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Motel Safari

4.9
·611 reviews·Tucumcari, United States

A meticulously restored 1950s Route 66 motel offering an authentic, immersive retro experience with themed suites.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Experience the neon glow

CrowdMedium
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Motel Safari - Image 1

Motel Safari

Best Time

Evenings

Experience the neon glow

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A meticulously restored 1950s Route 66 motel offering an authentic, immersive retro experience with themed suites.

4.9
(611 reviews)

"You'll feel like you stepped back in time with the decor, old-time radio, and friendly guests."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book a Themed Suite

Opt for suites like Rawhide or Elvis for an immersive retro experience!

✨ Appreciate the Details

Enjoy the vintage radios, oldies TV, and original fixtures – it's part of the charm!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Authentic Mid-Century Decor

Authentic Mid-Century Decor

Step into a time capsule with original fixtures, furniture, and vintage touches in every room.

Themed Suites

Themed Suites

Various suites available

Stay in rooms like the Rawhide or Elvis suite for a unique, Western-themed experience.

Iconic Route 66 Signage

Iconic Route 66 Signage

Capture that classic Americana shot with the motel's recognizable and beautifully preserved sign.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Retro Vibe

Motel Safari is a meticulously restored 1950s gem on Historic Route 66. Expect authentic vintage decor, furniture, and even radios playing oldies. It's a step back in time, so pack your appreciation for mid-century aesthetics!

Book Your Themed Suite

Rooms like the Rawhide, Rockabilly, or Elvis suites offer a unique, immersive experience. While regular rooms are available, these themed suites are highly recommended for a truly memorable stay and are considered a bargain.Instagram

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Experience the neon glow
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚗🛑 عندما تتعطل... تتعلق في السماء! 😂☁️ مغامرة من نوع خاص أمام Motel Safari Budget – ورزازات، حيث حتى وسائل النقل تأخذ استراحة! #SafariBudget #Ouarzazate #WhenTransportFails #ورزازات #مغامرات_معلقة #ضحك_بدون_حدود #VlogMoments #MotelSafari #TravelLaughs #InstaFun #MoroccoTravel #RoadTripAdventures #BehindTheScenes #DesertAdventures #cinematic #motorcycle #motorbike #motorsport
redouane_oz
96 likes • 3.2K views

🎯 Book a Themed Suite

Opt for suites like Rawhide or Elvis for an immersive retro experience! Instagram

✨ Appreciate the Details

Enjoy the vintage radios, oldies TV, and original fixtures – it's part of the charm! Reddit

The universe is always talking. Tonight, on a last minute road trip across the country, I ended up at one of my favorite haunts, Motel Safari in Tucumcari, New Mexico. The motel has had a recent change in ownership and I was pretty excited to meet and spend a few minutes with the new owner, Rich, who seems to be the right person to fill the shoes of the caretaker position of this wonderfully resto...
theizzymiller
13 likes • 264 views
"Classic Motel Safari" // Link in bio. Motel Safari sign prior to restoration
picsonroute66
13 likes • 245 views

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Dining

Several great restaurants are just a short walk away, like Kix on 66. Instagram

🧺 Free Laundry Access

Guest services offer free laundry with detergent – a great perk! Reddit

We stayed at the Motel Safari in Tucumcari NM along Historic Rt 66 tonight. What a great motel! We stayed in the Rawhide Suite. To say it is just a motel room is to do it a disservice. It's more like a boutique AirBNB. And at only $110 a night, it's a bargain. Check @motelsafari66 out. You will absolutely love it! #route66
chad__pritchard
11 likes • 231 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book a Themed Suite

Opt for suites like Rawhide or Elvis for an immersive retro experience! Instagram

✨ Appreciate the Details

Enjoy the vintage radios, oldies TV, and original fixtures – it's part of the charm! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Dining

Several great restaurants are just a short walk away, like Kix on 66. Instagram

🧺 Free Laundry Access

Guest services offer free laundry with detergent – a great perk! Reddit

🐪 Meet the Camel

Don't forget to say hello to the camel in the front office! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(611 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Motel Safari is overwhelmingly praised for its authentic mid-century charm, meticulous restoration, and unique themed suites. Guests love the attention to detail, cleanliness, and the friendly service from the owner, Rich. It's a highly recommended stop for Route 66 travelers seeking a nostalgic experience.

