Explore the International District

For centuries, the way to enter Albuquerque from Santa Rosa, New Mexico, was along an old wagon trail that passed through the area now known as Tijeras Canyon, a deep divide between the Sandia Mountains and Manzano Mountains. When Route 66 became one of America’s most important highways, the canyon proved to be the ideal path for the new thoroughfare. The influx of travelers due to Route 66’s success in the mid-20th century brought forth one of Albuquerque’s most glamorous hotels: the Western Skies. The Western Skies, located on the eastern edge of the city, was the favorite lodging choice of celebrities such as Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley and even President John F. Kennedy when they stayed in Albuquerque. The hotel was demolished in 1988, but the spirit of Route 66 lives on in the memories of those who lived to experience it and the hearts of those who traveled it.

Sheraton Western Skies Motor Hotel, ca. 1965. Albuquerque Museum, gift of Nancy Tucker. PA2014.007.478.