Your Roadside Guide to the US Motel Revival
Motels and motor lodges worth a stop on the way.
The American motel turns 100 this year. That’s a century of pullover pit stops and neon “No Vacancy” signs flickering in the desert night. Born of road trips and restless spirits, motels once defined the traveler spirit of freedom and frugality. We salute the Holiday Inn Express for its consistently fresh sheets and free breakfast, but if you also want to know about the newest chains, locally owned and independent lodges, and where to go for fluorescent-free flair and a stylish sense of place, you’ll want to save this list of our favorite indie roadside gems across the USA. Some are fun, some are fancy, some are funky, and some are family-owned. All are flourishing.
We’re also including highlights from an interview we did with the founder of the most creative motel group around.
Got a recommendation for a good, tidy, clean, cute motel somewhere in the U.S.A.? Tell us about it so we can add it to our list.
She’s Behind California’s Coolest Motel Makeovers
Several motels and inns along California's central coast have been lovingly restored by Kimberly Walker, the creative director and founder of Nomada Hotel Group (see: Skyview Los Alamos, Hotel Ynez in Santa Barbara, Farmhouse and River Lodge in Paso Robles). Walker's surprise career in hospitality began when she fell in love with a rundown spot in downtown San Luis Obispo and opened a cozy bistro and wine bar in the former hotel bar with friends in 2012.
She quickly found her passion for creating spaces that build community and a sense of spontaneity among travelers. Collaborating with local and global artists, she meticulously sources vintage furniture, materials, and art for each property — pieces that speak to the roots, community, and storied past of each California destination.
This led her to another venture: Nomada Deco, an online shop where she sells the furniture, decor, artwork, and textiles found in each hotel, promoting artists and craftspeople along the way. Fathom editor California Chaney wanted to learn more.
Tell me about an impressionable travel experience.
I remember the first time I was in Marrakech. Classical music was playing on vinyl, there were three or four different languages spoken, and everyone was just fabulous looking. I was in a single bed — I think my room was $30 a night — and it is still one of the most important hotel experiences I’ve ever had. I remember laying in my tiny room where I could hear all these people laughing, speaking in different languages, and listening to music. I thought to myself, what a cool scene. It didn’t have to cost $1,000 a night. In fact, if it was $1,000 a night, it wouldn’t have happened. It always sticks with me when thinking about hotels and how we want to position ourselves. Read more on Fathom.
Arizona
High Country Motor Lodge — tiny home options and Flagstaff’s first Nordic sauna-plunge.
Egyptian Motor Hotel — leaning into kitsch in downtown Phoenix.
Hotel McCoy — Tucson family bunks decorated by local artists.
The Tuxon — former chain on 1-10 has cactus garden, crafted cocktails.
The Motor Lodge — 14 funky rooms give ‘60s vibes in Prescott.
The Postcard Motel — a proper diner experience on Route 66 in Seligman.
California
Farmhouse Paso Robles — dog-friendly with a front porch in central wine region.
Skyview Los Alamos — eclectic and cozy in Santa Barbara’s wild west.
River Lodge — sauna, spa, c-u-t-e- 21-and-over pool in Paso Robles.
The Pearl — serene with sustainable products, edible garden in San Diego.
Hope Springs Resort — modernist with actual hot springs in Desert Hot Springs.
Phoenix Hotel — SF Tenderloin rock icon with bright colors + pool parties.
Ace Hotel & Swim Club — always-a-good-time escape in Palm Springs.
Cuyama Buckhorn — 21 modernist cowboy style rooms in Santa Barbara.
Ojai Rancho Inn — vibey with cozy interiors channeling the Berenstain Bears.
The Sandman — just off the 101 in Santa Rosa with pet-friendly rooms and kitchenettes.
Calistoga Motor Lodge & Spa — neat and tidy with clawfoot soaking tubs in Napa Valley.
The Green Room — bohemian and minimalist, between Oceanside and Carlsbad.
29 Palms Inn — adobe-style charm right outside Joshua Tree.
The Surfrider Malibu — spot Malibu’s iconic surfbreak from the breezy rooftop.
Read on for more great spots worth pulling over for ….
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