"I’m a huge fan of mid-century aesthetic so this place ruled. I like it when places have original fixtures and furniture along with being CLEAN! Loved the attention to detail with the radio on in the room and the TV set to an oldies channel. The sign out front is accurate; comfy beds and speedy internet. And the water pressure in the shower was divine. There’s a cool outside lounging area as well and the lobby is super cute with neat merch and a fishtank wooaohh. Thank you, Rich!"

Bridget

"We looked forward to staying here and were glad we made the trip. We opted for the Rawhide suite, a tribute to Clint Eastwood, and it was roomy and comfortable and well done up in a western theme... and only a little more $ than a regular room, in my opinion. Worth it! We enjoyed meeting Rich, the owner, and hearing about his passion for the motel. Tucumcari is pretty sleepy but it has a real Route 66 feel. The Railroad museum and Historical museum were both great... we spent the morning there before leaving town."

Scott C

"Absolutely adorable retro hotel! From the decor to the old time radio playing in the room, to the other guests all sitting outside visiting, you’ll feel like you stepped back in time! We stayed for one night in the family suite and it was perfect for us! We had plenty of room to spread out but were still all together. The new owner, Rich, was very friendly and gave great food recommendations. The bed was too soft for me but my hubby thought they were very comfy. The air is window units. They worked really well, but it would get warm when it shut off and then it would kick back on. Still was effective at cooling, but not the “modern AC” some might expect. Just remember you’re staying at a retro place and you’ll know what to expect. Guest services were conveniently located and each room gets one free load of laundry. There was even detergent to use if needed. We loved it and would absolutely stay again!"

Allison Alexander

What People Like

Authentic retro decor
Themed suites
Cleanliness

What People Dislike

Window AC units can be noisy
Bed firmness varies

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Motel Safari is located in Tucumcari, New Mexico, directly on Historic Route 66 (which largely follows I-40 in this area). If you're driving, simply follow I-40 and take the appropriate exit for Tucumcari. Many travelers use it as a stopover on longer road trips between Oklahoma City and Tucumcari.Reddit

Yes, Motel Safari is easily identifiable by its iconic, classic sign, which is a popular photo opportunity.Instagram It's a well-known landmark on the historic highway.

The drive to Tucumcari is primarily on I-40, which is generally well-maintained. However, always check local road conditions before your trip, especially during inclement weather.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Motel Safari is a place to stay, not an attraction with entry tickets. You book a room for an overnight stay. Prices for themed suites are considered a bargain, around $110 per night.Instagram

Standard check-in and check-out times apply. It's best to confirm these directly with the motel when booking, but typically check-in is in the afternoon and check-out is in the morning.

Yes, you can typically book rooms directly through their website or via online travel agencies. It's recommended to book in advance, especially if you have your heart set on a specific themed suite.

Generally, you need to be 18 years or older to book a hotel room. Please verify with Motel Safari for their specific policies.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The atmosphere is a charming step back in time, with a strong mid-century aesthetic. Guests often describe it as feeling like they've traveled back to the 1950s, with vintage decor and a friendly, communal vibe.Reddit

Amenities include free WiFi, free parking, and in-room features like vintage radios and TVs. Some rooms have kitchenettes. There's also a cute lobby with merchandise and a fishtank, plus an outside lounging area and fire pit.Reddit

Reviews consistently praise the cleanliness of the rooms, even with the vintage furnishings. Guests appreciate the attention to detail in maintaining the retro feel while ensuring a spotless environment.Reddit

Expect original fixtures, vintage furniture, and themed decor in the suites, such as Western themes in the Rawhide suite or rockabilly elements in the Rockabilly Suite. The attention to detail is a highlight.Reddit

Yes, free WiFi and parking are provided for guests, which is a convenient amenity for road-trippers.TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While Motel Safari itself doesn't have a full-service restaurant, it's conveniently located near dining options. Kix on 66 is a popular spot just a short walk away.Instagram

The owner, Rich, is known for giving great food recommendations.Reddit Kix on 66 is frequently mentioned as a nearby dining choice. Tucumcari has a classic Route 66 feel with several local eateries.

There is no mention of breakfast being served at the motel. However, you can find local diners and cafes in Tucumcari for breakfast options.

