There are many historic sights to see on Route 66 in Albuquerque. Make your trip worthwhile by spending the night so you can hit the road refreshed! Whether you are making your Great American Road Trip or you are a lover of all things nostalgic, consider cozying up at one of these seven historic lodging options on Albuquerque’s Route 66.
Hotel Zazz
For lovers of color, book a night at Hotel Zazz, Nob Hill’s premiere Route 66 stay reimagined by a mother-daughter duo. Once a 1950s Sleepy Bear TraveLodge, Zazz now boasts a groovy speakeasy, Zema Vinyl Lounge, and a vibrant poolside for cooling down with a cocktail. Experience a boutique retreat at Monet’s Spa with locally crafted wellness goods, a hot tub, sauna and massages.
Hotel Zazz today. Photo courtesy of Hotel Zazz.
Imperial Inn
Conveniently located off of I-25, Imperial Inn opened as a chain Imperial 400 in 1964. Today, the Imperial is independent and it has it all. Guests and visitors can enjoy a drink at the Imperial Dive, overlooking the poolside. Delicious bites await at the Imperial Food Hall, from vegan Mexican cuisine to Salvadorian comfort food. Imperial Inn welcomes you into East Downtown with its flashing neon sign and candy-colored doors. Start your day with a latte from in-house Mojo Rising before going out into town.
Imperial 400 Motel, ca. 1970, ink on cardstock. Albuquerque Museum, gift of Nancy Tucker. PA2014.007.269.
Imperial Inn, 2024. Photo by Dominic Valdez.
El Vado
El Vado is one of the oldest Route 66 motor courts in Albuquerque, opening in 1937, when the Route realigned down Central Avenue. Situated near the ABQ BioPark Zoo and Botanical Garden, El Vado is a great place to stay for the family. The motel has an on-site taproom, a Costa Rican restaurant, entertainment pavilion and various boutiques to peruse during your stay.
El Vado Motel, ca. 1960, ink on cardstock. Albuquerque Museum, gift of Nancy Tucker. PA2014.007.226.
El Vado, 2024. Photo by Dominic Valdez.
Monterey Motel
Monterey Motel was built as the David Court in 1946 and changed its name in 1954, reflected on its original signage. The Monterey Motel maintained its classic cool vibe with upgraded rooms and an enclosed patio. Their MoMo Lounge is a perfect spot for an intimate evening of laughter, good music and juicy cocktails.
Monterey Motel, ca. 1950, ink on cardstock. Albuquerque Museum, gift of Nancy Tucker. PA2014.007.326
Monterey Motel's iconic sign today.
ARRIVE Albuquerque
ARRIVE Albuquerque is a great spot for visitors that seek an urban experience on Route 66. ARRIVE welcomes you with its dusty desert pink interiors and curated postmodern kitsch. The hotel is centrally located to Albuquerque’s burgeoning art scene, with Secret Gallery in its lobby, 516 Arts and Kukani Gallery around the corner.
Downtowner Motor Inn, ca. 1980, ink on cardstock. Albuquerque Museum, gift of Nancy Tucker. PA2014.007.185.
ARRIVE Albuquerque's mural, painted by Nani Chacon.
Bottger Mansion
Bottger Mansion is a gorgeous Old Town getaway on Route 66 in walking distance to Plaza Vieja. Bottger Mansion was established in 1912 by Charles Bottger, making it older than the Route itself! This cozy bed-and-breakfast provides complimentary breakfast to fuel your visit in Albuquerque– did somebody say blue corn pancakes?
Photo courtesy of Bottger Mansion.
Enchanted Trails RV Park
For bona fide nomads, Enchanted Trails RV Park is a unique place to park on historic Route 66. Enchanted Trails opened its office doors in the 1950s. Not many RV parks have an immersive museum of vintage trailers to tour! You can book a stay in a streamline trailer for a true retro road trip experience or park your personal RV. The park is equipped with water and electric hookups, free wifi, restrooms and a seasonal swimming pool.
Photo courtesy of Enchanted Trails.
