Hotel El Rancho

Nice room with a western/retro/Hollywood vibe. Classic lobby, great gift shop. Restaurant food and service were very good. This was our third stay here and won’t be our last.

I am sure that Lightning McQueen must have stayed here! Very nicely apportioned rooms with very cool stuff in the room with nice bedding.

The hotel was well located and the decor was charming. We enjoyed the restaurant for breakfast. Our room was comfortable but small. The bathroom was ridiculously small, and it was hard to even shut the door while in the bathroom. We enjoyed our stay but the bathroom was our only complaint.

Hotel El Rancho in Gallup isn’t just a place to stay—it’s an experience. Beautifully restored to preserve its golden-era charm, this historic landmark feels like a movie set where time stood still. From the moment you enter the grand lobby, you’re transported to the days when Western film stars roamed the halls—and you just might find yourself imagining a young John Wayne checking in beside you. The original elevator is a treasure in itself. A word to the wise: it’s not automatic—so slide that door manually and enjoy the ride (a fun little puzzle for first-timers). Our room on the 3rd floor was comfortable with a thoughtfully redone bathroom and modern shower. The only drawback? The room stayed a bit warm overnight—hovering around 78°, despite our efforts, but it was fine once settled and wouldn’t keep me from booking again. The number one must-do? Schedule a tour with the hotel historian, Leroy. He’s a walking encyclopedia of El Rancho lore and brings the hotel’s storied past to life with fascinating facts and behind-the-scenes tales. You’ll never look at a bookshelf the same again after finding your way through the secret passage. Don’t forget to enjoy a cocktail in the bar where Hollywood legends once unwound, and pop into the gift shop, which is impressively merchandised with high-quality Southwestern goods and unique finds. While we didn’t try the onsite restaurant, it looked like a convenient option for guests. If you’re traveling Route 66 or just love vintage charm, Hotel El Rancho is a magical stop you won’t forget.

Worst place ever as there is a four pint rule, I am old enough to know my limits in my 50's what a joke. Go somewhere else please

I feel like I walked back in time. I love that even though remodeled that the eclectic charm was intact. The only issue was that the pool was not available especially with this heat, it would have been nice to take a cool dip in the pool. We will definitely be back.