51 Best Route 66 Hotels and Motels that You’ll Love (organized by state)

Save to Find It Later!

Are you looking for the best Route 66 hotels? Stop looking, you’ve found them! In this post, we gathered the best hotels on Route 66 and categorised them by state to simplify your trip planning!

I (Marie) lived in the USA in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, and had the opportunity to travel across the country several times. Through my two week road trip on the West Coast and my month long road trip across the USA, I got to drive and stay on Route 66 several times! US Motels have no secret for me! 

In this post, we have gathered the cream of the crop of hotels and motels along Route 66. From historical motels that share Route 66 memorabilia to Route 66 luxury hotels that are perfect for a relaxing couple stay, you will for sure find an accommodation that fits both your needs and your budget, in this post!

***Some of the links in this post are affiliate links meaning we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This does not change the fact that we only recommend products, stays, activities and attractions we are satisfied with and all opinions expressed here are our own.

Budget to stay at Route 66 hotels

You may be wondering what your budget should be to stay at a hotel on Route 66. The good news is, there is something great for every budget on Route 66! In this post we have included a range of different hotels and motels on Route 66 that have very different prices from just $50 a night to over $200 a night. 

There are a couple things you should know before reading more:

• We marked luxury picks at the top of each section by indicating “our luxury pick”. These accommodations usually include a pool, a hot tub, and gorgeous rooms. 
• Motels in general are cheaper than hotels so if your budget is tight, look at those in the below sections.
• Some of the hotels we included were very much inexpensive and quite incredible. We sometimes marked those with words such as “gem”, “inexpensive”, or “budget-friendly”. You can do a quick search (Ctrl+F) with these words to find them quicker in the list below. 
• The average cost per night on Route 66 is around $90-$100. 

Is staying at a Route 66 hotel a good idea for couples?

In this post, we included our top choices of places to stay Route 66 offers from California to Illinois. But you may wonder whether staying on Route 66 is a good trip idea for travel couples. Are motels too basic to keep the romance going? Is the idea of a Route 66 road trip with nights at motels a good idea for you and your partner?

In our opinion, absolutely yes! Route 66 is one of the best road trips for adventurous couples! Staying at a historic Route 66 motel is adventurous and fun but it can also be extremely comfortable, romantic and relaxing. Note also that these hotels welcome unmarried couples. A number of Route 66 hotels that we included feel like a retreat such as:

• La Posada, Winslow, AZ
• Casas de Suenos Old Town Historic Inn, NM

Other Route 66 hotels will immerse you in the 1930’s while providing you with all the comfort you need such as:

• Hotel El Rancho, NM
• Wigwam Motel, San Bernardino, CA
• Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven Motel, Springfield, MO

Some hotels on Route 66 are over the top with incredible views, top service and amazing comfort, such as:

• Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel, CA
• This home Home Overlooking Palo Duro Canyon, TX

Whether you are and adventurous couple, or a high-end couple of travellers, there is a hotel for everyone on Route 66! Driving from hotel to hotel can take a while so don’t forget to bring some road trip games for couples to pass time!

Top 10 historic Route 66 hotels 

In this section, you will find a quick list of the top 10 historic hotels on Route 66. You can read more about each of these hotels in the following sections.

1. Big Texan Steak Ranch Motel, TX
2. The Red Garter B&B Inn, Williams, AZ
3. Blue Swallow Motel, Tucumcari, NM
4. Flamingo Inn, Elk City, OK
5. The Old Riverton Post B&B, KS
6. Best Western Rail Haven Motel, Springfield, MO
7. Palmer House, Chicago, IL
8. Wagon Wheel Motel in Cuba Missouri, MO
9. Oatman Hotel, Oatman, AZ
10. Roy’s Motel, Amboy, CA

Our criteria to pick the best Route 66 hotels

There are lots of hotels and motels on Route 66 due to the popularity of this cross America drive. to make this list of the best Route 66 hotels, we use the following criteria:

