Rt 66 hotel casino

Historic Route 66 runs from Chicago to Santa Monica and is a popular driving route for those wanting to explore a diverse stretch of America. The route is particularly known for its historic motels, neon signs, scenic vistas, and vintage diners. If you are planning to road trip across this fabled highway, you may be wanting to spend the night at some of the historic Route 66 motels and hotels.

We know from our readers that it can be time-consuming and difficult to find and choose historic Route 66 motels along the route. So we’ve done it for you, providing a list of over 50 historic Route 66 motels and hotels along the route with information and booking details for each one. We’ve also created a Route 66 motels map with all the recommended lodging options to make it easier to plan your trip.

We focus on historical lodging options that are well-rated and well-located. Many offer something unique or special for Route 66 travelers. These properties stretch from Chicago to Santa Monica and range from budget motels to luxury hotels. We include both the most popular and iconic vintage motels as well as lesser-known historic accommodation options along Route 66. This way you can choose the properties that best suit your trip, style, and budget.

In addition to providing a guide to historic Route 66 motels and hotels, we also provide a brief history of the lodging along Route 66 for those interested in the evolution of accommodation along the route. We also provide you with advice on where to book accommodation online, how far in advance to book accommodation along Route 66, what to expect from Route 66 motels, and how much to budget for Route 66 accommodation.

So let’s get on with finding you the best places to stay for your Route 66 road trip!

Before I get into some of the practicalities of finding and booking historic motels along Route 66, I wanted to share some of the history related to travel and accommodation along the Route. I also wanted to talk about the rise and fall of Route 66 motels across the decades.

Lodging Before Route 66

There were of course inns, hotels, camps, forts, and boarding houses in the western part of the United States for a long time before Route 66. These sprang up in towns that were popular stops along cattle trails, wagon paths, stagecoach routes, and railway lines to lodge emigrants and travelers as well as to house temporary workers such as miners, soldiers, and railway workers.

In fact, an inn is believed to have stood near the Historic Santa Fe Plaza since around 1607! A few of the historic hotels we recommend along Route 66 have been operating since the end of the 19th century.

Lodging Options for Early Route 66 Travelers

Route 66 became an official route in 1926. In the early days of Route 66, many travelers stayed in what were called auto camps or motor camps. Early ones were basically primitive campgrounds, a space in a farmer’s field where a traveler could park their car and set up camp.

Later, larger camps offered features such as shared kitchen areas, shower facilities, laundry facilities, camp shops, etc. These auto camps first sprang up in the early 20th century and were common through the 1930s.

As the number of travelers with automobiles increased in the 1930s, more permanent lodging options were built to lodge and profit from these new travelers. Auto camps were replaced by permanent tourist cabins where travelers no longer had to make their own camp. Cabin camps, tourist cabins, cottage courts, and tourist courts sprang up throughout the 1930s and 1940s.

The First Motels along Route 66

The first motels or motor hotels were also built along Route 66 in the 1920s. The term “motel” is simply a blending of the words “motor” and “hotel”. The first motor hotel to use the word “motel” was not on Route 66. The term was coined and first used by the Milestone Mo-Tel (later the Motel Inn which closed in 1991) in San Luis Obispo, California which was built in 1925.

A motel is basically a hotel that caters to travelers with automobiles with features such as being next to a road and offering free on-site parking. Most motels allow guests to park in front or very close to their room and typically you can enter a guest room from the outside (as opposed to having to use interior hallways like in most hotels).

Many early motels actually had covered parking spaces or garages next to each room, which you can see at a few older motels along Route 66 such as the Blue Swallow. Motels were also often located next to gas stations, service stations, and cafes to cater to all of the motorists’ needs. Many of these tourist facilities were built and run by the same family.

Although the word motel was first coined in 1925, it wasn’t used much until the 1950s since it was not a term that would have been that familiar to travelers of the time. During the period many of what we’d label a motel today called themselves tourist courts, auto courts, lodges, motor hotels, or inns. Many would later change their name to incorporate the word motel (e.g., Blue Swallow Court to Blue Swallow Motel).

The Heyday of the Route 66 Motel

The most popular time for Route 66 motels was the post-war period from the late 1940s to the 1960s. During this period, there existed a set of factors that facilitated travel and spending unlike any other in the country. There was a good paved highway system, increased car ownership, a booming economy, and a growing middle class who were eager to travel after years of war and rationing.

The first guidebook to Route 66, the Guide Book to Highway 66 by Jack D. Rittenhouse was published in 1946. It gave some basic travel tips for motorists and listed mileages, information about the towns along the way, and services along the way, including lodging, gas stations, garages, and cafes.

Many new motels were built in the post-war period between 1945 and the early 1960s. Motels advertised special features and amenities to attract travelers, many of which were not common in the average American home at the time.

Initially, amenities advertised by motels were things like hot water, electricity, fitted carpeting, carports, phones, radios, and kitchenettes. Later these included things like swimming pools, televisions, vibrating beds, electric alarm clocks, air-conditioning, and premium TV subscriptions. During this period, many people’s first experience of things like indoor flushing toilets, in-room TVs, and air-conditioning were at a hotel or motel.

Competition for travelers’ money was strong along the route, and entrepreneurs came up with a number of interesting ways to attract people to their businesses. Motels used large signs, novel architectural design (e.g., Wigwam Motels), giant statues, catchy slogans, and quirky roadside attractions.

Billboard signs were a popular way for Route 66 businesses to advertise themselves to travelers. The town of Tucumcari promoted itself with numerous billboard signs along Route 66 as being a great place to overnight, with signs proclaiming: “Tucumcari Tonite—2,000 Motel Rooms”.

Neons signs became increasingly popular in the post-war period, and are still strongly associated with Route 66 today.

Route 66 and Minority Travelers

It should be noted that Route 66 travel, especially leisure travel, as we nostalgically imagine it was mainly the experience of White Americans. Besides the time and money needed to go on vacation, there were a number of additional obstacles to traveling for African-American and other minority travelers in the early and mid-twentieth century.

The Route 66 era was a time of racial segregation and widespread discrimination, and the Jim Crow era laws were legally enforced until the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Segregation and discrimination weren’t just common in the South at the time, but across most of the United States.

Black travelers were not welcome at most of the motels, restaurants, public bathrooms, gas stations, and other facilities located along Route 66. Many towns and communities along Route 66 were known as sundowner towns, places where Blacks (and other people of color) were not permitted to be after dark.

To assist Black travelers, Victor Green began the publication of The Negro Motorist Green Book in 1936. The Green Book gave basic travel tips and listed places where Black travelers could safely eat, rest, dine, lodge, get fuel, and find other types of services. Initially, it only focused on New York City but eventually covered most of North America, including the cities and towns along Route 66.

The Green Book was published each year until 1964 and became known as the Bible for Black Travelers. It was a very important guidebook for Black travelers during the Jim Crow era although it was not the only one. You can still buy facsimile versions of many of the Green book editions, which are interesting to compare to other existing travel guides written with White travelers in mind.

When looking at the listings, it is clear that there were often long stretches of the Route 66 route where there were few friendly services for Black travelers. A large percentage of the lodging listings were for tourist homes and guest houses rather than more traditional hotels and motels. A couple of notable organizations that welcomed Black travelers to stay and dine were the YMCA / YWCA organization and the Harvey House chain of restaurants and hotels.

Most of the Route 66 era motels and hotels listed in the Green Book are long gone, but several places are still operating although often under different names. These include the La Plaza Court (now the Roadrunner Lodge Motel) in Tucumcari, NM, El Rey Court in Santa Fe, NM, La Posada in Winslow, AZ, Du Beau’s Motel Inn in Flagstaff, AZ, and the Miramar Hotel in Santa Monica, CA.

The Decline of Motel Popularity

After a relatively short-lived love affair with motels, the popularity of motels began to decline in the 1960s and 1970s. The number of new motels decreased and more independent “mom and pop” motels closed or became part of chains.

The first reason for this was the Federal Interstate Highway System where an interstate highway system over time would replace or bypass the 2-lane highways like Route 66. Starting in the mid-1950s, freeways were built to replace sections of Route 66, which would lead to fewer and fewer travelers driving the older route and visiting the roadside motels and other businesses. Route 66 would be officially decommissioned in 1985 but it has been largely bypassed well before then.

Another reason for the decline of the “mom and pop” motels was the increased competition from chain motels and hotels. Travelers increasingly wanted the convenience and sameness of chains like Holiday Inn, Howard Johnson, Motel 6, Best Western, and Hilton. Most independent motels could not compete with the newly built motels and hotels which often offered more amenities and services, had larger advertising budgets, and developed brand loyalty with their customers.

Travelers also increasingly had the option to fly between the Midwest and West as commercial flights became increasingly common and less expensive. Rather than driving all the way from Ohio to Disneyland, a family could just fly to Los Angeles, skipping the long drive along Route 66.

