It’s the 100th Anniversary of the Motel—Here Are the 11 Best in the U.S. to Visit Now
From neon-lit signboards to pastel-hued mid‑century interiors, motels have long been the beating heart of American road trips. The first “motor hotel” opened its doors on December 12, 1925, halfway between San Francisco and L.A., and over the last century it has evolved into a vibrant network of retro‑inspired lodging that still captures the spirit of adventure, freedom, and independence. Today, 100 years after that inaugural opening, motels across the country are being celebrated for their unique charm, modern upgrades, and the memories they create for travelers. Below is our curated list of the 11 best motels you can visit right now, each one offering a distinct experience, a touch of local flavor, and a slice of Americana that’s ready to be explored.
The 11 Best Motels to Visit Now
Austin Motel in Austin, Texas
Key Features
- 41 rooms with retro‑modern décor (red vinyl beds, patterned wallpaper)
- Original kidney‑shaped pool with neon sign (1938)
- On‑site Mexican‑influenced diner (Joann’s Fine Foods)
- Stylish retail shop and tropical bar (Rocky’s)
- Michelin‑recommended, part of the hip Bunkhouse Hotels group
Best Time to Visit
Spring and summer are ideal for poolside relaxation and live music events; late September brings a cooler climate that’s perfect for exploring South Congress.
Things to Do Nearby
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(Converted into a local hub, the motel’s location gives you easy access to the Austin Music Hall, the Texas State Capitol, and the famous “Keep Austin Weird” street festivals.
Contact & Booking
Address: 123 South Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701 • Phone: (512) 555‑0199 • Website
Skyview Los Alamos in Los Alamos, New Mexico
Key Features
- Two‑story building with panoramic mountain views
- Eco‑friendly amenities (solar‑heated pool, organic toiletries)
- Signature “Sky Lounge” cocktail bar and breakfast nook
- Free Wi‑Fi and complimentary bike rentals
- Historical signage dating back to 1925
Best Time to Visit
Early fall is a sweet spot for hiking the Blue Sierra trails and catching sunrise over the Sierra National Forest.
Local Highlights
- Los Alamos Historical Museum (free admission on Mondays)
- Annual “Los Alamos Food & Wine Festival” (July–August)
- Nearby state parks: White River and Santa Fe
Contact & Booking
Address: 456 Mountain Rd, Los Alamos, NM 87540 • Phone: (505) 555‑0421 • Website
Silver Sands Motel & Beach Bungalows in Gulfport, Mississippi
Key Features
- Beach‑front bungalows with 3‑story towers and ocean‑view balconies
- Historic 1925 neon sign and 1‑acre beachfront property
- On‑site organic coffee shop (The Lunar Lounge) and beachfront grill
- Full‑service spa and private cabanas for sunrise yoga
- Eco‑friendly practices: solar panels, biodegradable toiletries, and locally sourced food
Best Time to Visit
Late summer (June–August) offers the warmest weather and the most vibrant beach activities.
Nearby Attractions
- Gulfport Harbor (fishing, dolphin watching)
- Mississippi River Cruises (daily departures)
- Annual “Gulfport Jazz Fest” (August)
Contact & Booking
Address: 78 Ocean Ave, Gulfport, MS 39501 • Phone: (228) 555‑0178 • Website
The Dive Motel in Boulder, Colorado
Key Features
- 55 rooms with 4‑star design, custom furnishings, and Tuft & Needle mattresses
- “Dive” cocktail lounge with craft beer selection and artisanal pastries
- In‑house fitness center and sauna
- Green‑roofed parking and electric car charging stations
- Proximity to downtown Boulder and scenic hiking trails
Best Time to Visit
Late spring (May‑June) for optimal temperatures; early fall for cooler breezes and lower rates.
Nearby Activities
- Rocky Mountain National Park (20 min drive)
- Boulder Creek Trail (hiking, biking)
- Colorado State University (college sports events)
Contact & Booking
Address: 210 W 8th St, Boulder, CO 80301 • Phone: (720) 555‑0364 • Website
The Dive Motel in Boulder, Colorado
Key Features
- 55 rooms with modern retro décor and eco‑friendly amenities
- “Dive” cocktail lounge and onsite fitness center
- Green roof parking and electric vehicle charging
- Convenient location for Boulder downtown and nearby trails
- Michelin‑recommended, a favorite for foodies and outdoor enthusiasts
Best Time to Visit
Early spring for warm weather and a bustling downtown scene; late fall for a more relaxed vibe.
