El Rey Inn, Historic motor court hotel in Santa Fe, New Mexico
El Rey Inn is a hotel in Santa Fe built with adobe structures in traditional southwestern style, spread across a spacious grounds with courtyards and common areas. The rooms vary in design and often include fireplaces, small patios, or kitchenettes, with many decorated in regional artwork and textiles using warm color schemes.
The hotel was founded in 1936 along the famous Route 66, serving as a gathering place for travelers on this historic road. Current owners Jay and Alison Carroll have updated the property while deliberately preserving its original structure to maintain the building's historical integrity.
The name recalls its Route 66 heritage, and the space honors local traditions through regional artwork and textiles displayed throughout. Guests experience Santa Fe's character directly through the southwestern design choices and the bar's focus on mezcal and tequila, drinks central to the area's culture.
The hotel features outdoor pools, hot tubs, and fireplaces available seasonally, with day passes and memberships for pool access. On-site laundry facilities, pet-friendly rooms for a small fee, and a bar open late into the evening make it practical for various visitor needs.
The bar La Reina serves mezcal and tequila late into the evening, along with about a dozen homemade tamales daily until they run out, an uncommon offering in Santa Fe. The staff is mostly women who create a welcoming atmosphere and serve drinks to visitors well after other local establishments have closed.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