The Jet Age also made it much easier for more well-heeled travelers to take trips to more far-flung destinations like Hawaii, the Caribbean, and Europe. Americans could now travel across the oceans without the lengthy cruise journeys of the past.

The economic conditions of the mid to late 1970s also didn’t help struggling small businesses. After about 20 years of economic growth and expansion, an economic recession hit in the mid-1970s with a stock market crash, an oil crisis, high inflation, and high employment.

Motels during this period also became increasingly associated with being cheap, kitschy, run-down, and outdated. They also became increasingly associated with vice and crime as places where vagrants stayed by the week, prostitutes took customers, people cheated on their spouses, and where drug dealers peddled their goods. Watching women get murdered in the shower of the fictional Bates Motel in the 1960 movie Psycho probably did not help the public’s image of motels.

These factors combined to lead to a steady decline in motels over the decades which has continued to the present.

The Future of Route 66 Motels?

Where once small independent motels were the main lodging option for motorists along Route 66, many tourists today head along Route 66 without ever staying in a motel. However, people have become increasingly interested in preserving historic motels and hotels along the route.

Ironically, the decommissioning of Route 66 sparked a lot of renewed interest in the historic route.  People began thinking of it nostalgically, recalling fond memories of their former travels.

Even those who have never driven Route 66 often have nostalgia about the route. Route 66 often brings up thoughts of an ideal period of time when things were easier and simpler, for an American way of life that has slipped away. Of driving along 2-lane highways through small towns, eating in Art Deco diners, staying in cozy family motels, and visiting odd roadside attractions. A time of soda fountains, white picket fences, drive-in movie theaters, and summer family road trips to places like the Grand Canyon and Disneyland.

Today, a number of Route 66 advocacy, tourism, and preservation groups seek to protect the history, remaining pavement, and the local businesses along this historic route. Media portrayals have also helped increase interest in Route 66, most notably the 2006 film Carswhich brought the story of Route 66 to a new generation.

Government funding, especially grants from the National Park Service Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program (1999 to 2019), have provided needed funding for preservation efforts and to allow for projects that have helped some towns and cities increase tourism to Route 66 era businesses and attractions. Grants have been used to refurbish motel neon signs and to be able to remodel and reopen old motels.

These efforts have certainly helped some of the businesses along Route 66 survive and many people are interested in trying to save current businesses and revive old ones. But it is unclear how the existing Route 66 motels will fare in the coming years. The COVID-19 pandemic has been hard on Route 66 businesses, as it has been on hospitality businesses worldwide.

If you want to make a difference as a traveler of Route 66, we recommend that you stay in local motels and hotels, eat at local restaurants, buy from local shops, visit Route 66 museums, and support other Route 66 businesses on your trip. Many of these businesses operate on thin profit margins that depend on tourist dollars to stay open.

This section covers all the practicalities of finding, booking, and staying in motels and hotels along Route 66. We also give tips and advice on where to book motels online, what amenities to expect, and how to budget for your accommodation along Route 66.

How to find Route 66 era motels?

Route 66 was an official route from 1926 to 1985, so Route 66 era motels would have been built during that time. So the best way to find these vintage motels is to check the date the motel was built. You can also do some research by looking at Route 66 era guidebooks and lodging directories.

Although many of the hotels and motels listed in the first 1946 guidebook for Route 66 are long gone, a large number of the original buildings still exist and many are still operating. Some of these are real gems!

For instance, I have a copy of the 1946 guide and some of the motels listed in the guide that are still operating include the Wagon Wheel in Cuba, MO, Rail Haven in Springfield, MO, Lincoln Motel in Chandler, OK, Blue Swallow in Tucumcari, NM, El Vado in Albuquerque, NM, El Rancho in Gallup, NM, Deluxe Inn in Seligman, AZ, and El Trovatore Motel in Kingman, AZ. Hotels mentioned in the guide include The Mayo in Tulsa, OK, La Posada in Winslow, AZ, Weatherford Hotel in Flagstaff, AZ, and the Grand Canyon Hotel in Williams, AZ.

Luckily, our list below provides a good list of the best Route 66 era motels and hotels that are still operating. We also have a map of these Route 66 motels and hotels which you can see here so you can see where they fall along the route. So hopefully you will find all the historical motels and hotels for your trip in this guide without needing to do much research on your own.

Since Route 66 was increasingly being bypassed and fading in popularity by the end of the 1960s, we did not consider any motels built after 1970 for our list of Route 66 motels. We also include hotels that were built prior to 1926 if they were still operating during the Route 66 period.

There are of course dozens of other Route 66 era motels and hotels still operating along the route not included in this guide. We do have a longer list that we have made with more properties so feel free to ask us if you are looking for another motel in any particular area.

How to book Route 66 motels?

There are three ways you can book Route 66 motels and hotels in advance: directly online, through a third-party booking website, or by phone. For some motels, you’ll have all three options and a few may only offer one of these options.

Some Route 66 motels operate their own website and allow you to book directly through their website. For some motels, this is the only way in which you can book online.

Most Route 66 motels and hotels allow you to book through third-party booking websites like Booking.com and Hotels.com. Several of the motels on this list don’t have their own website and can only be booked online through third-party sites or via phone.

There are still a small number of Route 66 motels along the route that don’t have websites and are not on any third-party booking sites. These motels need to be booked by phone in advance or in person at the motel.

What amenities to expect at Route 66 motels?

Almost all Route 66 motel and hotel rooms have en-suite bathrooms, meaning that you have your own private bathroom with a toilet and bathtub and/or shower. Almost all include all the basic in-room essentials like towels, basic toiletries, and a television.

Other common in-room amenities include hairdryers, alarm clocks, coffee makers, mini-refrigerators, and microwaves. A number of motels and hotels offer additional facilities such as swimming pools, picnic areas, guest laundry facilities, business centers, and gift shops.

All motels offer heating, of course, and many motels offer air-conditioning as well. This is something to consider if traveling in the summer, particularly along the western part of the route where summer temperatures can get really high.

Motels rarely have on-site restaurants, but a number of the hotels do offer on-site restaurants and bars. However, most motels and hotels in this guide are located within walking distance of a place to eat.

Free wireless Internet and free on-site parking are almost always available at Route 66 motels. However, some hotels in larger cities like Chicago, Saint Louis, Tulsa, and Los Angeles may charge for parking.

A large number of motels offer either an in-room coffee maker where you can make your own coffee or free coffee in the motel lobby. Many offer an included light continental breakfast or morning pastry to guests. A few offer a cooked breakfast.

Hotels are more likely than motels to offer a cooked breakfast. However, hotels that offer breakfast are more likely to charge extra for breakfast compared to motels that offer breakfast.

Note: The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the policies at many motels and hotels along Route 66 for the safety of guests and to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Common changes are for motels to stop offering breakfast buffets, to offer contactless check-in processes, and to shut down shared facilities such as swimming pools and guest laundry facilities. So please keep this in mind when traveling.

What NOT to expect from motels along Route 66?

We’ve really enjoyed almost all our stays at Route 66 motels and historical hotels; however, motels are not for everyone. If you haven’t stayed at an older motel before, here are some things to keep in mind.

Don’t expect a standard room. Rooms in motels are generally more idiosyncratic and less cookie-cutter than in larger hotels. Things like room size, decor, and furnishings may differ from room to room. Many motels have themed rooms.

Don’t expect things to be perfect. Motels, particularly older ones, often have their quirks and imperfections like noisy air-conditioners, squeaky doors, older model TVs, and old-fashioned decor.

Don’t expect luxury. Motels rarely offer luxurious amenities, furnishings, or services. If you are the kind of person who needs luxury bedding, lots of amenities, and room-service, vintage motels are probably not for you. Some of the historic hotels along Route 66 offer some luxury, but they often can’t offer the same level of luxury you might expect from a contemporary 5-star hotel. If there are certain amenities you need, be sure to check before booking.

Don’t expect a 24-hour front desk. Some motels offer a 24-hour front desk in the lobby and allow you to check-in late. However, many smaller motels only allow check-in during certain hours and there is not someone on duty at night (just available for emergencies). If you think you may need to check in late, be sure to check ahead to discuss the check-in policy.

Don’t expect on-site dining. Most motels do not have an on-site restaurant or café, although many do offer an included continental breakfast. Hotels are more likely to offer full-service restaurants than motels. However, most Route 66 motels and hotels are a short walk or drive from a restaurant, but it’s always a good idea to check ahead.

If the idea of staying at a Route 66 motel scares you a bit, I would recommend starting with one of the nicer well-rated motels first to test the waters. Or start with one of the larger historical hotels instead which tend to offer a lot more services and amenities.

Remember if you are not sure about a place, ask to see a room first to decide before you check-in and pay for the room. Almost all motels and hotels will honor a polite request to see the room first.

How to find Route 66 motels and hotels that accept dogs?

Many of the motels and hotels along Route 66 do allow dogs and sometimes other pets as well. However, most motels have requirements about the size, number, and breeds.

Our Route 66 motels guide lists whether each motel or hotel accepts dogs. However, I would recommend double-checking this information before booking to make sure it is still the case.

