Where to Stay on Route 66: Best Historic Hotels in California, Arizona & New Mexico

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Are you wondering where to stay in a historic hotel on Route 66?

There’s something very special about spending the night in a historic Route 66 hotel. The neon motel signs, the classic roadside motor courts, and the grand hotels that once hosted Hollywood stars all contribute to what makes a road trip down Route 66 so memorable.

In October 2026, during Route 66’s 100th anniversary year, I went on a solo road trip covering roughly 700 miles from Barstow, California, to Albuquerque, New Mexico. I stopped in all sorts of towns, checked out all sorts of odd sites, discovered a number of old diners, and stayed in a number of fantastic historic hotels that have been welcoming travelers for years.

If you’re wondering where to stay on Route 66, I’ve put together a list of some of the best historic hotels and iconic motels in California, Arizona, and New Mexico. Whether you want to sleep in a concrete wigwam, a famous railroad hotel, or a place that feels like the 1950s, this guide will help you pick the right overnight stop for your Route 66 trip. I’ll share my thoughts on why each hotel is worth considering and mention any downsides, so you can choose what works best for you

Best Historic Route 66 Hotels in California

California has some excellent nostalgic Route 66 accommodations, from the most unusual architecture to the classic motor courts that really do capture the essence of the old days of an American road trip.

1) Wigwam Motel- San Bernardino, CA

Built in 1949, the Wigwam Motel is one of the most iconic roadside attractions on Route 66. It’s a series of individual concrete structures around a motor courtyard.

Why stay here? The unusual accommodation is in itself an attraction. They’re clean, comfortable and have a pool. The neon sign is a treat to photograph at night.

Drawback: There are only 19 teepees, so they are very much in high demand and frequently booked up.

Nearby attractions: Historic Route 66 landmarks in San Bernardino and the original McDonald’s museum.

2) Route 66 Motel- Barstow, CA

Barstow is an ideal place to start an eastbound Route 66 drive through the Mohave Desert. Originally built in 1922, the Route 66 Motel is a courtyard-style hotel where you pull directly up to your room.

It’s a very affordable option and I enjoyed walking around in the courtyard to photograph the vintage cars and neon sign. I was worried that since my room was close to the road and that since I had neighbors on both sides that it would be a noisy room, but it was surprisingly quiet. I also liked the fact that there was a mini-fridge and microwave in my room and the room was pretty spacious.

Why stay here? If you’re after a genuine Route 66 experience that feels like the 1950s, the Route 66 Motel is definitely worth a look. It’s a convenient, affordable place to start off, and it has the real 1950s atmosphere. All the cars parked outside are classics and there’s a ton of Route 66 memorabilia. You can actually park your car in front of your room in the motor court just like they did back in the 1950s.

Drawback: While the Route 66 Motel has plenty of nostalgic charm, the surrounding neighborhood may not appeal to everyone. That said, I did feel safe as a solo female traveler at the motel. If you’re looking for a modern hotel with upscale amenities, this probably isn’t the best fit. However, for Route 66 enthusiasts who appreciate roadside history and don’t mind the no-frills overnight stay, it’s an affordable way to experience a piece of the Mother Road.

Nearby attractions: Route 66 Mother Road Museum, Barstow Harvey House, Peggy Sue’s 50’s Diner, and Calico Ghost Town.

Best Historic Route 66 Hotels in Arizona

Arizona is one of my favorite stretches of Route 66 for the historic towns, the roadside attractions, and and the sheer number of well preserved historic buildings. It’s also one of the most well known hotel corridors along Route 66.

3) El Trovatore Motel- Kingman, AZ

If you’re a fan of old school motor courts and old Hollywood glamour, then the El Trovatore Motel should definitely be on your Route 66 itinerary.

It started as a service station in 1937 and the motor court came in 1939. It’s now a property with Hollywood-themed rooms and an old school motor court where you can park right in front of your room.

Why stay here? The El Trovatore Motel is a great choice for travelers looking for a real old school motor court experience. What made my stay especially memorable was meeting the owners, who were incredibly friendly and generous with their local knowledge. They shared wonderful recommendations on where to eat, what to see, and how to make the most of my time in Kingman.

I also lucked out with my room! I stayed in one that had been beautifully remodeled for a show on Chip and Joanna Gaines’ Magnolia Network, and the transformation was absolutely incredible. It was the perfect combination of vintage Route 66 charm and modern comfort.