• Location: In this post, we only selected hotels and motels that are actually along Route 66 or nearby. We are not taking you 30 minutes into the state and away from Route 66.
• Cleanliness: This has got to be one of our most negotiable criteria when staying at a hotel so we had to include it here. We only selected hotels that have good cleanliness ratings and have ignored any that wouldn’t even if they had a Route 66 history. After all, what good is it to stay at a historical motel if you can’t lay on the sheets!
• Service and Staff: With every hotel we recommend, we always check that service and staff are of quality.
• Value for money: We are always looking out for your wallet. On top of the dedicated budget section above, we only included hotels and motels on Route 66 that are good value for money.
• A range of budgets: For each state, we included a mix of budget places along Route 66 and high-end more expensive places. 
• Popularity: We always take other guests’ comments into account before recommending hotels and motels. Just because we liked a certain hotel, doesn’t mean everyone did and we want to ensure we recommend hotels where having a good experience is the norm. This avoids us to be biased and you to have more options! 

The best Route 66 hotels by state

Finding Route 66 lodging can be overwhelming especially form one state to another. In this section, we have gathered the best hotels along Route 66 for you to stay at. For each US State, you will find the following recommended hotels:

• Our top pick: This is usually the best value hotel and a Route 66 historical hotel or motel
• Our top luxury pick: This is our favourite luxury hotel that we deem perfect for a romantic stay for couples. It’s definitely not a budget stay but one that offers incredible amenities, views and memories.
• A couple more of the best hotels and motels along Route 66 in the state so you can have more choice

For each hotel, we included:

• A section on the comments from other guests, so you don’t have to rely on our word only
• Public ratings
• Where to book for convenience

The best Route 66 hotels California offers

California is one of the most visited US states. It’s one state that also attracts lots of couples whether that’d be for an adventure or a full on elopement! In this section, you’ll find the best Route 66 hotels in California from Santa Monica (CA) to Topock (right on the border of California and Arizona)

3. The Georgian Hotel, Santa Monica

Built in 1933, The Georgian Hotel is a prime example of the Art Deco style hotels along Route 66. With its blue facade, the hotel is located just a few minutes away from Santa Monica Pier where you can find the sign that marks the end of Route 66. 

The hotel offers comfortable rooms with views on the ocean. The Art Deco style can be noticed on the outside but also in the rooms with the tile work. Though build in 1933, the hotel remains modern. It also offers a bar and a restaurant with table both inside and outside with views on the beach. 

What guests say: Excellent location, very comfortable beds and large rooms. The service is also excellent. 

Ratings: 8/10

Where to book: Check availabilities and book here.

4. Route 66 Motel, Barstow

For one of the most authentic Route 66 lodging experience, stay at the Route 66 Motel. Located in Barstow, this motel is recognizable by the large Route 66 neon signs outside, the memorabilia and the vintage cars parked in front of the motel.

The rooms are spacious and come with a fridge and a microwave which is great if you like to make your own lunches or breakfasts! Rooms are air conditioned as well. 

What guests say: This is the real authentic Route 66 experience with a simple but efficient lodging. Though the rooms provide all you need, they remain simple and you stay here mostly for the experience. The air conditioning is a bit loud but the rooms are clean and the staff is friendly. Guests say it is great value for money.

Ratings: 7.3/10

Where to book: Check availabilities and book here.

5. Rodeway Inn On Historic Route 66, Barstow

Located along Route 66, this hotel is perfect for exploring South California and Nevada. It is located in Barstow just one kilometre from the beautiful Mojave National Preserve. In the area, you will also find Calico Ghost Town, and the Western America Railroad Museum.

This Inn is between a hotel and a motel. It offers large renovated rooms with a large bed and a spacious sink area. The bathroom is in a second room within your bedroom as well. Rodeway Inn also offers a gym, a simple but nice breakfast and an outdoor swimming pool which is definitely much appreciated during the summer!

What guests say: From being excellent value to providing excellent bedding, guests are saying that this is a great stop along Route 66 for a reasonable budget. Guests have also highlighted the friendly staff. 

Ratings: 7.9/10

Where to book: Check availabilities and book here.