Most pet-friendly motels and hotels only allow pets in certain rooms and many require information about the pet to be given at time of booking for approval. Most places that accept pets charge a pet cleaning fee and some may ask for an upfront refundable deposit.

Most motels and hotels have policies where you are not allowed to leave your pet unattended in the room which means one person should always be in the room and stay with the pet.

If traveling Route 66 with dogs or other pets, it is a good idea to book at least a day or so in advance to ensure that there is a room available that can accommodate you and your pet. In some smaller towns, there may be very few options.

How to find Route 66 motels with wheelchair-accessible rooms?

Booking accommodation in Route 66 era motels and hotels is definitely more challenging for those with disabilities. Very few properties during that period were built with consideration for wheelchair users or those with impaired mobility.

On a positive note, a large number of the motels offer ground floor rooms, have ground floor lobbies, and many have parking in front of or near their room. However, only a small number of the rooms in Route 66 motels and historic hotels meet the accessibility guidelines outlined in the U.S. American Disabilities Act (ADA).

Many motels and historical hotels along Route 66 have narrow doorways, small bathrooms, and require a step up to enter guest rooms and often lack things like elevators, ramps, handrails, and roll-in showers.

Given that all the motel and hotels we list here in our guide are historical buildings built prior to 1993, they are not required to meet the general ADA regulations for public accommodation. However, they are supposed to remove any barriers when feasible to make the facilities as accessible as possible. They are also supposed to be able to note in what ways the rooms are not ADA compliant (e.g., doorway width, no handrails, etc.).

A number of the properties, especially the hotels, do have fully ADA-compliant accessible rooms. However, others have rooms they consider wheelchair accessible but may not fully comply with current ADA regulations. Others have rooms that they don’t list as wheelchair accessible but can work for some wheelchair users with a bit more mobility.

We have also found it difficult to get accessibility information for many of these properties online and had to call over half of them to ask them. We can only imagine the frustration of people actually trying to make bookings.

Within our Route 66 motels guide, we do note whether each of the motels offers wheelchair-accessible rooms or not. This information is according to the motel or hotel at the time of writing and is meant to be helpful in your search. However, it does not mean that a room may be suitable for your specific needs.

Double-check room descriptions and hotel information as having an “accessible room” may not necessarily mean they have ADA-compliant rooms. I would be sure to ask about any needed features (e.g, roll-in shower, bathtub or shower seat, a certain height of bed or toilet, toilet grab rails, minimum width doorways, etc.) if you are unsure.

We’d recommend those who need an accessible room book the room in advance, especially in smaller towns. A large number of the motels and hotels we checked with accessible rooms, only offer one accessible room.

How far in advance should I book Route 66 hotels?

I think this depends on your travel style and whether there are specific motels or hotels that you want to stay in along the route. Many people book their accommodation before they leave for their trip, whereas others who may be less certain about their route or travel time may just book a day or two in advance.

If there are specific Route 66 motels or hotels you want to stay in, I’d definitely recommend booking these in advance. Some of the most popular, especially those with a limited number of rooms, may be booked out weeks in advance.

Similarly, if you have specific requirements or needed amenities, like pet-friendly hotels or hotels with ADA accessible rooms, I’d recommend booking those well in advance to ensure you have adequate lodging at your destination.

Can I just drive Route 66 and book lodging as I go?

Yes, of course, you can! If you just want to drive and stop when you get tired that day, you can definitely do that. Just be aware you will have less control over where you stay and what you pay than if you book in advance.

We would, however, as noted above, recommend booking your lodging in advance if you have certain requirements, if planning to stay in a small town or a region with limited lodging options, or there are specific motels or hotels you really want to stay at along the route.

How much should I expect to pay for Route 66 motels and hotels?

If you are looking for a single standard room for 1 person, motels often range from about $30 a night to $100 a night, with most in the middle of that range. For a standard room at a regular hotel, expect to pay about $60 to $150 per night. Add about $20 to $30 a night for double rooms for 2 guests.

Luxury hotels and popular historical lodging options may have rates double or triple that amount. So you can definitely spend a lot more if you wish but many Route 66 era motels and hotels offer rooms at reasonable prices.

The range will vary widely depending on the rating of the motel, its locations, the time of year, and the included amenities. You’ll generally see higher rates in larger cities (e.g., Chicago, Los Angeles), popular destinations (e.g., Santa Fe, near Grand Canyon), and at peak times of the year (e.g., summer, holidays, during festivals and events). But if you look around, you should not have much trouble finding good-value accommodation along most stretches of the route.

For those on a stricter budget, I’d recommend checking your options, being flexible with dates, booking your accommodation in advance, and trying to avoid traveling during the busiest times of the year. You can also choose to spend more time in the less expensive destinations and less time in the more expensive parts of the route. For example, you may be able to spend 3 nights in Oklahoma or New Mexico for the price of just one night in Santa Monica.

Alternatives to Historic Motels and Hotels along Route 66?

There are of course a lot of post-Route 66 era motels and hotels across the length of Route 66 and if you prefer newer properties, you will not have any trouble finding lots of options across the route. Some of the newly built properties even pay homage to their vintage ancestors.

Of course, hotels and motels are not the only types of accommodation available along Route 66. You can also consider other types of lodging such as staying at campsites or booking apartments and vacation rentals.

Camping can be a fun and budget-friendly way to explore Route 66, either as your main form of lodging or just to have the experience a few times along the way. Whether you want to do traditional tent camping out of the back of your car or want to travel Route 66 in an RV or campervan, there are a lot of options.

RV parks and campsites can be found at fairly regular intervals throughout the route and many local, state, and federal parks also allow overnight camping. You can find a list of some of these RV parks and campsites as part of our 2 week Route 66 itinerary.

Vacation rentals, including private rooms, apartments, and private home rentals are another option for accommodation along Route 66. Vacation rentals can be especially great for those who prefer to cook their own meals, those traveling with kids, and those planning to stop for more than a few nights at a time in the same place.

Vacation rentals, apartments, and holiday homes are much easier to find in cities and around popular tourist destinations than in smaller towns and rural areas. The companies with the most vacation rentals along Route 66 are Vrbo, Airbnb, and Booking.com. You can check out our guide to our favorite vacation rental websites for more options.

Where to find more information about driving Route 66?

If you are planning a Route 66 trip, a good place to start is our Route 66 guide which covers all the basics of the route, how to plan a trip, and answers common travel questions.

Our 2 week Route 66 itinerary is a good place to start reading once you know for sure you want to travel Route 66 and are ready to start booking your trip. For those with less time, our 8 day Route 66 itinerary is designed for those who want to see the highlights but may not have the time to explore the full route.

Some of our favorite books about Route 66 which are good for learning about the history of the route and planning stops of interest include The Mother Road by Michael Wallis and Jim Hinckley’s Route 66 Encyclopedia. For taking along to drive the route itself, we like the most recent editions of the EZ66 Guide, the Adventure Handbook, and a recent USA atlas.

If you enjoy our Route 66 photos, we offer prints of them for sale here in our photo store, which includes several Route 66 motel photos. If there is a specific attraction or photos you don’t see there, just let us know and we are happy to add it if we have it.

If you have a question about Route 66 lodging or more generally about planning a Route 66 road trip, please feel free to leave us a comment in the Comments section at the end of this article. We are happy to try to help answer any questions related to traveling Route 66.

Before we dive into a description of each individual Route 66 motel and hotel, here is a quick preview of all the Route 66 motels by state so you can quickly see which motels are in each state.

Route 66 Motels in Illinois

Route 66 Motels in Missouri

Route 66 Motels in Kansas

Route 66 Motels in Oklahoma

Route 66 Motels in Texas

Route 66 Motels in New Mexico

• Historic Route 66 Motel in Tucumcari, NM
• Roadrunner Lodge in Tucumcari, NM
• Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari, NM
• Motel Safari in Tucumcari, NM
• La Fonda in Santa Fe, NM
• El Sendero Inn in Santa Fe, NM
• El Rey Court in Santa Fe, NM
• Silver Saddle Motel in Santa Fe, NM
• Sunset Motel in Moriarty, NM
• Hiway House Motel in Albuquerque, NM
• Monterey Motel in Albuquerque, NM
• El Vado Motel in Albuquerque, NM
• Sands Motel in Grants, NM
• El Rancho Hotel in Gallup, NM

Route 66 Motels in Arizona

• Brad’s Desert Inn in Holbrook, AZ
• Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, AZ
• La Posada Hotel in Winslow, AZ
• Western Hills Motel in Flagstaff, AZ
• Weatherford Hotel in Flagstaff, AZ
• Motel Du Beau in Flagstaff, AZ
• The Canyon Motel & RV Park in Williams, AZ
• The Lodge on Route 66 in Williams, AZ
• The Red Garter Inn in Williams, AZ
• Grand Canyon Hotel in Williams, AZ
• Stagecoach 66 Motel in Seligman, AZ
• Deluxe Inn in Seligman, AZ
• Supai Motel in Seligman, AZ
• Grand Canyon Caverns Inn near Peach Springs, AZ
• El Trovatore Motel in Kingman, AZ

Route 66 Motels in California

• Ludlow Motel, Ludlow, CA
• Route 66 Motel in Barstow, CA
• Palm Tropics Motel in Glendora, CA
• Saga Motor Hotel in Pasadena, CA
• Wigwam Motel in San Bernandino, CA
• Rest Haven Motel in Santa Monica, CA
• Santa Monica Motel in Santa Monica, CA
• The Georgian in Santa Monica, CA
• Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows in Santa Monica, CA

Here is a list of historic Route 66 motels and hotels that are located along the Mother Road. These motels and hotels either predate Route 66 or were built during the time Route 66 was an official highway.

