If you’re an intrepid traveller, then you’ve probably dreamed of going to New Mexico. This state doesn’t see the same volume of tourists as other nearby states, but this just adds to its mystique. It means that you’ll get the chance to enjoy the amazing outdoor landscapes, Native American Artwork, hot springs, and delicious food without the crowds!
New Mexico is dotted with small cities and towns, each of them with its own attractions and culture. It’s also home to a the Rio Grande, North America’s longest river, a stunning natural wonder. You’ll likely want to explore all of this on your trip, which is why it’s so important to base yourself in the right place.
It can be pretty daunting trying to figure out exactly where to base yourself, which is where I come in!
With this accommodation guide, you’ll be able to work out exactly where to stay in New Mexico to suit your travel style and budget. I’ve gone and done the research for you – so you can spend more time packing and figuring out your itinerary.
Sit back and sip your spicy margarita as you scroll my saucy guide.
Photo: @Lauramcblonde
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- Where is the Best Place to Stay in New Mexico?
- New Mexico Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in New Mexico
- New Mexico’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in New Mexico
- What To Pack For New Mexico
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for New Mexico
- Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Stay in New Mexico
Want to jump straight to it? Check out my top recommendations for accommodation in New Mexico.
Hotel Santa Fe | Best Hotel in New Mexico
One of Santa Fe’s best hotels is Native American-owned and sits in the Railyard District, with shops and restaurants just a short walk away. The guest rooms are Hacienda-style and have their own wood burning fireplaces and seating areas as well as all the usual amenities.
This Santa Fe hotel boasts spa services, on-site dance performances, and historical storytelling sessions as well as an outdoor fireplace where you can sit and listen to Native American music.
Sunny Adobe Casita | Best Airbnb in New Mexico
Located close to Santa Fe’s center, this cute casita sleeps up to four guests. In a residential neighborhood one mile from the Santa Fe plaza with simple, homey decor including a kiva wood burning fireplace and a full kitchen. There’s also an enclosed, private courtyard, so you can enjoy a slice of the outdoors.
Luxe Adobe Casita | Best Luxury Airbnb in New Mexico
Nestled in the heart of Santa Fe’s downtown, this casita is located in one of the best areas to stay in New Mexico if you want to be close to everything.
It’s just blocks from the Santa Fe plaza and is a historic structure with lots of period details including Venetian plaster and wooden floors. It has a private patio with an outdoor grill and seating, as well as a parking space and hot tub.
Santa Fe
Santa Fe is one of the most recognizable towns in New Mexico, and it’s also the capital. This is what makes it the best choice when you’re deciding where to stay in New Mexico for your first time.
Las Cruces
One of the best ways to have a great holiday on a budget is to get out into the great outdoors and enjoy some free activities, and that’s exactly what you’ll want to do when you spend time in Las Cruces.
Albuquerque
Albuquerque is New Mexico’s largest city and has something for everyone. This is where the TV show ‘Breaking Bad’ was filmed, and it also offers lots of restaurants, bars, and clubs – perfect when you’re trying to decide where to stay in New Mexico for nightlife.
Chimayó
Chimayó is a short drive from Santa Fe, but it’s a world away from the big city. Founded in the 17th century by Spanish settlers, it has deep spiritual roots and is an important Christian pilgrimage site.
Cloudcroft
Cloudcroft is a mountain town that acts as the gateway to the Lincoln National Forest. It’s a lovely little town with a real small-town feel and lots of activities to keep every traveler occupied.
New Mexico is the fifth-largest in the US. However, it’s relatively sparsely populated, so you’ll get to see the amazing sights without the crowds. There are numerous small towns to explore in this state, it’s important you find one that suits your travel style, budget, and what you most want to see and do in this part of the world.
Santa Fe is one of the best places to stay in New Mexico for your first visit. It’s a relatively large city and contains all the amenities you’ll need to ease your way into traveling in this part of the world.
Las Cruces is known for its outdoor activities and magnificent natural surroundings. In this part of New Mexico, you’ll want to spend all of your time outside and just need a place to crash for the night. This makes for a very wallet-friendly trip, it’s the best choice for those visiting the USA on a budget.
The next area on my list is Cloudcroft, the best choice when you’re deciding where to stay with kids in New Mexico. This mountain town is small, safe, and offers a good combination of activities in every season. There’s more than enough here to suit every member of your travel group, that’s for sure!
If you enjoy spending your nights getting to know the locals and travelers in bars, restaurants, and lounges, then you’ll enjoy Albuquerque. This is the largest city in New Mexico, so you’ll have lots of choices when you head out for a night on the town.
The final option is Chimayó, a tiny town located in northern New Mexico. This town is just 35 minutes from Santa Fe and packed with history and culture. Chimayó is where to stay in Northern New Mexico for a real sense of the authentic way of life.
New Mexico’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
There are the best hotels and hostels in New Mexico to choose from. All you have to do is pick your area and find one that suits your budget!
1. Santa Fe – Where to Stay in New Mexico for Your First Time
Santa Fe is one of the most recognizable towns in New Mexico, and it’s also the capital. This is what makes it the best choice when you’re deciding where to stay in New Mexico for your first time.
The city is in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo and has amazing architecture and an art scene that can’t be beaten! Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel room or a rural cabin, you’ll never be short of options in Santa Fe.
Santa Fe is famous for its Pueblo-style architecture. It’s an amazingly atmospheric city, first founded in 1610 as a Spanish colony and filled with crooked streets and historic districts. Santa Fe offers plenty to see and do, including amazing shopping and cuisine that’s so good you won’t want to leave!
Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo Thunder | Best Hotel in Santa Fe
This is one of the best hotels when you’re deciding where to stay in New Mexico for one night or a longer visit. Boasting a spa, a casino, and more than nine dining options on-site, it’s definitely on the list of the coolest accommodation in Santa Fe.
The rooms are modern and spacious with all the usual amenities. During your stay, you can play around at the hotel’s top-rated golf course or brush up on your tennis skills.
Zen Den | Best Airbnb in Santa Fe
If you want to get out of the city and enjoy the natural surroundings, then this is the apartment for you. It’s located in the Eldorado Community, only 20 minutes from the Santa Fe Plaza, yet it offers complete privacy and stunning sunset and sunrise views. The suite offers a small kitchen, a private deck, and enough space for up to two guests in the heart of the Santa Fe desert.
Cozy Casita in the Northern Hills of Santa Fe | Best Luxury Airbnb in Santa Fe
This casita is just a short car ride from the most popular attractions in Santa Fe and is in a gated and quiet community. The casita is separated from the main building and sleeps up to six people. It is one of those vacation rentals that feel like home with its own kitchen, laundry facilities, and garden.
You’ll have direct access to La Tierra Trails if you stay at this Casita.
Things to See and Do in Santa Fe
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
- See a show at The Santa Fe Opera House
- Explore the city’s history at the Museum of New Mexico Complex
- Learn about this world-famous artist at the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
- Go shopping, eating, or people-watching at the Plaza, the city’s center of culture and activity
- Explore the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, an amazing example of Romanesque Revival architecture built between 1869 and 1886
- On Saturdays, pick up some local food at the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market
- Join this interactive scavenger hunt that combines the fun of the Amazing Race with a three-hour sightseeing tour of Santa Fe.
- Learn about folk art at the Museum of International Folk Art
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Las Cruces – Best Place to Stay in New Mexico on a Budget
One of the best ways to have a great holiday on a budget is to get into the great outdoors and enjoy some free activities. That’s exactly what you’ll want to do when you spend time here. This small town lies in the south of the state and really is an outdoor lover’s paradise.
Set in the Organ Mountains, the hiking, fishing, camping, and biking are absolutely incredible, so be prepared to get fit during your holiday!
