The great American road trip is a rite of passage—windows down, tunes up, snacks in the glove box. But what really makes a journey memorable isn’t just the landscapes or landmarks. It’s the quirky stops along the way, especially those one-of-a-kind motels that feel like stepping into a different world. These roadside gems aren’t your cookie-cutter hotel chains. From vintage trailers in the desert to treehouse lodges in the woods, these unique motels give new meaning to the phrase “check-in experience.”
Here are some of the most unforgettable motels scattered across the United States. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or just dreaming about the open road, these places prove that where you sleep can be just as exciting as where you’re going.
1. The Madonna Inn – San Luis Obispo, California
The Madonna Inn is legendary—and for good reason. Since opening in 1958, this California icon has been wooing guests with its outrageously themed rooms. Want to sleep in a pink fantasy? Book the “Carin” room. Prefer a room that looks like a Swiss chalet? They’ve got that too. With 110 uniquely decorated rooms, a bright pink restaurant, and waterfall urinals (yes, really), this place is as kitschy as it is unforgettable. It’s less a place to crash and more a full-blown experience.
2. The Shady Dell – Bisbee, Arizona
Step back in time at The Shady Dell, where vintage aluminum trailers from the 1940s and ’50s serve as your cozy accommodations. Located in the artsy desert town of Bisbee, each trailer is restored to mid-century perfection, complete with retro appliances and period-appropriate decor. There’s even a vintage yacht you can sleep in, moored firmly on dry land. If you’ve ever wanted to live in a black-and-white postcard, this is your chance.
3. Dog Bark Park Inn – Cottonwood, Idaho
Calling all dog lovers: how would you like to sleep inside a giant beagle? Meet Sweet Willy, a 30-foot-tall beagle-shaped building that houses one of America’s most unusual B&B experiences. The Dog Bark Park Inn is both motel and monument, handcrafted by chainsaw artists Dennis and Frances Sullivan. The inside is cozy and canine-themed, complete with dog-shaped pillows and games. And yes, you can bring your own pup too.
4. Wigwam Motel – Holbrook, Arizona & San Bernardino, California
Ever wonder what it’s like to sleep in a teepee? At the historic Wigwam Motels on Route 66, you can. These concrete “wigwams” (technically not wigwams, but that’s part of the charm) have been housing travelers since the 1940s. Each unit is shaped like a giant cone and includes a bed, bathroom, and a dash of nostalgia. They’re a throwback to the heyday of American road travel and a must-see for Route 66 enthusiasts.
5. The Aurora Express – Fairbanks, Alaska
All aboard the most unusual motel in Alaska. The Aurora Express is a retired train-turned-bed-and-breakfast, parked on a hill with sweeping views of the Tanana Valley. Each train car has been lovingly converted into themed rooms—there’s a Gold Rush car, a Victorian car, and even one that looks like an old-time saloon. Cozy, quirky, and full of character, it’s one of the best places to sleep under the Northern Lights.
6. Jules’ Undersea Lodge – Key Largo, Florida
Ever wanted to sleep underwater—literally? Jules’ Undersea Lodge is the only underwater hotel in the U.S., accessible only by scuba diving. Originally a marine research lab, the lodge sits 21 feet beneath the surface of a tropical lagoon. Guests must be certified divers to enter, and once inside, they’ll find surprisingly comfortable accommodations with large windows looking out into the sea. It’s a bucket-list stay for thrill-seekers and ocean lovers alike.
7. The Red Caboose Motel – Ronks, Pennsylvania
All aboard again—this time in Pennsylvania Dutch Country. The Red Caboose Motel lets you sleep in actual train cabooses, painted bright red and lined up next to working tracks. Originally built for the 1976 Bicentennial celebration, this place has become a nostalgic favorite for families and rail buffs alike. Bonus: it’s surrounded by Amish farmland and right next to the Strasburg Rail Road, so train sightings are guaranteed.
