Book Hotels in Albuquerque, NM

The famous French writer and poet Antoine de Saint-Exupery once said, “What makes the desert beautiful is that somewhere it hides a well.” Maybe that well is an oasis, lined with majestic palms, shielding the life-giving water at its center. Perhaps, too, it could be a torrent of rainfall gushing through an oft-dried creek bed. Maybe it’s something you weren’t even looking for. But every now and then that “well” is a charming city sprouting up from the sand and cacti. A city in the shadow of the Sandia Mountains, where neighborhoods of adobe buildings mimic the desert landscape…a city where you feel as if you’re back in the days when gauchos patrolled the streets. That well—that city—exists in central New Mexico in a place called Albuquerque. When you stay at any one of the amazing hotels in Albuquerque, all of natural wonder and southwestern culture are “well” within your reach.

Where Are the Best Places to Stay in Albuquerque?

Even though Duke City is relatively small, when you are trying to determine where to stay in Albuquerque, it may be best to find a hotel close to most of the points of interest on your itinerary. Whether it’s the history to be found downtown, the importance of a vital military installation, or the scenic beauty of the New Mexico desert, there is an Albuquerque lodging option for every adventure the area offers. Here are some of the most popular neighborhoods around town and hotel suggestions for each:

Downtown

Center city in Albuquerque is a revitalized district offering nightclubs, theaters, and many events—not to mention the iconic Route 66. Flanking downtown are Old Town and Midtown. First settled in 1706, Old Town is Albuquerque’s historical and cultural hub, boasting a handful of museums and over 100 independent boutiques, local eateries, and art galleries. Conveniently located by the interchange of Interstates 25 and 40—as well as the University of New Mexico—Midtown is a great place to stay that puts you close to all the magic of Albuquerque. This is one of our favorite downtown hotels:

• MCM Elegante: Treat yourself to the same accommodations you would expect at a premier upscale resort without depleting your retirement fund. The staff provides a friendly, attentive, customer experience while delivering services that include free made-to-order breakfasts, happy hour, and an airport shuttle.

Kirtland Air Force Base

Aside from the university, most of the hustle and bustle in the city revolves around Kirtland Air Force Base, which, by the way, is located adjacent to the Albuquerque International Sunport. Given that, hotels in this area serve both business travelers staying near the airport and visitors in town attending events at the Air Force base. In between takeoffs and landings, you can get in a round of golf at one of the neighborhood’s courses, take in a show at the amphitheater, or catch an Isotopes minor league baseball game at the nearby stadium. Here are two great Albuquerque hotels close to Kirtland AFB:

• Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Albuquerque Airport - Univ. Area: You’d be hard-pressed to find a better location for a hotel. Just off Interstate 25 between the airport and the university, this Holiday Inn has a business center, fitness room, two restaurants, a pool and hot tub, and over 3,000 feet of event space.
• Hyatt Place Albuquerque Airport: With newly renovated guestrooms, the Hyatt oozes contemporary cool. Every room has a 42” HDTV, chic décor, and free Wi-Fi. The Coffee to Cocktail Bar helps you wake up with caffeine or wind down with a craft beer. Breakfast is always on the house, and always comes with a side order of smiles.

Outlying Areas

Surrounding the city proper lies the natural wonder that helped earn New Mexico its nickname, the Land of Enchantment. Venture out to pueblos to see how Native Americans have lived in the past, explore the trails and woodlands high in the Sandia Crest, or visit one of three Navajo or Apache reservations to learn more about the native culture. If the outlying areas are calling, here is a perfect hotel to serve as your basecamp:

• Isleta Resort and Casino: With so much fun and excitement to be had on the casino floor, you might forget all about the mountains and Native American pueblos. Resort amenities include a 27-hole golf course, 50,000 square feet of meeting space, wedding facilities, an indoor/outdoor pool, and day spa. Guests also enjoy world-class entertainment and six dining options ranging from an upscale steakhouse to a low-key lounge.

Let Travelocity help you book your stay in Duke City. You’ll find a huge selection of cheap hotels near Albuquerque, affordable rooms across town, and lavish resorts throughout the area. The money that you’ll save makes it “well” worth the effort.