Another big highlight was the fantastic collection of murals on the exterior of the rooms. They had the most incredible array of portraits from the likes of Elvis Presley and Marilyn Monroe right through to the rather impressive World’s Longest Map of Route 66. The murals alone are worth stopping to see. I really enjoyed wondering around the property, admiring the murals, and soaking up all that Route 66 atmosphere.

Drawback: The El Trovatore only has a few updated rooms, so the older rooms have basic amenities that may feel dated to travelers accustomed to modern hotels.

Nearby attractions: Arizona Route 66 Museum, Kingman Visitor Center, Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner, the Kingman Drive Thru Shield and Oatman.

4) The Historic Grand Canyon Hotel- Williams, AZ

This is Arizona’s oldest hotel, built in 1892. Williams is one of those Route 66 towns where you really do want to park the car and spend some time exploring on foot.

Why stay here? If you’re looking for an authentic historic hotel along Route 66, the Historic Grand Canyon Hotel is hard to beat. With its vintage charm, the decor is a departure from the typical Route 66 motor court hotels. It’s Victorian style and has the original 120-year old squeaky wooden floors. One of its biggest perks is its fantastic location in the heart of downtown Williams.

Drawback: It’s a historic property, so some rooms have shared bathrooms, and the old building won’t necessarily have the space, the soundproofing, or the modern conveniences that you’d expect in a more contemporary hotel.

Nearby attractions: Historic downtown Williams, the Grand Canyon Railway, Route 66 souvenir shops, and Grand Canyon National Park.

5) The Lodge on Route 66- Williams, AZ

Alternatively if the Historic Grand Canyon is fully booked, then the Lodge on Route 66 is an excellent choice. I stayed there on my trip back to California and it was a great choice. It’s a vintage motor court hotel, built in 1938 originally, it was completely gutted and renovated in 2004. It’s been through a massive renovation, and yet still maintain that feel of a classic roadside motel. That’s precisely why I prefer to support these renovated hotels rather than newer hotels. The rooms are very much that classic roadside motel room with rustic wood furnishings, comfortable beds (nice lodge theming with sleeping bags instead of duvets), and all the modern amenities.

Why stay here? If you’re after the nostalgia of Route 66 with a few modern conveniences, this is a great choice. One of the biggest perks is its central location right on historic Route 66, and within easy walking distance of downtown Williams. I really like the old school motor court setup, where you park right in front of your room, as you would have back in the day. There’s a lovely outdoor cabana with a gas fireplace for you to unwind after a day of exploring. The free breakfast is another plus.

Drawback: Although the Lodge on Route 66 dates back to the 1930s, extensive renovations mean it doesn’t quite have the same untouched vintage character as some of the other historic motels along Route 66. A few of the standard rooms are on the smaller side. You can occasionally hear the trains or traffic, but as a light sleeper I didn’t have any problems at all.

Nearby attractions: Historic downtown Williams, the Grand Canyon Railway, Bearizona Wildlife Park, and Grand Canyon National Park.

6) La Posada Hotel & Gardens- Winslow, AZ

Of all the historic hotels I explored along Route 66, La Posada Hotel in Winslow was the one that struck me.

Originally opened in 1930, La Posada was designed by celebrated architect, Mary Coulter, and was the last of the great Fred Harvey railroad hotels. It’s a beautifully restored property bringing together Southwestern architecture, art, history, and fine dining.

What struck me most was the architecture. Walking through the hotel felt like discovering another era of travel, with beautiful spaces, featuring southwestern architecture, stunning turquoise beams and arches.

I was especially impressed by the enormous Navajo rug displayed in the Affeldt Mion Museum. Known as Diyogi Tsoh. It was woven by Diné artists Julia Joe and her daughter Lillie Joe Hill and it is an extraordinary piece of textile artistry.

And then there’s the food. I ate at the hotel’s Turquoise Room restaurant and ordered the delicious Don Juan Chicken & Chorizo Quesadilla, served with a homemade corn muffin. That was a nice change from all of the Diner food I had been eating.

Why stay here? La Posada is ideal for travelers who appreciate historic architecture, museums, Southwestern cuisine and hotels with a story to tell. Between the beautiful gardens, historic atmosphere, and incredible dining, La Posada is much more than a place to sleep. It’s a truly memorable boutique hotel experience.

Drawback: The hotel is right next to active railroad lines, so the trains going past can be noisy if you are a light sleeper or your room is at the back of the hotel nearest the tracks. Also, there is no elevator.

