Route 66 Hotels & Classic Motels
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The first time I drove down the fabled Route 66, a wave of nostalgia swept over me. Here were all the kitschy roadside attractions and neon signs that had mesmerized me with stories of old-time America before I even knew how to drive. I felt like I was traveling back in time – to a period of innocence and optimism captured in Steinbeck’s epic novel, The Grapes of Wrath.
No matter where I went along this iconic stretch of highway, I could not resist its charm. From the fertile farmlands and majestic mountains to the golden sands of California, Route 66 is a unique glimpse into the history and heritage of the United States.
In homage to the thousands of cars that have come before mine, I rented an RV for my road trip. Playing the iconic Nat King Cole song to accompany my journey, I set out to truly “get my kicks on Route 66.” Everywhere I went, I encountered remnants of an era gone by – from vintage diners and gas stations to historic hotels.
My journey on Route 66 has taught me much about the past, present, and future of America. It has instilled in me a newfound appreciation for its beauty and resilience – a reminder that no matter what lies ahead, our nation will always be bound together by these timeless roads.
Route 66 in Chicago
I chose to begin my journey on the so-called Mother Road in Oklahoma, but for many die-hard Route 66 devotees, their voyage starts at the iconic signpost in downtown Chicago. I couldn’t help but wonder how the bustling city could have any kind of connection to the laidback nostalgia associated with Historic Route 66. However, a night spent at the historic Palmer House Hilton hotel soon changed my mind.
The Palmer House
17 E Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603
The Palmer House is honored to be the oldest hotel in Chicago and the oldest continuously operating hotel in the United States. Potter Palmer erected this lavish gift for his new wife Bertha, with an opulent grand opening back in 1871 – and again two years later following the Great Chicago Fire. By 1926, when Route 66 opened to the public, the Palmer House had become a hub for Chicago’s powerful and influential members of society.
As I stayed the night in this timeless building, I couldn’t help but feel whisked away to a more humble era. With its gracious ambiance and proximity to the official starting point for Historic Route 66, I was filled with anticipation for the journey ahead.
No one can deny the eccentricities that make up America. Palmer House stands as a shining example, combining elements of both culture and history. From the grandeur of its marble floors, to the glittering chandeliers draped with garnets, it’s no surprise the hotel has attracted a long list of prestigious guests over the years – from presidents, to film stars, to literary giants.
What makes Palmer House truly remarkable, however, is how it captures the juxtaposition of America’s past and present. From hosting legendary performers like Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald to showcasing rising stars like Liberace and Tony Bennett, the hotel is a testament to our country’s ability to continuously reinvent itself. But this same sense of resilience can be found not just within the hotel’s walls but on roads like Route 66 as well. After all, this same roadway brought thousands of automobile-owning families out West during World War II, igniting a sort of westerly march of progress in its wake.
Palmer House is an ever-present reminder of what continues to make America great – the spirit of progress and possibility.
Route 66 Motels in Illinois
There were several motels along Route 66 in Illinois, many of which have since been demolished or repurposed. However, a few historic Route 66 motels still exist in Illinois today. Here are some of them:
The Ariston Cafe and Motel in Litchfield: This historic motel was built in the 1930s and is still in operation today, offering comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving classic American fare.
The Coral Court Motel in St. Louis (just across the Mississippi River from Illinois): Although technically located in Missouri, the Coral Court Motel is a well-known Route 66 landmark just a short drive from the Illinois border. It was built in 1941 and has been beautifully restored in recent years.
The Route 66 Hotel and Conference Center in Springfield: This hotel was originally built in the 1960s as a Howard Johnson’s Motor Lodge and was later converted into a Ramada Inn. It has since been rebranded as the Route 66 Hotel and Conference Center and still offers comfortable accommodations for travelers.
The Sun-n-Sands Motel in Santa Rosa: Although it is no longer located on Route 66, this classic motor court-style motel was originally built in the 1940s and has been restored to its former glory, complete with a neon sign and vintage furnishings.
Route 66 in Oklahoma
As I pulled off the dusty road onto Route 66 in Oklahoma, I couldn’t help but reflect on its tragic past. This was the same highway hundreds of thousands of people had traveled during the bleak years of the Great Depression and Dust Bowl, driven from their homes and desperate for a better life. But the same highway also offered hope and opportunity – a chance to put tragedy behind them and forge a new path.