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
This area is the best option when you’re deciding where to stay in New Mexico on a budget. It offers great (if very spicy) food, access to local ghost towns, and some reasonably priced hotels as well. Basically, it has everything you’ll want for an active and budget-friendly stay in New Mexico.
Royal Host Motel | Best Budget Hotel in Las Cruces
This is a great place to book if you need a spot to rest your head and that’s pretty much it. It’s a simple room, it’s clean, it’s easily accessible from the highway and it’s only one mile from the Rio Grande. There are a few different room options too, so you and your crew can crash together.
Lundeen Inn of the Arts | Best Hotel in Las Cruces
Rest and restore yourself in this creative sanctuary, if you’re looking for a reboot on inspiration, this is one of the best hotels for the job. Each room at Lundeen has been created by a Mexican or Native American artist and you can feel the heart in this hotel. Breakfast is included and you’ll eat in a beautiful communal room, furnished with stunning antique furniture, getting to mingle with other guests and share stories.
Lundeen Inn is located in the historic district and is only a 10-minute walk to the Downtown Mall. There’s a farmers market on Wednesday and Saturday mornings which is full of rustic charm.
Pet-Friendly Luxury Oasis | Best Airbnb in Las Cruces
With three bedrooms and two bathrooms, this home is a great choice for travelers with the kids and the pup. This luxury oasis is pet friendly. This vacation rental is freshly remodeled with sleek modern spaces and amenities including granite countertops and a huge living area.
It’s also close to local shops and restaurants and has a great outdoor space with a hot tub, fire pit, and grill.
Things to See and Do in Las Cruces
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Learn more about the local area and its wildlife at the Museum of Nature & Science
- Immerse yourself in the creative side of the city at the NMSU Art Museum
- Try to catch a live demonstration on frontier life at the Fort Seldon State Monument
- Taste some local wine at La Vina Winery
- Surf or toboggan down the dunes at the White Sands National Monument
- Put on your walking boots and go hiking in the Organ Mountains
3. Albuquerque – Best Area to Stay in New Mexico For Nightlife
Albuquerque is New Mexico’s largest city and has something for everyone. This is where the TV show ‘Breaking Bad’ was filmed. It also offers lots of restaurants, bars, and clubs – perfect when you’re trying to decide where to stay in New Mexico for nightlife.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
However, don’t think that it’s all movie sets and smoking bars. Staying in Albuquerque offers great access to the great outdoors that New Mexico is famous for as well as accommodation options at every price point. This is also where you’ll be able to be part of the International Balloon Fiesta, a truly spectacular hot air balloon event.
La Quinta by Wyndham Albuquerque | Best Hotel in Albuquerque
It is one of the best hotels in the best area for all kinds of travelers to stay in New Mexico. It has a hot tub, outdoor swimming pool, and a fitness center as well as large, comfortable rooms with all the amenities. The hotel also offers free breakfasts every morning so you can head out early to explore.
I recommend exploring the Rio Grande while you’re here, it’s the longest river in North America and has an epic history.
Hotel Chaco | Best Luxury Hotel in Albuquerque
600m from the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, Hotel Chaco is hot property. This four-star hotel is one of the best hotels in New Mexico, with a fitness center so you can stay fit on vacay!
There’s a swimming pool too, so soak up those sweet sun rays and enjoy the on-site restaurant. Surely, they deliver to the pool.
SneakAway | Best Airbnb in Albuquerque
Located in the best neighborhood in New Mexico to stay in, close to all the best attractions of Albuquerque, this vacation rental sleeps two visitors. It’s a new construction with a private entrance, hot tub, pool, and a natural gas fireplace and grill. The guesthouse has one bedroom and two bathrooms as well as two decks with views of the Sandia Mountains.
