New Mexico
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🏜️ Top Attractions Along Route 66 in New Mexico
Santa Fe New Mexico
Explore the Santa Fe Plaza
The heart of downtown Santa Fe for nearly 400 years, the Plaza remains the central part of the city. Surrounded by historic buildings, museums, shops, and restaurants, it’s a vibrant gathering place that hosts annual events like the Santa Fe Indian Market and Spanish Market.
Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
Dedicated to the life and work of the iconic American artist, this museum houses an extensive collection of O’Keeffe’s paintings, drawings, and personal artifacts, offering insight into her creative process and influence.
Tucumcari New Mexico
Marvel at the Neon Lights
Tucumcari is renowned for its vibrant neon signs that illuminate the night sky along Route 66. These glowing displays harken back to the golden age of road travel, offering a nostalgic ambiance that’s perfect for evening strolls and photography. The neon signs at the Blue Swallow Motel is Beautiful.
Visit Tee Pee Curios
A quintessential Route 66 souvenir shop, Tee Pee Curios features a distinctive teepee-shaped entrance and a variety of memorabilia. It’s a must-stop for travelers seeking unique gifts and a classic photo opportunity.
Santa Rosa New Mexico
Dive into the Blue Hole
An astonishing natural artesian spring, the Blue Hole boasts crystal-clear waters with a constant temperature of 62°F. It’s a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving, offering a refreshing respite in the desert landscape.
Explore the Route 66 Auto Museum
This museum showcases an impressive collection of vintage cars, classic hot rods, and Route 66 memorabilia. Visitors can admire meticulously restored vehicles and immerse themselves in automotive history.
Grants New Mexico
Drive Through the Route 66 Neon Arch
An 18-foot-tall neon arch shaped like the iconic Route 66 shield, this drive-thru portal in Grants offers a unique photo opportunity. Best visited at dusk when the neon lights illuminate, it’s a fun and memorable stop for travelers.
These attractions provide a blend of historic charm and cultural richness, offering travelers an authentic Route 66 experience through New Mexico.
🏨 Where to Stay on Route 66 in New Mexico
Top-Rated Hotels for a Nostalgic Journey Through the Land of Enchantment
El Rey Court – Santa Fe
Originally built in 1936 along the original Route 66 alignment, this reimagined adobe motor court blends Southwestern charm with modern comforts. Set on five acres with gardens, a mezcal bar, and a pool, it’s a stylish, relaxing stay with vintage soul.
👉 Book on TripAdvisor
La Fonda on the Plaza – Santa Fe
A Santa Fe landmark since 1922, La Fonda offers luxurious rooms steeped in regional character. Located near the original Route 66, it’s a beautiful place to unwind after a day of exploring the Plaza and historic sites.
👉 Book on TripAdvisor
Blue Swallow Motel – Tucumcari
One of the most iconic Route 66 motels in America, the Blue Swallow shines with its neon glow, vintage carports, and personalized service. It’s clean, classic, and full of heart.
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Motel Safari – Tucumcari
A restored 1950s motor inn with a sleek mid-century vibe, Motel Safari offers retro flair with modern touches. Guests love the quiet rooms, helpful owners, and nostalgic atmosphere.
👉 Book on TripAdvisor
El Vado Motel – Albuquerque
This 1937 motor court has been transformed into a lively boutique motel with stylish rooms, a central courtyard, and onsite shops and dining. It’s a fun and comfortable place to stay near Old Town.
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Monterey Motel – Albuquerque
A favorite for its quiet setting and updated retro design, the Monterey Motel sits just off Route 66 near Old Town. Spacious rooms, comfy beds, and a convenient location make it a great choice for travelers.
👉 Book on TripAdvisor
El Rancho Hotel – Gallup
Built in 1936 and once a hotspot for Hollywood stars, El Rancho exudes Old West charm with a grand lobby and rooms named after famous guests. It’s a historic, photogenic stop filled with character.
👉 Book on TripAdvisor
New Mexico Route 66: From Gallup to Tucumcari
Gallup New Mexico Start your journey through New Mexico in Gallup, a vibrant town with strong Native American roots. Visit the El Rancho Hotel, once a favorite of Hollywood stars, and browse the many trading posts for authentic Native crafts. Stop by the Rex Museum to learn about Gallup’s railroad and mining history.
Grants New Mexico, explore the New Mexico Mining Museum and learn about the region’s uranium boom. Nearby, take a scenic detour to El Malpais National Monument for lava flows and ancient volcanic landscapes. The Route 66 Arch and murals downtown make great photo ops.
Bluewater New Mexico As you pass through Bluewater, keep an eye out for the remnants of the Old Crater Trading Post, a relic from the heyday of Route 66. Though no longer open, it stands as a nostalgic reminder of roadside commerce in the desert.
Continental Divide Pause at the Continental Divide marker where water either flows to the Pacific or Atlantic Ocean. It’s a classic roadside photo stop with nearby trading posts offering souvenirs and snacks.
San Fidel & Cubero These small towns offer quiet glimpses into the past with old trading posts, churches, and fading signs of Route 66’s heyday. The views along this stretch are classic New Mexico high desert.
Albuquerque New Mexico In Albuquerque, cruise Central Avenue, the city’s Route 66 corridor. Visit the historic Kimo Theatre, dine at 66 Diner for a retro meal, and explore Old Town for shopping and culture. The ABQ BioPark and Sandia Peak Tramway offer off-route detours worth your time.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Although not on the later alignment of Route 66, Santa Fe was part of the original 1926 route. It offers rich history, stunning adobe architecture, and a thriving arts scene. Walk the Plaza, visit the Palace of the Governors, and enjoy local cuisine at a pueblo-style restaurant. Santa Fe adds culture and beauty to your Route 66 detour.
Pecos & Pecos National Historical Park
East of Santa Fe, stop in Pecos, home to Pecos National Historical Park. This well-preserved site showcases centuries of Southwestern history, including ancient pueblo ruins and remnants of Spanish missions. The park also offers hiking trails with scenic views of the surrounding high plains.
Moriarty New Mexico Known for the Moriarty Historical Museum and nostalgic car culture, this small town features classic diners and Route 66 murals. Stop at the Lewis Antique Auto & Toy Museum to see an impressive collection of vintage cars and memorabilia.
Santa Rosa New Mexico In Santa Rosa, dive into the Blue Hole, a natural spring popular for swimming and scuba diving. Visit the Route 66 Auto Museum, packed with restored classic cars, and enjoy the scenic drive through town lined with vintage neon.
Tucumcari New Mexico End your New Mexico Route 66 adventure in Tucumcari, famous for its glowing neon signs, retro motels, and Route 66 murals. Stay at the historic Blue Swallow Motel, visit the Tucumcari Historical Museum, and explore Mesalands Dinosaur Museum. Snap a photo at Tee Pee Curios and enjoy the nostalgic charm of this well-preserved stretch of the Mother Road.