I didn’t actually get to stay here because the rooms were fully booked, so I suggest booking earlier than I did (at least 2-3 months out). I did however get to spend the afternoon here and hope to stay here the next time I’m in town.

Nearby attractions: Standin’ on the Corner Park, the Winslow Visitor Center, and the historic downtown Winslow.

7) Wigwam Motel- Holbrook, AZ

The Wigwam Motel is one of the most recognizable accommodations on Route 66. Built in 1950, It is a very unusual motel in that you can actually spend the night inside an individual concrete wigwam.

Why stay here? It’s a very nostalgic Route 66 property with the old Route 66 charm all over (there are literally vintage cars parked outside the rooms). It’s also a fun place for Disney Pixar’s Cars fans as it was the inspiration for the Cozy Cone Motel in the movie. Plus, it’s location makes it a convenient overnight stop if you’re planning to explore the Petrified Forest National Park and the Painted Desert.

Drawback: There are only 15 rooms available, so it is frequently booked up. In fact, it was booked up when I tried to stay here, so I had to go with other accommodations.

Nearby attractions: Petrified Forest National Park, Rainbow Rock Shop, Holbrook’s historic downtown, and the Jack Rabbit Trading Post farther west.

Best Historic Route 66 Hotels in New Mexico

New Mexico offers a different side of Route 66 nostalgia, with historic hotels influenced by Western movies, Southwestern architecture, and the classic neon-lit motor courts of the mid-20th century.

8) El Rancho Hotel- Gallup, NM

If you are a history buff like me, you could easily spend hours strolling the halls of the historic El Rancho Hotel, admiring all the autographed photographs of the Hollywood stars that line the walls. I’m talking about some of the biggest names from Hollywood’s Golden Age, including John Wayne, Ronald Reagan, Katharine Hepburn, Humphrey Bogart, Lucille Ball, Kirk Douglas, Errol Flynn, Dick VanDyke, and Gregory Peck. Built in the 1937, this legendary hotel became a popular gathering place for actors and film crews working on Western movies in the surrounding area. There’s fascinating pieces of history everywhere you look.

The El Rancho Hotel is on the National Registrar of Historic Places, and one of the coolest things about it is its vintage elevator, which is still working. It’s just one more things that gives you a feeling of being in a different era.

Why stay here? If you love history, old Hollywood glamour, or classic western movies, the El Rancho Hotel is a fantastic place to spend the night on Route 66. The hotel is filled with character, from its rustic Western decor to the incredible Hollywood memorabilia. Another nice perk that I loved is the delicious complimentary breakfast served in the hotel’s restaurant. It’s better than a traditional hotel buffet because you order off the restaurant menu. The Last Trading Post is located within the hotel and it was fun to browse through their turquoise jewelry and unique Southwestern souvenirs.

Drawback: While the El Rancho Hotel is full of historic charm and character, some of the rooms are on the smaller side, and the older building means you may hear noise from the hallways or neighboring rooms. I had no problems at all as a light sleeper when I was there and my room was quiet. If you’re looking for modern luxury and updated amenities, this might not be the best fit.

Nearby attractions: Gallup Visitor Center, the historic downtown Gallup, and many local trading posts.

9) El Vado Motel- Albuquerque, NM

For travelers who want Route 66 vibe, but with a more contemporary feel, the El Vado offers an appealing combination.

The historic motor court has been redeveloped, but is still very much in the Route 66 tradition.

Why stay here? If you’re after the nostalgia of Route 66, but sill want modern comforts, the historic El Vado Motel is a good choice. Originally built in 1937 and beautifully restored in 2018, this boutique motel combines vintage Route 66 charm with updated rooms and stylish Southwestern decor. I especially love that the property has its own collection of local restaurants, shops, and a taproom, so you can grab a bite to eat or browse the boutiques without ever leaving the property. There’s even a swimming pool. Plus, it’s just a 13 minute walk to Old Town, so it’s a great home base for exploring the city.

Drawback: While the rooms have been nicely updated, some are still on the smaller side, and not all have refrigerators or microwaves. Parking can also be a challenge, particularly when the restaurants and shops are busy. The motel sits directly on the along the busy Central Avenue (Route 66), so you may hear some traffic noise. If you’re looking for a quiet, spacious hotel with lots of amenities, this might not be your best option.

Nearby attractions: Old Town Albuquerque, the Balloon Museum, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (check the website for the exact dates in October), and the ABQ Bio Park.

