducks and turtles glide through the water. A delightful sight for all ages, especially kids!
Peaceful Pathways
Surrounding grounds
Stroll along shaded paths, find a bench, and soak in the calm atmosphere. Perfect for a quiet moment.
Scenic Evening Views
The Pond
The pond transforms into a beautiful, tranquil spot as the sun begins to set.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Parking Pointers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring a picnic basket :sandwich:
Ideal spot for a relaxing picnic with plenty of grassy areas and benches.
Observe the wildlife :duck:
Enjoy watching the ducks and turtles; they're a highlight for many visitors.
Check for events :calendar:
The pond area sometimes hosts campus events and job fairs.
Embrace the calm :leafy_green:
It's a peaceful escape, perfect for unwinding and de-stressing.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring a picnic basket :sandwich:
Ideal spot for a relaxing picnic with plenty of grassy areas and benches.
Observe the wildlife :duck:
Enjoy watching the ducks and turtles; they're a highlight for many visitors.
Check for events :calendar:
The pond area sometimes hosts campus events and job fairs.
Embrace the calm :leafy_green:
It's a peaceful escape, perfect for unwinding and de-stressing.
Name a duck! :money_with_wings:
During renovations, there was a campaign to name the ducks for donations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the UNM Duck Pond to be a surprisingly peaceful and relaxing spot, especially during summer or evenings. It's praised as a hidden gem for its charming ducks and turtles, making it ideal for picnics and quiet contemplation. However, parking can be a significant issue during the academic year.
"Visited during the summer so there weren’t too many people around but it wasn’t deserted. I imagine it would be next to impossible to find parking during the school year. Def quite relaxing and peaceful. Ducks and turtles. Did some walking around and sat down in some shade to cool off before getting on my way"
theDSsucks
"Enjoyed walking around UNM. Brings me back to my college days there, but I can appreciate the landscapes and buildings more now that I've been away."
Deanna Gonzalez
"This is a little hidden treasure of Albuquerque. It's two duck ponds that hosts lots of ducks and turtles! Great place to bring the kids to watch the ducks and to sit and relax. There is a waterfall and benches strewn around the place. Beautiful in the evening. I highly recommend this place for picnics and to just watch the ducks. Great find!"
Anthony Castro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Duck Pond is located on the University of New Mexico campus in Albuquerque. If driving, be mindful of campus parking regulations, which can be strict during the academic year. Public transport options to the UNM campus are also available.
Parking can be challenging, especially during the school year. Visitors are advised to check UNM's parking services for visitor parking information or consider using campus shuttles if available.
Yes, the UNM campus is bike-friendly, and there are often bike racks available. Walking is also a great way to explore the campus and reach the pond.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the University of New Mexico Duck Pond is a public space on campus and does not require an admission ticket.
As an outdoor campus feature, the Duck Pond is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific hours are not usually posted, but it's best to visit when the campus is active and safe.
The pathways around the Duck Pond are generally paved and accessible, making it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can relax, enjoy the scenery, watch the ducks and turtles, have a picnic, or take a peaceful walk around the pond and campus.
Restroom facilities are typically available in nearby campus buildings, such as student centers or libraries. It's advisable to check campus maps for the closest options.
The Duck Pond is located on a university campus and is generally considered safe during daylight hours. As with any public space, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings.
While tempting, it's generally not recommended to feed the ducks bread or other human food, as it can be harmful to their health. Stick to observing them in their natural habitat.
📸 📸 Photography
The pond itself with the ducks and turtles, the surrounding greenery, and the campus architecture offer great photo opportunities. Evenings provide beautiful lighting. +1
Absolutely! The ducks are a popular subject for photos. Remember to be respectful of their space and avoid disturbing them.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring a picnic to enjoy by the water, and let the little ones explore the peaceful surroundings. It's a great spot for a relaxed afternoon, offering a simple yet engaging nature experience right on campus.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Relaxation Seekers
Find a shaded bench, bring a book, or simply sit and observe the wildlife. It's a wonderful place to decompress, reflect, and enjoy the simple pleasures of nature.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different angles to get shots of the ducks in motion or the reflections on the water. The peaceful ambiance makes it easy to spend time composing the perfect shot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Renovations and Reopening
+1During the renovation period, the campus community and local residents eagerly awaited the pond's return. The reopening was met with enthusiasm, bringing back a beloved campus amenity for students and visitors alike.
While the pond is now open, there might be minor adjustments as the space settles back into full use. The renovations have revitalized this tranquil spot, making it an even more inviting place for relaxation and nature observation.
Community and Campus Life
Occasionally, the area around the Duck Pond hosts campus events, job fairs, and even vigils, highlighting its role as a communal gathering space. These events bring a different energy to the tranquil setting, showcasing its versatility.
Discussions online have also touched upon the pond's role in campus activism and community gatherings, underscoring its significance beyond its natural beauty.
+6Wildlife Encounters
Beyond the ducks, the pond is also home to turtles, adding another layer of wildlife interest. These creatures contribute to the natural charm of the location, making it a small but vibrant ecosystem within the urban campus.
While the ducks and turtles are the stars, the pond also attracts various bird species, making it a pleasant spot for casual birdwatching. Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and refrain from feeding them human food.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit