Planning a trip to Albuquerque on your next American adventure? Discover where to stay in Albuquerque to make it an epic one.
Albuquerque pulls off the perfect blend of thrill and adventure paired with relaxation and tranquillity.
So, while it’s easy to fill out an Albuquerque itinerary (even if it’s just a one-day affair), deciding where to stay can be daunting.
Unless, of course, you’ve got the ultimate guide to help you choose. Which, coincidentally, you do – right here.
Best Places to Stay in Albuquerque: At a Glance
| Best Places to Stay in Albuquerque – Top Picks | Hotel |
| Best Overall Hotel in Albuquerque | Hotel Albuquerque |
| Best Albuquerque Hotel for Luxury Stays | Hotel Chaco |
| Best Albuquerque Hotel for Boutique Stays | Hotel Parq Central Albuquerque |
| Best Albuquerque Hotel for Budget-Friendly Stays | Sandia Peak Inn |
Where to Stay in Albuquerque
Beyond a show-stopping list of things to do, ABQ boasts a fantastic landscape of places to stay.
Sitting within its borders, you have more than enough choices of excellent neighbourhoods that each offers something unique. You’ll find history and old-world charm in its Old Town or a vibrant and buzzing nightlife scene in Downtown Albuquerque.
But there’s more, from the trendy haunt for the young and young-at-heart in Uptown Albuquerque to the luxurious retreat possibilities of North Valley. And if you’re concerned about breaking the bank, fear not – Taylor Ranch has you covered if you’re on a budget.
Old Town Albuquerque: Best Place to Stay in Albuquerque for First-Time Visitors
If you’re looking for Albuquerque lodging that is as authentically Southwest as it gets, staying in the city’s heart is a no-brainer.
Now, if the name doesn’t give it away, this is the oldest part of the city, but don’t let that fool you. Here, historic museums meet eclectic cafes and restaurants, while boutique retailers meet your retail therapy needs.
Although it only covers a few city blocks, there’s everything here for first-timers looking to get the city’s best offers.
Old Town Albuquerque Highlights
Sawmill Market
Indulge your foodie side at the Sawmill Market. With flavours to meet every taste, treat yourself at Notorious P.O.K.E., dive into a margarita at Flora Restaurant, or a local brew from Paxton’s Taproom.
ABQ BioPark Zoo
For a more natural attraction, take some time and visit the ABQ BioPark Zoo located within West Old Town Albuquerque. A part of the Albuquerque Biological Park, the 64-acre zoo includes exhibits ranging from Africa to Australia.
Museum of Natural History
Head to the New Mexico Museum of Natural History to discover everything there is to know about local wildlife. Exhibitions include a variety of displays dedicated to current and prehistoric animals that roamed the Southwest.
Suggested Hotels in Old Town Albuquerque
Hotel Albuquerque
When you’re after one of the best options for lodging in ABQ, you should opt for a stay at Hotel Albuquerque. It showcases impressive style and decor with rooms that include modern amenities, with a tempting on-site restaurant.
Hotel Chaco
Hotel Chaco is a gorgeous property in the historic Old Town, where you’ll find sleek and modern design throughout. Expect comfortable and tastefully styled rooms and a stunning rooftop lounge with spectacular views.
Econo Lodge Old Town
Looking for a budget-conscious option in Old Town? Then you’ll find a great blend of affordable luxury at Econo Lodge Old Town. It’s close to numerous attractions and features an indoor heated pool and daily complimentary breakfast.
Downtown Albuquerque: Best Place to Stay in Albuquerque for Nightlife
Central Avenue, formerly Route 66, runs directly through the city’s Downtown, creating the perfect setting for one of the coolest places to stay in Albuquerque. Besides being a vibrant entertainment district, Downtown Albuquerque hosts some of (if not the) best nightlife in town.
However, the area doesn’t just revolve around partying. It also acts as the city’s central business district, giving it a distinct big-city atmosphere.
Considering that, it’s very well-connected, although you’re never more than a few steps from restaurants, shops or art galleries if you’re not one for public transport.
Downtown Albuquerque Highlights
Bars
Easily a top-of-the-list highlight in Downtown Albuquerque is heading out on a bar-hopping excursion. Central Avenue hosts several fantastic watering holes, or venture to Marble Brewery for the best in artisanal brewing.
Kimo Theatre
A historic landmark in this area of the city, catching a show at the Kimo Theatre is an absolute must. Dating back to 1927, this restored venue hosts performances by local and national acts and classic movie screenings.
Suggested Hotels in Downtown Albuquerque
Hotel Parq Central Albuquerque
Why not book a room at one of the most unique places to stay in Albuquerque? Well, the Hotel Parq Central Albuquerque is luxurious and apparently haunted.
Hotel Andaluz
Hotel Andaluz Albuquerque offers one of the most luxurious stays in Albuquerque, with stylish rooms brandishing clear Spanish influences. On-site, you’ll find an inviting tapas restaurant and a rooftop lounge with epic views of the Sandia Mountains.
Uptown & Nob Hill: Best Place to Stay in Albuquerque for Young Travellers
If you’re a young and intrepid traveller, it can be quite the conundrum to decide where to stay in Albuquerque, NM. I get it, the word “old” gets thrown around a lot in this city, but within the eclectic and electric neighbourhoods of Uptown and Nob Hill, you’ll find a home away from home.
Nob Hill hosts the University of New Mexico, which gives the area a thriving atmosphere. Neon lights meet history and culture, evident in its mix of bespoke cafes and restaurants, various art galleries and boutique stores.
Then you have Uptown, where high-rise hotels and buildings blend with upscale shopping. What more could you want?
