Hotels In New Mexico That Allow 18-Year-Olds To Check-In
Turning 18 is a rite of passage that comes with newfound freedoms, but it also introduces complexities, especially when it comes to lodging. In New Mexico, the age of majority is 18, making you legally an adult. However, hotel age policies can vary, often ranging from 18 to 25 years.
So, can 18-year-olds check into hotels in New Mexico? The answer is yes, but with conditions. Many hotels in New Mexico allow 18-year-olds to check in, provided they have a valid ID and a credit card. However, it’s crucial to confirm the age requirements with the specific hotel, as policies can differ.
This article is your comprehensive guide for booking a hotel in New Mexico at 18. We’ll provide a list of hotels that welcome younger guests, explore alternative lodging options, and offer insights on safety measures and amenities. If you’re 18 and planning a trip to the Land of Enchantment, this article is your indispensable resource.
Important!
Hotel policies can be updated before we manage to revise our website information. Make sure to verify the minimum check-in age before finalizing your booking.
List of Hotels in New Mexico Allowing 18-Year-Old Check-Ins
Before we proceed to the details, let’s first identify the hotels in New Mexico that allow 18-year-olds to check in. This list has been carefully curated based on customer reviews, amenities offered, and age policies.
The hotels on this list meet the following criteria:
- Allow 18-year-olds to check-in
- Have positive customer reviews
- Offer a range of amenities
- Are located in secure neighborhoods, often near popular attractions
Here’s a compilation of hotels across various regions in New Mexico that welcome guests aged 18 and above. To assist you in your planning, we’ve also included links to comprehensive guides for each region, offering more details on each hotel.
ID And Credit Card
You will be asked to share your I.D. and a credit card when checking in.
Albuquerque
Santa Fe
| Hotels In Santa Fe, New Mexico | Average Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| Santa Fe Motel & Inn | 9.1 | 416 |
| Drury Plaza Hotel in Santa Fe | 9.1 | 1,362 |
| Inn on the Alameda | 9.1 | 1,050 |
| La Fonda on the Plaza | 8.8 | 374 |
| Casa de Tres Lunas/House of Three Moons | 8.7 | 298 |
| Villas de Santa Fe | 8.7 | 956 |
| Old Santa Fe Inn | 8.7 | 668 |
| Las Palomas | 8.7 | 1,601 |
| The Hacienda & Spa | 8.7 | 216 |
| Guadalupe Inn | 8.6 | 963 |
| Hotel Chimayo de Santa Fe | 8.6 | 606 |
| Eldorado Hotel and Spa | 8.5 | 808 |
| The Parador | 8.4 | 441 |
| Hotel Santa Fe | 8.4 | 1,440 |
| Inn & Spa at Loretto | 8.3 | 464 |
| Hotel St Francis | 8.1 | 562 |
| Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo Thunder | 7.7 | 444 |
| Coyote South | 7.3 | 738 |
| Motel 6-Santa Fe, NM – Downtown | 7.3 | 991 |
| The Lodge at Santa Fe | 7.2 | 1,222 |
| La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Santa Fe | 6.8 | 878 |
| Motel 6 Santa Fe | 6.0 | 775 |
Taos
| Hotels In Taos, New Mexico | Average Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| Adobe and Pines Inn Bed and Breakfast | 9.6 | 90 |
| Dreamcatcher B&B | 9.3 | 394 |
| Old Taos Guesthouse B&B | 9.2 | 91 |
| La Dona Luz Inn an Historic B&B | 9.1 | 154 |
| Casa Benavides Inn | 8.9 | 564 |
| Inn on La Loma Plaza | 8.9 | 270 |
| Hotel Luna Mystica | 8.9 | 137 |
| Taos Motor Lodge | 8.3 | 192 |
| Hotel La Fonda de Taos | 8.2 | 611 |
| Inn on the Rio | 8.2 | 135 |
| Taos Valley Lodge | 7.9 | 414 |
| Quality Inn | 7.0 | 361 |
| Sagebrush Inn & Suites | 7.0 | 1,057 |
| Super 8 by Wyndham Taos | 6.0 | 545 |
Roswell
