Experience Route 66 through New Mexico
Route 66 cuts through the heart of New Mexico, blending Southwestern culture, striking desert scenery, and historic towns that bring the Mother Road’s spirit to life. From Tucumcari and Santa Rosa to Albuquerque and Gallup, this stretch offers colorful signs, classic motels, legendary diners, and wide-open landscapes.
You’ll find a blend of local art, adobe architecture, and iconic roadside stops that give this stretch of Route 66 its own distinct character. And along the way, Choice Hotels offers convenient places to stay, keeping you close to many of the route’s most popular attractions
Top Route 66 stops in New Mexico
Blue Swallow Motel (Tucumcari) — Famous for its glowing neon sign and preserved 1940s-style motor court charm.
Route 66 Auto Museum (Santa Rosa) — Home to classic cars, memorabilia, and retro Americana in a vibrant, colorful setting.
Albuquerque’s Central Avenue — The longest urban stretch of Route 66, filled with vintage neon, diners, murals, and local shops.
66 Diner (Albuquerque) — A beloved retro diner known for its turquoise décor, milkshakes, and classic New Mexican plates.
Gallup Cultural Center — A museum and gallery space celebrating Native American art, Route 66 travelers, and Gallup’s historic railroad connection.
Scenic and historic highlights
Tee Pee Curios (Tucumcari) — A roadside trading post recognizable by its giant concrete teepee façade.
Red Rock Park (near Gallup) — Dramatic sandstone cliffs and scenic viewpoints surrounding the route.
Choice Hotels along Route 66 in New Mexico
With Route 66 passing through several of New Mexico’s most iconic towns and cities, you’ll find Choice Hotels properties in locations like Tucumcari, Santa Rosa, Albuquerque, and Gallup, offering reliable stays close to the Mother Road.