Steinbeck’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, “The Grapes of Wrath,” chronicling the Joad family’s journey along this symbolic highway, rode shotgun beside me like a reminder of all that had been lost and all that might yet be found.
I bet if those brave travelers from the 1930s could have seen me, driving my hot-red Mustang down their old road, they would have smiled. That single act was proof enough that times had changed, that hope still existed – and that no matter how dark things may seem, there is always an opportunity to recover and rebuild, one mile at a time.
Campbell Hotel
2636 E 11th St, Tulsa, OK 74104
As I stepped into Room 222 of the Campbell Hotel, I was overwhelmed by the beauty of what had been created. Just two years before the Great Depression, this hotel had been a shining example of classic architecture, with its terra-cotta detailing and carved parapets. But after falling on hard times, it was given a second life when 40 local designers breathed new life into the space. Now, each room told its own unique story, reflecting the history and culture of both Oklahoma and Route 66.
My eyes took in the rustic-chic décor of my suite, memorabilia from up and down the historic highway providing a hint at all the amazing journeys people have taken along this storied stretch of road. I thought about all the experiences people who’d stayed in this room before had and how lucky I was to be experiencing it for myself.
Standing in the middle of this grand old building, I felt humbled, a reminder that resilience can always pave the way forward, even in our most trying moments.
Route 66 Motels in Oklahoma
Oklahoma has a rich history along Route 66 and was home to several motels along the Mother Road, many of which still exist today. Here are some Route 66 motels in Oklahoma that you can still visit:
The Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari: This iconic Route 66 motel was built in 1939 and still operates as a vintage motor court with individually themed rooms.
The Boots Court Motel in Carthage: This historic motel was built in 1939 and beautifully restored to its original Art Deco style, complete with vintage furnishings and neon signage.
The Rock Village Court in Stroud: This unique motel features unique rock cabins with rustic charm and modern amenities and has operated since the 1930s.
The Desert Hills Motel in Tulsa: This classic motor court-style motel was built in the 1950s and still offers comfortable accommodations for travelers on Route 66.
The Seaba Station Motorcycle Museum and Cafe in Warwick: While not a motel itself, this Route 66 landmark includes a cafe and museum filled with vintage motorcycles and other memorabilia and offers unique overnight accommodations in a 1940s-era railcar.
Route 66 in Texas
As I pulled off the highway, I was struck by the towering figures that dotted the skyline ahead of me. Looking closer, I realized these were no ordinary towers; they were reminders of a time gone by – homes to historic film sets, roadside diners, and enormous figurines from Texas’ past. These fascinating sights took my breath away.
I drove further down the road until I came across the Big Texan Steak Ranch. Here I noticed an incredibly large steer named Big Moo, a fifteen-foot cowboy boot, and a twenty-seven-foot-tall goofy dinosaur dubbed ‘Big Tex Rex’. At this moment, it truly hit me – I had arrived in the land of legends.
The stories around me were awe-inspiring. I couldn’t help but wonder what other treasures sought by the State of Texas. In that instant, I knew one thing for certain – Texas is as big as its stories say.
Big Texas Motel
7701 Interstate 40 Access Rd, Amarillo, TX 79118
This iconic motel is located next to the Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo, a popular Route 66 restaurant known for its 72-ounce steak challenge.
As I walked up to the Big Texan Motel, I could hear the chants and cheers emanating from the rodeo arena next door. There was a sense of excitement in the air as the competitors prepared to test their mettle in the ultimate challenge – the Texas State Eating Championship. I watched with fascination as one brave young cowboy stepped onto the platform, his face determined. The cattle skull mounted behind the table glowed menacingly in the dusk, adding an aura of danger to the scene.
It was said that many had attempted this feat, with almost 50,000 having tried and less than 9,000 succeeding. As I watched, time slowly ticked on until finally, after 24 minutes, the young man gave up and forfeited his entry fee of $72 before scurrying away.
Turning away from the rodeo, I headed towards my lodging for the night – the Big Texan Motel. As soon as I entered, I was transported back to the Old West, with its replica gunslinger town, swimming pool shaped like Texas, and saloon-style dining hall. It seemed fitting that such a surreal event should be taking place here.