What to do nearby: Route 66 Mother Road Museum, Mojave National Preserve, Calico Ghost Town, and the Western America Railroad Museum

6. Travelodge by Wyndham, Yermo

On Route 66, you’ll find more than just the vintage hotels and motels. The Travelodge Hotel in Yermo is one of those hotels that you know will provide you with everything you need for a good night of sleep and that it will not break the bank!

With modern rooms, private bathrooms, and just a few steps from a diner, this 3-star hotel is a great pick no matter what your travel style is!

What guests say: Guests wrote that this hotel is clean, convenient, comfortable and quiet. The location is also quite good as it is close to the Route 66 Mother Road Museum.

Ratings: 7.2/10

Where to book: Check availabilities and book here.

What to do nearby: While in Yermo, you must visit Peggy Sue’s 1950’s Diner! This original diner is one of the best ways to experience Route 66. With traditional American food and vintage decor, eating at Peggy Sue’s is an experience in itself!

7. Roy’s Motel, Amboy

In the Mojave Desert town of Aboy, you will find Roy’s Motel, a symbol of US Route 66. This motel is also a café, a gas station and used to be an auto repair shop. 

The motel is recognizable by its large neon sign and the gas station pumps. Roy’s opened in 1938 and was known by travellers on Route 66 as the one stop shop for gas, a bed and dinner. It is known as being built in a “googie” architecture. Signs of the googie architecture include the red arrow and the touches that remind us of space. 

Roy’s was also used in a number of movies and music videos including Enrique Iglesias’ Hеro music video and the movie Kalifornia in 1993 starring Brad Pitt!

The motel is such a symbol for the area that it is undеr thе ѕtеwаrdѕhір оf a рrіvаtе conservationist.

Though you can’t stay at Roy’s, you can visit the area and Amboy which is known as a living ghost town! You can also visit Ambоу vоlсаnіс сrаtеr just a few miles away. You can find more information here.

8. Oak Park Motel

For a top California experience, come stay at the Oak Park Motel in Monrovia. Located just a few minutes from Route 66, this motel is located just at the bottom of the Californian Mountains. You will be staying in renovated and well equipped rooms with a fridge and a microwave. Just at the entrance, you’ll find the typical neon sign that characterizes American Route 66 motels. 

What guests say: Guests are very happy with their stay in this renovated motel. Guests loved their stay on Route 66 and enjoyed that there are shops and restaurants nearby. Guests all confirm the motel was very clean.

Ratings: 7.1/10

Where to book: You can book here.

Arizona Route 66 hotels and motels

In this section, we have gathered the best Route 66 hotels Arizona offers along with the best motels as well! 

11. The Canyon Motel & RV Park, Williams

Well-rated and inexpensive, this is a gem for travellers who want a Route 66 experience on a budget! It is located within a Ponderosa Pine forest and just a 5-minute drive to the Grand Canyon Railroad. The motel also features an indoor swimming pool from spring to fall. 

Each room is equipped with a microwave and a fridge and laundry is also available at the motel. When staying at the Canyon Motel & RV Park, you’ll be staying just outside Williams, surrounded by nature and a beautiful scenery.

What guests say: Guests loved the wagon and how vintage this accommodation was. They describe it as having lots of character and thought the bedding was of great quality.

Ratings: 8.1/10

Where to book: You can book here. 

12. The Lodge on Route 66, Williams

Close to shops and restaurants, you’ll find the Lodge, a hotel on Route 66 that wins every guest’s compliments! The hotel is located just a couple of minutes from the Route 66 sign and the Pete’s Route 66 Gas Station museum which makes it one of the hotels that is the most imprinted with Route 66!

Renovated, the hotel offers large and comfortable rooms decorated in a western style. 

What guests say: Guests rave about the location of the lodge as it’s right into the bustling little town. Guests were also pleased with the bedding and the atmosphere of the place.

Ratings: 8.5/10

Where to book: You can book here. 

13. Supai Motel, a great budget-friendly motel on Route 66

Located in Seligman, Supai Motel is one of the historical motes on Route 66. Its architecture is very typical from the old Route 66 motels with just one ground floor, white walls and the large green and red neon sign. The rooms are simple but with everything you need including a fridge and a microwave. 