| Hotels In Roswell, New Mexico | Average Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Roswell, an IHG Hotel | 8.9 | 377 |
| Roswell Inn | 8.6 | 1,024 |
| Comfort Suites Roswell | 8.2 | 904 |
| Quality Inn & Suites Roswell | 8.2 | 521 |
| Days Inn by Wyndham Roswell | 8.0 | 709 |
| National 9 Inn Roswell | 8.0 | 122 |
| TownePlace Suites by Marriott Roswell | 7.9 | 51 |
| Holiday Inn Roswell, an IHG Hotel | 7.9 | 204 |
| Candlewood Suites Roswell, an IHG Hotel | 7.8 | 128 |
| Super 8 by Wyndham Roswell | 7.6 | 215 |
| Budget Inn | 7.5 | 132 |
| La Quinta by Wyndham Roswell | 7.5 | 731 |
| Baymont by Wyndham Roswell | 7.5 | 706 |
| Motel 6-Roswell, NM | 7.3 | 451 |
| Belmont Motel | 7.2 | 83 |
| Western Inn Roswell | 6.9 | 186 |
Las Cruces
| Hotels In Las Cruces, New Mexico | Average Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| Drury Inn & Suites Las Cruces | 8.9 | 624 |
| Hilton Garden Inn Las Cruces | 8.7 | 318 |
| Hampton Inn & Suites Las Cruces I-10, Nm | 8.7 | 174 |
| Comfort Inn & Suites Las Cruces Mesilla | 8.5 | 467 |
| Staybridge Suites Las Cruces, an IHG Hotel | 8.4 | 269 |
| Best Western Mission Inn | 8.3 | 718 |
| Hampton Inn & Suites Las Cruces I-25 | 8.3 | 179 |
| La Quinta by Wyndham Las Cruces Organ Mountain | 7.9 | 1,892 |
| Fairfield Inn by Marriott Las Cruces | 7.9 | 58 |
| Ramada by Wyndham Las Cruces Hotel & Conference Center | 7.8 | 1,396 |
| SpringHill Suites by Marriott Las Cruces | 7.7 | 133 |
| Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Las Cruces, an IHG Hotel | 7.4 | 341 |
| Motel 6-Las Cruces, NM – Telshor | 6.9 | 275 |
| Super 8 by Wyndham Las Cruces/White Sands Area | 6.8 | 386 |
| Sleep Inn University | 6.7 | 257 |
| Century 21 Motel | 6.5 | 90 |
| Motel 9 Las Cruces | 6.1 | 139 |
Gallup
| Hotels In Gallup, NM | Average Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| Hilton Garden Inn Gallup | 8.7 | 233 |
| TownePlace by Marriott Suites Gallup | 8.6 | 71 |
| La Quinta by Wyndham Gallup | 8.4 | 803 |
| Sleep Inn Gallup | 8.4 | 430 |
| Comfort Suites Gallup East Route 66 and I-40 | 8.3 | 746 |
| SpringHill Suites by Marriott Gallup | 8.3 | 405 |
| Best Western Gallup West | 7.9 | 435 |
| Red Roof Inn Gallup | 7.3 | 1,200 |
| Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Gallup | 7.1 | 327 |
| Motel 6-Gallup, NM | 7.0 | 285 |
| Quality Inn & Suites Gallup I-40 Exit 20 | 6.9 | 435 |
| Howard Johnson by Wyndham Gallup | 6.9 | 428 |
| Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Red Rock-Gallup | 6.9 | 200 |
| Rodeway Inn | 6.8 | 329 |
| Knights Inn Gallup Near University of New Mexico | 6.5 | 170 |
Ruidoso
| Hotels In Ruidoso, NM | Average Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| Sitzmark Chalet Inn | 9.3 | 758 |
| Shadow Mountain Lodge and Cabins | 8.9 | 667 |
| Elevate Hotel at Sierra Blanca Ruidoso, Ascend Hotel Collection | 8.8 | 700 |
| MCM Elegante Lodge & Resorts | 8.7 | 834 |
| Enchanted Hideaway Cabins and Cottages | 8.6 | 142 |
| West Winds Lodge | 8.5 | 566 |
| Pinecliff Village Resort | 8.4 | 173 |
| Comfort Inn & Suites Midtown | 8.3 | 421 |
| Upper Canyon Inn | 8.2 | 389 |
| Tiara Del Sol | 8.2 | 1,065 |
| Whispering Pine Cabins | 8.1 | 75 |
| Ruidoso Mountain Inn | 8.1 | 928 |
| Village Lodge | 8.1 | 317 |
| Canyon Cabins | 8.0 | 172 |
| Best Western Plus Ruidoso Inn | 7.9 | 372 |
| Apache Motel | 6.6 | 197 |
Farmington
| Hotels In Farmington, NM | Average Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort Suites Farmington | 8.9 | 316 |
| Home2 Suites by Hilton Farmington/Bloomfield | 8.9 | 142 |
| Baymont by Wyndham Farmington | 7.6 | 334 |
| Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Farmington, an IHG Hotel | 7.5 | 255 |
