Driving to Zih

It depends on how hard you want to drive. Some of the chain hotels in Saltillo are surprisingly nice if that's as far as you're going. I would highly recommend Las Palmas in Matehuala for the first night if you're driving from Laredo.

I have enjoyed the Gran Hotel in the center of Queretaro. It can be a little noisy, but you're right on the town square and it's a lot of fun.

Either Morelia or Patzcuaro is a good stop. I've enjoyed several hotels in the center of Morelia. I'm sure you can find lots of good recommendations on this board.