What guests say: Guests appreciated staying at this motel which is a good representation of the Route 66 motel style. Guests also appreciated the friendly staff, cleanliness and how inexpensive it was to stay here.

Ratings: 7.6/10

Where to book: You can book here. 

14. El Trovatore Motel, one of the best Route 66 motels Arizona offers

With saloon doors, vintage cars parked in front of it and a giant neon signs, El Trovatore Motel is one of the best Route 66 motels Arizona offers, especially for cool photos. Located in Kingman, here you will find Route 66 themed comfortable rooms. Each room is equipped with a microwave and a fridge. The motel also provides barbecue facilities. 

What guests say: From the friendly owners to the Route 66 aesthetic and the cleanliness, guests really like this motel.

Ratings: 7.8/10

Where to book: You can book here. 

15. Oatman Hotel, a historical Route 66 hotel to visit

The Oatman Hotel is a historical hotel that was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. It no longer welcomes visitors overnight but you can still visit the bar, the restaurant and the museum on the upper floor. 

16. The Red Garter B&B Inn, Williams

This is a quaint hotel with a lot of history and a real originality. The rooms are decorated in a western with a great attention to detail. If you’re staying at the Red Garter B&B, it’s not just to sleep, but it’s for the whole experience! From here, you are only 55 minutes from the Grand Canyon! 

What guests say: Guests were absolutely delighted by their stay at the Red Garter B&B. Everything for the amenities, the aesthetic and the comfortable rooms to the great staff and attention to details made guests’ stays perfect! 

Ratings: 9.1/10

Where to book: You can book here. 

17. Monte Vista, Flagstaff

The Monte Vista hotel is one of the oldest hotels on Route 66 as it was built around 1927. The building stands tall in the midst of Flagstaff with a large yellow sign on top indicating the name of the hotel. As this is a historical hotel, don’t expect too much thrills but an authentic experience!

What guests say: Guests are happy with their stays overall!

Ratings: 4/5

Where to book: You can book here.

Route 66 hotels in New Mexico

Whether you are looking for a Route 66 hotel Albuquerque NM offers or a motel in Tucumcari, you will definitely find one that you like in this list! 

20. Roadrunner Lodge, Tucumcari

This is a stylish motel located on Route 66. The rooms are well equipped and decorated in a modern style. Near the lodge, you’ll find the Tucumcari Historical Museum and the New Mexico Route 66 Museum. 

What guests say: Guests rave about the style and comfort of the motel and the location. They qualify it of a “superb” motel!

Ratings: 9/10

Where to book: You can book here!

21. Hotel El Rancho, Gallup, one of the Route 66 hotels New Mexico offers

Built in the 1930’s, El Rancho hotels is a gem on Route 66! The rooms are well decorated in a style that mixes authenticity and modernity and provide all the comfort that you could hope for. In addition, the lobby of the hotel is quite impressive and unique and makes the hotel iconic on Route 66. 

What guests say: Guests talk about this hotel as iconic and a must-stop on Route 66!

Ratings: 8.4/10

Where to book: You can book here.

22. Motel Safari, Tucumcari

This is a wonderful vintage motel on Route 66. Guests have noted staying here is like walking back in time to the 60’s! The hostel has been restored but without erasing marks of the past and Route 66 memorabilia. This is a great option on Route 66!

What guests say: Guests loved the experience and consider their stay exceptional! 

Ratings: 5/5

Where to book: You can book here. 

23. Historic Route 66 Motel, Tucumcari

Just like its name indicates, this is a historical hotel on Route 66. It gives strong Route 66 vibe through its decor and style. Definitely retro, it is simple, basic but efficient.

What guests say: Guests were satisfied with their stay in a very Route 66 atmosphere.

Ratings: 4.5/5

Where to book: You can book here. 