| Quality Inn & Suites Farmington | 7.3 | 449 |
| Courtyard Farmington | 6.4 | 136 |
| Motel 6-Farmington, NM | 6.2 | 481 |
Silver City
| Hotels In Silver City, NM | Average Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| Heart and Wings Retreat Center | 9.3 | 55 |
| The Murray Hotel | 8.4 | 436 |
| Drifter Motel | 7.9 | 198 |
| Copper Manor Motel | 7.7 | 265 |
| Motel 6-Silver City, NM | 4.5 | 294 |
Carlsbad
| Hotels In Carlsbad, NM | Average Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort Suites Carlsbad | 9.0 | 602 |
| Home2 Suites By Hilton Carlsbad New Mexico | 9.0 | 307 |
| TownePlace Suites by Marriott Carlsbad | 8.9 | 61 |
| MainStay Suites | 8.6 | 119 |
| Fairfield Inn and Suites Carlsbad | 8.4 | 94 |
| Karbani Inn | 8.3 | 168 |
| Post Time Inn | 7.9 | 468 |
| Carlsbad Inn, New Mexico | 7.7 | 244 |
| Days Inn by Wyndham Carlsbad | 7.1 | 195 |
| Motel 6-Carlsbad, NM | 6.7 | 470 |
| Great Western Inn & Suites | 6.6 | 558 |
| Super 8 by Wyndham Carlsbad | 5.5 | 135 |
| Econo Lodge Carlsbad | 5.4 | 292 |
How We Selected These Hotels
1. Extensive Database: We began our analysis with an extensive database of over 233,000 hotels across the United States, ensuring a comprehensive view of available options.
2. Age Inclusivity: Our selection specifically targets hotels that allow check-ins for guests aged 18 and above, making the options accessible for a broader range of travelers.
3. Customer Reviews: To ensure reliability and customer satisfaction, we only considered hotels that have received at least 200 customer reviews. This criterion helps to provide a more accurate picture of the hotel’s quality and service.
4. Quality Assurance: We sorted the selected hotels based on their average customer ratings. This approach helps us recommend only the highest quality hotels, thereby ensuring a superior guest experience.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Get a Hotel Room in New Mexico?
Booking a hotel room in New Mexico involves understanding both state laws and individual hotel policies, particularly when it comes to age requirements. The age of majority in New Mexico is 18, which generally aligns with the minimum age requirements for hotel bookings in the state.
Age Requirements in New Mexico Hotels
In New Mexico, many hotels allow bookings for guests who are 18 years old. However, some establishments, especially those in tourist-heavy areas, may have a higher age requirement, often up to 25.
Identification Documents Required
To secure a hotel booking in New Mexico at 18, you’ll generally need:
- A valid government-issued ID: This could be a driver’s license, a state ID, or a passport.
- A credit card: The card must be in your name and have sufficient funds to cover the stay and any incidental charges.
Legal Responsibilities When Booking a Hotel
Booking a hotel room at 18 in New Mexico comes with its own set of legal responsibilities:
- Damages: You’re financially responsible for any damages to the room or property.
- Hotel Policies: You must adhere to the hotel’s policies, which can include noise restrictions, guest limitations, and rules about using amenities.
- Liability: Some hotels may ask you to sign a liability waiver, especially if they offer amenities like a swimming pool or gym.
Understanding these factors can help you navigate the complexities of booking a hotel room in New Mexico at 18, ensuring a smoother travel experience.
Alternatives to Hotels for 18 Year Olds
If you find that the hotel scene is too restrictive or perhaps not to your taste, there are alternative lodging options that are often more lenient with age requirements or offer a different kind of experience altogether.
Hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option and usually have minimal age requirements. They offer dormitory-style rooms and sometimes private rooms as well. Hostels are great for meeting other travelers and often have communal kitchens and social events.
Airbnb
Airbnb can be a viable option, but it’s essential to read the age policies of individual hosts. Some may allow 18-year-olds to book, especially if the reviews on your profile are positive.
Motels
Motels often have lower age requirements and are generally more lenient with their policies. They offer basic amenities and are usually situated near highways.
Vacation Rentals
Sites like Vrbo offer vacation homes that can be rented for short periods. These are ideal if you’re traveling with a group and can split the cost.
Couchsurfing
If you’re really on a budget, platforms like Couchsurfing offer free stays with locals. However, this option requires a thorough vetting process for both hosts and guests to ensure safety.
Amenities Offered by These Hotels
When you’re 18 and traveling, amenities can make or break your hotel experience. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect from hotels in New Mexico that allow 18-year-olds to check in.
Basic Amenities
- Free Wi-Fi: Almost a necessity in today’s world, free Wi-Fi is usually available, allowing you to stay connected.
- Breakfast: Many hotels offer complimentary breakfast, ranging from continental to full American breakfast options.
Recreational Amenities
- Swimming Pools: A pool can be a great way to relax after a day of exploring.
- Gyms: For those who like to stay active, a well-equipped gym can be a big plus.
Business Amenities
- Business Centers: If you’re traveling for work or need to catch up on emails, a business center with computers and printing services can be invaluable.
Luxury Amenities
- Spa Services: Some high-end hotels offer spa services, including massages and facials.
- Concierge Services: A concierge can help with booking tours, restaurant reservations, and more.
Family-Friendly Amenities
- Kids’ Clubs: If you’re traveling with younger siblings, a kids’ club can keep them entertained.
- Pet-Friendly Options: For those traveling with pets, some hotels offer pet-friendly rooms and even pet-sitting services.
Understanding the range of amenities can help you make an informed decision about where to stay, ensuring that your needs—whether they’re basic or more luxurious—are met.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it Legal for an 18-Year-Old to Check-In to a Hotel?
Yes, it is generally legal for an 18-year-old to check into a hotel. However, private businesses like hotels have the right to set their own age requirements, which can sometimes be higher. It’s always best to call ahead and confirm the hotel’s age policy to avoid any last-minute surprises.
Why Do Some Hotels Have an Age Requirement of 21?
Hotels may set a minimum age requirement of 21 for various reasons, often related to liability and insurance policies. The age limit can also be influenced by the hotel’s target demographic or the types of amenities they offer, such as bars or casinos, which have age restrictions. Additionally, hotels may perceive older guests as less likely to cause damage or disturbances.
Can You Book a Hotel Room at 18 Without a Credit Card?
While most hotels prefer a credit card for securing a reservation and covering potential incidental charges, some establishments may allow you to book a room without one. In such cases, you’ll likely need to provide a substantial cash deposit or a debit card with a significant balance. Always call the hotel in advance to discuss payment options if you don’t have a credit card.
What Are the Cancellation Policies Like?
Cancellation policies can vary widely among hotels. Some may offer free cancellation up to a certain point, usually 24 to 48 hours before the check-in date. Others might charge a fee equivalent to one night’s stay or more. Always read the cancellation policy carefully at the time of booking and consider opting for a refundable rate if your plans are uncertain.
Are There Any Additional Fees for 18-Year-Olds?
Additional fees specifically for 18-year-olds are uncommon but not unheard of. Some hotels might charge a “young renter fee” or require a larger deposit from guests under a certain age. It’s crucial to inquire about any such fees when you’re making your reservation to avoid unexpected costs.
Will I Need ID to Check-In as an 18-Year-Old?
Yes, you will almost certainly need a valid, government-issued ID to check into a hotel. This is not just an age verification measure but also a general security policy. Some hotels may also require a second form of identification or additional documentation if you’re a local resident.
Why Do Hotels Ask for Everyone’s ID?
Hotels commonly ask for ID from all adult guests for a variety of reasons, including security and compliance with local laws. This practice helps the hotel keep track of who is staying in their rooms and can assist law enforcement if any issues arise. It also helps the hotel to enforce their own policies, such as age restrictions for certain amenities like gyms or bars.