Staying Over
Yes, it's 2 miles from the Plaza (the thriving cog of downtown's wheel), so you have to drive in, but the El Rey Inn is the best $95 you'll spend for a night's stay. If the rooms feel a bit cramped, spread out in the courtyards and by the pool.

The Santa Fe Motel & Inn's modest, comfortable rooms (rates start at $109) live a little larger, and you're an easy walk downtown from here.

For a room in the heart of it all, stay at the Hotel Plaza Real (rates start at $189) just off the Plaza. You can't beat the location, and the peaceful courtyard is a bonus.

above: Make your way through the numerous shops down by the Palace of the Governors.