8. Kate’s Lazy Meadow – Mount Tremper, New York
Owned by Kate Pierson of the B-52s, Kate’s Lazy Meadow is a colorful, retro-modern motel tucked into the Catskills. The decor screams mid-century space age—think orange shag rugs, boomerang coffee tables, and atomic lighting. You’ll find vintage Airstreams, artist-designed suites, and even a communal fire pit for lazy nights under the stars. It’s artsy, eccentric, and unapologetically fun.
9. Amargosa Opera House and Hotel – Death Valley Junction, California
In the middle of the desert, this Spanish Colonial-style hotel feels like a mirage. Built in the 1920s and once a bustling railroad town, the Amargosa Hotel is now a hauntingly beautiful relic. But what makes it special is the on-site opera house, where founder Marta Becket performed solo shows for decades—sometimes to empty seats. Today, visitors can explore her artwork-covered theater and spend the night in one of the original rooms, which still retain their ghost-town charm.
10. Out’n’About Treehouse Treesort – Cave Junction, Oregon
Who says treehouses are just for kids? At Out’n’About Treesort, you can live out your childhood dreams with grown-up comfort. These aren’t your backyard forts—these are fully outfitted treehouses with beds, electricity, bathrooms, and sky-high views. Some are accessible by rope bridges or ladders, and the whole place has a magical, woodsy vibe that will make you forget your GPS exists.
11. The Black Monarch – Victor, Colorado
If you like your overnight stays with a side of spooky, The Black Monarch delivers. This former brothel-turned-gothic boutique motel is decorated with taxidermy, dark art, and Victorian oddities. Each room is themed after a historical villain or legend (think Nikola Tesla or Elizabeth Báthory), and the whole place leans into its ghostly past. It’s creepy in the coolest way possible.
12. Thunderbird Inn – Savannah, Georgia
The Thunderbird Inn is a perfect example of retro cool done right. Located in the heart of Savannah, this 1960s-style roadside motel offers MoonPies on pillows, RC Cola in the vending machines, and neon signs galore. But it’s not just about kitsch—it’s genuinely comfortable, affordable, and walking distance to the city’s historic charm. Old-school hospitality with a wink.
13. Blue Swallow Motel – Tucumcari, New Mexico
Another Route 66 legend, the Blue Swallow Motel is a preserved slice of Americana. Built in 1939, it still has its original neon signage, garages next to every room, and that unmistakable mid-century charm. Owners lovingly maintain its vintage appeal, and the vibe is friendly, welcoming, and authentically nostalgic. A must-stop for road warriors heading west.
Final Thoughts
America’s motels are more than just places to rest your head—they’re a reflection of the country’s creative spirit and love for the open road. From trains to treehouses, underwater suites to dog-shaped inns, these unique motels offer something far more memorable than any five-star hotel ever could: personality.
So next time you’re planning a trip, think beyond big hotel chains. Take the scenic route. Stay somewhere weird. And make a story worth telling.
FAQs: Unique Motels Across America
1. Are unique motels more expensive than traditional hotels?
Not necessarily! While some themed motels and boutique spots can have premium prices (especially during peak seasons), many are surprisingly affordable. Places like the Wigwam Motel or Thunderbird Inn offer budget-friendly rates with tons of charm. It’s always a good idea to book in advance and check for off-season deals.
2. Are these motels family-friendly?
Most of them are! Many unique motels—like the Red Caboose Motel and Out’n’About Treehouse Treesort—are actually ideal for families, offering fun and immersive experiences for kids and adults alike. That said, some spots like The Black Monarch may appeal more to adults due to spooky or mature themes. Always check the motel’s website or call ahead if you’re traveling with kids.
3. Do these motels offer modern amenities like Wi-Fi and private bathrooms?
Most do, but it varies by property. Many unique motels strike a balance between vintage charm and modern comfort—expect Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, and even flat-screen TVs in places like Kate’s Lazy Meadow or The Madonna Inn. Others, like The Shady Dell or Jules’ Undersea Lodge, keep things intentionally retro or off-grid. Be sure to read the fine print when booking.