1901 University Blvd NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States | (505) 884-2500
Free Wi-Fi and self-parking
Flat-screen TVs with premium channels
Big, clean rooms feature contemporary decor
Seasonal pool is large and heated
Delicious steaks at the award-winning Ranchers Club
The Cantina Lounge features live jazz
No spa
Small fitness center for a hotel of this size
Some highway noise reaches the hotel grounds
With a central location that makes exploring the city convenient, the 12-story Crowne Plaza Albuquerque (formerly the Hilton Albuquerque) towers over the intersection of I-25 and I-40. Lush landscaping helps to create a secluded atmosphere, but the hotel's proximity to two highways does mean that a bit of noise reaches the grounds. Decorative pottery and red tile floors add some Southwestern flair to the lobby and public areas. Guest rooms are spacious and contemporary, but a bit generic. With perks like free Wi-Fi and parking, the Crowne Plaza does offer a better value than some other hotels nearby.
Scene
A spacious property, with a large pool and lovely grounds
Crowne Plaza purchased this hotel from Hilton in 2011 after a renovation was underway on the property. The lobby has a new look, thanks to a New Mexico theme, which includes an adobe fireplace, red tile floors, and decorative pottery. Exploring beyond the lobby reveals three restaurants and a massive hallway leading to a series of meeting rooms.In the courtyard, the large pool is long enough for doing laps and has dozens of lounge chairs for soaking up the abundant New Mexico sunshine. The manicured grounds surrounding the pool area help to create a secluded atmosphere, but it's a little noisy outside due to the highways adjacent to the property.There’s abundant meeting space and the lounges, restaurants, and guest rooms are big, but the windowless fitness center feels cramped considering the hotel’s capacity.
Location
In a central location adjacent to two major highways
Located just off I-25 and I-40, the Crowne Plaza is within an easy drive of many area attractions, such as the Sandia Tram and Old Town. This busy section of town features a variety of restaurants that are within walking distance of the hotel.Sitting along the Rio Grande at an elevation of 5,312-ft, Albuquerque occupies a high desert environment. The city was founded in 1706 by the Spanish as a colonial outpost in the New World. Today, Albuquerque is home to more than 530,000 people of over 70 different ethnicities, including Native Americans, Latinos, and Anglos, making it the largest city in New Mexico. Albuquerque retains connections to the past and its culture in the architecture, artwork, and cuisine to be found throughout the city.Albuquerque is known as a center of high-tech industry and research. The Sandia National Laboratory, General Electric, and Kirtland Air Force Base all call the city home. It’s also the ballooning capital of the world. Albuquerque hosts the International Balloon Fiesta each October, an event that might be the most photographed in the world. Local hot air balloon companies offer rides to visitors year-round.As a four-season city with 300 sunny days a year, Albuquerque has an active community of golfers, hikers, skiers, horseback riders, mountain bikers, and fishermen. The Sandia Mountains just to the east provide a high-altitude respite from the summer heat and many miles of forested trails, and a winter playground featuring Sandia Peak Ski Area. Any visit to Albuquerque is incomplete without a ride on the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway, the longest tram in the world, ascending 2.7 miles from the outskirts of the city to the Sandia Mountains at 10,378 feet.Whatever you do in the outdoors here, be sure to stay well-hydrated - mild temperatures can be deceiving and the high elevation can take its toll on the fittest adventurers.- 10-minute drive to Albuquerque International Airport
Rooms
Clean and spacious, with balconies and some good views of the mountains
The rooms are up-to-date, if generic. The dark wood furniture and earthy red tones give the rooms a warm feel, although the decor is typical of the contemporary chain hotel look. Framed photos of New Mexico landmarks are the lone nod to the local region. Bathrooms are modern with granite counters, stone tile shower walls, and stylish light fixtures.- Flat-screen TVs with premium channels
Features
A huge pool, but no spa
All-Inclusive / Food
Three on-site restaurants, including a lively lounge
The acclaimed Ranchers Club serves up tasty steaks and seafood in an eclectic dining area inspired by cowboys of the Southwest.- Ranchers Club is open daily for dinner. Menu items include seafood, steaks, and wild game.