Things to See and Do in Albuquerque
- Marvel at the dinosaurs at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science
- Go climbing, hiking, or camping in the Cibola National Forest
- Immerse yourself in the area’s Native American past at the Petroglyph National Monument
- Enjoy a spectacular hot-air balloon adventure over the Rio Grand Valley or be a part of the Internation Balloon Fiesta and watch the hot-air balloons fill the skies
- Explore Old Town Albuquerque’s mix of cultures and heritages on this guided walking tour.
- Discover the beauty and heritage of turquoise with an admission ticket to the Turquoise Museum, a castle-like museum filled with turquoise jewelery and art.
- Experience nuclear history at the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
- See the landscape from above on the Sandia Peak Tramway
- Indulge the kid in you at the Unser Racing Museum
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Grab an eSIM!4. Chimayó – Coolest Place to Stay in New Mexico
Chimayó is a short drive from Santa Fe, in northern New Mexico but it’s a world away from the big city. Founded in the 17th century by Spanish settlers, it has deep spiritual roots and is an important Christian pilgrimage site. It’s also filled with amazing history and architecture, which makes it one of the coolest places to stay in New Mexico.
It’s my closest neighbourhood to the Rio Grande Gorge too so if you’re interested in exploring here, Chimayó is a good place to stay. If you want to stay somewhere authentic with a more lively community, you can stay in Taos which is only an hour’s drive away.
This is a smaller town, so you won’t find as many hotels and restaurants. However, there is certainly enough in Chimayó to keep you happy and fed during your stay. The history and surrounding Sangre de Cristo Mountains will more than compensate you for the lack of variety in eateries!
Ohkay Hotel Casino | Best Hotel in Chimayó
Ohkayyyyy, lets go casinoooo baby! This hotel is cheap and cheerful in the best way possible, with lovely staff, clean rooms, and obviously, an on-site casino. They have an on-site restaurant and bar too as well as a gym if you feel the need to work out on holiday. This San Juan Pueblo resort is 40.5 km from Santa Fe in northern New Mexico.
Idyllic Española Casita with Private Hot Tub! | Best Cabin in Chimayó
Nestled in one of northern New Mexico’s best neighborhoods for history and culture, this home is full of rustic charm. There’s one bedroom and a pull-out couch in the lounge if you need extra sleeping space too. You’ll have the entire home to yourself which includes a private hot tub!
Adobe del Cerro Loft | Best Airbnb in Chimayó
Suitable for up to four guests, this is a budget-friendly choice for small families or a group of friends staying in northern New Mexico. It offers amazing views and is very spacious with lots of room to move around. The loft in this vacation rental is completely private and has its own kitchen and laundry facilities.
As well as the practicalities, you’ll have a bathroom with a claw foot bathtub and a walk-in shower – comfort with a touch of luxury.
Things to See and Do in Chimayó
- Explore the exhibits at the Chimayo Museum
- Grab some souvenirs at the Rancho Chimayo Collection or the Chimayo Trading and Mercantile
- Get out into the landscape at the North Lake Campground
- Try out the trails at Chimayosos Peak or the East Pecos Baldy
- See how people lived more than 11,000 years ago at the Bandelier National Monument
- Visit the El Santuario de Chimayó, a National Historic Landmark where miraculous healings supposedly occurred hundreds of years ago
5. Cloudcroft – Best Neighborhood in New Mexico for Families to Stay In
Cloudcroft is a mountain town that acts as the gateway to the Lincoln National Forest. It’s a lovely little area with a real small-town feel and lots of activities to keep every traveler occupied. This is what makes it the best choice when you’re deciding where to stay in New Mexico for families.
Cloudcroft offers everything from multi-day musical events to skiing and snowboarding in winter and hiking and camping in summer. Like most of New Mexico, it’s also famous for its local arts and crafts, so make sure you check out the scene during your stay.
The Lodge at Cloudcroft | Best Hotel in Cloudcroft
Located right in the center of Cloudcroft, this hotel is the best with a restaurant, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. The property has Wi-Fi throughout and serves an American breakfast every morning to set you up for the day. It also has rooms in a variety of sizes to suit every travel group.
