Last updated November 12, 2024
Let’s take a trip down memory lane. Remember those family road trips when you’d pull into a roadside motel with a flickering neon sign, and it felt like a mini adventure?
In a world dominated by cookie-cutter chain hotels, these roadside motels are back—but with a twist—and attracting a new generation of travelers.
Jump to:
- The Pearl — San Diego, California
- Austin Motel — Austin, Texas
- Modern Hotel — Boise, Idaho
- Brentwood Hotel — Saratoga Springs, New York
- Hope Springs — Desert Hot Springs, California
- Vagabond Hotel — Miami, Florida
- Ace Hotel — Palm Springs, California
- The Dive Motel — Nashville, Tennessee
- Hotel San José — Austin, Texas
- The Starlite Motel — Kerhonkson, New York
- Phoenix Hotel — San Francisco, California
- Amigo Motor Lodge — Salida, Colorado
You can thank the Gen Xers and Millennials for this one. They’re the driving force behind this trend, turning these roadside relics into Instagram-worthy destinations.
So, if you’re planning your next getaway, keep reading to discover twelve of the most hip roadside motels across the United States.
12 Roadside Motels to Book Now
The word motel is a portmanteau of “motor” and “hotel.” In their heyday in the 1960s, more than 61,000 motels were in operation across the United States. By contrast, only 16,000 remained by 2012. Today, roadside motels are getting modern makeovers with chic interiors, cool amenities, and elevated food and drink options that give a nod to the golden age of American road trips.
Reflecting this revival, the Michelin Guide even highlighted a select few that stand out for their charm and appeal. But here are our twelve favorite roadside motels that we think are having quite the moment.
1. The Pearl — San Diego, California
This gem, nestled in the Point Loma neighborhood, offers a stylish retreat with mid-century modern decor and a lively atmosphere. The centerpiece is the outdoor pool, surrounded by vintage-inspired cabanas and a movie screen that plays classic films under the stars. A stay at The Pearl is like stepping back in time yet with all the comforts you’d expect from a swanky hotel.
2. Austin Motel — Austin, Texas
If you’ve ever cruised down South Congress Avenue in Austin, chances are Austin Motel’s iconic red sign has caught your eye. Since 1938, the roadside motel has been a staple of the city’s quirky charm, and after a recent makeover, it’s become the go-to spot for travelers seeking eclectic rooms and a hip pool scene that screams “Keep Austin Weird.”
3. Modern Hotel — Boise, Idaho
What used to be a ramshackle Travelodge is now the Modern Hotel, a trendy hangout with industrial-chic design. The on-site bar is a favorite among locals, and the roadside hotel’s location near downtown Boise is steps away from downtown attractions.
4. Brentwood Hotel — Saratoga Springs, New York
Overlooking the Saratoga Race Course, Brentwood Hotel serves up an understated vibe that pays homage to equestrian culture. This reimagined roadside motel offers cozy rooms adorned with custom woodwork and local artwork, blending rustic charm with a touch of sophistication.
5. Hope Springs — Desert Hot Springs, California
Hope Springs is a 10-room roadside motel where mid-century design meets modern comfort. Lovingly restored, it showcases authentic touches like Formica countertops, period-perfect rocking chairs and plush faux fur rugs. The true gem of this desert haven is the trio of natural hot springs pools, where guests can unwind and soak beneath the expansive desert sky.
6. Vagabond Hotel — Miami, Florida
Originally built in 1953, the Vagabond Hotel has been meticulously restored to its original glory, complete with vibrant neon signs and retro pool area. The guest rooms blend vintage style and modern amenities, making it a favorite among design enthusiasts and retro lovers alike.
7. Ace Hotel — Palm Springs, California
Ace Hotel & Swim Club has become synonymous with cool. This sprawling motel-turned-hotel is all dressed up with two deep pools, a stargazing deck, community fire pits and an organic spa. The Ace breathes quintessential Palm Springs: simple, serene, bohemian and swathed in sunlight.
8. The Dive Motel — Nashville, Tennessee
Only five minutes from downtown Nashville, this 23-room roadside motel is a reimagined gem from the 1950s. Each uniquely themed guest room is a vibrant escape, featuring vintage decor, turntables with handpicked vinyl and a disco ball that sets the tone for endless fun. The Dive is all about good times and great company. There’s always music playing, something happening at the bar and memories waiting to be made.
9. Hotel San José — Austin, Texas
Celebrated as the quintessential Austin experience, this 1930s motor court turned chic 40-room bungalow-style hideaway is nestled behind stucco walls and immersed in lush garden courtyards. Hotel San José offers a unique fusion of Tokyo-meets-Texas style, with minimalist yet vibrant guest rooms housed in sleek concrete structures topped with Spanish-tiled roofs.
10. The Starlite Motel — Kerhonkson, New York
This 1960s roadside motel brings a bit of Wes Anderson to the Catskills, with its pastel exterior that radiates vintage appeal and cozy fire pits perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure. Whichever way you spend your day (hiking, exploring or skiing), The Starlite offers a serene haven where comfort and style are perfectly aligned.
11. Phoenix Hotel — San Francisco, California
The Phoenix Hotel is a rock-and-roll icon that has hosted countless musicians and artists over the years. Today, it remains a hip and happening spot with retro-cool rooms, vibrant murals and a courtyard pool for soaking up the California sun.
12. Amigo Motor Lodge — Salida, Colorado
This roadside motel is the epitome of cool with its minimalist design and vintage Airstream trailers. Need to unwind? Amigo Motor Lodge boasts a hot tub, sunroom and teepee for those looking to embrace their adventurous spirit. Several soothing hot springs are also a short drive away.
Move Over Hotels, Roadside Motels Are It
These roadside motels offer something special that big chains can’t replicate—authenticity. They’re a throwback to simpler times but updated for today’s traveler, with all the comforts you’d expect.
So, next time you’re hitting the road, skip the cookie-cutter hotels and check out one of these twelve roadside motels instead. You might find that what’s old really is new again.
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