The majority of these properties are located right on the historic Route 66 highway, while a few are a block or two off the route. Note that there were a number of places where Route 66 had multiple alignments over the years so a motel or hotel may seem off your particular route. Most alignments were very close together so in most instances it won’t make too much of a difference, but do always check to make sure that the motel or hotel is located along or near the route you plan to travel.

All of these are places where Route 66 era travelers would have stayed with a few exceptions as noted. For example, we couldn’t find any operating Route 66 era motels or hotels along the short Kansas section of the route, but we wanted to give you at least one option in each state. However, the recommended options are still located in historic properties.

We include everything from budget motels to history luxury hotels with most of them being in the budget to mid-range category. There are also a couple of bed-and-breakfasts on the list.  We included properties all across the route in all 8 states.

The list is long but not comprehensive as there are dozens of additional Route 66 era motels and hotels along the route. However, we tried to choose the properties that were the most interesting from a historical perspective (e.g., still retain much of their original design) and had the most positive reviews. We do keep a list of additional Route 66 hotels and motels so feel free to ask if you are looking for lodging along a certain stretch of highway.

We have stayed in a number of motels and hotels along Route 66, but we have certainly not stayed in all of the properties on this list! We have tried to choose ones that are both historically from the period and ones that have generally positive reviews.

But the conditions, amenities, and services of any motel or hotel, especially older ones, often change over time and with different owners. We always recommend reading recent reviews before booking and consider asking to see a room before checking in if you are not sure about a particular property.

COVID-19 Note: The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the policies at many motels and hotels along Route 66 for the safety of guests and to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Common changes are for motels to stop offering breakfast, to offer contactless check-in and check-out processes, to stop offering shared coffee facilities, and to shut down or limit access to facilities such as swimming pools and guest laundry facilities. So please keep this in mind when traveling as motel descriptions may not reflect the current policies.

If you have a particularly good or bad experience at a Route 66 motel, feel free to let us know. If you have a favorite Route 66 era motel or hotel that is not included on this list, feel free to let us know that too. We welcome your feedback for future updates to this post.

We’ve created a map to help aid in planning your trip. The map below shows the motel and hotel locations along Route 66. Click here or on the map below for a closer look and to see exact locations of the recommended historic Route 66 motels.

The motels and hotels in this list are listed in geographical order along historic Route 66, from east to west.

Congress Plaza Hotel in Chicago, Illinois

We are going to start at the beginning of Route 66 with the Congress Plaza Hotel in Chicago. It first opened in 1893 and is one of the oldest hotels on our list. The hotel opened during a time of horses and carriages and well before the inception of the Ford Model T or Route 66. Over the decades, the hotel has welcomed several U.S. presidents, a number of celebrities, and many Route 66 travelers.

Today, the iconic 3-star hotel offers a mix of historical features and modern amenities at good value prices. Its large lobby, public spaces, and event rooms are beautiful and retain many of the original architectural features. The rooms offer all the modern comforts and amenities you’d expect at a hotel and many of the rooms offer views of nearby Lake Michigan. The hotel has an on-site fitness center and a business center.

The hotel offers an on-site restaurant and bar, and it is also located within walking distance of two long-time iconic Chicago eateries, Lou Mitchell’s (since 1923) and The Berghoff (since 1898!). Both are casual dining options we recommend to Route 66 travelers looking for historical eateries.

The Congress Plaza Hotel is an excellent place to begin (or end) your Route 66 road trip. This historical hotel is located just 2 blocks from the starting and ending points for Route 66. It is also well-located for exploring many of Chicago’s tourist attractions.

CHICAGO TRAVEL TIP: For those who plan to spend time exploring Chicago, we recommend exploring Chicago by public transit, rideshare services, taxis, sightseeing bus, and/or walking. This will allow you to avoid the hassle of city traffic, finding parking, and parking fees. The Congress Plaza hotel is within walking distance of stops for the city bus and train lines as well as a stop for the city hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus. For those visiting a lot of attractions, you may want to check to see if the Chicago CityPass of Go City Chicago Pass will save you money on your sightseeing.

Address: 520 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60605
Parking: Private on-site parking is available for a fee
Dog Friendly?: No, pets are not allowed in the hotel
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: Yes
Booking: Check latest rates here

Braidwood Motel in Braidwood, IL

The Braidwood Motel’s past is closely tied to that of the Italian-American Rossi family. Peter Rossi opened a pasta factory (Peter Rossi Macaroni Factory) in Braidwood in the late 1800’s. The factory was very successful and the Rossi family would also operate a number of other businesses in Braidwood including a dance hall, a bakery, a saloon, a service station, and auto courts. One of these auto courts, the U-shaped Rossi’s Motel built in 1951, is still operating today as the Braidwood Motel.

If you are looking for a budget-friendly Route 66 motel to stay in to start your trip outside of the city of Chicago, this is a good option. It is located just south of Joliet and north of Pontiac.

The Braidwood Motel offers basic clean guest rooms with all the regular motel amenities, including a mini-fridge and microwave in every room. The original neon sign stands in front of the motel. The motel offers free parking.

The Braidwood Motel doesn’t offer any meals, but it is within walking distance of several places to eat including the Polk-A-Dot Drive-In that has been serving Route 66 travelers since 1956.

Address: 120 N. Washington Street, Braidwood, IL 60408
Parking: Free on-site guest parking available
Dog Friendly?: Yes, pets are allowed in some rooms. Pet fee charged.
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: No
Booking: Check latest rates here

Route 66 Hotel & Conference Center in Springfield, Illinois

The Route 66 Hotel and Conference Center is a locally owned and operated 3-star hotel, and it is a popular stop for those traveling Route 66. While part of the hotel is more modern and was built after Route 66, part of the hotel was built in the 1950s as a Holiday Inn. In fact, it was the very first Holiday Inn located on Route 66.

The hotel caters well to Route 66 travelers and fans of the Mother Road with a large memorabilia collection (including a 1941 Ford Model T), lots of Route 66 themed decorations and signs, and even a seasonal swimming pool with a Route 66 shield painted on the bottom.

The hotel offers a small on-site game center, a seasonal swimming pool, a coin-operated guest laundry room, and it hosts regular concerts and evening events. The hotel has a small on-site restaurant and bar; however, it is not always open. But the hotel is within walking distance of other places to eat.

The hotel’s location makes it a good base for exploring Springfield, including the Abraham Lincoln sites.

Address: 625 East Saint Joseph Street, Springfield, IL 62703
Parking: Free on-site parking is available
Dog Friendly?: Yes, well-behaved pets are allowed on request. Pet fees may apply.
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: Yes
Booking: Check latest rates here

Carlin Villa Motel in Carlinville, IL

The Carlin Villa Motel sits on an older alignment of the route that was the official Route 66 route from 1926 to 1930. I couldn’t find too much history on the Carlin Villa Motel but the manager we spoke to said he thinks the motel was built in 1945. So technically this isn’t a Route 66 motel, as the motel was built after the route alignment changed.

The Carlin Villa Motel is a basic no-frills motel offering 33 guest rooms and the old-fashioned décor has a 1960s feel to it. The motel also has a 24-hour front desk, free parking, self-service guest laundry, an outdoor terrace area, and offers a free continental breakfast.

The motel serves a basic continental breakfast and coffee in the morning. For other meals, you can drive into downtown Carlinville which is about a 3 minute drive away and has a few restaurants. The historical downtown area which includes the “Million Dollar Courthouse” and the Macoupin County Historical Museum is definitely worth visiting.

Note that since this motel is located on the older alignment of Route 66, if you are following along with our Route 66 itinerary, you may or may not visit Carlinville depending on which alignment you choose to drive when leaving Springfield. If you have extra time, you can of course drive both alignments.

Address: 18891 Route 4, Carlinville, IL, 62626
Parking: Free on-site parking is available
Dog Friendly?: Yes, pets are allowed in some rooms. Pet fees apply.
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: No
Booking: Check latest rates here

Wagon Wheel Motel in Cuba, Missouri

The Wagon Wheel Motel dates back to 1935 and bills itself as the “oldest continuously operated motel on Rte 66”. This motel is locally owned and operated and is a really special motel on the route.

