The Best Hotels to Book Near the Bat Caves at Carlsbad Caverns

Fiddler's Inn comes with a violin theme - no strings attached | Courtesy of Fiddler's Inn / Expedia

1 October 2021

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In the heart of New Mexico, the sprawling Carlsbad Caverns are home to bat caves waiting to be explored by intrepid visitors. But you don’t have to be so adventurous to stay at the nearby hotels – bookable on Culture Trip.

When traveling to New Mexico, a stop to explore the Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a must. With 117 known caves to navigate, it’s the bat dwellings that really inspire: at sunset each summer evening, a cloud of Brazilian bats takes flight, emerging in search of food. Book your visit in advance, and take in the ranger’s pre-flight talk. There’s an array of big-name and boutique hotels to stay in during your trip – here are the best.

Home2 Suites by Hilton Carlsbad

Courtesy of Home2 Suites by Hilton Carlsbad / Booking.com

With over 140 rooms and suites available, this chain option from the Hilton brand guarantees comfort and ease, no matter your group’s size. The colorful interiors come with modern conveniences, and are located 15 minutes’ drive from the Carlsbad Caverns. There’s a lush outdoor pool area with a large swimming pool, smaller jacuzzi tub and sun loungers for lazing after your day out, as well as a small but perfectly formed gym.

Candlewood Suites Carlsbad South

Courtesy of Candlewood Suites Carlsbad South / Expedia

This Carlsbad branch of Candlewood houses 81 spacious suites, designed to work for business travelers or families. Ideal for self-caterers, the suites will make you feel at home, with a fully stocked refrigerator and kitchen full of utensils. After a busy day of bat-hunting at Carlsbad Caverns, you can borrow a movie from the front desk and kick back in front of your flatscreen TV in one of the suite’s recliners. Talk about a home away from home.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Carlsbad

Courtesy of Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Carlsbad / Booking.com

In the north of the Chihuahuan Desert, this Fairfield Inn by Marriott is just a 20-minute drive from the Carlsbad Caverns and ideal for trips to Roswell and El Paso. The welcoming staff are available round the clock, making sure your stay in one of the sleek, spacious suites is smooth and enjoyable. The outdoor pool is a great place to unwind after sightseeing, while a more energetic time can be had at the gym, which offers free weights and cardio machines. A tasty complimentary breakfast is included to grab and go.

TownePlace Suites Carlsbad

Hotel

Courtesy of TownePlace Suites Carlsbad / Booking.com

Another great set of suites from the Marriott, TownePlace makes a smart, chic base for visiting the Carlsbad Caverns’ bat caves. With light, airy rooms full of colorful design touches, this pet-friendly property offers a complimentary continental breakfast with every stay, as well as a super-snazzy swimming pool to enjoy in the New Mexico sunshine. All of that and more is a swift 20-minute drive from the caverns.

The Trinity Hotel

Hotel

The Trinity Hotel building dates back to 1892, beginning life as the First National Bank. By 2007 it was in desperate need of repair, leading three partners to buy and fully renovate it to house Carlsbad’s finest dining location. Nine luxurious suites were added to make this brilliant boutique hotel, which oozes character. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner (except on Sundays), the Trinity’s menus cover classics such as green chili cheeseburgers and specialty Italian-American dishes – try the unmissable chicken parmigiana.

Post Time Inn

Courtesy of Post Time Inn / Booking.com

This place is a cool, fresh take on the motel formula – a scenic, 25-minute drive from Carlsbad Caverns. A great budget option when visiting the bat caves, the clean, simple rooms carry a monochrome design with fun pops of color. The common rooms and breakfast bar are no different, and are great spaces for hanging out and meeting fellow travelers.

Fiddler's Inn

Courtesy of Fiddler's Inn / Expedia

This boutique B&B has a theme. From the name to the artwork and interior decor, it’s a place for violinists – or at least fans of quirkily brilliant accommodation. The beautifully detailed rooms are a feast for the eyes, and always cozy and comfortable. Breakfast at the neighboring Blue House Bakery and Cafe is included, and can be ordered to devour in bed on Sundays. You might even be tempted to take home the sumptuous bathrobes, there for trips to-and-from the outdoor hot tub.

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