10 Best Motels on Route 66

Super 8 by Wyndham, Staunton, Illinois is conveniently situated in the southern portion of Route 66, between St. Louis and Springfield. While you’re in Staunton, don’t miss the impressive collection at Country Classic Cars, just 1.5 km from the motel. You could also take some time out to enjoy a meal at a roadhouse diner or tee off at Timber Lakes Golf Course, and a quick drive will bring you to popular attractions like Busch Stadium and the retro charm of Sullivan’s Meramec Caverns.

This Midwest motel has a cozy, countryside feel with welcoming staff and comfortable rooms. Make the most of amenities like the laundry service and grab yourself a free light breakfast featuring muffins, coffee, tea and juice.

At Best Budget Inn, Carthage, Missouri, you can experience a nostalgic journey into the past while enjoying the modern comforts and amenities of a contemporary stay. Originally opened as Lake Shore Motel in the 1950s, this 2-story motel is still locally owned and operated, and it retains a lot of its original charm with its retro styling.

The Best Budget Inn is adjacent to Kellogg Lake Park in Carthage, and some rooms provide lovely views of the lake. It’s a great choice for affordable out-of-town accommodation. You can drive right up to your room and park outside, and there’s also space for larger vehicles. Once you’re settled, relax by the outdoor pool and enjoy the outdoor grill area.

Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven, Springfield, Missouri was established in 1938 in a city that’s known as the birthplace of Route 66. Springfield itself is filled with fascinating points of interest related to the Mother Road, making this motel a great stop for Route 66 historians and enthusiasts. Also nearby is the Wonders of Wildlife Museum and Aquarium, a fun and educational attraction.

You’ll find an intriguing mix of old and new in the motel’s decor, including celebrity-themed rooms and a breakfast area that looks like a 1950s diner. Elvis is listed among the past guests. Watch out for the authentic-looking replica of a classic neon sign at the entrance.

Hampton Inn & Suites, Stroud, Oklahoma provides a comfortable place to stay right off Route 66. You’ll find spacious and modern accommodation with plenty of on-site amenities, including an indoor pool and fitness centre. Pet-friendly rooms are available at no extra cost.

If you’d like to go fishing or hiking, take a short drive to enjoy the beauty of Stroud Lake. Closer to your base, Stroud’s historic Main Street is just a stroll away. Before you set off in the morning, help yourself to the free hot breakfast buffet.

Shamrock Country Inn, Shamrock, Texas is located in a quirky town filled with fabulous landmarks like the art deco Tower Station. It also boasts the Blarney Stone Plaza with a real piece of Ireland’s iconic Blarney Stone. If you work up an appetite as you wander through the streets, you could pop into one of the town’s steakhouses to refuel.

The accommodation has a nostalgic feel that’s typical of traditional Route 66 motels, together with some modern touches. There are retro-style bathrooms as well as a writing desk, coffee maker, refrigerator and microwave in each of the air-conditioned rooms. Take advantage of the free hot breakfast that could include homemade biscuits and gravy, scrambled eggs and waffles.

Roadrunner Lodge Motel, Tucumcari, New Mexico is a motel that embraces classic Americana. Its retro atmosphere is created by details like vintage decor and an in-house radio station that fills the air with 1960s tunes.

Some rooms at Roadrunner Lodge offer a 60s experience, complete with nostalgic lighting, toys and games. If you’d like to visit with pets, a number of dog-friendly rooms are available, and there’s a dog run, too. Ask the friendly staff if you’d like to hear more about the Mother Road and the fascinating story of the motel’s past.

El Vado Motel, Albuquerque, New Mexico was first opened in 1937 and was beautifully restored in 2018. Its eye-catching Pueblo Revival architecture and retro design capture the essence of adventure on the open road. You’ll be met by a traditional neon sign that welcomes you to the lively motor court and you’ll find cozy rooms and suites named after classic cars.

Located near the Rio Grande and Old Town Albuquerque, El Vado Motel is a great place to experience the rich culture and history of the Southwest during your restful stay. While you’re relaxing onsite, enjoy a locally brewed beer at the taproom or take a dip in the wading pool.

Red Garter Inn, Williams, Arizona is a delightfully restored 1897 saloon and bordello that you won’t want to miss on your Route 66 road trip. Every detail of the 2-story Victorian Romanesque structure and its interior captures the spirit of the 1890s, from the furnishings and artwork to the door frames, ceilings and lighting.

The inn is in downtown Williams, with a choice of restaurants and a wine tasting room within steps of the entrance. It’s a great base for a short journey to the wonders of the Grand Canyon and you could also explore the red rocks of Sedona, the ghost town of Jerome and the Wupatki National Monument. Ride the historic Grand Canyon Railway to enhance your experience.

Located about 2 km from the Mojave National Preserve, Rodeway Inn On Historic Route 66, Barstow, California is a wonderful home base on the Route 66. For anyone who enjoys nature, it offers hiking and biking trails and some stellar nature-watching in the wilds. Lovers of history and culture could check out the Calico Ghost Museum, the Mojave River Valley Museum and the Western America Railroad Museum, all within easy reach.

The inn itself is comfortable and welcoming, with modern guest rooms that provide lots of amenities. Enjoy a free hot breakfast every day and relax in the outdoor pool during the balmy summer months.

Sea Shore Motel, Santa Monica, California is located close to one end of Route 66. You’ll find it on Santa Monica’s historic Main Street, a couple of blocks from the beautiful white sand beach. You’ll be at the center of the action when you stay here, surrounded by quirky coffee shops, boutiques, art galleries and local museums.

The motel welcomes families and is pet-friendly. Its design offers comfort in the California sun, with terracotta flooring, air conditioning and a refrigerator in every room. Relax on the sun deck and absorb the laidback Santa Monica vibes.