Uptown & Nob Hill Highlights
Restaurants, Bars and Breweries
Spend a day exploring, eating, and drinking throughout Nob Hill. Along Nob Hill Main Street, there’s no shortage of bars and cafes. Some standout options include Bosque Brewing Company as well as Chocolate Dude and Coffee Too.
Museums
Dive into some of the most exciting museums in the city with something for everyone. Choose from the University of New Mexico Art Museum, Maxwell Museum of Anthropology, or the Museum of Southwestern Biology.
ABQ Uptown
If you’ve got retail therapy in mind, there’s no better place to indulge than at ABQ Uptown, home to a variety of high-end stores and quaint boutiques.
Suggested Hotels in Uptown & Nob Hill
Sheraton Albuquerque
Without a doubt, a property in the city that focuses on modernity, you’ll find luxury and convenience at the Sheraton. It’s stylish and features an on-site fine-dining restaurant and the Lobby Bar with nightly live musical entertainment.
Hyatt Place
A 3-star hotel perfect for extended stays in the city, Hyatt Place offers a wide variety of room choices. You’ll find an in-house coffee shop, an outdoor swimming pool, and a gym within, and it’s also pet-friendly.
Hampton Inn
Hampton Inn Albuquerque is the perfect choice if you want to stay in the bustling business district of Uptown on Coors Road. It offers everything you’ll need for a budget getaway, including an outdoor pool, hot tub and a fully-equipped fitness centre.
North Valley, Los Ranchos & Corrales: Best Places to Stay in Albuquerque for Luxury Relaxation
Collectively, the three neighbourhoods of North Valley, Los Ranchos and Corrales run along the Rio Grande River Valley.
Set to the backdrop of the Sandia Mountains, here you’ll find some of the best wineries in North America and a fantastic collection of farmer’s markets, spas and art galleries.
Besides the nearly endless unwinding potential of the region, it’s also the perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous activities available, including hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking.
North Valley, Los Ranchos & Corrales Highlights
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
Explore the influence of Native American tribes in the region and visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.
Here, you’ll find rotational exhibits (during my visit there was a fantastic exhibition showcasing Native American skateboard art), permanent collections of artefacts and even a fantastic restaurant that hosts cooking classes.
Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway
Have you ever wanted to ride the longest aerial tram in North America? Okay, regardless of your answer, you simply have to set time aside and ascend the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway.
I visited in February and it was absolutely freezing at the top of the mountain – but, on the plus side, I did get absolutely stunning winter wonderland views. If you’re visiting In warmer months, you should tackle one of the hikes at the top of the mountain – or even hike your way back down.
Another tip is to book a spot at the restaurant at the top for dinner and drinks with a view – they do walk-ins but be prepared for a long wait.
Rio Grande Nature Center State Park
Immerse yourself in the spectacular natural landscapes of the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park. Aside from the visually striking features, the park includes a variety of nature trails perfect for hiking or biking, as well as incredible views of the Rio Grande.
Suggested Hotels in North Valley, Los Ranchos & Corrales
Townplace Suites by Marriott
For any extended trip, TownPlace Suites by Marriott is the best place to stay in Albuquerque, with its near-perfect location and features. On-site, the property includes an outdoor swimming pool and hot tub, while each suite has a fully-equipped kitchen.
Nativo Lodge
Nativo Lodge is easily one of the top places to bed down. This artsy property is a genuine feast for the eyes.
Choose from either a traditional room where you can expect the usual mod-cons, or opt for one of the Artist Rooms. Each of these features individual styling by local Native American artists.
Taylor Ranch: Best Place to Stay in Albuquerque for Budget Travellers
Sitting just across the Rio Grande is the welcoming and charming neighbourhood of Taylor Ranch. It features the same atmosphere as other Albuquerque areas but at a fraction of the cost, with just as much to see and do.
It’s easily one of the best places to stay in Albuquerque, New Mexico if you want a fun trip that doesn’t break the bank. And if you love the great outdoors and getting lost in nature, this is also very ideal.
Taylor Ranch Highlights
Petroglyph National Monument
Step back in time and explore the Petroglyph National Monument, where you can marvel at more than 25,000 prehistoric petroglyphs. Alternatively, strap on your hiking boots and tackle the 2.2-mile Rinconada Canyon Trail.
Hiking Trails
For even more outdoor escapades, set out to the Pueblo Montano Picnic Area and Trailhead, or explore West Bluff Park for some of the best views of the Rio Grande. But if you’re more of a scenic-stroll type of adventurer, visit the Mariposa Basin Park.
Suggested Hotels in Taylor Ranch
Sandia Peak Inn
Sandia Peak Inn is a fantastic option if you’re after an authentic stay in a quintessential American-style hotel. Features include an indoor swimming pool, spacious and luxurious rooms, and a complimentary breakfast — all at a very affordable price.
Days Inn by Wyndham
Days Inn by Wyndham sits a stone’s throw away from attractions such as the Petroglyph National Monument, this is one of the best options in the area. Although a budget option, the property has a range of amenities within recently renovated rooms.
Where to Stay in Albuquerque: Frequently Asked Questions
Practical Tips to Consider Before Booking Your Albuquerque Accommodation
Although there are amazing places to stay in the city, some outshine others. Shop around, from big-chain hotels to boutique guesthouses and excellent Albuquerque Airbnb options.
Book your stay for a few days (I’d say two days at least) as there’s a lot to see and do, and you don’t want to feel rushed while exploring the city and the region around it.
Where to Stay in Albuquerque: Read More ABQ Guides
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