The owner bought a motor court in the '70s and has added on units in the same style, landscaped it beautifully and offers a unique, charming outdoor hot tub, a delicious New Mexico breakfast offering and employs a very personable staff. If you're looking for something convenient to downtown, at a reasonable price with ambiance, this is it.

My friend and I booked this hotel after reading the reviews. We are so happy that we did! We loved it, the charm and unique feel of the hotel made us feel special. The staff was wonderful, from check in, to the awesome guy who came out at night and lit the fireplace at the hot tub for us to the grounds keepers and I can't forget to mention the lovely lady at breakfast-think her name was Lilly, she was so sweet offering everyone a fresh tortilla. The room itself was clean and of course had a vintage feel but thats why you stay at the El Rey to see and do something different, something unique to Santa Fe not a chain hotel. I slept great, the bed was comfy, the noise level was low, some reviews commented on it being loud but I did not hear anything and I am a fussy sleeper. The soak in the amazing outdoor hot tub could have helped me drift off but whatever it was, I will be back El Rey, thanks so much, oh one last thing the hotel is close to everything, good food, shopping, downtown easy to get to as well-just perfect.

What a great surprise the El Rey Inn is! I was expecting your typical mom-and-pop motel experience -- clean but outdated, a bit tired but lovingly cared for. What I got was a completely updated and modern room that retained much of its original charm. My mother, sister, niece, and I shared a room with three beds, and the nice surprise was that I had my own room with the third bed (which is always good when you travel with three people who have to sleep with the TV on)! The bathroom was small but clean and functional, and it included plenty of thick towels for all four of us. The room itself had a fridge and a huge wardrobe with plenty of storage space and an extra blanket or two for cool evenings. Our room was very quiet, the beds were extremely comfortable, and we had plenty of hot water for showers.

The unexpected bonus of the El Rey Inn was the charming outdoor hot tub/seating area/fireplace. What a great way to spend a relaxing evening after wandering around Santa Fe all day! There's also a sauna, another hot tub, and lots of seating in the lush courtyards scattered around the property. It's a real paradise ... and all right off old Route 66, too! In addition, the El Rey offers up a pretty hearty breakfast in a lovely dining setting that can't be beat.

While we paid more than we're used to for the room, the elegance and charm of the El Rey Inn quickly won us over, and we won't hesitate to stay here on our next visit. Highly recommend!

This was our third visit, the last was 15 years ago. Room #23 was great with a kiva to enjoy and with extra room.The sunny breakfast parlor and attentive staff, make for a delightful experience. Close to downtown and the sights of Canyon Road. Trader joe's is close, as well as Jackalope.