16 Gorgeous Yet Affordable Hotels in the U.S., Including a Must-See in New Mexico

In a country as big as the U.S., you’d think it would be easier to find hotels that are both beautiful and relatively affordable. But many travelers are stuck choosing between expensive luxury resorts or bland, windowless rooms.

What if you could have the best of both worlds?

Let’s take a look at some of the most beautiful hotels to stay in America, including in New Mexico, where the views are high but the prices aren’t.

The Roxbury Motel – Catskills, New York

If you like your lodging with a splash of whimsy, The Roxbury delivers. This isn’t just a place to sleep. It’s a place to explore.

Each room has a wild theme, from fairytale forests to outer space. It’s like sleeping in a movie set, but for a fraction of luxury prices.

Surrounded by rolling hills and close to hiking, waterfalls, and quirky towns, this Catskills gem blends fun with comfort.

And even better? The rates stay surprisingly reasonable, especially for weekday stays.

Amigo Motor Lodge – Salida, Colorado

A mid-century motor lodge with a modern makeover, the Amigo Motor Lodge is nestled in a town that feels like Colorado’s best-kept secret.

Whitewashed walls, industrial touches, and warm wooden accents give this place a relaxed, clean aesthetic. The views of the mountains add to the magic.

Guests love the teepees out back, the outdoor hot tub, and the peaceful vibe. It’s hip without trying too hard.

And best of all, it won’t blow your vacation budget.

Postcard Inn – St. Pete Beach, Florida

Florida is packed with hotels, but most of the beachfront ones come with sky-high prices and hidden resort fees. The Postcard Inn breaks that mold.

This retro-style hotel sits right on the sand and brings playful style with bold colors, vintage design, and a super walkable location.

It feels young, fresh, and relaxed, with surfboards on the walls and string lights over the patio.

You’ll get beach access, a pool, and serious sunshine without paying luxury rates.

Jupiter Hotel – Portland, Oregon

Looking for city style without city prices? The Jupiter Hotel gives you art, edge, and good vibes right in the heart of Portland.

Housed in a renovated motor inn, this spot feels like a boutique hotel with personality. There’s a lively music venue next door, and local artwork in every room.

You’re close to everything, from food trucks to vintage shops. And if you want peace and quiet, they offer a “chill side” away from the party scene.

It’s trendy without being overpriced. And that’s a rare combo.

The Saguaro – Palm Springs, California

If color makes you happy, The Saguaro is pure joy. With a rainbow-colored exterior and bold interiors, this Palm Springs favorite is bright, sunny, and surprisingly affordable.

Rooms open to a central pool surrounded by palm trees and mountain views. It’s a favorite for photos, but also for travelers who want a stylish stay without a luxury price tag.

There’s a spa, bikes to borrow, and an onsite restaurant, but nothing feels exclusive or overpriced.

The energy is playful. The design is modern. And the rates? Much lower than you’d expect for the area.

Hotel Havana – San Antonio, Texas

This historic boutique hotel sits right along the River Walk and feels like stepping into a quiet, stylish dream.

With its moody lighting, vintage furnishings, and soft Cuban influences, Hotel Havana has a romantic, old-world charm that’s hard to find.

It’s a favorite for couples and solo travelers alike. Close to downtown, but just far enough to feel peaceful.

Rooms start under most big-city hotel rates, especially during the week. And the candlelit bar downstairs? Worth the stay on its own.

Thunderbird Inn – Savannah, Georgia

Retro on the outside and cozy on the inside, the Thunderbird Inn is a blast from the past in the best way.

You’ll find MoonPies on the pillows, RC Cola in the lobby fridge, and a vintage neon sign lighting up the corner like it’s 1959.

But inside the rooms, you get comfy beds, modern updates, and lots of Southern hospitality.

It’s walkable to Savannah’s historic district, and the price is way lower than you’d expect for such a prime location.

