As the stunning and vibrant capital of New Mexico, Santa Fe is a popular hotspot for travelers. It features tons of must-visit attractions, like museums, art galleries, and historic sites. There are so many things to do in the city that spending a day or two in the city certainly won’t be enough. Thankfully, the city has no shortage of amazing hotels! However, you should know that staying in Santa Fe can be expensive. So, if you’re on a budget, we highly recommend staying in a cheap hotel in Santa Fe NM. To help you out, we’ve picked some of the best options in the city. Though affordable, many of them boast luxury facilities. Of course, there are also many complimentary perks that you can enjoy. Keep scrolling for our full list!
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Drury Plaza Hotel
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You don’t have to stay in a luxury Santa Fe hotel to have a memorable trip, and this hotel is proof! The Drury Plaza Hotel is a three-star hotel that doesn’t disappoint. It’s an ideal pick for those looking for a cheap hotel in Santa Fe NM, close to the art galleries and museums. The Georgia O Keeffe Museum, Museum of International Folk Art, and New Mexico History Museum are all nearby. If you’re into outdoor adventures, you’ll be thrilled to know that the Santa Fe Ski Area is only a 35-minute drive away from the hotel! After a fun day out, you can head back and relax in the jacuzzi or enjoy a drink or two at the on-site bar.
Each air-conditioned room on the property is immaculately clean, spacious, and comfy. The in-room amenities include a work desk, microwave, mini-fridge, and free toiletries. Speaking of free stuff, there’s also a free hot breakfast that you can enjoy every morning! Other notable amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness center, a business center, vending machines, and a 24-hour front desk.
Inn of the Governors
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The Inn of the Governors is a cheap hotel in Santa Fe NM, that features 100 stunning guestrooms. This abode-style hotel has four different types of rooms to choose from. We’re sure budget-conscious travelers will love the King Room. Featuring a Native American rug and free Wi-Fi, it’s spacious, clean, and comfortable. You can also chill in the seating area while enjoying the shows on the flat-screen TV.
When you’re not relaxing in the room, you’ll probably find yourself swimming in the outdoor pool. Named one of the best hotels with pools in Santa Fe, the pool can be accessed for free. Speaking of which, parking at this hotel is free too! Set in downtown Santa Fe, you can rest assured that you’ll never be far away from the places you want to visit. The Plaza, New Mexico History Museum, Georgia O Keeffe Museum, and more are just a short walk away.
Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo Thunder
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Set near the Santa Fe Opera complex, Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo Thunder is another cheap hotel in Santa Fe NM, that’ll please travelers. If you want to experience a night or two away from downtown, this is the place to be. Since most of the city’s attractions aren’t in the vicinity, this hotel makes sure that it offers you everything you need. For example, there are four on-site restaurants for you to choose from! Whether you’re craving American, Mexican, or Latin American cuisine, you don’t need to go out to fill your stomach.
On top of that, there’s a hidden casino on-site! But if you prefer a relaxing spa session, the on-site Wi’ P’in Spa is a must-visit. Of course, there’s also a swimming pool and fitness center. Meanwhile, each guestroom is fitted with large windows that allow you to admire the magical New Mexican light. We also love how clean the guestroom is! Not to mention, the bathroom is huge and features free toiletries.
La Fonda on the Plaza
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Thanks to its central location and jaw-dropping architecture, La Fonda on the Plaza is seen as the best cheap hotel in Santa Fe NM by many. As the name suggests, this hotel is set in the center of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Countless boutiques, art galleries, as well as restaurants are fighting for a place near the hotel, making it a nice launchpad for exploring this beautiful city. Not to mention, this hotel is pet-friendly!
You don’t always have to venture out to have a nice day, though. For instance, you can pamper yourself with the Sage and Spirit spa treatment in the on-site spa center. Or, you can also take a relaxing dip in the heated swimming pool and work out in the fitness center. Moreover, all rooms feature artwork and headboards handmade by local artists. Apart from the free Wi-Fi, we also love the mini-fridge and Keurig coffee maker that can be found in the cabinet.
