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Hi all, I just made a late change to my reservation and I am now going to Albuquerque, does anyone know a nice hotel near the Amtrak station? The closest hotel which is the Hyatt Regency is sold out. Im looking for a 3-4 star hopefully in walking distance.
Also, Any suggestions on some sights to see in Albuquerque?
Thanks!
sojourner Member # 3134
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I did not stay in Albuquerque--went thru on may way to/from Flagstaff, but stayed in Lamy/Santa Fe instead. But I have info on it for future stays. A historic hotel (but only 3 diamonds in Triple A) is La Posada de Albuquerque, which according to an article I read is where Conrad Hilton took Zsa Zsa Gabor when she was his bride; it's on Central Av (Route 66) downtown. A main thing to see is the Old Town, a short taxi ride from the train/bus station. The Sheraton Old Town in that area is also 3 diamonds. (The only hotel to which the Triple A gives 4 diamonds is that Hyatt you mention.) Another main thing to see is the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science, not far from Old Town.
Kiernan Member # 3828
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There are lots of hotels along Central Avenue, but as I drive past them they look of dubious quality. The Doubletree is is just a few blocks past the Hyatt Regency and is a new hotel, it opened last spring. When I've stayed in Albuquerque I've stayed at the Monterey Non-smokers Motel on Central Avenue near Old Town. You could get the bus (#66 or #76) to the hotel.
RRCHINA Member # 1514
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Starlight, Check with AMTRAK but I think there is a NEW Alvarado Hotel adjacent to the track and it is supposed to be very nice. You may recall that Santa Fe had a hotel at this location, with the same name, which was operated by Fred Harvey. Albuquerque is trying to recreate that atmosphere. I think this has just been open a short time.
chile2 Member # 3110
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I too would like to know if there is anything spiffy right near the station that's walk-able. I have stayed at the La Quinta near the airport a couple of times. Good enough rooms and near chain type eateries; on a busy intersection. They used to offer a free shuttle to and from the station; only about 10 min. away by car. However, it is not within walking distance of the station.
Kiernan Member # 3828
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The Alvarado is a transit center, not a hotel. The Alvarado Hotel was torn down in 1968 when the Fred Harvey Company was sold. And I correct myself, it's the Embassy Suites that opened last spring.
Downtown Albuquerque, while not entirely dead, is somewhat sick. There isn't much at all within walking distance of the station, aside from the Hyatt Regency and the Doubletree. Fortunately, the bus runs along Central Avenue, so it's easy to get to any of the hotels along Route 66. There is a bus route that runs from the Alvarado Transit Center to the airport, and it probably stops close to La Quinta.
sojourner Member # 3134
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Correcting my info: La Posada isn't as fancy as I thought; I corrected the info above.
CoastStarlight99 Member # 2734
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I ony booked one night with Amtrak, I would like atleast 3 stars and im willing to take a taxi..what is a nice one near the real heart of this city? thanks again
I must say someone did do a job of emulating the former Fred Harvey hotel, which I had occasion to see once or twice in this life.
sbalax Member # 2801
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Thanks for the links, Mr. Norman. Sadly, the Amtrak Station will remain as is from all than I've heard here.
Frank in dark SBA
chile2 Member # 3110
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Though a native New Mexican, I have to admit I'm rather uninformed about stateside accommodations---but here's what little I know.
Downtown ABQ has revived a good deal, but hasn't quite 'arrived'. It's busy enough during the day on weekdays with office workers. This is the 'heart' I guess, of the city, which is a typical sprawling Southwestern one. Keep your expectations modest on this downtown. The other area that has hotels is "Old Town". This is a more historic area with tourist type shops and adobe buildings; not as spiffy as Santa Fe, but one can walk around the pleasant enough area. You'd have to take a cab or bus there. The airport area isn't too far from the train station via cab or shuttle, but is decidedly utilitarian in ambiance. A quick night's sleep and a place to park the car. I would agree that Central Ave.motels can be given a miss by all but the most frugal. One site I've found is good for hotel reviews is www.tripadvisor.com. These are actual people's reviews and include tidbits about nearby restaurants, etc.
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