The motel originally was built with 14 stone cabins, 12 car shelters, and 2 garages. There was also a cafe and a gas station as part of the original motel. The motel has gone through a number of owners who expanded and renovated the motel over the decades, but the original Ozark stone buildings remain. It is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places.

The Wagon Wheel Motel owners have done a good job of renovating the stone cabins and retaining many of the original wood features while also adding modern features and amenities. Many of the rooms have been recently updated and some of the rooms even have Jacuzzis.

The motel is also notable for its neon which is lit up in the evenings. It has kept its original neon sign from 1947 that was designed and built by John Mathis (the second owner), and also has a more modern neon sign on display as well.

The Wagon Wheel Motel also offers a guest laundry, a bike shelter, free parking, and outdoor guest areas including a concrete patio and fire pits. The cafe has been turned into a shop where you can also get coffee in the mornings or wine in the evenings. The motel is very welcoming to bikers driving Route 66 with covers shelters where motorcycles can be parked overnight.

If you are staying the night here in the spring or summer months, we recommend checking to see if there are any movies playing at the 19 Drive-in, the local drive-in movie theater.

Address: 901 E. Washington Street, Cuba, MO 65453
Parking: Free parking on-site
Dog Friendly?: Pets are allowed in 2 pet-friendly rooms, and there is a $15 per pet per night charge.
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: Yes
Booking: Check latest rates here

Munger Moss Motel in Lebanon, Missouri

The Munger Moss Motel is another classic Route 66 motel that is very popular with Route 66 travelers. The motor court motel first opened in 1946 with a series of cabins and has been expanded and renovated over the years.

Although the motel itself was built and opened in 1946, the name Munger Moss was originally the name of a popular sandwich shop opened by Nellie and Emmitt Munger in nearby Devil’s Elbow in the 1930s. The Munger Moss Sandwich Shop building is now the Elbow End Bar & BBQ and is still operating at last check.

The motel has been run by Bob and Ramona Lehman since 1971. Sadly, Bob passed away in 2019. Ramona and her family have decorated many of the rooms with Route 66 artwork. She told us during our stay that she tries to buy locally made and American products for the motel when she can.

The Munger Moss Motel offers free parking, free coffee (during office hours), a small gift shop (in office), and a large shaded patio. The motel also has a large beautiful operating neon sign out front that was first installed in the 1950s to compete with other motels in the area.

If you are staying the night here, you may want to walk across the street to Starlite Lanes, the local bowling alley for a game of bowling. The bowling alley snack bar offers pizza, sandwiches, snacks, and drinks.

Address: 1336 East Route 66, Lebanon, MO 65536
Parking: Yes, free guest parking on-site
Dog Friendly?: No, pets are not allowed at the motel
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: No
Booking: Check latest rates here

Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven in Springfield, Missouri

The Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven has been serving Route 66 motorists since 1938! The motel started out with just eight stone and concrete cottages that were enclosed by a wooden rail fence (hence its name). It became part of the Best Western group in 1948 and has been expanded over the decades, with big expansions in 1950 and 1957. The hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The hotel offers a good mix of old and new, and has a 1950’s theme throughout parts of the hotel. The breakfast area is designed to look like a 1950s diner and some of the rooms have a specific theme.

For instance, one room is Elvis Presley-themed commemorating the fact that Elvis stayed here in 1956. The hotel offers a daily continental breakfast, an outdoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi, guest laundry facilities, and a 24-hour front desk.

The hotel took down its old classic neon sign in the 1990s as it was no longer working, but replaced it in 2015 with a fairly faithful replica of the original sign. So you can still find a working neon sign here today.

The hotel serves breakfast to guests, but no other meals. However, it is located within walking distance of restaurants and takeaway places.

Address: 203 S. Glenston Avenue, Springfield, MO 65802
Parking: Free parking on-site
Dog Friendly?: The hotel offers a few pet-friendly rooms where pets under 40 lbs. are allowed on request. Pet fees may be charged.
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: Yes
Booking: Check latest rates here

Boots Court in Carthage, Missouri

Boot Court is another one of the special Route 66 era motor courts and is notable for its Art Deco and Streamline Modern architecture. It was built in 1939 by Arthur Boots during the Great Depression. He chose the location because it stood near the intersection of U.S. 66 and U.S. 71 and he called it the “crossroads of America”.

It started out as a gas station with four rooms behind the station office. The motel soon expanded and the gas station was eventually closed. Over the decades, the motel would expand into 13 rooms with covered carports. The covered carports would even attract celebrities to stay (as they could drive in and not be seen) such as Clark Gable.

The motel was almost demolished but was saved by two sisters who purchased it and have been slowly restoring it to its former glory. This includes removing modern additions and decorations and restoring things to how they would have been in 1949. They luckily were able to consult Bob Boots (son of the original owner) and some of the original builders to aid in their restoration.

As of last check only 5 of the rooms in the 1946 annex building were fully refurbished and open to rent. But it is hoped that all 13 rooms will be restored and available to guests soon. The original red-and-white neon sign out front was restored and is now working.

The motel offers air-conditioning in all rooms, original underfloor heating, and a covered carport area for bikes and motorcycles. There is also a small office shop that offers coffee, drinks, and souvenirs. There are no televisions in the rooms, but each room comes complete with a radio as it would have in 1949!

The motel doesn’t serve food but it is located within walking distance of several eateries and restaurants. If staying the night in Carthage, you might want to see if anything is playing at the local 66 Drive-In Theatre or head over to the local bowling alley Grace Lanes.

Address: 107 S. Garrison, Carthage, MO 64836
Parking: Free parking on-site for guests
Dog Friendly?: Small animals with crates are allowed. Pet fee is charged.
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: No
Booking: Check latest rates here

Best Budget Inn in Carthage, Missouri

The Best Budget Inn started life as the Lake Shore Motel back in the 1950s and was built by J. K. Brunk. It was designed to look like the Best Western motels of that time period. Today, the 2-story motel is locally owned and operated and still looks a lot like it did in the 1950s. The current owners have been running the motel since 1987.

This is a great budget stay for those looking for a place outside of town. It is located right next to Kellogg Lake and Kellogg Kale Park in Carthage and many rooms feature a view overlooking the lake. The motel is decorated with decor from the 1950s and 1960s for a real retro feel.

The motel offers a continental breakfast, an outdoor swimming pool, outdoor grill area with picnic tables, free parking, and an on-site laundromat.

Address: 13008 State Highway 96, Carthage, MO 64836
Parking: Free on-site guest parking
Dog Friendly?: Pets allowed on request with prior approval. Pet fee may be charged.
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: No
Booking: Check latest rates here

Rose Cottage in Baxter Springs, Kansas

Kansas doesn’t have, to our knowledge, any operating Route 66 era motels or hotels along the historic route that have retained much of their original architecture and character. So for those wanting to stay along the short stretch of Kansas’s Route 66 route, we recommend considering Rose Cottage.

Rose Cottage is a bed-and-breakfast offering three guest rooms in a Victorian house built in 1900. The rooms are decorated with antiques and retro furnishings that will transport you back in time, but also offers modern amenities like free WiFi and HDTVs. The three guest rooms do share a bathroom so make sure you are OK with that before booking.

Rose Cottage offers breakfast, laundry facilities, a shared lounge, a garden area, and a porch. The current owners have been running it as a bed-and-breakfast since 2014 and it has received very positive reviews.

Many Route 66 travelers would have stayed in tourist houses or guest houses, or homes where people rented our rooms to travelers, particularly in the early days of the route. These guest houses were particularly important for African-American travelers and other people of color who were typically not welcome in regular motels and hotels along the route when the Jim Crow laws were being enforced.

Two other lodging options in historical homes that you might consider in Kansas along Route 66 are:

• The Old Riverton Post in Riverton, KS – A 2-bedroom apartment in a historic 1898 building that once served as the Osborn Grocery and local post office.
• Inn at River Street in Baxter Springs, KS – A B&B located in a 2-story house built in the early 1920s.

Kansas may have only 13 miles of Route 66 but it doesn’t mean that you need to rush through the state! This area of Kansas has a rich mining history with a few places you can stop to learn about local history. There are also connections to the film Cars and baseball player Mickey Mantle along this part of the route.

Address: 221 East 9th Street, Baxter Springs, KS 66713
Parking: Free parking is available on-site
Dog Friendly?: No, pets are not allowed
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: No
Booking: Check latest rates here

Desert Hills Motel in Tulsa, Oklahoma

The Desert Hills Motel is a vintage motel that was built in 1953. Although the motel has been renovated over the years, it still features much of its original 1950s architecture and has a great neon sign out front featuring a cactus.

This is a budget no-frills motel and can be a great place for those on a small budget looking for a place to stay in Tulsa. The hotel offers guest laundry facilities and some rooms have kitchenettes.

The recent reviews for the motel are mixed, so you may want to check out a room first before committing to staying here. The motel doesn’t appear to offer any online booking options, so you will need to call ahead (+1 918-834-3311) or stop by to book.