24. El Rey Court, Santa Fe

A boutique hotel located in Santa Fe, El Rey Court is a stunning place to stay, a gem like some would call it! Decorated in a southern style with antique furniture and a range of artwork, the hotel also features an outdoor pool and a fitness room. This is the perfect place for a unique experience on Route 66; 

What guests say: Guests loves the southwestern aesthetic, the outdoor pool and the atmosphere of the hotel!

Ratings: 8.3/10

Where to book: You can book here! 

25. Casas de Suenos Old Town Historic Inn, one of the best hotels on Route 66 Albuquerque offers

This fabulous hotel is one of the best Route 66 hotels Albuquerque offers! With its southern style and all the modern comfort you would ever need, Casas de Suenos is talked about by guests as being like a spa retreat. The location is also great and close to the main attractions in the area. Note that some of the rooms even have a hot tub!

What guests say: Guests loved their stay at Casas de Suenos and is one fo the best places some of the guests ever stayed at! Definitely a gem!

Ratings: 8.8/10 (Fabulous)

Where to book: You can book here. 

26. Apache Motel, a budget-friendly option on Route 66

Located in Ruidoso, the Apache Motel is a simple but efficient accommodation to stay at on Route 66. Though basic, this motel is a great budget-friendly pick for a stay on Route 66!

What guests say: Guests are saying it is a great value stay! It’s an easy in and out and is very quiet so you’ll get a good sleep. Expect no thrills but everything you need for a good night of sleep.

Ratings: 6.6/10

Where to book: You can book here.

27. Monterey motel, one of people’s favourite motels on Route 66

Between authenticity and modernity, the Monterey Motel is one of the top motels on Route 66 located in Albuquerque. With renovated rooms and the large neon signs typical from Route 66, you’ll love staying here. The rooms also feel more like a hotel so here you’ll get the best of both worlds! 

What guests say: A number of guests have noted this was the best Route 66 motel they’ve ever stayed at! The mix of the Route 66 authenticity and the new modernity have definitely seduced guests. 

Ratings: 8.3/10

Where to book: You can book here.

Route 66 hotels in Texas

There are a number of Route 66 hotels Texas has to offer! Some are incredible gems for a budget-friendly price so we would highly recommend staying somewhere in Texas during your trip! 

30. Big Texan Steak Ranch Motel, one of the great value Route 66 hotels in Texas

The character and charm of the Big Texan Steak Ranch Motel are pretty incredible! The rooms are well decorated with wood pieces making it look really homy! This is one of our top picks on Route 66! On top of the authentic and elaborated atmosphere, the rooms are large and well equipped. The rooms also come with a balcony and the hotel features a seasonal swimming pool. The hotel is located in Amarillo. 

What guests say: Guests are raving about this one. Everything from the atmosphere and decor to the staff, cleanliness and service is top notch and all of that for a budget-friendly price!

Ratings: 8.2/10

Where to book: Book here before rooms are gone! 

31. Western Motel, Shamrock

The Western Motel is a large ocher coloured building located in Shamrock and providing a number of large and renovated rooms for booking. The motel is definitely historical and gives a great Route 66 atmosphere. The rooms have large beds and are well equipped with a small frigde, a microwave and a seating area. 

What guests say: The bathrooms have been renovated and the quality of sleep was unbelievable. Guests were happy about the patriotic decor giving a real Route 66 atmosphere. Guests also rave about the location and the cleanliness!

Ratings: 8.2

Where to book: You can book here.

32. Cactus Inn, a fantastic Route 66 Inn

Authentic, typical, historical, pick your adjective! The Cactus Inn is located in McLean on Route 66. It offers the true Route 66 experience in spacious rooms and bathrooms with a vintage decor. The cactus sign outside is quite unique as well!

What guests say: This is a cozy historical motel that is very clean and offers a great Route 66 night stay experience. The area is safe and staff are very friendly. Guests are very satisfied from their stay at Cactus Inn.

Ratings: 8/10

Where to book: You can book here.

33. Route 66 Inn, Amarillo

If you’re looking for an authentic Route 66 motel, this is it! There will be no surprise here! The Route 66 Inn is located in Amarillo, right off Route 66 and provides you with a basic but comfortable accommodation. With large rooms and the typical motel bathroom, the Route 66 Inn has got everything you need for an authentic but comfortable and modern stay along Route 66!

