If you want to visit the Taos Pueblo, you might check ahead to make sure it is open when you choose to go. It was closed when I tried to visit. They have a lot of private gatherings, etc. going on. One day was enough for Taos, Santa Fe is the best.

Glad to hear you liked the look of Plaza Real. Let me just emphasize, this is not a fancy hotel. There is no restaurant (there is a bar). Access to most rooms is by stairs. Service at the front desk is just adequate, but not overly helpful. But it's close and clean! And, it has a refrigerator and fireplace. It also has the sink outside the bathroom, which is a big plus for me. I can blow dry hair and do makeup while he's showering... We like to stay at La Fonda as well, but certainly the price is better here. annieladd

Is it common for hotels in your area to charge a daily parking rate? It can add between $15-20 /day to your room price..... =(

Paula, unfortunately all the downtown hotels I called charged for parking, another reason El Rey is such a nice choice. But remember you'll pay for it when you drive down there, too -- probably a max of $7 per day to park in a garage. Garrett's is charging me $8 per day.

By the way - we are looking for a clean, nice place to stay - we figure we will only be spending minimal amoutns of time in our room.

Garrett's charges for parking? Yikes. I wonder if Inn of the Governors does. That would be one worth looking into.

You might also look at the condos at Ft. Marcy compound. It's a bit of a walk, but certainly within walking distance for most. They probably won't charge for parking. And, it's nice to have living room and kitchen. Just not right on the square. annieladd

I didn't know Garrett's was charging for parking now either!

I agree with Annieladd and check out Inn of the Governors. We've stayed at Ft. Marcy and its nice depending on which unit you rent.

Also, Water Street Inn is 2 blocks off the plaza. Lots of parking and believe its included. Also, Territorial Inn which is near Anasazi. Both walking distance to plaza.

You can also go to www.hotwire.com and go for a Santa Fe plaza area hotel -- similar to priceline. We've had good luck with it.

Hope you have a great time. We always do.

Parking is free at the Inn of the Governor's (www.innofthegovernors.com).

We have had to pay for parking at LA hotels before, so I guess I should not be too surprised. It just hits me as odd since most people staying at these places probably have rental cars. If you are being bduge conscious, even if the hotel rate itself seems reasonable, it is helpful to be aware that you may need to add a parking fee on to your daily budget.

Walking several blocks or more does not deter me - we walk 3 miles daily as a regular routine, so I think a 10-15 minute walk wouldn't be the end of the world for us.