I felt a mixture of awe and admiration for those who dared to take on the challenge of conquering Texas’ famous eating championship. I knew it must take incredible mental and physical fortitude to succeed – something this young cowboy lacked. Nevertheless, it was fascinating to witness as people continued to attempt this feat of endurance.
Route 66 Motels in Texas
While Texas has a relatively small stretch of Route 66, there are still a few iconic motels along the way that are worth a visit. Besides the The Big Texan Motel in Amarillo, here are some of the Route 66 motels in Texas:
The Blue Swallow Motel in Clarendon: Although it is not the same Blue Swallow Motel located in Tucumcari, New Mexico, this motel offers a similar vintage motor court experience with individually themed rooms.
The Cadillac Ranch RV Park in Amarillo: While not a motel itself, this RV park offers unique overnight accommodations in classic Airstream trailers, each decorated in a different Route 66 theme.
The Glenrio Historic District: This abandoned ghost town on the Texas-New Mexico border was once a popular stop for Route 66 travelers and includes several historic motels and gas stations that have been preserved as part of a historic district.
Cadillac Ranch
As I drove off the exit of Highway 66 in Texas, my eyes were captivated by the unique art installation before me – Cadillac Ranch. The ten half-submerged Caddies seemed to form an angle and lined up perfectly in a manner that mimicked the Great Pyramid of Giza. These Cadillacs followed a fascinating timeline, from the 1948 Club Sedan to the 1963 Sedan de Ville.
I was entranced by this symbolic representation of history as these automobiles acted as a reminder of how far we’ve come throughout time. I spent some time admiring this sight, taking in every detail of this remarkable artwork and feeling a sense of profound appreciation for all the hard work that had gone into creating it. With one last look, I left Cadillac Ranch and continued my journey forward.
Route 66 in New Mexico
Meandering down the historic Route 66, I felt a sense of wonder as I explored the charming towns and awesome landmarks along the way. But out of all the incredible sights I encountered, what truly captivated me was my stay at Motel Safari.
Motel Safari
722 E Rte 66 Blvd, Tucumcari, NM 88401
The Doo Wop inspired architecture made for a magical atmosphere, with its giant camel sign, metal cylinders, and stacked brick façade that glowed beneath a neon-washed twilight sky. Even stepping into one of the guest rooms felt like walking back in time, surrounded by images and trinkets harkening back to Route 66’s heyday.
But what made Motel Safari so special for me was my night in the Rawhide Suite—a tribute to Rowdy Yates from the hit television show, which featured actor Clint Eastwood in his early days. In the very same suite, I could almost feel the presence of an homage to the timeless classic while I enjoyed one of the most memorable nights of my life along the Mother Road.
Santa Rosa NM to Gallup
s I drive along the historic Route 66 from Santa Rosa to Gallup, I am filled with awe and reverence for all that lies before me. Everywhere I look, I am met with reminders of America’s history and culture – from the classic cruisers of Bozo Cordova’s Auto Museum to the breathtaking depths of the Blue Hole of Santa Rosa. Even more fascinating is my detour to Sky City and its mysterious 12th-century adobe pueblo, a sight not easily forgotten.
Finally, marks of tradition in the form of Indian trading posts line the way as I pass the Continental Divide. No matter where I go, I can’t help but feel admiration and respect for the places I’m visiting.
El Rancho Hotel
1000 E Hwy 66, Gallup, NM 87301
I had no idea that my journey to Gallup, New Mexico would bring me so close to Hollywood’s elite. I heard tales of the El Rancho Hotel along Route 66 being dubbed the “Home of the Movie Stars,” but I never expected to find myself in a cowboy country full of adventure, with a glittery element from the stars who visited in the 1940s and 1950s.
As soon as I checked into the hotel, I was filled with a sense of wonder at the thought of John Wayne, Humphrey Bogart, Katherine Hepburn, Doris Day, Joan Crawford, and Ronald Reagan all having once stayed there. But what I found beyond the wagon-wheel décor and Old West ambiance was much more than movie stardom.
Gallup has a rich history of native culture, as at least a third of its population has roots in the Hopi, Navajo, and Zuni tribes. The El Rancho Hotel seemed to take care in preserving this heritage by selling traditional art such as Navajo rugs, silverwork jewelry, and Kachina dolls, as well as inlaid stonework from the Zuni.