What guests say: The Route 66 Inn is exceptionally clean, comfortable and centrally located. One guest says: “It’s your typical well maintained roadside motel with super friendly and welcoming staff that make the stay very enjoyable”. Note also that rooms have recently been renovated. 

Ratings: 7.8/10

Where to book: Book here now for a great value stay along Route 66!

Route 66 motels Oklahoma offers

Oklahoma is a large southern state so it can be difficult to know where to stay on Route 66! In this section we share with you our top picks for hotels and motels on Route 66! You can also check our pick of the most romantic cabins in the OK State!

36. The Campbell Hotel in Tulsa

Just off of Route 66 in Tulsa, you will find this Spanish Colonial revival building. This boutique hotel offers quirky rooms decorated by different themes, and an on site spa. Rooms are furnished with a fridge, microwave and coffee. 

This is one of the historical hotels on Route 66 and provide a different experience than motels!

What guests say: This boutique hotel is on Route 66 and provides the perfect night experience. Rooms are quirky and comfortable, the hosts are friendly and the experience was charming!

Ratings: 8.5/10 

Where to book: Book here before it’s all booked!

37. Lincoln Motel, Chandler, a true Route 66 motel experience!

In Chandler, you’ll find the Lincoln Motel, one of the top Route 66 hotels in Oklahoma! You’ll recognise it by the large neon sign in a star shape indicating the motel’s name and the numerous vintage cars parked right in front of it. You’ll also notice numerous motorcycles parked in front of the motel that will remind you of the history of the Route 66 hotels!

The rooms at Lincoln Motel are large and though equipped with a mini fridge, cable TV and wifi, the decor of the rooms will take you back to the 50’s! 

This is a great pick for a cheap but comfortable stay that will offer you a true Route 66 motel experience!

What guests say: This is a retro Route 66 motel that offers the real Route 66 experience! The staff is great, location is ideal and the rooms are comfortable. It is good value!

Ratings: 7/10

Where to book: You can book here.

38. Flamingo Inn, Elk City

Located just a couple of kilometres away from Elk City, the Flamingo Inn is one of the best hotels off Route 66. With large rooms, a 24 hour open front desk and modern bathrooms, the inn is everything you need to have a good night of sleep after exploring Oklahoma and Route 66. 

Rooms also come with a small fridge, a TV and a hairdryer.

What guests say: Don’t let the cheap cost scare you! Flamingo Inn offers large rooms and top cleanliness. The staff is friendly and the location is ideal!

Ratings: 8/10 with a 8.9/10 for couples

Where to book: you can book here.

Best Route 66 hotels in Kansas

Route 66 slightly touches Kansas so we have included a couple of hotels just along Route 66 in that state. 

40. Baxter Inn 4 Less, a typical American hotel on Route 66

It doesn’t really get more American than this motel! Baxter Inn is located just off Route 66 in the town of Baxter Springs. It is close to the road, a diner, a shopping street with restaurants and to the Kansas Route 66 Visitors Centre. 

The rooms at Baxter Inn are large and definitely typical for a motel. You’ll find large beds, a sitting area and a bathroom with a sink area. The decor is a bit old fashioned but it wouldn’t be a real American motel without that!

I’ve stayed in several similar motels in the USA while road tripping along Route 66 and my experience was always positive. You can also arrive early and late with no problem which is great when on a road trip!

Note also that if you are looking for a Route 66 hotel and casino, you will find a casino just 15km from Baxter Inn. In addition, Baxter Springs also offers lots of hiking trails and kayaking opportunities. 

What guests say: The property is clean and well equipped. The rooms are large with comfortable beds and it is easy to park near your room.

Ratings: 7.7/10

Where to book: Check availabilities and book here.