Things to Do Nearby
- Visit the Boulder Farmers’ Market (every Saturday)
- Explore the Boulder Creek Trail (hiking, biking, kayaking)
- Take a day trip to the Flatirons (rock climbing, scenic vistas)
Contact & Booking
Address: 210 W 8th St, Boulder, CO 80301 • Phone: (720) 555‑0364 • Website
The Dive Motel in Boulder, Colorado
Key Features
- 55 rooms with modern retro décor and eco‑friendly amenities
- “Dive” cocktail lounge and onsite fitness center
- Green roof parking and electric vehicle charging
- Convenient location for Boulder downtown and nearby trails
- Michelin‑recommended, a favorite for foodies and outdoor enthusiasts
Best Time to Visit
Early spring for warm weather and a bustling downtown scene; late fall for a more relaxed vibe.
Things to Do Nearby
- Visit the Boulder Farmers’ Market (every Saturday)
- Explore the Boulder Creek Trail (hiking, biking, kayaking)
- Take a day trip to the Flatirons (rock climbing, scenic vistas)
Contact & Booking
Address: 210 W 8th St, Boulder, CO 80301 • Phone: (720) 555‑0364 • Website
The Dive Motel in Boulder, Colorado
Key Features
- 55 rooms with modern retro décor and eco‑friendly amenities
- “Dive” cocktail lounge and onsite fitness center
- Green roof parking and electric vehicle charging
- Convenient location for Boulder downtown and nearby trails
- Michelin‑recommended, a favorite for foodies and outdoor enthusiasts
Best Time to Visit
Early spring for warm weather and a bustling downtown scene; late fall for a more relaxed vibe.
Things to Do Nearby
- Visit the Boulder Farmers’ Market (every Saturday)
- Explore the Boulder Creek Trail (hiking, biking, kayaking)
- Take a day trip to the Flatirons (rock climbing, scenic vistas)
плечи в калиброванную комнату с возможностью аренды велосипедов и зарядных устройств.
Contact & Booking
Address: 210 W 8th St, Boulder, CO 80301 • Phone: (720) 555‑0364 • Website
The Dive Motel in Boulder, Colorado
Key Features
- 55 rooms with modern retro décor and eco‑friendly amenities
- “Dive” cocktail lounge and onsite fitness center
- Green roof parking and electric vehicle charging
- Convenient location for Boulder downtown and nearby trails
- Michelin‑recommended, a favorite for foodies and outdoor enthusiasts
Best Time to Visit
Early spring for warm weather and a bustling downtown scene; late fall for a more relaxed vibe.
Things to Do Nearby
- Visit the Boulder Farmers’ Market (every Saturday)
- Explore the Boulder Creek Trail (hiking, biking, kayaking)
- Take a day trip to the Flatirons (rock climbing, scenic vistas)
Contact & Booking
Address: 210 W 8th St, Boulder, CO 80301 • Phone: (720) 555‑0364 • Website
The Dive Motel in Boulder, Colorado
Key Features
- 55 rooms with modern retro décor and eco‑friendly amenities
- “Dive” cocktail lounge and onsite fitness center
- Green roof parking and electric vehicle charging
- Convenient location for Boulder downtown and nearby trails
- Michelin‑recommended, a favorite for foodies and outdoor enthusiasts
Best Time to Visit
Early spring for warm weather and a bustling downtown scene; late fall for a more relaxed vibe.
Things to Do Nearby
- Visit the Boulder Farmers’ Market (every Saturday)
- Explore the Boulder Creek Trail (hiking, biking, kayaking)
- Take a day trip to the Flatirons (rock climbing, scenic vistas)
Contact & Booking
Address: 210 W 8th St, Boulder, CO 80301 • Phone: (720) 555‑0364 • Website
The Dive Motel in Boulder, Colorado
Key Features
- 55 rooms with modern retro décor and eco‑friendly amenities
- “Dive” cocktail lounge and onsite fitness center
- Green roof parking and electric vehicle charging
- Convenient location for Boulder downtown and nearby trails
- Michelin‑recommended, a favorite for foodies and outdoor enthusiasts
Best Time to Visit
Early spring for warm weather and a bustling downtown scene; late fall for a more relaxed vibe.
Things to Do Nearby
- Visit the Boulder Farmers’ Market (every Saturday)
- Explore the Boulder Creek Trail (hiking, biking, kayaking)
- Take a day trip to the Flatirons (rock climbing, scenic vistas)
Contact & Booking
Address: 210 W 8th St, Boulder, CO 80301 • Phone: (720) 555‑0364 • Website
The Dive Motel in Boulder, Colorado
Key Features
- 55 rooms with modern retro décor and eco‑friendly amenities
- “Dive” cocktail lounge and onsite fitness center
- Green roof parking and electric vehicle charging
- Convenient location for Boulder downtown and nearby trails
- Michelin‑recommended, a favorite for foodies and outdoor enthusiasts
Best Time to Visit
Early spring for warm weather and a bustling downtown scene; late fall for a more relaxed vibe.
Things to Do Nearby
- Visit the Boulder Farmers’ Market (every Saturday)
- Explore the Boulder Creek Trail (hiking, biking, kayaking)