Old Santa Fe Inn
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Ideal for budget-minded travelers like you, the Old Santa Fe Inn is located in the heart of the downtown area. Thanks to its super convenient location, you’ll never be bored as there’s always something for you to see and do. Places like The Plaza, Museum of International Folk Art, Georgia O Keeffe Museum, and more are a few minutes’ walk away from the hotel. Not to mention, plenty of restaurants and cafes are scattered around the hotel, so you’ll never spend a day feeling hungry.
At this cheap hotel in Santa Fe NM, the rates include a daily breakfast that features a custom burrito bar, on-site parking, and daily homemade cookies and chips with guacamole. Unfortunately, Wi-Fi isn’t free. Moreover, the guestrooms are decorated with artwork by local artists and handmade furniture. Some also come with a cozy fireplace, but they’re a bit more expensive.
El Rey Court
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This quaint, light-filled hotel is another option that’s worth your attention. El Rey Court is a cheap hotel in Santa Fe NM that was built in 1936. Despite its age, everything at this hotel is well maintained. By staying here, you’ll easily find plenty of restaurants and cafes that can fill your stomach. Meanwhile, some of the city’s hotspots like The New Mexico State Capital, Lensic Performing Arts Center, and The Plaza are only a short drive away from the hotel.
All of the 86 rooms at this hotel have their own unique decoration. They’re spacious and come with standard amenities like a coffee maker, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi. Some even feature a patio! When it comes to the free perks, guests can take advantage of the free private parking and free access to the outdoor swimming pool and fitness center. On top of that, there’s also an on-site bar that’s perfect for free-spirited travelers.
Four Kachinas B&B Inn
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If what you want is a homely bed and breakfast that offers you modern amenities and an unbeatable location, look no further than Four Kachinas B&B Inn. This gay-friendly Santa Fe hotel is your home away from home. The guestrooms at this hotel offer private entrances with their patios! Moreover, each room is well-decorated with hand-crafted furniture and hardwood floors that reflect the city’s unique history. Free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and free spa toiletries are all standards in every room.
What’s more, this cheap hotel in Santa Fe NM, also offers guests a free breakfast every morning. Once the sun rises, wash your face and head down to enjoy fresh fruits, yogurt, baked goods, sweet juices, or a cup of coffee in the dining area. Then, you can visit the Canyon Road Contemporary Art, Sage Creek Gallery, and many other attractions that are only a 10-minute walk from the hotel. After a day in the city, return to the hotel and enjoy its garden courtyard and refreshments in the lounge.
Hotel St Francis
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Only a block from the historic Plaza is Hotel St Francis, a refined, century-old hotel. This cheap hotel in Santa Fe NM is close to the lively downtown area but still offers an insight into the fine culture and history of the city. Some of the city’s top museums like the New Mexico History Museum and Georgia O Keeffe Museum, are only a short walk away. Walk a little bit further, and you’ll be able to admire the artworks in the Museum of International Folk Art. If you’re not familiar with the city and need a guide, feel free to join one of the hotel’s walking tours.
Back to the hotel, there are plenty of amenities that’ll make your stay a pleasant one. Those who want to stay healthy throughout their trip can work out in the on-site fitness center. There’s also free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, so you can always stay connected. When you want to relax, you can spend some time in the fireside seating area in the lobby. The rooms at this hotel are impressive too. Those on a budget can check out the Classic King Room. It might not be the biggest, but it is comfy and beautiful. It has authentic local art and architectural features, high ceilings, and Frette linens.
The Parador
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This cheap hotel in Santa Fe NM is a non-profit hotel that offers you a unique experience. Set in downtown Santa Fe, The Parador is a 200-year-old farmhouse that carries its history through every part of its building. It’s the ideal base for those who appreciate arts and history. Each uniquely furnished guestroom comes with a private entrance, a dining area, and bathrobes! Of course, the bed is comfortable too. Plus, free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms, perfect for budget travelers.
