The 10 best hotels in Albuquerque for a stunning New Mexico stay

To experience some authentic cultural heritage with your Albuquerque stay, head to the Casas de Suenos Old Town Historic Inn. Dating from 1938, the hotel exudes a relaxed nostalgic charm and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Despite being in the bustle of Old Town it’s a relaxing oasis from the crowds, with hidden courtyards, sun-lit patios and gardens. When you do decide to venture out, a host of attractions and dining options are on the doorstep, it’s just a couple of blocks from the Old Town Plaza.

Time Out tip: No more than a 10-minute walk away you'll find hidden gem High Noon Restaurant & Saloon with their must-try Chile Rellenos & Blue Corn Taco Platter. 

An ideal spot for snuggling up close to your main squeeze, Hotel Chaco is popular with couples, and with its blend of modern amenities, spectacular views, and romantic Old Town location, it’s not hard to see why. Outdoor dining on the roof terrace at sunset is a must. Award-winning designer Kris Lajeskie created harmonious interiors inspired by Navajo patterns, and art is on display throughout. It’s an arty area too: the Sawmill District is a vibrant neighborhood with artist studios, along with the 25,000 square-foot Sawmill Market, offering up a variety of local and international cuisines.

Time Out tip: When you head to Sawmill Market, make sure you check out Neko Neko's range of Japanese desserts. We're all about their take on Taiyaki – it's crunchy, soft, chewy, and incredibly photogenic.

A striking rust-red against the New Mexico skyline is the Embassy Suites by Hilton Albuquerque. The warm inviting colors continue in the dining and lounge spaces, creating a relaxed inviting atmosphere. A Travel Sustainable property, the hotel offers a made-to-order breakfast free, but with such a central location you’ll want to explore the city after filling up. The Century Rio Theaters, Natural History Museum, and the zoo are all close by.

Time Out tip: If you're looking for something a little less stereotypical than a museum or visit to the zoo, experience a night of live Flamenco dancing instead at Casa Flamenca.

Offering good value for money in a great location is the Hampton Inn. The consensus is that the inn offers a cracking breakfast, and for informal eating and drinking options, just a hop across the road is the Green Jeans Farmery food court offering a range of everything, from tacos to pho, to organic ice creams, alongside a local brewery, and a variety of locally made items to buy.

Time Out tip: With it being sooo close by, you can't miss Green Jeans food hall. These shipping containers turned hip food street food spots serve a delicious selection of street food. And if you're not hungry, you can just head straight to the arcade. 

For a slice of authentic Americana, why not book into the Isleta Resort & Casino? This is the perfect place to stay with friends. Not only can you have a flutter on the tables, but there’s an in-house bowling alley, so you can relive those Big Lebowski moments. Continue to live the (American) dream with the dining option: Embers is a steakhouse offering up premium cuts and seafood, so you can thrash out your poker technique over a juicy rib eye. Relax the next day and take a fishing trip at the secluded Isleta Lakes and RV Park.

Time Out tip: If fishing isn't your thing and you much prefer some R&R, melt your cares away with a massage, a dip in the jacuzzi, or the steam room at the on-site spa.  

Fusing epic desert road trip vibes with contemporary comfort, the Monterey is ideal for high-road adventurers that want to explore the vast New Mexico surroundings and dip their toe in some literary inspo. Founded in 1946, the Motel is on the famous Route 66, dubbed ‘the Mother Road’ by author John Steinbeck in his 1939 book ‘The Grapes of Wrath’ who saw it as a road of opportunity and escape. The Monterey itself is all clean lines and relaxed outdoor terraces, so you can unwind after a hiking and cave tour, or a day trip to Acoma Pueblo: the oldest continuously inhabited community in the US.

Time Out tip: If you've got room for one more on your itinerary the Mezcla de Culturas Walking Tour is a great way to uncover Old Town's fascinating mixed heritage. 

Sample some traditional Native American hospitality and art at Nativo Lodge. It’s built a reputation for friendly attentive staff offering a really welcoming stay, along with a thriving artists program where you can actually sleep in works of art. Greeting you on the hotel’s facade is a five-story mural by local artist Michael Toya, referencing Puebloan culture and the spirit of New Mexico. The interior decor continues the theme with bold patterns and color, and there are even bespoke cocktails inspired by Nativo’s cultural roots.

Time Out tip: There’s a choice whether to plump for memorable city or mountain views from your balcony.

For authentic charm and traditional southwestern architecture, book into the San Mateo Inn, and embrace the New Mexico aesthetic, coupled with old-school hospitality. Nestled in the mountains, Guests love the comfy beds, and with its convenient Northeast Heights location there’s an array of outdoor activities and parks close by, making it a big hit with families.

Time Out tip: In the unlikely event, you do get enough of the sunshine, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center and New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science are cultural highlights close by.

With an emphasis on making guests feel part of the community, Sonesta ES Suites Albuquerque aims for ‘home from home’ hospitality, breakfast is included and each suite has a fully equipped kitchen, so you can whip up your own dishes from local produce if you want to cozy up and relax, or chill out with friends. Close to the picturesque Sandia Mountains and local landmarks such as trendy Nob Hill, Albuquerque Convention Center and the Old Town, the hotel feels like a welcoming haven at the end of a busy day of seeing the ABQ sights.

Time Out tip: If you're heading to Nob Hill, make a pit stop at Little Bear Coffee and Wine Bar, serving up lots of classic and seasonal specials, our favorite being the plum-infused iced tea during fall. 

If you like your hotels new, but not so wet behind the ears that they don’t know what they’re doing, then Hotel Zazz is for you. Opened in August 2022, the exterior’s eye-catching colorful contemporary mural means you’ll never get lost. Although it’s unlikely you’ll forget as the hotel’s location means you are getting your fix of being on Route 66 – it’s iconic! It's impossible not to feel upbeat when relaxing in the turquoise pool, accented by hot pink lights. Plus, It’s a great choice if you are a food lover or night owl too, with lots of great eateries and places to hang out in the popular Nob Hill neighborhood.

Time Out tip: Why not kick off your night at the pool courtesy of Zazzy Swim Club pop-up bar? You can also enjoy fun seasonal activities like Yoga by the Pool and Dive-in movie screenings. Just remember to bring your own towel.