My journey to Gallup proved to be so much bigger than I ever expected. From learning about the film stars who trotted down the old dusty roads to immersing myself in the fascinating history of its native tribes, it was truly a trip that could never be forgotten.
Route 66 Motels in New Mexico
There are several more Route 66 motels in New Mexico; here are some notable ones:
- Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari is a historic landmark restored to its original 1940s charm.
- La Posada de Santa Fe is a luxurious hotel that was originally a mansion built in 1882. The hotel offers upscale amenities such as a spa and fine dining.
- Route 66 Inn in Albuquerque is a budget-friendly motel that offers comfortable rooms and easy access to local attractions.
- Pow Wow Inn in Moriarty, New Mexico, is a family-owned and operated motel that has been serving travelers on Route 66 since 1949.
- Sunset Motel in Moriarty is a mid-century modern motel recently renovated with modern amenities while retaining its vintage charm.
Route 66 in Arizona
My journey along Arizona’s stretch of the legendary Route 66 was met with awe-inspiring natural beauty and a unique collection of roadside attractions. I stopped in Holbrook to stay at the iconic Wigwam Motel, where avant-garde hickory furniture and an impressive museum made me feel as if I had stepped back in time.
Continuing on my journey, I was struck by the surreal “Here It Is” billboards that dotted the highway. My curiosity led me to the Jack Rabbit Trading Post, whose eerie giant jackrabbit greeted me from the parking lot. Inside, I found more treasure than I could fathom – fake tomahawks and shot glasses for sale among mementos of the open road.
Finally, I arrived in Winslow and came face to face with one of the most famous symbols of Route 66: the mural depicting a girl singing in a flatbed Ford. I could almost hear the lyrics of the Eagles classic “Take it Easy” echo through the air. Here at last, it felt like I had found the heart and soul of what this place was all about – a tribute to adventure, nostalgia, and freedom.
Hotel Monte Vista
100 N San Francisco St, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
As I wound my way down Route 66 towards Flagstaff, Arizona, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation. I knew that this was the location of one of America’s most cherished natural wonders – the Grand Canyon. After an afternoon of exploring the grandeur of the South Rim, I made my way back to Hotel Monte Vista – a historical icon standing proudly at the edge of the downtown district.
Built in 1927 and declared a national landmark in 1987, this hotel has seen some of the 20th century’s most iconic figures pass through its doors. Spencer Tracy, Esther Williams, Barbara Stanwyck and Humphrey Bogart have all stayed here while filming Casablanca in 1942.
But the Monte Vista Hotel has far more than just Hollywood stories to tell. Beneath the surface lies a massive network of tunnels, thought to have been built by Chinese immigrants and later used as opium dens and gambling houses during Prohibition. Legends of ghosts abound – there is said to be a man who roams the halls after having lost his life following a heist, and another story tells of a celestial couple dancing eternally in the lounge.
My curiosity piqued, I moved around the old building with a deeper respect for its past and the mysteries it holds. It was clear to me that this place has witnessed incredible moments throughout history and it left me feeling utterly humbled.
Grand Canyon Caverns Inn
AZ-66, Peach Springs, AZ 86434
As I drove down Route 66, little did I know that I was about to embark on an incredible journey searching for something truly special. East of Peach Springs, I saw a peculiar big-toothed T-Rex. Little did I know that it would lead me to Grand Canyon Caverns, a natural marvel carved out over millions of years. But what lay beneath the caverns was even more remarkable – an underground cave suite 220 feet below the earth’s surface, making it potentially the oldest and deepest hotel room in the world.
I descended 22 stories below ground in an elevator and arrived at the 400-foot-long cave room with 70-foot ceilings. While I expected to find just an empty, dark space, I soon discovered that I wasn’t alone – the caves were said to be haunted by Native American ghosts performing ritual dancing and chanting. It seemed like a breathtakingly mysterious place, and I was aware that this opportunity might never come my way again. So, I decided to spend the night there and experience its secrets for myself.
Route 66 Motels in Arizona
There are several more notable Route 66 motels in Arizona. Here are some of them:
- Wigwam Motel in Holbrook is a historical landmark with tepee-shaped rooms and vintage cars on display.
- El Trovatore Motel in Kingman is a classic Route 66 motel that features a neon sign and a retro diner.
