Once a staple of the Great American Road Trip, classic roadside motels are having a nostalgic revival. With their neon signs, vintage vibes, and timeless charm, these motels offer more than just a place to sleep—they’re living monuments to a bygone era of American travel. Whether you’re a fan of mid-century design, Americana, or just looking for a quirky stay on your next road trip, these historic roadside motels have not only survived—they’ve thrived.
1. Madonna Inn – San Luis Obispo, California
Famous for its outrageously themed rooms and kitschy décor, the Madonna Inn opened in 1958 and quickly became a California icon. From the waterfall urinal to the lavishly pink dining room, every corner is a photo op. This motel is as much an attraction as it is accommodation.
2. Wigwam Motel – Holbrook, Arizona
Part of the iconic Route 66, the Wigwam Motel features 15 concrete teepees, each a standalone room. Originally built in 1950, it’s one of only three surviving Wigwam Villages in the U.S. It’s a beloved stop for Route 66 travelers and a nod to the playful spirit of roadside Americana.
3. Blue Swallow Motel – Tucumcari, New Mexico
With its retro neon sign and perfectly preserved motor court layout, the Blue Swallow Motel has been welcoming guests since 1939. Each room has a garage, making it ideal for road-trippers and vintage car enthusiasts. It’s one of the most photographed motels on Route 66 for good reason.
4. Thunderbird Inn – Savannah, Georgia
This 1960s motel has been lovingly restored with a groovy vibe, complete with MoonPies and RC Cola in your room. Located just on the edge of historic downtown Savannah, the Thunderbird Inn combines retro flair with modern comfort.
5. Austin Motel – Austin, Texas
Located on South Congress Avenue, this iconic motel dates back to 1938 and is famous for its cheeky neon sign and kidney-shaped pool. With hip shops, food trucks, and music venues just steps away, the Austin Motel is as vibrant as the city itself.
6. Lincoln Motor Court – Manns Choice, Pennsylvania
One of the oldest continuously operating motor courts in the country, the Lincoln Motor Court dates back to the 1940s. Guests stay in original individual cabins, making it a true time capsule of early American road travel.
7. Skyview Motel – Los Alamos, California
Perched on a hill with sweeping vineyard views, this 1950s motel has been reborn as a stylish boutique property. With a rooftop bar, retro signage, and curated interiors, Skyview proves that you can blend nostalgia with luxury.
8. Red Caboose Motel – Ronks, Pennsylvania
A stay at the Red Caboose Motel means sleeping in a real train car. Opened in 1970 and set amid Amish country, this whimsical spot offers a fun and family-friendly twist on the classic motel experience.
9. Starlux Boutique Hotel – Wildwood, New Jersey
Inspired by the Doo Wop era, the Starlux is a gleaming example of mid-century modern architecture preserved with flair. While it’s been updated with modern amenities, the motel still celebrates the 1950s beach culture that made Wildwood famous.
10. Safari Inn – Burbank, California
Built in 1955 and featured in countless films and TV shows, the Safari Inn is a Hollywood favorite. Its iconic neon sign, classic design, and poolside charm make it a favorite among vintage lovers and film buffs alike.
In an age of cookie-cutter hotels, these vintage motels offer something rare: authenticity. They tell stories of the golden age of the American highway, of small towns thriving along forgotten roads, and of travelers seeking adventure off the beaten path. Staying in one of these motels isn’t just about a bed for the night—it’s about experiencing a slice of history.