Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town050

The Hotel Albuquerque provides comfortable accommodations in the heart of the historic Old Town Plaza district. Situated within walking distance of over 200 restaurants, shops, galleries, and museums, the hotel exudes Old World charm and gracious hospitality. Guests are greeted by an amiable doorman, who ushers them into an expansive lobby outfitted with massive settees, Spanish-tiled floors, and handcrafted iron chandeliers. The attractive architecture and decor exemplify "Albuquerque Style," a unique blend of New Mexico's Pueblo, Spanish Territorial, and Western cultural influences. During a recent stay, we found the check-in process to be smooth and efficient, thanks to the genuinely friendly front desk staff. Our room was colorful and welcoming, offering standard features such as Southwestern furnishings, an area for seating and dining, a work desk, in-room movies, and high-speed Internet access. Some rooms also include refrigerators. The bathroom was clean, well lighted, and stocked with fluffy towels, a hair dryer, and upgraded Aveda grooming essentials (all guest rooms offer a full bath with tub and shower). The separate dressing area was nicely appointed with a vanity, robes, iron and board, and a coffee maker with packets of gourmet coffee and teas. Heating and air conditioning controls were easy to locate and operate. Our 10th-floor room on the south side of the hotel tower boasted a small, private balcony with lovely views of the Sandia Mountains and Old Town, including the National Atomic Museum and other attractions. The balcony was fully enclosed, but parents of active little ones can lock the sliding balcony doors for even more peace of mind. Our only disappointment was with the bed linens, which were thin and full of static electricity. Faded stains on the bedspreads were a further indication that the time has come to bring those items up to the comfort standard of the rest of the room. Hotel Albuquerque boasts a fitness center, fine and casual dining restaurant options, room service, a gift shop, conference rooms, and an outdoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi. Do explore the grounds, which are quite beautiful and include arbors, fountains, Spanish gardens, a Victorian-style pavilion, and the San Isidro de Capilla, a non-denominational chapel of early 19th century design. Families can reserve one of the hotel's 188 rooms or suites by phone or through the website, which regularly offers special rates and package deals.