9 Boutique Hotels In New Mexico Where You Can Relax In Style

The term "boutique hotel" conjures up images of hotels with slick design schemes. But there’s more to it than that. These hotels set themselves apart because they strive to be distinctive and intimate, unlike chain hotels which usually resemble each other. Sometimes boutique hotels accomplish this by offering particularly thoughtful amenities; with older establishments, the emphasis is often on the hotel’s history. Regardless, when you stay at one of these 9 boutique hotels in New Mexico, you’ll remember your accommodations and your experiences with equal satisfaction.

1. Hotel Andaluz, 125 2nd Street NW, Albuquerque

When Hotel Andaluz opened in 1939, it was the fourth hotel built by New Mexico entrepreneur, Conrad Hilton. Even in the 1930s the hotel was special; it was the first building in the state to boast air conditioning.

There's no doubt that this hotel has all the quirky history you could want and its design is also spectacular. The Andaluz was extensively renovated in 2008. The glasswork in the lobby and curtained nooks, known as casbahs, are especially striking. It also offers the kind of extra amenities you expect from a boutique hotel: a stellar tapas restaurant and a cool rooftop bar with mountain views. Pets are welcome.

2. Inn of the Governors, 101 W Alameda Street, Santa Fe

The building that is now the Inn of the Governors has served as everything from a livery to a car dealership. One thing that hasn’t changed is its convenient location close to the Plaza. Being able to walk to most of Santa Fe’s major attractions is a big plus for travelers. The 100 rooms here are decorated in a warm, Southwestern style that reminds you where you are without being too kitschy. The most unexpected amenity is the hotel’s tea and sherry hour, which takes place daily (from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.).

3. The Trinity Hotel, 201 S Canal Street, Carlsbad

The building that houses the Trinity Hotel was first used as a bank - not something most hotels can claim! In addition to the convenience of a highly-regarded on-site restaurant, guests at the Trinity are also treated to a free wine tasting every afternoon save Sunday (between 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.). This hotel is the most luxurious you’ll find in the vicinity of Carlsbad Caverns and it's also close to the river.

4. Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm, 4803 Rio Grande Boulevard NW,

Albuquerque

Even the most stressed out person feels relaxed when staying in a hotel surrounded by 25 fields of organic lavender! The gorgeous setting lures guests to the 20 rooms available at Los Poblanos.

When it comes to design, this hotel has some impressive bragging rights; it was designed by John Gaw Meem who is considered the "Father of Santa Fe Style." This family-run establishment offers amenities such as wood burning fireplaces in the rooms, bathrooms stocked with lavender products from the farm, organic linens, and an on-site restaurant.

5. Sierra Grande Lodge And Spa, 501 McAdoo Street, Truth or Consequences

The Sierra Grande Lodge and Spa dates back to 1929 and is on the National Register for Historic Places. Ted Turner recently purchased the hotel, which provides in-room soaking tubs that you fill with water from geothermal springs. For each day that guests stay, they’re also entitled to a free soak in one of the ornate hot spring tubs. Both breakfast and wifi access are complimentary and other amenities include a restaurant and full spa.

6. Luxx Boutique Hotel, 105 E Marcy Street, Santa Fe

It’s easy to walk right past Luxx without registering that the hotel is there. That’s because the lower level of the building houses an excellent sushi restaurant and also a gourmet juice bar - talk about convenient! The 16 rooms available at this eco-friendly, family-owned establishment are equipped with rain showerheads and organic bath products. Other amenities include free wifi and access to Netflix. Pets are welcome here and the location is within easy walking distance of the Plaza.

7. Casa Blanca Inn, 505 E La Plata Street, Farmington

The Casa Blanca Inn bills itself as a luxury B&B - so essentially a boutique hotel. The gorgeous grounds complete with courtyards and a fountain make this property ideal for relaxation. The 9 rooms available feature extras like robes and coffee bean grinders. Additional amenities include a lending library and breakfast buffet.

8. Hotel Artesia, 203 N 2nd Street, Artesia

Artesia isn’t the first place that comes to mind when you think of boutique hotels so the Hotel Artesia’s fun yet funky design comes as a pleasant surprise. This establishment isn’t as slick as some of the others on this list but it does provide guests with free parking, breakfast, and wifi.

9. Hotel La Fonda de Taos,108 South Plaza, Taos

Hotel La Fonda de Taos is the one hotel in town that’s located on the Plaza. It has a long history and has hosted some big names. Think Judy Garland, Georgia O'Keeffe, Tennessee Williams, Julia Roberts, Rock Hudson and many more. If it was good enough for stars of the literary, film, and stage…

Do you like to stay in boutique hotels? Have you been to any on this list?

For other unique hotel suggestions, check out this past article. If you prefer to stay in a more rural setting, these glampgrounds and campgrounds might be just what you’re looking for.