The Moxy – Chattanooga, Tennessee

The Moxy brand is known for fun, modern design at friendly prices. And the Chattanooga location nails it.

With industrial touches, cozy corners, and a lively lobby bar, it feels like a boutique stay with a side of energy.

Rooms are efficient but stylish, and the common areas invite you to hang out, play games, or just relax with a local craft beer.

You’re close to the aquarium, the art district, and scenic riverwalks. And you don’t have to pay downtown premium prices.

Bluebird Ocean Point Inn – East Boothbay, Maine

Tucked along Maine’s rocky coastline, this hotel offers stunning ocean views, peaceful surroundings, and that salty, breezy air you can’t bottle.

The decor is coastal calm. Think soft linens, natural textures, and wide windows that let the light pour in.

You’ll find Adirondack chairs by the water, trails nearby, and sunsets that feel like a painting.

Despite the postcard setting, the prices stay reasonable. Especially if you plan a visit outside the summer rush.

The Leta – Goleta, California

Just north of Santa Barbara, The Leta blends beachy charm with California cool. Palm trees sway over the pool. Rooms have record players and retro prints. The whole place feels laid-back but curated.

You’ll get cozy robes, cruiser bikes, and a breezy restaurant with local ingredients. All for less than what Santa Barbara hotels charge just down the road.

It’s one of those places that makes you feel like a savvy traveler who found the hidden gem.

Because you did.

The Graduate – Lincoln, Nebraska

The Graduate chain is known for quirky, college-town charm. And the Lincoln location is no exception. It’s colorful, playful, and full of personality.

With preppy patterns, bold artwork, and a nod to Cornhusker pride, it’s a hotel that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

You’ll find cozy lounges, comfy beds, and touches of nostalgia in every corner.

And since it’s tucked in the Midwest, the nightly rates are refreshingly low compared to most boutique hotels.

Timberline Motel – Bigfork, Montana

Nestled near Flathead Lake and Glacier National Park, Timberline Motel is a rustic escape for travelers who want natural beauty without luxury prices.

The rooms are simple but thoughtfully styled. Think wood-paneled walls, vintage maps, and mountain-themed decor.

It’s close to hiking, fishing, and exploring charming Bigfork’s art galleries and shops.

This is the kind of place where the views are free, the coffee is strong, and the price leaves room in your budget for adventure.

Drifter Hotel – New Orleans, Louisiana

The Drifter is part retro motel, part artsy hangout, and fully one-of-a-kind.

Located just beyond the tourist-heavy French Quarter, it offers travelers a more laid-back, creative side of New Orleans.

There’s a colorful pool scene, vintage furniture, and funky murals throughout. You’ll find local DJs on weekends and a café with strong cold brew.

Rates are modest, but the style is bold. And it’s a great way to see New Orleans through a slightly different lens.

The Crash Pad – Chattanooga, Tennessee

Designed with adventure in mind, The Crash Pad is part boutique hostel, part eco-lodge. And it’s all about smart, stylish comfort.

It’s popular with rock climbers and hikers, but you don’t need to be outdoorsy to enjoy the clean design, shared kitchens, and sleek private rooms.

The vibe is communal but chill, and the location puts you near local breweries, cafes, and trails.

It’s proof that affordability doesn’t have to mean giving up good taste.

Coachman Hotel – South Lake Tahoe, California

The Coachman Hotel brings modern cool to a classic mountain town.

It’s got fire pits, hot tubs, minimalist rooms with wool blankets, and easy access to both the lake and the slopes.

There’s a bar serving up local brews, a coffee counter for chilly mornings, and stylish details that feel more like a designer Airbnb than a roadside motel.

And for Tahoe? The price is seriously kind to your wallet.

El Rey Court – Santa Fe, New Mexico

This former roadside inn has been transformed into a dreamy desert hideaway.

El Rey Court mixes adobe architecture with modern touches—string lights, cozy robes, and a pool surrounded by native plants.