41. Rose Cottage, Baxter Springs

Also located in Baxter Springs, just a few steps away from Baxter Springs Heritage Center & Museum, you will find Rose Cottage. Rose Cottage is an accommodation on Route 66 that is filled with historical relics and Route 66 memorabilia. With a stay here, you’ll experience an authentic Route 66 stay experience

What guests say: This is a brilliant stay for an authentic Route 66 stay.

Ratings: 9/10

Where to book: Check availabilities and book here.

Best hotels on Route 66 in Missouri

Missouri is a large destination that Route 66 goes through. There is lots to visit in the state so it’s actually a great idea to stay for a couple of nights along Route 66 in Missouri.

44. Wagon Wheel Motel in Cuba, Missouri

While the site opening in 1936 as a café only, it evolved in 1938 as a motel and has been used as such ever since. The Wagon Wheel Motel in Cuba, Missouri is considered as one of the historic motels on U.S. Route 66. 

The motel itself is quite different from other typical American motel. The building is built with stones which makes it look like several small Irish cottages! It’s actually quite surprising!

The rooms are quite simple but nice. You can park nearby.

What guests say: This is one of the authentic Route 66 motels. It is small but it is part of the charm.

Ratings: 4.5/5

Where to book: You can book here. 

45. Munger Moss in Lebanon

The Munger Moss motel is located in Lebanon and has been a statement of Route 66 for over 73 years. It’s recognizable by its vintage neon size with the arrow that characterises motels along Route 66. 

The rooms at Munger Moss have been decorated in a vintage style that brings you back to the 60s if not before then! The motel also features an outdoor swimming pool.

What guests say: Munger Moss is a statement on Route 66 and rooms were clean.

Ratings: 4/5

Where to book: You can book here.

46. Boots Court in Carthage

Built in 1939, Boots Court only offered four rooms at first. It then evolved into 13 rooms which have since been renovated by keeping the style of the 40s. The building is all white almost making you think of Greek villages and each room benefits from a covered parking area for the car. in front of the hotel, you’ll find the authentic neon sign with the name of the hotel on it. 

The rooms are fairly big but note that part of the hotel is still under construction and renovation. 

What guests say: From the bedding to the experience, guests are very satisfied by staying at the Boots Court motel.

Ratings: 4.8/5

Where to book: You can book here.

Route 66 hotels in Illinois

There are several Route 66 hotels Illinois State offers for road trippers. We have gathered the best of them in this section. 

49. Congress Plaza Hotel, Chicago, a historical Route 66 hotel Springfield IL offers

Right across from Millennium Park, and right in the centre of Chicago, you will find the Congress Plaza Hotel! This elegant hotel offers a mix of modernity and luxury for a very reasonable price which makes it one of the best value hotels in Chicago. The hotel, through its shape and decor, has lots of character and is an attraction in itself!

What guests say: Guests are delighted by their stay at the Congress Plaza Hotel! From the comfort and service to the ideal location, it is one of the best places to stay in the city while on Route 66.

Ratings: 7.2/10 and a 9.1/10 for couples!

Where to book: you can book here. 

50. Route 66 Hotel and Conference Center, Springfield

If you expect luxury, this is not the hotel for you. But if you expect Route 66 memorabilia, neon signs and kitsch but authentic decor, this is it. When arriving at the hotel, you’ll first notice the neon signs with the famous Route 66 sign in the centre. As you look around you’ll also notice the vintage cars giving the place its authentic feel! 

The hotel is known for being decorated in a full Route 66 vibe with car plates and other relics everywhere. Some of the rooms also feature a hot tub and the hotel features an outdoor pool. 

When staying here, expect something basic with no fluff but that’s also what makes its charm.

What guests say: Guests are a bit torn on this one. Some said it was loud (probably due to the original insulation not being that great) and some suggested that the place was kind of run down. On the bright side, most guests agree that this hotel provides an authentic experience of staying on Route 66. As you see, this one is fifty fifty. Note, however, that it is the cheapest out of all the Route 66 hotels on this list so if you’re on a tight budget, this might be just what you are looking for!

Ratings: 5.9/10 (Average but also very cheap)

Where to book: You can book here.

