If you find yourself traveling along Interstate 40 near Gallup, New Mexico and in need of a place to lay your head, you could do worse than to check yourself into the El Rancho Hotel. It’s an historic hotel built by R.E. “Griff” Griffith, the brother of film director D.W. Griffith.
Just off the freeway on old Route 66, the El Rancho is well-maintained, but not fancy in the modern sense. But if it was good enough for Rita Hayworth and Humphrey Bogart, it’s good enough for you and me.
Do not be put off by the vintage appearance of the dining room. The service is friendly and the food is good. To help digest your meal, stroll the upstairs lobby and check out the signed photographs of some famous visitors.
A stay at the El Rancho will leave you with plenty of money to rent classic movies. A night in the Doris Day room set us back a little over $100!