The motel doesn’t offer breakfast or meals, but it is within walking distance of several places to get food, including Tally’s Good Food Cafe which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Address: 5220 E 11th Street, Tulsa, OK 74112
Parking: Free parking available on-site
Dog Friendly?: No, pets are not allowed.
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: No
Booking: Call hotel (+1 918-834-3311) for latest rates and to book rooms

The Campbell Hotel in Tusla, Oklahoma

The 4-star Campbell Hotel now occupies the space of the former Casa Loma Hotel. Built along the new Route 66 highway in 1927, the Casa Loma Hotel was designed in the Spanish Colonial Revival style and operated from 1927 to 1960. However, after the Route 66 official route through Tulsa moved to Interstate 44 in 1959, business slowed and the hotel closed its doors.

In 2011, the space of the Casa Loma Hotel was completely renovated and reopened as a boutique hotel with individually decorated rooms. At the Campbell Hotel, each room is inspired by Oklahoma history, including Route 66.

The hotel offers continental breakfast, a bar and lounge, an on-site salon and spa, and hotel laundry services. If you are looking for a break from classic motels along the route, this 4-star city hotel may be just the thing.

The hotel only offers a continental breakfast, but there is a deli and restaurant next door that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Other dining options are within walking distance as well.

Address: 2636 East 11th Street, Tulsa, OK 74104
Parking: Free parking is available on-site for hotel guests
Dog Friendly?: Some rooms are pet-friendly. Charges may apply.
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: Yes
Booking: Check latest rates here

The Mayo in Tulsa, Oklahoma

The Mayo has a somewhat similar story to The Campbell. The Mayo, opened in 1925 by the two Mayo brothers, was a huge 19-story Art Deco building offering 600 guest rooms! It was the tallest building in Oklahoma and the most luxurious hotel in Tulsa, which at that time was known as the Oil Capital of the World.

The Mayo quickly became the hotel of choice for the Tulsa rich, visiting celebrities and politicians, and the oil barons of the day. It served not just as a hotel, but as a social gathering spot. Famous guests included Charles Lindberg, Babe Ruth, Elvis Presley, Charlie Chaplin, President John F. Kennedy, and J. Paul Getty.

The hotel closed in 1981 and the building fell into despair. The building would likely have been demolished if it hadn’t been purchased in 2001 by a local Tulsa family. It was eventually renovated and restored and the hotel reopened its doors in 2009, offering 102 guest rooms as well as 76 long-term rental apartments. The hotel features beautiful public spaces, and the rooms feature modern decor with nods to its Art Deco architecture.

The hotel has a number of guest amenities including complimentary airport car service, valet parking a 24-hour fitness center, a 24-hour business center, and hotel laundry services. The hotel has an on-site restaurant, a rooftop bar, and a coffee shop.

The hotel is located in the center of historic downtown Tulsa and is within walking distance of a lot of Tulsa attractions and restaurants. If you are looking for evening entertainment, you might consider checking out what is happening at Cain’s Ballroom during your visit.

Address: 115 W 5th Street, Tulsa, OK 74103
Parking: Private parking available on-site for a fee (reservation recommended)
Dog Friendly?: No, pets are not allowed in hotel
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: Yes
Booking: Check latest rates here

Skyliner Motel in Stroud, Oklahoma

The Skyliner Motel is another historic Route 66 motel in Oklahoma. The Skyliner opened in 1950 and today still retains much of its original architecture. The small motel is family-owned and offers just 10 rooms.

This is a basic budget motel that offers free on-site parking and a mini refrigerator and microwave in each room. There is also a vintage working neon sign out front.

The recent reviews for the motel are mixed, so you may want to check out a room first before committing to staying here.

The Skyliner Motel doesn’t offer any food options, but you are just a few blocks walk away from the historic Rock Cafe which is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Address: 717 W. Main Street, Stroud, OK 74079
Parking: Free parking available on-site
Dog Friendly?: No, pets are not allowed
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: No
Booking: Check latest rates here or call +1 918-968-9556

Lincoln Motel in Chandler, Oklahoma

The Lincoln Motel is another historic Route 66 motel that dates back to 1939. The motel features cottage-style rooms and a classic motor court. The motel offers a total of 20 rooms.

This is a basic budget motel that offers free on-site parking, a 24-hour front desk, and a mini-refrigerator and microwave in each room. There are chairs and benches in front of each room for guests to sit outside, and there is also a vintage working neon sign out front.

The motel is located just a short walking from a few different places to eat. It is also within walking distance of many of Chandler’s attractions, including the Route 66 Interpretive Center and the McJerry Gallery.

Address: 740 East 1st Street, Chandler, OK 74834
Parking: Free parking is available on-site
Dog Friendly?: No, pets are not allowed
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: No
Booking: Check latest rates here

Route 66 Inn in Shamrock, Texas

The Route 66 Inn started life as the Sun n’ Sand Motel (later the Sun ‘N’ Sand Motor Inn) in 1953. It also had an on-site restaurant called the Maverick. Although the original 1950s layout and architecture remain, the motel has been fairly recently renovated and remodeled but still pays homage to its retro past.

The Route 66 Inn offers clean and comfortable rooms at a budget price in a recently renovated 1950s motel. The motel provides guests with free parking, a 24-hour front desk, and an outdoor picnic and barbeque area.

The motel is located within a short distance of the attractions of Shamrock, including the Conoco Tower Station and the historical U-Drop Inn (now a visitor’s center and gift shop). It doesn’t offer any meal options, but the motel is within walking distance of places to eat, including Big Vern’s Steakhouse.

Address: 800 East 12th Street, Shamrock, TX 79079
Parking: Free parking is available on-site
Dog Friendly?: Yes, pets are allowed in some rooms. There is a pet fee.
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: Yes
Booking: Check latest rates here

Cactus Inn in McLean, Texas

The Cactus Inn is another 1950s Route 66 classic motel. It was built in 1951 by Ezra J. and Grace Windom and was called the West Wind Motel. The Windoms sold the motel in the 1960s and the name was changed to the Cactus Inn.

Today, the Cactus Inn is being slowly renovated room by room by a new owner so there are a limited number of rooms available. The renovated motel has a Route 66 retro theme and each room has a small fridge and microwave and a seating area. A large neon cactus sign sits just across from the parking area.

The Cactus Inn is in a great location for exploring the attractions of McLean and you can walk to both the McLean-Alanreed Area Museum and the Devil’s Rope and Route 66 Museum. There are no meals offered on-site but the motel is next door to the Red River Steakhouse which serves lunch and dinner.

Address: 101 Pine Street, McLean TX 79057
Parking: Free parking available on-site
Dog Friendly?: Pets are allowed on request
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: No
Booking: Check latest rates here

The Big Texan Motel in Amarillo, Texas

The Big Texan Motel is part of the larger Big Texan Steak Ranch business and is one of the best known Route 66 era businesses still operating in Texas.

The Big Texan Steak Ranch was first opened in 1960 by R. J. Lee and a 60-foot neon cowboy sign was erected to attract Route 66 travelers. The restaurant was later moved to its current location off Interstate 40 and reopened in 1970. In 1976, most of the Big Texan restaurant building was lost to a terrible fire but was rebuilt and reopened in 1978, and that is the building you see today. The motel itself was opened in 1983.

The Lee family still owns and operates the Big Texan Steak Ranch, which has grown over the years to include a restaurant, gift shop, motel, brewery, horse stables, RV park, and music venue.

The motel, which dates to 1983, offers an Old West theme and the decor is reminiscent of the late 1800s. The motel offers a 24-hour front desk, guest laundry facilities, free coffee, an on-site restaurant, and a seasonal outdoor Texas-shaped swimming pool. Guests can also even arrange free limo services.

The Big Texan Steak House is a must-stop for most Route 66 travelers and you’ll start seeing the signs for the restaurant long before you get here. We’ve stopped many times ourselves and it is definitely a worth while tourist stop to enjoy a meal here. A stay at the motel allows you a quick walk to bed after a big dinner here!

The Big Texan Motel is a short drive from many of Amarillo’s attractions. Meals are not included with your stay, but motel guests can have breakfast (for a charge) at the Big Texan Steak House if they wish.

Address: 7701 Interstate 40 Access Road, Amarillo, Texas 79118
Parking: Free guest parking available on-site
Dog Friendly?: No, pets are not allowed
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: Yes
Booking: Check latest rates here

Bonanza Motel in Vega, Texas

The Bonanza Motel is a typical U-shaped motel of the 1950s offering 24 guest rooms in the small town of Vega. The motel is a good budget option and offers a 24-hour front desk, continental breakfast, free parking and most rooms include microwaves and mini-fridges.

The Bonanza Motel is located near the center of Vega and you can walk to all the attractions of Vega as well as a couple of places to eat. You are also just a 15 minute drive from the designated midpoint of Route 66 in the nearby town of Adrian.