51. Palmer House, Chicago, a must stop on Route 66

The Palmer House is a historical hotel in downtown Chicago located nearby Chicago’s theatre and the financial district. The hotel itself has lots of character with a classic facade and murals on the ceilings. The ambiance will make you think of Gatsby’s times!

The rooms are modern and decorated with taste. Rooms are spacious and elegant as well. The hotel features an indoor pool and spa facilities to relax after a long day on Route 66. 

What guests say: Guests are over the moon with this hotel. From the comfortable room to the unique ambiance and amazing staff, many guests have stayed there multiple times!

Ratings: 7.7/10 and 9.4/10 for couples

Where to book: You should definitely book here.

Should you book hotels and motels of Route 66 in advance?

The short answer to this question is “absolutely yes”. In general, hotels along a route fill up quicker than remote hotels are they are located just on people’s way. It’s easy to see them, check them out and book them. But in our case, hotels on Route 66 are even more popular than regular hotels on a busy route! 

Route 66 is the most famous route in the USA. Route 66 has a huge history but it also has a lot of meaning to travellers. It represents adventure, road trips, time with friends or the trip of a lifetime across the USA! Route 66 also goes across some of the most beautiful states of the USA including Arizona and California. 

For all these reasons, there is definitely a high demand to stay at Route 66 hotels. And that means it can be difficult to find a hotel room at the last minute. If you are planning to stay at a hotel on Route 66 during the high season (essentially spring and summer), we would highly recommend booking it in advance, even if you think there is no need. There is nothing worse than arriving at a hotel full of hope after a long drive, only to find out it is full and having to drive another 100km to find the next one. Because, yes, some of the hotels are spread over 100km without anything in between!

If you are traveling during the low season, you will probably be able to find a room in one of these hotels but you may not get the choice as to which one you get. If you want to pick your room (with the best view, with a hot tub, with a car spot nearby, etc), then we would still recommend booking in advance. 

In general, we recommend booking about 3 to 6 months in advance.

Are Route 66 motels for you?

Though there are hotels on the way of Route 66, historically, there are more motels. Motels are a simpler and more basic version of hotels. They were created to provide drivers of route 66 with a place to fill up on gas (hence the “motor” part of the word “motel”), get dinner and get a good night of sleep before heading back on the road. 

Nowadays, motels are known for often being cheaper than hotels and also providing a more authentic experience (which is something that is sometimes twisted into bad stays). 

Most US motels I (Marie) have stayed at provided a large room with large double beds, a table with a seating area, a closed bathroom and a sink area. I also would usually get a mini fridge in the room and some coffee. Motels in my experience are quite comfortable and some rooms even have a balcony. In certain motels, rooms are decorated by theme and all rooms are different. In my experience, few motels are actually like that and most of them just have a classic look, even on Route 66. Though they are not usually fancy, some motels, as you would have seen above, feature a pool which is quite nice after a long day of exploring in the sun, especially in states like Arizona!

One of the advantages of motels also is that they are open 24h which means you can arrive late without any issues. Breakfasts at motels are usually simple with bread, toasts, butter and jam, orange juice and coffee. Nothing fancy but everything you need. 

Motels are also often located on the periphery of the city so you will need a car to get around which shouldn’t be a problem if you are driving Route 66 but it is something to keep in mind. Motels also don’t usually offer dine in experience on site but they are often located close to a diner or a fast food. 

Motels are fun, cheap and often provide exactly what you need: a decent night of sleep. But remember that motels aren’t perfect and have their quirks like loud air conditioning or a Tv with only two channels. I’ve never personally had any issues with either but you never know. This could also happen at a regular hotel though!

If you are a laid-back person who is satisfied with basic facilities, you will definitely be fine at a motel. If you need room service and some to carry your luggage, you should probably stay at one of the luxury hotels we have recommended above. 

– SAVE THIS POST –

Any questions on the best Route 66 hotels and motels? Then drop them in the comments or on insta @twolostexplorers and I will get back to you asap.

Did you like this post? If you liked this post, then don’t hesitate to share it by using the share buttons on the side.

Want to save this post? You can pin the following images on pinterest to save this post.