El Vado Auto Court

El Vado Auto Court is a Spanish Pueblo Revival motel on Route 66 with two single-story buildings separated by a central plaza containing a fountain, swimming pool, and outdoor seating areas. The structure was built in 1937 with signature design features including exposed roof beams, undulating rooflines, and buttressed walls.

The motel was built in 1937 by Daniel Murphy as lodging for Route 66 travelers passing through the region. The City of Albuquerque acquired the property in 2005 and worked to preserve it, leading to its listing on the National Register of Historic Places.

The name El Vado comes from Spanish and means "the ford". The building displays traditional Spanish-Pueblo elements such as exposed roof beams and curved rooflines that remain visible today and reflect local building customs.

The property sits on Central Avenue SW and is easily accessible on foot, with the original structure now partially used for retail and dining purposes. Visitors can explore the complex that includes 32 rooms and various outdoor areas, allowing time to appreciate the architectural details and the central plaza.

The original carports have been fitted with dark glass panels to maintain their historical look while serving modern needs. This adaptation shows how the property balances contemporary requirements with its vintage character.