- Canyon Lodge Motel in Williams, Arizona, is a family-owned and operated motel that has been serving travelers on Route 66 since 1953.
- Blue Swallow Motel in Winslow is a historic motel that has been restored to its original 1940s charm.
- La Posada Hotel, also in Winslow, is a historic hotel that was designed by Mary Colter, an architect who also designed several buildings at the nearby Grand Canyon.
- Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In in Seligman, Arizona, is a classic Route 66 diner that also offers a few rooms for rent.
Route 66 in California
Crossing the California state line on the iconic Route 66 brought a deep sense of nostalgia and anticipation. The journey began with a stopover in Newberry Springs, where I had the chance to linger at the Bagdad Café, familiar from its starring role in the cult classic film.
After a short break for lunch, I continued my way along historic highway, pausing to explore the Mother Road Museum in Barstow and the Route 66 Museum in Victorville. These places were brimming with stories and lessons from the past, and I found myself inspired by the insight that comes with learning about history. On this journey, I was reminded of how far we have come as a society, while also recognizing the importance of remembering who we were and what we can learn from the past.
Calico ghost town
As I set out on my journey along the 2,448-mile Main Street of America, I couldn’t help but think of how beautiful this country must have been before our modern world began to take over. Undoubtedly, many of these places have seen and experienced much history since their creation.
One such place was the ghost town of Calico. Nestled off the main road, it was well worth the 3-mile detour to take me to its deserted streets – once bustling with taverns, brothels, and rowdy arcades.
When the time came to pass through Chambless, I was encouraged to leave my mark behind at the Graffiti Corridor. My contribution to the wall represented not only my experiences and journey so far, but also the hope that this route would continue to inspire travelers around the nation for many years to come.
Santa Monica Pier
Finally, the long journey of Route 66 reaches its end at the picturesque Santa Monica Pier. As the Ferris wheel slowly turns in the Southern California sun and the waves crash against the shore, we ponder our nation’s storied history.
Walking past the pier and up Ocean Boulevard stands a grand reminder: an icon of 1930s America – The Georgian Hotel. Here lies a place that has witnessed titanic moments in Americana; from Romanesque Revival architecture to Prohibition-era speakeasies, aircraft designers during WWII to summers spent by Rose Kennedy. From the glamorous movie stars to notorious gangsters, The Georgian has seen it all.
The Georgian Hotel
1415 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401
As we look upon this timelessly beautiful beacon, let us recognize the incredible stories it reflects and the people who lived through them. Remember that, just like the Mother Road, this symbol will outlive us all and bear witness for generations to come.
The Georgian has seen it all: from the luxurious lifestyles of movie stars and notorious gangsters to the hardworking aircraft designers and servicemen during World War II. It even served as the summer home for First Mother, Rose Kennedy. Despite its glamorous past, the Route 66 landmark stands in stark contrast to the poverty-stricken America that existed just three years after The Georgian opened its doors.
One such example was Florence Owens Thompson, also known as “Migrant Mother”. Forced to seek work as a farm laborer in California during the Great Depression, Thompson was living in a car with her six children when Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer Dorothea Lange captured her iconic image on the side of the road. She had just sold the tires from her car to buy food.
Decades later, when finally tracked down and identified by a reporter, Thompson admitted that she never really settled into an ordinary life after her migrant years. Like so many others before and after her, she said simply, “I need to have wheels under me.” Her story reminds us of the struggle of so many people who make the westward journey to California each day—a reminder of the hope and determination that makes this country great.
Route 66 Motels in California
There are several Route 66 motels in California; here are some of them:
- Wigwam Motel in San Bernardino is a historic landmark that features tepee-shaped rooms and vintage cars on display.
- El Rancho Motel in Barstow, California, is a classic Route 66 motel that has served travelers since 1947.
- Wagon Wheel Motel in Needles, CA, is a vintage motel that has been recently renovated and restored to its former glory.
- Royal Hawaiian Motel in Laguna Beach is a mid-century modern motel that features a Hawaiian-themed décor and a prime beachfront location.
- Route 66 Motel, also in Santa Rosa is a classic Route 66 motel that features a retro neon sign and comfortable rooms.
- Boots Court Motel in Carthage is a historic motel restored to its 1940s charm and features a classic diner on-site.