Retro neon signs. Mid-century furniture. Roadside Americana. These vintage motels aren’t just places to sleep—they’re time machines. From Route 66 landmarks to coastal retreats, here are 15 throwback motels across the U.S. that feel like they haven’t changed in decades—and that’s exactly the point.
1. The Madonna Inn
Opened in 1958, The Madonna Inn is a spectacle of extravagant design, offering 110 uniquely themed rooms like ‘Caveman’ and ‘Love Nest.’ Each room bursts with flamboyant mid-century style, bringing a dreamlike escape to its guests. The inn’s kitschy restaurant complements this with vibrant pink decor and retro flair, transporting visitors to a bygone era. Nestled in San Luis Obispo, California, it’s a cherished icon for those seeking an imaginative stay. Fun fact: It was once a favorite stop for celebrities traveling the California coast.
2. Wigwam Motel
The Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona, offers a stay unlike any other, with rooms shaped like Native American teepees. This 1950s icon along Route 66 allows guests to sleep inside a concrete ‘wigwam,’ surrounded by vintage cars, creating a distinctive roadside experience. The motel’s quirky architecture and historical significance make it a beloved stop for curious travelers. With only three remaining of its kind in the U.S., it offers a slice of Americana that feels truly timeless.
3. Austin Motel
Established in 1938, Austin Motel embraces its funky roots with atomic-era decor and eye-catching original signage. Located on South Congress Avenue in Texas, this landmark offers guests a lively atmosphere infused with retro charm. Its iconic kidney-shaped pool is a refreshing nod to the 1960s, providing a cool retreat in the heart of the city. The motel’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to blend vintage style with modern hospitality, making it a must-stay for Austin visitors.
4. Sunset Motel
The Sunset Motel in Brevard, North Carolina, lovingly restored to its 1950s glory, offers guests a warm embrace of small-town nostalgia. With retro rooms featuring rotary phones and period lighting, it invites travelers to step back in time. Its proximity to the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains adds natural beauty to its charm. Each detail, from the vintage decor to the scenic backdrop, creates a serene escape for those seeking a classic American motel experience.
5. The Starlux Boutique Hotel
Though technically a modern rebuild, The Starlux Boutique Hotel captures the Doo-Wop spirit of Wildwood’s famed 1950s motels. With neon accents, plastic palm trees, and lava lamps, it recreates the playful vibe of a bygone era. Located in New Jersey, it serves as a colorful homage to the past while offering contemporary comforts. Its unique blend of past and present makes it a favorite for those seeking a lively yet nostalgic beachside retreat.
6. The Thunderbird Inn
The Thunderbird Inn in Savannah, Georgia, beckons guests with its 1964 motor lodge charm and pop art flair. Known for offering complimentary MoonPies and RC Cola, it brings a touch of Southern hospitality with a wink. Its retro-chic design and vibrant atmosphere provide a playful escape for travelers. The inn’s unique blend of nostalgia and friendliness makes it a delightful stop for those exploring the historic charm of Savannah.
7. Skyview Motel
Perched on a hill above California’s wine country, Skyview Motel offers guests a retreat to the 1950s, with mid-century-modern decor and nostalgic pool areas. Located in Los Alamos, its vintage roots are thoughtfully restored, providing a peaceful escape with a view. The classic roadside sign adds a touch of nostalgia, inviting travelers to explore the serene beauty of the locale. It’s a haven for those seeking relaxation with a dash of retro flair.
8. The Shady Dell
Rather than traditional motel rooms, The Shady Dell in Bisbee, Arizona, offers stays in restored aluminum trailers from the 1940s and ’50s. Each trailer is decked out with vintage record players and diner-style kitchenettes, offering a unique retro experience. The desert setting enhances its nostalgic charm, making it a favorite for those seeking an unconventional getaway. Guests are transported to a simpler time, where the past is lovingly preserved and celebrated.
9. The Lincoln Motor Court
As the oldest operating motor court on the Lincoln Highway, The Lincoln Motor Court in Manns Choice, Pennsylvania, retains its 1940s charm with individual cabins and knotty pine walls. Each cabin is adorned with vintage touches, providing a rustic retreat for travelers. Its historical significance and well-preserved character offer a glimpse into the past, making it a treasured stop for those exploring America’s roadside heritage.
10. The Tiki Motel
Since the mid-20th century, The Tiki Motel in Lake George, New York, has provided guests with a whimsical escape into Polynesian-inspired kitsch. With pastel patio chairs and retro roadside allure, it offers a charmingly nostalgic experience. Its playful decor and summer vibes make it a popular choice for families and nostalgia enthusiasts alike. The motel’s enduring allure lies in its ability to whisk guests away to a colorful world where time stands still.
11. Riverside Motel
Tucked along California’s central coast, Riverside Motel offers a no-frills 1950s-style stay with cozy rooms and original tile bathrooms. Its seaside location adds a touch of tranquility to its vintage charm, making it a beloved spot for those seeking simplicity. The motel’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to offer a peaceful retreat that feels like a step back in time, where the hustle and bustle of modern life fades away.
12. The Orbit In
The Orbit In in Palm Springs, California, is a shrine to mid-century-modern design, offering guests a stylish retreat with Eames chairs and vintage barware. Its poolside views evoke the charm of a 1959 postcard, making it a fashionable escape. The motel’s dedication to preserving mid-century aesthetics provides a unique allure for design enthusiasts. It’s a chic haven where past elegance meets modern relaxation.
13. The Alamo Motel
The Alamo Motel in Los Alamos, California, blends old-school cowboy vibes with modern-day rustic cool. Its Western-themed vintage aesthetic and classic neon signage offer a visual treat for guests. The motel’s minimalist design and warm hospitality make it a cozy retreat for those exploring the area. The unique blend of past and present creates a harmonious atmosphere, inviting travelers to unwind and enjoy a piece of Americana.
14. The Blue Swallow Motel
The Blue Swallow Motel, a Route 66 classic since 1939, captures the hearts of travelers with its hand-painted garages and restored neon signage. Located in Tucumcari, New Mexico, this family-run gem oozes roadside Americana charm. The rooms are quaint and filled with period-perfect decor, creating a nostalgic experience for guests. Its enduring appeal lies in the meticulous preservation of its original features, making it a living tribute to the heyday of American road travel.
15. Cadillac Jacks Motel
Cadillac Jacks Motel in Great Falls, Montana, transports guests to the classic car era with its tail-finned Cadillacs and retro memorabilia. The clean, cozy rooms offer a nostalgic charm that’s hard to resist. This throwback motor inn is a vibrant tribute to a time when road trips were an art form. The motel’s unique character and dedication to preserving the past make it a must-visit for travelers seeking Americana nostalgia.