10) Blue Swallow Motel- Tucumcari, NM

The Blue Swallow Motel is one of the most famous of the surviving motor courts on Route 66, famous for its vintage neon sign, retro rooms, and individual garages.

Dating back to 1939, it has the feel of the days when you’d drive off the highway, park in front of your room, and settle in for the evening.

Why stay here? It’s a beautifully preserved motor court, famous for its fantastic neon sign, its period 1940s and 1950s furnishings, and old-fashioned hospitality. One of the coolest features is that many of the rooms still have their original attached garages, where travelers can park their cars for the night. It’s also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Drawback: While the Blue Swallow Motel is full of nostalgic charm, the rooms and bathrooms are relatively small, and you won’t find all the amenities of a modern hotel. The original garages can also be a tight squeeze for larger vehicles.

With only 12 rooms available to book, you’ll want to make reservations well in advance, especially during the busy Route 66 travel season.

Nearby attractions: Tucumcari’s historic Route 66 corridor, the murals, and vintage neon signs.

11) Motel Safari- Tucumcari, NM

In case the Blue Swallow is full, then another fun historic lodging option in Tucumcari is Motel Safari. It is a midcentury motel with a very distinctive design and retro look.

Built in 1959, its a very typical example of the playful architecture of that period, including geometric details and the very distinctive camel-themed signage.

Why stay here? If you love vintage Route 66 motels, but still want to have some modern comforts, the Motel Safari is a great choice. I especially love that some of the rooms still have the original 1950s furniture in them, complete with retro radios playing Route 66 music. The rooms have been upgraded with comfortable pillow-top mattresses, modern bathrooms, and Wi-Fi. There’s a firepit outside where you can sit and chat with other travelers.

Drawback: Pets aren’t allowed, and check-in is strictly limited to 3 PM to 10 PM, which could be inconvenient if you’re running behind on your road trip. If you’re looking for a full-service hotel with lots of extras, this might not be the best fit.

Nearby attractions: Tucumcari’s historic neon signs, the Route 66 murals, and classic roadside businesses.

Tips for Booking Historic Route 66 Hotels

Historic hotels and motels have something quite different to offer from the modern chain accommodation, but there are a few things worth considering before you book.

• Book early. A number of the most iconic Route 66 properties have very limited accomodation, particularly the Wigwam Motels and the Blue Swallow.
• Check the amenities carefully. The old rooms may have smaller bathrooms, fewer electrical outlets, or fewer modern conveniences.
• Plan some night photography as a lot of the historic motels are absolutely photogenic when their neon signs are on.
• Confirm arrival arrangements. Smaller independently operated motels can have limited front desk hours.

Don’t forget your Route 66 Passport! While exploring historic hotels along America’s Mother Road, make time to collect Route 66 passport stamps at museums, visitor center, roadside attractions, and local businesses. During my solo Route 66 road trip, I made it my mission to collect as many stamps as possible! Check out my guide to Route 66 passport stamp location in California, Arizona and New Mexico to plan your stops along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions about Staying in Historic Route 66 Hotels

What are the best historic hotels on Route 66?

Some of the standout ones in the Southwest include La Posada Hotel in Winslow, El Rancho Hotel in Gallup, the Wigwam Motels in San Bernardino and Holbrook, and the Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari.

Where should I stop overnight on Route 66 in Arizona?

Kingman, Williams, Winslow and Holbrook all make great places to spend the night. The best spot for you depends on what you want to see the most- historic attractions, the Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest National Park, or a specific hotel.

What is the most famous hotel on Route 66?

There’s no single answer, but La Posada in Winslow and El Rancho in Gallup are two of the most historical hotels. The Wigwam Motels are also some of the most recognizable places to stay on Route 66.

Are the historic Route 66 hotels expensive?

Prices vary enormously depending on where you stay, the time of year and the property itself. Some old motor courts are more affordable, while bigger historic hotels might cost more.

Final Thoughts on Staying in Historic Route 66 Hotels

What I loved most about my Route 66 road trip was seeing how much of America’s Mother Road’s history still remained and experiencing it firsthand.

From the impressive architecture of La Posada Hotel in Winslow to the fun concrete wigwams and the old neon signs still glowing at historic motor courts, these places are a big part of the Route 66 experience.

Half the fun of a Route 66 road trip is experiencing all the nostalgia along the way, and staying at one of these classic hotels is the best way to enjoy that history.