Econo Lodge Inn & Suites

This two-story chain property has been nicely updated and maintained. The airy lobby is brightly decorated with cheery, pumpkin-orange walls, terra-cotta floors, and a pretty lighting fixture painted with Southwestern accents. The motif is also on dining chairs, as the space doubles as the breakfast area, with clusters of rustic wood tables. Expect to see budget-conscious tourists—mostly families and couples—who want basic accommodations with ample amenities and some local flavor.

The Econo Lodge is located on Cerrillos Road, a busy thoroughfare that’s lined with hotels, restaurants, and commercial buildings. It stretches for several miles into downtown Santa Fe and the Plaza, which is roughly an 18-minute drive. Several casual restaurants are within five minutes or less on foot, including a Starbucks located in a supermarket. A movie theater is just two minutes away by car, and the landmark Santa Fe Opera House is a 20-minute drive. The Santa Fe Railyard and Santa Fe Municipal Airport are about a 13-minute drive, and it’s approximately 60 minutes to Albuquerque International Airport. The drive north to Taos typically takes between 90 minutes and two hours, depending on the route. 

Guest rooms have a similar look as the hotel's public spaces, done in warm earth tones and sunny accents. All are spacious and well-maintained, with dark-wood furniture that includes desks and dressers, and Southwestern-themed framed prints on walls. Standard units have small tables with chairs, and Larger Suites (King and Double Queens) feature separate seating areas with sofas. Amenities are a plus, with microwaves, mini-fridges, coffeemakers, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms, on the other hand, are on the small side—even with vanities en-suite. All contain shower/tub combos, hairdryers, and basic toiletries. Rooms farther away from the busy road tend to hear less ambient noise. Views of the surrounding area are unremarkable.

This tidy budget hotel's free breakfast buffet is a highlight, with made-to-order omelets, a pancake maker, and a range of hot and cold items. The seasonal, heated outdoor pool with an adjacent whirlpool is a nice perk, particularly for the many families staying here. It's situated in a private, walled-off area with chairs and tables. Other amenities include a guest computer in the lobby, laundry room with one washer/dryer, valet dry cleaning and laundry service, and vending machines. On-site parking and Wi-Fi throughout are free. Guests with limited mobility should be aware that the hotel lacks an elevator, and may want to request a first-floor room.