Another option to consider in Vega is the Station 66 Vega. This is a historic Philips 66 service station built in 1950 that has been converted in a spacious Route 66 themed apartment that includes laundry facilities, sleeping space for up to 6 people, and free covered parking. The owner is also hoping to restore the nearby historic Vega Motel.

Address: 607 Vega Boulevard, Vega, TX 79092
Parking: Free parking is available on-site
Dog Friendly?: Yes, pets are allowed. There is a pet fee.
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: No
Booking: Check latest rates here

Historic Route 66 Motel in Tucumcari, New Mexico

Tucumcari is a special place in terms of Route 66 motels and large billboard signs from Texas and throughout New Mexico once announced to drivers: “Tucumcari Tonight—2,000 Motel Rooms”. Given that most motels had 30 rooms or less at the time, that was a lot of rooms and a lot of motels!

Although many of those Route 66 era motels are long gone, several still remain and are still serving guests. Tucumcari still boasts over 1,000 rooms and I definitely recommend that you consider stopping and spending the night here. Although there are several vintage motels in Tucumcari, we’ll highlight our four favorites.

The Historic Route 66 Motel was originally built in the 1960s and opened as the Royal Palacio Motel. The motel today has been nicely modernized but maintains its original architecture with mid-1960’s inspired decor and furnishings. The motel rooms are clean and spacious and offer all the basic amenities.

This was one of the very first historic Route 66 motels that I ever stayed at many years ago. It was a great experience and has led to us staying in dozens more motels and hotels along the route!

The motel also has an on-site coffee shop, the Circa Expresso Bar, which serves coffee and snacks, although this is often closed during the off-season. The motel is located within walking distance of most of Tucumcari’s attractions and restaurants, including Del’s Restaurant, Kix on 66, and Watson’s BBQ.

Address: 1620 E. Route 66 Boulevard, Tucumcari, NM 88401
Parking: Free parking is available on-site
Dog Friendly?: They offer a limited number of pet-friendly rooms
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: No
Booking: Check latest rates here

Roadrunner Lodge in Tucumcari, New Mexico

Roadrunner Lodge is actually comprised of what was once two separate motels. One was the La Plaza Court built in 1947 and the other was the Leatherwood Manor that opened in 1964. The properties would later be combined and renovated into one motel. The properties would undergo many name changes and renovations over the decades.

Today the motel has a distinctive 1960’s theme and many of the rooms have radios that play 1960’s music. The motel offers basic clean rooms with flat-screen TVs and and regular motel amenities. It also offers a few special 1960’s themed rooms that have 1960’s style decor, 1960’s games, and Magic Fingers coin-operated vibrating beds! The motel also has an outdoor fireplace and picnic area and offers free parking.

The motel does not serve any meals, but does offer free coffee in the lobby in the mornings. It is located within walking distance of most of Tucumcari’s restaurants and places of interest.

Address: 1023 East Route 66 Boulevard, Tucumcari, NM 88401 
Parking: Free parking is available on-site
Dog Friendly?: Dogs are allowed but must be noted at time of booking. There is a pet fee charged.
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: No
Booking: Check latest rates here

Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari, New Mexico

The Blue Swallow Motel is one of the most popular and well-known of the historic Route 66 motels along the route. Its fame comes from its longevity, its owners, and its picturesque neon sign.

The Blue Swallow Motel was built in 1939 by Carpenter W.A. Huggins as an L-shaped 10-room motor court with a cafe. It was then called the Blue Swallow Court and Cafe. Huggins and his wife ran in in the 1940s and then it was sold to Ted Jones who expanded it. Then in the 1950’s Lillian Redman and her husband bought the motor court.

Lillian Redman and her husband would update the motel, change its name to Blue Swallow Motel, and add the neon sign. Lillian became well-known to many regular Route 66 travelers and was known for her generosity, for putting customers first, and for her support of Route 66. She would run the Blue Swallow Motel from 1958 to 1998, seeing it survive well past the building of the interstate and the official end of Route 66. Today, you’ll still find a copy of a benediction she wrote and used to give out to guests in each room.

The Blue Swallow Motel offers 12 rooms decorated in a retro 1940s and 1950s style and each room includes both vintage and modern pieces. The neon sign installed by the Redmans has been repaired and is still working and lit up each evening.

The motel offers free parking, morning coffee and breakfast snacks in the office, a small gift shop in the office, and an outdoor seating area for guests. Some rooms still feature the original garages next to the rooms. The motel also has family games, books, and toys you can borrow from the office.

This is a lovely classic motel, and it is very popular with Route 66 fans. So if you want to stay here, we recommend booking well in advance to guarantee a room. My family and I recently stayed in the Family Suite and really enjoyed our stay and played a couple of games of cornhole (a popular lawn game of the Midwest) after dinner.

The Blue Swallow offers hot drinks (coffee, tea, or hot chocolate) and some breakfast snacks in the morning. If you are wanting a full breakfast, we can recommend nearby Kix on 66. For other meals, you are a short walk or drive from other places to eat.

Address: 815 East Route 66 Blvd, Tucumcari, NM 88401
Parking: Free parking is available on-site
Dog Friendly?: No, pets are not allowed
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: No
Booking: Check latest rates here

Motel Safari in Tucumcari, New Mexico

The Motel Safari opened in 1959 and was built by Chester Dohrer in the Googie architectural style. It is best recognized by its vintage neon sign featuring a camel which still sits outside today.

The motel has undergone a lot of restoration in more recent times after a period of decline, and the latest owners have updated the furnishings and amenities. The motel retains it 1950’s and 1960’s retro charm but also offers modern amenities like pillow-top mattresses and flat-screen TVs. In addition to regular rooms, there are also two large suites available, one with a rock ‘n’ roll theme and one with a Rawhide theme (a western TV show starring Clint Eastwood).

The Motel Safari offers free parking, free coffee, and a shared outdoor patio area with fire pit. Painted murals and original artwork add some colorful splashes to the motel and rooms.

The Motel Safari offers free coffee in the office lobby and there are also coffee makers in each room, but it doesn’t serve breakfast or any other meals. For breakfast, we can recommend walking over to Kix on 66. For other meals, you are a short walk or drive from other places to eat in Tucumcari.

Address: 722 E Route 66 Boulevard, Tucumcari, NM 88401
Parking: Free parking is available on-site
Dog Friendly?: No, pets are not allowed at the motel
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: No
Booking: Check latest rates here

La Fonda in Santa Fe, New Mexico

The original Route 66 alignment through New Mexico ran through Santa Fe and then into Albuquerque. However, in 1937 this was changed and the post-1937 Route 66 route bypassed Santa Fe completely and went through straight through central downtown Albuquerque instead. So if you are driving Route 66, you may or may not decide to visit Santa Fe depending on your chosen route. If you do visit, see our guide to things to do in Santa Fe.

La Fonda is 3-star historic hotel that is well known for its beautiful Pueblo Revival architecture and rich history. The hotel predates Route 66 and first opened in 1922. It was purchased by the Santa Fe Railway in 1925 and was originally designed to accommodate railroad travelers. It was leased by the Fred Harvey Company and ran as a Harvey House until 1969.

Although the current hotel only dates to 1922, it is believed that the first inn was built on the site around 1607 by the Spanish and that there has been an inn or hotel here since that time. Santa Fe has been an important destination for traders and travelers for centuries. Santa Fe was an important stop on the El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro and the terminus of the Santa Fe Trail, later it was an important train stop in the Southwest, and eventually the first alignment of Route 66 would run through it.

The hotel offers a lot of guest amenities including a 24-hour front desk, 3 restaurants, bars, a rooftop terrace garden patio, a fitness center, spa, swimming pool, gift shops, hotel laundry services, and a business center. There is also regular entertainment offered at the hotel.

Breakfast can be added to your room rate at La Fonda and eaten at the hotel restaurant. There are dining options for all meals in the hotel or you can eat at a number of places located within walking distance. La Fonda sits right on the historic Santa Fe Plaza and is well located for exploring the city center on foot.

If you are looking for a less expensive lodging option located near the Santa Fe Plaza, you might want to check out El Sendero Inn (formerly Garrett’s Desert Inn). This is a Route 66 era motel dating back to 1957 and it offers an outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, and is within a short walking distance of the Plaza.

Address: 100 East San Francisco Street, Santa Fe, NM 87501
Parking: Parking is available on-site for a daily fee.
Dog Friendly?: Yes, pets are allowed in some rooms. Pet fees apply.
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: Yes
Booking: Check latest rates here

El Rey Court in Santa Fe, New Mexico

The El Rey Court is a much-loved Route 66 motel in Santa Fe by both locals and travelers. The El Rey Inn opened as an adobe brick motor court in 1936 with 12 guest rooms. The motel has changed and grown a lot over time, including the incorporation of the next door motel (Alamo Court), and today offers 86 rooms and suites.

The El Rey underwent a big transformation by new owners from 2016 to 2018 which includes redecorating rooms and adding a bar. For a long time, the motor court was known as El Rey Inn, but the name was recently changed back to its original name El Rey Court.

