Historic El Rancho Hotel

"After driving past Gallup for decades, we decided to stop and check out the town and historic El Rancho Hotel. While the room may have been a little small compared to today's standard, it was up to date and super clean. All the staff we encountered were very friendly and made us feel welcome. The history, architecture, and celebrity pictures made the visit extra special. We opted for the breakfast package, which was a great deal and the room rate was very reasonable as well. Stay in the original hotel portion instead of the later added motel, if possible, you won’t be disappointed!"

"I was really looking forward to staying at this hotel, and it absolutely surpassed my expectations! As soon as you walk in, you’re surrounded by a mix of true Indian culture and Old world stardom, in the way of all the stars head shots upstairs. The rooms are themed by old legend movie stars. I have been a Lucille Ball fan since I was six years old. I genuinely didn’t think I would get lucky enough to have the Lucille Ball room. Shelley at the front desk, was the absolute sweetest person ever! She was so welcoming and kind. I mentioned Lucille Ball and she told me that the room was open and I could have it. I literally started to cry. The rooms are absolutely incredible! They are updated and have a new feel, while still maintaining the historical aspect. I highly recommend this hotel if you are passing through. If you get Shelly at the front desk, consider yourself lucky! Be kind to her!"

"I had a last minute trip to Gallup on a Sunday evening & I didn't want to drive 2hrs back to my home in Albuquerque. So I got a room. The night manager, Shelly was amazing. Gave me the history of the hotel, found me a great room and gave great food recommendations. The food was awesome and great service. It is a beautiful historical western hotel that is covered in old Hollywood History that you can see & feel. I will be back Thank you Historic El Rancho Hotel staff."

"I lived in the area for a couple of years, but never got a chance to stay here until this most recent visit. Needless to say, interior is as beautiful as the exterior, and far more than just a regionally themed Southwestern hotel, El Rancho also serves as a time capsule - filled with little vintage tidbits, art, books, murals, and the story of New Mexico throughout this period including the conquistadors, the cowboys, and pueblo Native Americans - as well as Hollywood’s depictions of it. The Southwestern motif is homey, colorful, plush, and rugged all at once. Somehow, the rooms are adorable and cozy without feeling cluttered, especially if you’re lucky enough to stay on the hotel side facing Historic Route 66 with a functioning window - It truly feels like a moving picture of Gallup, New Mexico. The restaurant is excellent for breakfast and dinner, and I’m sure the motel side is also very comfortable to stay in. The bathrooms and showers in particular were absolutely gorgeous—easily as nice as any 4-star chain property. Also, the gift shop is as authentic as any of the trading posts I frequented during my time as a local...so be sure to stop in and grab something! Lastly, locals say the place is haunted...but I found the spirits to either look like someone I know, or be as friendly as any of the locals walking around Gallup. Well done, Ortega family. I hope that some of the wonderful business and reputation that truly make El Rancho feel like the center of Gallup - rub off on our beautiful town in the coming years. There is just as much potential there now as there was in the 1890s. I will be back to visit my friends in Zuni, and I will make sure to stay here every time. Thank you, Omar"

"It was my best friend's birthday and she wanted to go look at historic americana's and so once we got there it was a complete vibe. It's got a beautiful array of things to look at and tons of history. The staff is super friendly and amazing❤️. If you don't stay there at least go for the learning experience."