0ct. 30, 2002

I’d passed the El Rancho Hotel in Gallup, New Mexico, many times without even thinking of stopping, but this time I had called ahead and found a vacancy on the third floor for the more than reasonable price of forty-six dollars with a AAA discount.  The cost fit my budget, and the place looked intriguing.

The hotel opened in 1937 and has been a temporary home to many celebrity guests, including Katherine Hepburn, Spencer Tracy, Kirk Douglas, and Ronald Reagan. Streets of Laredo, Rocky Mountain, Fort Defiance, and The Hallelujah Trail are only a few of the films made in the local area. The mezzanine level walls were covered with autographed photographs.

I checked in and soon found myself getting settled in the “Peter Graves” room, #303.  It was cozy but comfortable, and it offered all the needed amenities: a private bath, phone, TV, and writing desk. I tested my Internet access—first things first, of course—then headed downstairs to explore and find something to eat.

The two-story lobby was impressive, with elegant, curving stairs and a huge stone fireplace. A three-tiered wagon-wheel chandelier hung above heavy wood tables and chairs, where guests could visit with each other or simply curl up and read. Navajo rugs and trophy heads added to the atmosphere. Display cases held Native American jewelry and art, available for sale in the gift shop.

Just beyond the lobby and gift shop I found a seat in the El Rancho Restaurant, where I ordered a baked chicken dinner special. A table nearby seemed exceptionally delighted with their meal, some combination of southwest specialties, served with green chili. I made a mental note to go with that choice next time. Still, it felt good to have a “normal meal”—meaning anything but granola bars while driving—and then get back to my room.

I slept well in spite of passing trains, which is just part of the Route 66 experience. The price was a bargain for what this lodging offers. Breakfast was not included, so I started the day with another “normal meal” in the same restaurant, and then took time off to browse through the gift shop before checking out.

The problem with a quick trip across the country is not having time to see nearby sights.  Gallup, New Mexico, makes a great home base for exploring Canyon de Chelly, Zuni Pueblo, Painted Desert, Red Rock State Park, and Chaco Canyon, among other New Mexico offerings. But I was headed to Santa Fe that night, so I threw myself in the car and hit the highway.