The El Rey Court offers 86 rooms and suites and the rooms are individually decorated with Southwestern decor and include original artwork. The El Rey is known for its gardens and the property covers 5 acres in total. Guest amenities include free parking, a 24-hour front desk, an on-site bar, a seasonal outdoor pool, hot tubs, guest laundry facilities, an outdoor terrace with fireplace, and a fitness center.

The El Rey Court used to offer a continental breakfast but that has recently been discontinued. Only coffee and tea is being offered at last check. However, the motel is located within a  short walk to nearby restaurants where you can get breakfast and evening meals.

TRAVEL TIP: The El Rey Court is located outside the city center, but is right next to a bus stop. The bus will take you to the Santa Fe downtown in about 20 minutes. You can also call a taxi. Since the motel offers free parking, we recommend going to the center by bus to avoid having to find and pay for parking.

Address: 1862 Cerrillos Road, Santa Fe, NM 87505
Parking: Free parking is available on-site
Dog Friendly?: Yes, pets are allowed in some rooms. Pet fee is charged.
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: Yes
Booking: Check latest rates here

Silver Saddle Motel in Santa Fe, New Mexico

The Silver Saddle Motel is a vintage motor court motel that was built in 1958. The motel is a welcome budget-friendly motel for those on a smaller budget looking for a place to stay in pricey Santa Fe!

The vintage motel offers basic but comfortable rooms. Each is decorated with a different Western theme and the motel features original cowboy art from a New Mexican artist. The motel offers free on-site parking, included continental breakfast, an outdoor picnic area, and guest laundry services. Some rooms have mini-fridges and microwaves.

The Silver Saddle Motel offers a continental breakfast to guests each morning. It is located within walking distance of places to eat for evening meals.

TRAVEL TIP: This Silver Saddle Motel is located outside the city center, but it is located near a bus stop. A regular bus will take you to the Santa Fe downtown in about 20 to 25 minutes. You can also call a taxi. Since the motel offers free parking, we recommend going to the center by bus to avoid having to find and pay for parking.

Address: 2810 Cerrillos Road, Santa Fe, NM 87507
Parking: Free parking available on-site
Dog Friendly?: No, pets are not allowed
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: Yes
Booking: Check latest rates here

Sunset Motel in Moriarty, New Mexico

This original Route 66 motel in Moriarty has been owned and operated by the same family since it opened in 1959! The Sunset Motel was opened by Elaine and Bill Pogue as a small 2-room motel and was expanded over the next 10 years Their son Mike and his wife Debbie now run the family business.

The Sunset Motel is a budget-friendly motel that offers clean and comfortable rooms. The motel offers free parking, microwaves and mini-fridges in the rooms, and free continental breakfast.

If you are looking for a true mom-and-pop sort of motel in New Mexico, this is a great one to consider. It is a true family business and offers a traditional Route 66 motel that is still in the same family as it was built, which is very rare these days. The motel has also been featured in a few films including the acclaimed film Hell or High Water (2016) starring Jeff Bridges.

The motel serves breakfast to guests, but it doesn’t offer other meals. There are several places to eat nearby in Moriarty including the little diner at Lisa’s Truck Center. The motel is also located just across the road from Lewis Antique Auto & Toy Museum, which is a popular place for Route 66 fans to stop.

Address: 501 East Central Avenue, Moriarty, NM 87035
Parking: Free parking available on-site
Dog Friendly?: Yes, pets are allowed at the motel and there is a pet fee.
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: No
Booking: Check latest rates here

Hiway House Motel in Albuquerque, New Mexico

The Hiway House Motel was built in 1958 and has retained its original colonial-style architecture. This motel was part of the Hiway House motor home chain started in 1956 by Del Webb that includes a number of properties throughout the Southwestern United States.

The chain stopped operation around 1970, and this one of the few, perhaps the only, motel to still bear the Hiway House name. The Hiway House still has a neon sign out front with the Hiway House business slogan: “Sleep is Our Business”.

The Hiway House Motel offers 30 rooms and is a no-frills budget motel. The motel has on-site guest laundry, free parking, and the staff can help arrange airport shuttles.

There is a restaurant and lounge attached to the motel but I don’t believe it is currently operating, and I don’t believe that breakfast is currently being served at the motel. But the motel is within walking distance of several places to eat in Albuquerque and nearby Nob Hill attractions.

Address: 3200 Central Avenue SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106
Parking: Free parking is available on-site
Dog Friendly?: No, pets are not allowed
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: No
Booking: Check latest rates here

Monterey Motel in Albuquerque, New Mexico

The Monterey Motel is another Route 66 era motel in Albuquerque. It first opened in 1946 and has long been a good value lodging option next to Albuquerque’s Old Town. The motel opened in 1946 as David Court and then later was called Monterey Court, Monterey Motel, and Monterey Non-Smokers Motel. This last name is based on the motel always having a firm non-smoking guest policy.

In 2017, the then-named Monterey Non-Smokers Motel was sold to the same group who recently refurbished and opened the nearby El Vado Motel. The motel was closed for most of 2020 for an expansion and renovation to expand and modernize the motel. They also wanted to restore more of the motel’s exterior to its original 1940s look and refurbish the working neon sign out front.

The Monterey Motel reopened with 19 private rooms, including an ADA accessible room. The rooms are modernly decorated, clean, and all recently renovated and refurbished. The rooms offer all the basic motel amenities.

In addition to the motel, they also added a new building that houses a 32-bed hostel so there are also less expensive dormitory-style beds available for solo and group travelers as well. The hostel features comfortable new mattresses, power outlets, privacy curtains, and lockable storage.

There is also now a new lounge where you can relax, enjoy cocktails, or even order food. There is also a seasonal swimming pool that is open in the warmer weather months. Guests can also enjoy the food, shops, and entertainment at the next door El Vado Motel, which is under the same management.

We were very excited that this motel has been renovated as the rooms were looking a bit tired during our last visit. The motel has long been a favorite for those wanting a reasonably priced option in a wonderful location.

The motel is also within walking distance of several other places to eat and is a great place to stay for exploring Albuquerque’s Old Town attractions, as well as the ABQ BioPark gardens and aquarium. See our guide to things to do in Albuquerque for more options.

Address: 2402 Central Avenue, Albuquerque, NM 87104
Parking: Free on-site parking is available
Dog Friendly?: No, pets are not allowed.
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: Yes
Booking: Check latest rates here

El Vado Motel in Albuquerque, New Mexico

The El Vado Motel was built as a classic motor court in the Spanish Pueblo Revival style back in 1937. It was built and originally operated by Daniel Murphy as the El Vado Auto Court and the motel initially consisted of 32 rooms across two buildings.

The motel has undergone a lot of changes over the years, including many years of closure, before a recent renovation has restored and reopened this Route 66 motel. The motel was reopened in 2018 after a long period of restoration.

The El Vado Motel’s original exterior remains largely unchanged since it was built although the rooms have been modernized. The motel retains many of its original historical features but with modern amenities and furnishings. The rooms have a 1960’s mid-century decor and the motel feels more like a boutique hotel than a traditional mom-and-pop motel.

The motel offers a lot of amenities to guests. It has an outdoor swimming pool, free on-site parking, outdoor terrace and dining area, shared lounge, and an on-site bar and dining options. The motel also has on-site retail shops as well.

The El Vado Motel has one of the better known of Albuquerque’s many Central Avenue neon signs which was restored before the motel was reopened. The motel’s sign features a Native American with a colorful headdress.

The El Vado Motel offers on-site dining options and usually has at least a few different types of food options. But there are also many restaurants located within walking distance from the motel.

The motel is also well-situated for exploring Albuquerque’s Old Town and the ABQ BioPark gardens and aquarium. For more info about this section of Route 66, you can see our post about Route 66 attractions in Albuquerque.

Address: 2500 Central Avenue SW, Albuquerque, NM 87104
Parking: Free parking is available on-site for guests
Dog Friendly?: No, pets are not allowed
Wheelchair Accessible Rooms Available?: Yes
Booking: Check latest rates here

Sands Motel in Grants, New Mexico

The Sands Motel is a 1950 vintage motel located on Route 66 in Grants. It was likely built to accommodate uranium miners as much as Route 66 travelers as it was in 1950 that uranium was discovered here by a local Navajo shepherd that led to a mining boom that lasted into the 1980s.

Today, the motel retains much of its original architecture and there is a large neon motel sign out front. It is said that Elvis Presley stayed here in room 123 on his way to Las Vegas, Nevada to get married in 1967. So Elvis fans may want to request that room.

The Sands Motel is a basic no-frills budget motel which offers all the motel basics, including free parking, mini-fridges and microwaves in rooms, and free coffee. The motel does get some mixed reviews, so you may want to see a room before checking in.

The motel used to offer a continental breakfast, but I believe this has been discontinued at last check. But the motel is located a short distance of a few different restaurants. It is also well-located for exploring Grants and the New Mexico Mining Museum is a short drive or 25-minute walk away.