Cloudcroft Hostel | Best Hostel in Cloudcroft
This hostel is the one! Located in the beautiful Sacramento Mountains at an elevation of 7000ft on a 28-acre property that backs onto the Lincoln National Forest, it’s a hiker’s heaven. This hostel has a fully equipped kitchen, a lovely lounge, good vibes, and good clean mountain air.
Cool in the summer and snowy in the winter months, Cloudcroft has old-school camp cabin vibes with plenty of rustic charm, check the big porch. Or, borrow a sled if you’re visiting in winter and go sledding in White Sands.
Forest Houses at Chautauqua | Best Airbnb in Cloudcroft
This New Mexico cabin is unique and completely surrounded by nature. It has spiral, hand-built stairs leading to the upper levels and floor-to-ceiling windows that let in the forest surroundings. On the inside, it’s all new and luxurious, with memory foam beds, LED lighting, fast Wi-Fi, and new fixtures.
Yet with all the nature and hiking trails around, it’s just a five-minute drive from the center of Cloudcroft. This is what makes it one of the best places in New Mexico to stay.
Things to See and Do in Cloudcroft
Photo: @amandaadraper
- In July, be a part of the action at the Jamboree Arts & Crafts Fair
- Hike the La Pasada Encantada Trail, the Switchback Trail, or the Osha Trail
- Go camping at the Sleepy Grass Picnic Area or the Silver Campground
- Head to Ski Cloudcroft for family-friendly skiing, snowboarding, and tubing
- Try some local creations at the Cloudcroft Brewing Company
- Check out the Bad Ass Mountain Music Festival in mid-June
- Visit the Lincoln National Forest for natural caves, a variety of life zones, and pristine waters, and camping, hiking, and amazing scenery
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in New Mexico
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of New Mexico and where to stay.
What To Pack For New Mexico
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
What to do in Taos?
So you saw my sneaky mention eh? Taos County is home to Taos Ski Valley and Taos Pueblo. Two completely different but hot AF tourist attractions in Northern New Mexico. You can figure out what Taos Ski Valley is and Taos Pueblo is a series of 13th century settlements along the Rio Grande.
You’ll find Taos in Carson National Forest. Check it out!
What are the best hotels in Santa Fe?
Obviously I love Hotel Santa Fe. If you’re looking for spa services and on-site dance performances, this is your joint. This Hacienda style hotel has historical storytelling sessions, as well as an outdoor fireplace where you can sit and listen to Native American music. I’m not even going to give you another option 😉
Are there any pet friendly vacation rentals in New Mexico?
Shit yeah! Don’t even think about leaving Fido behind, or Garfield if you’re a cat person. You’re obviously not a broke backpacker (I’ve yet to meet one of us traveling with a pet!) so splash out at this Pet-Friendly Luxury Oasis.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for New Mexico
Spicy Margs, check. Trekking Rio Grande, check. Lost your luggage in the midst of this? Sort good travel insurance before your trip and enjoy the good times!
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
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Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Stay in New Mexico
There are lots of choices when it comes to vacation rentals, hostels and the best hotels in New Mexico. You won’t have trouble finding one that suits your budget and travel style. Now you can spend your time exploring the stunning landscapes and intricate local culture that this part of the world is so famous for.
If you’re still not sure where to stay in New Mexico, I recommend Santa Fe. It offers a taste of everything, is easy to get to, and has loads of accommodation options for you to choose from. My number one in Santa Fe is Hotel Santa Fe, one of the best hotels in Northern New Mexico in my humble opinion.
If you’re a hostel hunter (I feel ya!), book yourself in at Cloudcroft Hostel. This feels like you’re on camp, out in the wild with big rustic tables to make new friends at.
Wherever you choose to stay, New Mexico is such an epic state and just a jump over the Rio Grande to Mexico! Stay safe, stay friendly and enjoy your trip!
Photo: @amandaadraper
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in USA.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in USA instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in USA to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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