The Monterey Motel

We spent two nights at the Monterey Motel to attend the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. Don’t let the retro road sign fool you, it is very modern inside. Pleasant gal at the front desk, but we were early and room wasn’t ready yet. Later got Room 209 above pool. Minimalistic decor, which I like, but it also meant there were no dressers and no bathroom vanity space. There are some shelves though for clothing storage, etc. Had a European style shower head, with open shower area. The room also had a beautiful balcony, but we didn’t have time to use it unfortunately. Pool looked nice. Got a free old-fashioned at the bar. One free drink per room (not per person). They feature local spirits including a green chile vodka. Hubby had a couple beers while we had a nice conversation and good service from Victoria the bartender. Bed was comfy. There was a window near the ceiling that let a lot of light into our room, which may bother some, but we were getting up at 2:30 AM to get to the balloon fiesta shuttle, so not much sleep for us anyway! A few blocks to walk to get to Old Town where we visited the Rattlesnake Museum, and had some good tacos at “Gobble This” Salvadoran restaurant. Overall, a fun place to stay.

We spent one night here before heading home and loved it! Close to the airport, you can walk to the old town and Saw Mill Marketplace. Our room was quiet, the bed was very comfortable and nicely decorated with a great shower. We enjoyed our welcome cocktail on their patio - they even had someone making tacos that looked delicious.

This is a motel that is on Rt 66, which has been totally renovated. The biggest plus is the bed was very comfortable and the place is very clean. It is within walking distance to old town, about a mile. It was a drive to the balloon fest and driving was required for other restaurants and events and the University of New Mexico. The Balloon Fiesta was only 17 miles away but the congested traffic took about 2 hours to get there leaving at 4:00am. The Sandia Resort and 24th Annual Arts and Craft Show and the Tram up the Sandia Mountain, were all in the same general vicinity, within 5 miles of each attraction, about 17 miles from this motel. This is not a fancy hotel, but it has all the amenities you'll need including a place to set your luggage, a desk, TV, a coffee maker, mini fridge with water, hair dryer, soap, shampoo and condioner. The only negative is there is some noise from route 66 traffic and the bar when we arrived on Friday night was blasting club music till 10:00 pm. It wasn't as noticeable the next two nights, perhaps we just got used to it.

Great stay and would go back. Comfortable beds and we enjoyed hanging with our friends in the outdoor space and well as the indoor lounge/bar (even enjoyed some live music one night). We also used the pool. Loved being able to walk to the Old Town, aswell as nearby Bagel place. We also checked out the botanical, gardens, about five minutes drive away. Only negative is the style of shower where there is a half door, so you have to be careful not to get the floor so wet. You get a free drink per room at check in, how cool is that!

Overnight stay before departure from ABQ Sunport. Chosen based on price point and location convenient to old town, downtown, and the Sunport. Check in is at the on site bar and while it took a while because the bartender/“front desk person” was busy showing a room and serving drinks, when he was able to greet me, the check in was courteous, expedient, and efficient. Property definitely has a vibe rooted somewhere between old Route 66 and neo bohemian chic. Room was spacious, bed was comfortable, and considering the location right on a main drag, surprisingly quiet. Room was well appointed with more than adequate closet space, a mini fridge, and a clothes steamer. More than sufficient for an overnight stay and would work well for longer visits. Excellent stay at a reasonable rate.

A beautiful place to stay. The room was very clean and comfortable. Pool was very nice and relaxing. The desk clerk (Jane) was friendly and helpful. Nice to share travel stories with. A place we will stay again if we make it back to Albuquerque. What's not to like a free drink with check in.

We enjoyed our stay in a very spacious Route 66 motel. The king size bed was comfortable. The renovations are fresh and the room was very clean. The decor is thoughtful and transported us to the heyday of Route 66. It was nice to have a sofa, and a table and chairs.