Hotels in Placitas

Placitas: Embrace Nature's Canvas in the Heart of New Mexico

Nestled between the majestic Sandia Mountains and the high desert, Placitas, New Mexico, is a hidden gem that beckons nature lovers and seekers of tranquility. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, this charming village offers access to stunning hiking trails, including the nearby Cibola National Forest, where colorful rock formations and vibrant wildflowers abound. Immerse yourself in the local culture with art galleries and unique shops, or take a short drive to historic Santa Fe for a taste of Southwestern heritage. With its serene atmosphere and captivating views, Placitas is an enchanting escape from the everyday. For the best hotel rates in Placitas, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Placitas

Some of the best places to stay in Placitas are Northeast Heights, Downtown Albuquerque and North Valley. Placitas, New Mexico, offers travelers a serene escape with stunning desert landscapes and proximity to Albuquerque's vibrant culture. For first-time visitors, Downtown Albuquerque is ideal, showcasing art, dining, and attractions. Northeast Heights provides modern accommodations with easy access to the Sandia Mountains, while North Valley offers a more rustic charm with local farms and parks. Each area features a range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to upscale resorts, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler. Here are some of the best hotels in Placitas that our travelers love:

1. Northeast HeightsOpens in a new window: Northeast Heights is an ideal area for families and adventure seekers, featuring attractions like Balloon Fiesta Park for outdoor fun and Sandia Casino for entertainment. This neighborhood offers a mix of family-friendly activities and city conveniences. For accommodations, consider Sandia Resort And CasinoOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star resort with a casino theme, golf options, and a full spa service, perfect for relaxation. Another option is Marriott AlbuquerqueOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel catering to business travelers and adventurers alike, offering meeting facilities and nearby adventure sports. Additionally, Crowne Plaza Albuquerque, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window provides a similar experience with a focus on business amenities and outdoor activities.
2. Downtown AlbuquerqueOpens in a new window: Downtown Albuquerque is a vibrant hub of culture and business, with attractions like the University of New Mexico and the Albuquerque Convention Center. This area is great for families and those attending events. For a comfortable stay, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel AlbuquerqueOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel that welcomes pets, featuring business amenities and facilities for children. Hotel Andaluz Albuquerque, Curio Collection by HiltonOpens in a new window is another 4.0-star option with a boutique feel and unique decor, ideal for families and business travelers. Lastly, The Clyde HotelOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel located in the city center, offering family-friendly services and business facilities.
3. North ValleyOpens in a new window: North Valley is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a blend of culture and entertainment, with attractions like Balloon Fiesta Park and Sandia Casino. This area offers a unique landscape and recreational opportunities. For lodging, Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort & SpaOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star resort with business amenities and golfing options, ideal for adventure seekers. Loba Luna Bed & BreakfastOpens in a new window is a cozy 3.5-star bed and breakfast that welcomes pets and provides business facilities. Additionally, Albuquerque Marriott Pyramid NorthOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel that offers a range of adventure sports and business amenities, making it suitable for both leisure and work.

What to do in Placitas

Three days in Placitas offers travelers a chance to immerse themselves in stunning natural landscapes, featuring rolling mountains, lush forests, and expansive parks. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and scenic drives, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers seeking tranquility and adventure. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Placitas:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Balloon Fiesta Park, where you can witness the breathtaking sight of colorful hot air balloons filling the sky. After soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, head to the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park. Here, explore the beautiful trails and keep an eye out for local wildlife as you immerse yourself in the natural beauty of New Mexico. Finally, make your way to Corrales Bosque, a serene spot perfect for a leisurely walk along the river, surrounded by cottonwood trees and the soothing sounds of nature.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at Sandia Crest, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the mountaintop. Afterward, visit The Old Schoolhouse Gallery, a charming art space showcasing local artists' works that reflect the unique culture of the area. Conclude your day with a trip to the Gallery of the Sandias, where you can appreciate stunning art inspired by the Sandia Mountains and perhaps find a special piece to take home.
• Day 3: Start your morning at the J&R Vintage Auto Museum, where classic cars tell stories of the past and ignite nostalgia. Next, make your way to the Plein Air New Mexico Gallery, showcasing beautiful landscapes and scenes captured by talented local artists. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Coronado Historic Site, where you can delve into the rich history of the area and learn about the Spanish exploration of New Mexico. This combination of culture and history will leave you with lasting memories of your trip.

5 tips to find a great Placitas hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those looking to visit Placitas on a budget, the most affordable months are January, November, and December, when hotel prices drop significantly. To truly appreciate the area’s natural parks and other highlights, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended. This timeframe allows you to enjoy a great value for money while exploring the beautiful attractions that Placitas has to offer.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Placitas, you're in luck! Hotels.com offers a variety of options that may feature discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To explore these options, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. You could find great availability and flexible booking options that fit your needs. Additionally, consider turning on email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you save on your stay in Placitas.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Placitas.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying closer to major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider looking for hotels in neighborhoods that are less central, striking a balance between cost and the ease of reaching the sites you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Placitas and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

Best time to go to Placitas

Placitas experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 32.7°F (0.4°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 76.5°F (24.7°C). July tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Placitas are March to May, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by dry rainfall. In contrast, January, October, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by dry rainfall and sunny conditions.