After a good night’s sleep, head down to the restaurant and enjoy the hotel’s hot breakfast, which tastes superb! It features traditional and contemporary Southwest recipes. In short, it’s like nothing you’ve tasted before! Homely and historical, this bright hotel is only three blocks away from the Santa Fe Railyard Arts District and six blocks away from Santa Fe Plaza. Apart from that, you can also enjoy the views of Rio Grande River and Cochiti Lake, which are both a stone’s throw away from the hotel.
Las Palomas
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Charming is the perfect word to describe this cheap hotel in Santa Fe NM. Las Palomas is set in the city’s historic Plaza, so you can expect this hotel to have that old-school look. Thanks to its location, you’ll be only steps away from some of the area’s top shops, restaurants, and attractions. Places like the Georgia O Keeffe Museum, Lensic Performing Arts Center, The Plaza, New Mexico History Museum, and The New Mexico State Capitol can all be reached on foot. Even better, guests arriving by car can park their vehicles free in the hotel’s designated parking area.
Speaking of free perks, you’ll also be able to access the high-speed Wi-Fi and modern fitness center for free. After a long but memorable day, head back to your room and have a quick rest. Each room is individually decorated and comes with either a gas or wood-burning heater to let you have a cozy evening. Even the Studio Room, which is the cheapest, is extremely spacious. There’s also a flat-screen TV, coffee-making facilities, a microwave, and a mini-fridge.
The Sage Hotel
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The Sage Hotel is a beatnik-inspired, cheap hotel in Santa Fe NM that won’t let you down. Sitting on top of this list, it sure knows how to please its guests and treat them like royalty. Upon arrival, you’ll receive a complimentary drink coupon, which can be used in the lively in-house restaurant bar when you’re in the mood for a drink. Apart from that, the English and Spanish-speaking staff members are super friendly too! They’ll be more than happy to help you with anything you need. If you’re wondering where to go during your spare time, we highly recommend visiting Railyard Park, a historic garden and performance space that’s just across the road!
At this hotel, there are 140 spacious rooms in total, which are all decorated with a Native American and Spanish touch. Both the King and Queen Room are fitted with everything you need and more. Things like a flat-screen TV, coffee maker, hairdryer, work desk, ironing facilities, and air conditioning are standards. When it’s time to relax, feel free to take a refreshing dip in the outdoor swimming pool. Or, you can also lift weights in the on-site fitness center.
Top Affordable Bars in Santa Fe
- The Matador – With friendly staff and well-priced drinks, The Matador is one of the most popular dive bars in the city. It serves drinks in a funky space with colorful posters and loud music, making it the perfect place to unwind and forget about everything!
- Evangelo’s – This is a buzzing hangout with tropical decor. It offers a wide array of imported beers, and there are also occasional live music performances.
- The Brakeroom – At this small bar, you can enjoy glasses of beer and wine without breaking your bank. It has more than 15 beer taps, and you can also play checkers at one of the tables.
Top Affordable Restaurants in Santa Fe
- Il Vicino – Those craving pizzas should visit this place! Specializing in wood-fired pizza, you can get an individual-sized pizza for as little as 7.75 USD! Most of them don’t exceed 10 USD. You can also ask them to make the crust extra crispy!
- The Pantry Restaurant – This restaurant has been filling stomachs since 1948. A local favorite, it’s open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and many of its menus are under 10 USD. Plus, the portions are huge.
- Del Charro – Only a few blocks from the historic Santa Fe Plaza, this is the perfect spot for those who want to have hearty food for under 10 USD. One of our favorites is its signature burger, which features locally raised, grass-fed beef.
Free Things To Do in Santa Fe
- Cross of the Martyrs Park – Adjacent to Prince Park and atop a Santa Fe hill, this is one of the city’s most iconic spots. Besides being historically significant, the sunset views from this place are among the best!
- New Mexico History Museum – You can visit this museum for free on Friday evenings between 5 and 7 PM. This museum is part of the state-run Museum of New Mexico. It also hosts temporary exhibitions and special programs throughout the year.
- Santa Fe Bandstand – Want to enjoy free music on the historic Santa Fe Plaza? Great! Santa Fe Bandstand has been bringing diverse music each summer since 2003. The free concerts start at 6 PM and feature both local and national bands.