📸 📸 Photography

The iconic 'Motel Safari' sign is a must-capture shot.Instagram The vintage rooms themselves, with their unique decor and themed elements, also make for fantastic photographs.Reddit

Yes, guests are encouraged to take photos of the unique vintage decor and themed suites. It's a photographer's dream for capturing retro Americana.

There are no specific restrictions mentioned for guest photography, but always be respectful of other guests' privacy.

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can provide beautiful lighting for the sign. Evenings are also great to capture the neon glow.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Motel Safari offers a fun and unique experience for families looking to break from typical chain hotels. The themed suites, like the Family Suite mentioned by one reviewer, provide ample space for everyone to spread out while staying together.Reddit The novelty of the vintage decor, old radios, and even the fishtank in the lobby can be captivating for children.

It's a great opportunity to introduce kids to a piece of American history and the charm of roadside motels. The communal areas, like the outdoor seating and fire pit, can also be enjoyable for families. Plus, the convenience of free laundry is a huge plus for families on a longer road trip. The owner's friendly demeanor and willingness to offer recommendations also contribute to a welcoming family atmosphere.

🚗 Road Trippers & Route 66 Enthusiasts

For anyone traveling the iconic Route 66, Motel Safari is an absolute must-stop. It perfectly embodies the spirit of classic roadside Americana that travelers seek.Instagram The motel's restoration and dedication to authenticity make it a highlight of the journey, offering a genuine glimpse into the past.

Many reviewers specifically chose Motel Safari over more modern accommodations precisely because of its historic location and retro charm.Reddit The themed suites add an extra layer of fun and immersion, making it more than just a place to rest your head. It's a destination in itself, offering photo opportunities, a chance to connect with fellow travelers, and a memorable experience that defines the Route 66 adventure.

📸 Photographers & Vintage Lovers

Motel Safari is a dream for photographers and anyone who appreciates mid-century design. The iconic neon sign is a classic shot, especially during the evening glow.Instagram Inside, the meticulously preserved rooms offer endless opportunities for capturing vintage details, from the furniture and artwork to the retro radios and televisions.Reddit

Each themed suite provides a unique backdrop, allowing for diverse photographic styles. The lobby's quirky charm, including the fishtank, also adds to the visual appeal. It’s a place where you can spend hours exploring and finding the perfect angle to showcase the motel's timeless aesthetic.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of Retro Roadside America

Motel Safari is more than just a place to sleep; it's an immersion into the golden age of American road trips. The motel has been meticulously restored to its 1950s glory, preserving the charm and character of classic roadside architecture. From the moment you see the iconic sign, you're transported to a different era.

Travelers rave about the attention to detail, from the vintage furniture and decor in each room to the oldies radio playing upon arrival. It’s this commitment to authenticity that makes Motel Safari a standout destination for those seeking a genuine Route 66 experience. The new owner, Rich, is passionate about maintaining this heritage and often shares stories with guests, adding a personal touch to the stay.Reddit

This dedication to preserving the past makes Motel Safari a popular stop for photographers and history enthusiasts alike. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with the nostalgic spirit of the open road. The communal areas, like the lobby with its fishtank and merchandise, and the outdoor fire pit, encourage interaction among guests, fostering a unique sense of community.Reddit

Choosing Your Themed Suite Adventure

Motel Safari offers a range of uniquely themed suites that elevate the stay from ordinary to extraordinary. These aren't just rooms; they are curated experiences designed to transport you further into the Route 66 fantasy. Popular choices include the Rawhide Suite, inspired by Clint Eastwood's Westerns, and the Elvis Suite, a tribute to the King of Rock and Roll.Reddit

Each suite is decorated with period-appropriate furniture and memorabilia, creating an immersive atmosphere. For instance, the Rockabilly Suite features vintage art and plays rockabilly music upon entry, setting a vibrant mood.Reddit While these themed rooms might cost slightly more than standard rooms, guests consistently feel they are a bargain for the unique experience they offer.Instagram

Beyond the themed suites, even the standard rooms are clean and well-appointed with vintage touches. However, for those looking to truly capture the essence of Motel Safari and create lasting memories, booking a themed suite is highly recommended. It’s an opportunity to live out a piece of Americana history during your stay.

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