MileHacker Logo
Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Southwest, USA

Accommodation Types

Diverse Lodging Choices

  • Hostels

    Very limited options, mainly for budget-conscious travelers. Offer shared dormitories and sometimes private rooms.

  • Motels

    Budget-friendly to mid-range options along Paseo del Pueblo Sur. Basic amenities and convenient driving access.

  • Hotels

    Selection from reliable chain properties to independently owned hotels with local character.

  • Resorts

    Larger properties with extensive amenities, some near Taos Ski Valley.

Distinctive Local Stays

  • Adobe-style B&Bs and Inns

    Many accommodations embrace traditional Pueblo Revival architecture with intimate settings and personalized service.

  • Casitas/Guesthouses

    Private, self-contained units for rent, often with more privacy and space, sometimes including a small kitchen.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Abundant options, from charming casitas to large homes, often with full kitchens and private outdoor spaces.

  • Apartments

    Fewer dedicated apartment rentals for short-term stays, though many vacation rentals are apartment-style units.

Neighborhood Guide

Each area of Taos presents a different character.

Taos Plaza/Downtown

Benefits
  • Historic and cultural heart, bustling with activity.
  • Art galleries, unique shops, diverse restaurants.
  • Pedestrian-friendly environment.
  • Very safe area with high foot traffic.
Considerations
  • Can be noisy, especially in evenings or during events.
  • Accommodation prices generally higher.
  • Parking may be limited.

Paseo del Pueblo Sur

Benefits
  • Often features more budget-friendly lodging.
  • Easy access to main roads for exploring beyond town.
  • Mix of chain motels and various conveniences.
Considerations
  • Less charming than the Plaza area.
  • Can be busy with vehicle traffic.
  • Fewer unique local businesses.

Paseo del Pueblo Norte

Benefits
  • Quieter, more residential atmosphere.
  • Good value vacation rentals.
  • Near Taos Pueblo, great for northern excursions.
Considerations
  • Driving for most amenities.
  • Limited foot traffic access to downtown.
  • Fewer immediate dining options.

Further Outposts

Arroyo Seco

A quaint, artistic village 10 miles north of Taos. Tranquil escape with mountain views, close to Taos Ski Valley and hiking trails. Requires driving for most services.

Taos Ski Valley

A dedicated mountain village 18 miles northeast of Taos. Ski-in/ski-out access in winter. Higher prices, especially in peak season, remote from Taos town.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking strategies secure preferred accommodations at favorable rates.

Booking Methods

  • Online Booking Platforms: Wide selection, easy price comparison, user reviews. May include commission fees, less flexibility.
  • Direct with Property: Often best rates, greater flexibility for special requests, direct communication. Research per property.
  • Walk-in Rates: Potential for last-minute deals during low season. No availability guarantee, limited selection.
  • Vacation Rental Sites: Access to unique properties, kitchens, more space. Cleaning fees may apply, stricter cancellation policies. (Vrbo, Airbnb)

Advance Booking

  • High Season (Summer, Fall Foliage, Winter Ski): Book 3-6 months in advance, especially for popular properties.
  • Shoulder Season (Spring, Late Fall): Booking 1-3 months in advance generally fine.
  • Low Season (April, November): 2-4 weeks in advance usually sufficient for good selection.
  • Specific dates like holidays or major festivals warrant earlier bookings.

Policies & Fluctuations

Deposit and Cancellation Policies
  • Hotels: Credit card guarantee common. Cancellation often 24-72 hours prior for full refund.
  • Vacation Rentals: Stricter policies, often 30-60 days' notice for full refund. Deposit frequently required.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Highest prices: Peak ski season (mid-Dec-March), summer (July-Aug), fall foliage (late Sept-mid-Oct).
  • Lower prices: Late spring (April-May) and late fall (November).

Important Reminders

Policy Review

Carefully read deposit and cancellation policies for any booking before confirmation, especially for non-refundable rates.

Affiliate Links

Consider using links from Booking.com, Agoda, IHG Hotels, or Hostelworld for your search.

Unique Stays

For vacation rentals, check Vrbo or Airbnb. For house-sitting, see TrustedHousesitters.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some recommended properties in Taos, categorized by budget and traveler type.

Top Picks by Budget

Budget Stays

For travelers prioritizing cost savings.

  • Motel 6 Taos: Clean, basic, and consistently affordable.
  • The Historic Taos Inn (budget rooms): Icon property, some smaller rooms may offer accessible prices.
Mid-Range Comfort

Balancing comfort and local character.

  • Hampton Inn Taos: Reliable chain, good amenities, often includes breakfast.
  • El Pueblo Lodge: Well-regarded local option with classic Taos feel.

Luxury & Unique Stays

Luxury Retreats

Upscale options for indulgence.

  • Hotel Luna Mystica: Unique vintage trailer park glamping experience.
  • Palacio de Marquesa: Luxurious boutique inn, elegant and personalized service.
Mountain Luxury

Ideal for a mountain-focused luxury stay.

  • The Blake at Taos Ski Valley: Upscale hotel with ski-in/ski-out access and resort amenities.

Family-Friendly Options

  • Sagebrush Inn & Suites

    Offers a pool, spacious rooms, and deals for families. Accommodates larger groups.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Many VRBO/Airbnb options are ideal; multiple bedrooms, full kitchens, private outdoor spaces for flexibility.

  • More Space

    Rental properties provide more room and flexibility than standard hotel rooms.

  • Meal Prep

    Full kitchens in rentals permit meal preparation, a benefit for families.

Solo Traveler & Long-Stay Options

  • The Historic Taos Inn (Solo)

    Central location, lively Adobe Bar, historic charm fosters connection with the town's social scene.

  • Hostels (Solo)

    For budget-conscious solo travelers seeking a communal atmosphere, opportunities to connect. (e.g., The Abominable Snowmansion)

  • Vacation Rentals (Long-Stay)

    Best for stays longer than a week; full kitchens, more living space, discounts for extended visits.

  • Extended Stay Hotels (Long-Stay)

    Limited in Taos; consider options in Santa Fe or Albuquerque for very long regional stays.

Properties with Cultural or Historical Significance

The Historic Taos Inn

Registered historic landmark since the 1930s. Features adobe architecture, a famously cozy lobby, and rich local lore and artistic connections.

  • Explore its unique character.
  • Visit the Adobe Bar for live music.
  • Admire the traditional design.
Hotel La Fonda de Taos

Located on Taos Plaza, known for housing D.H. Lawrence's controversial "forbidden paintings." Check current availability for visits.

  • Directly on the historic Plaza.
  • Unique choice for culture enthusiasts.

Camping and Outdoor Accommodation

Campgrounds

Numerous options within Carson National Forest, including developed campgrounds (e.g., Taos Canyon Campground) and dispersed camping areas.

RV Parks

Several RV parks near Taos, with hookups for water, electricity, and sewer, and amenities like restrooms and showers.

Glamping

Some private properties or operators in the region offer glamping experiences, like furnished tents or yurts (e.g., Hotel Luna Mystica's vintage trailers).