Desert Hills Motel Neon Sign
A vintage Route 66 motor inn known for its iconic neon sign, offering a nostalgic stay with a classic roadside charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Neon sign glow
Desert Hills Motel Neon Sign
Best Time
Neon sign glow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vintage Route 66 motor inn known for its iconic neon sign, offering a nostalgic stay with a classic roadside charm.
"Embrace the old-time vibe and capture the iconic neon sign for a true Route 66 experience."
📸 Perfect for Photoshoots
Creators love this spot for editorial and vintage-style photoshoots. The neon sign is a must-capture!
🚗 Route 66 Vibe
Embrace the classic roadside motel feel. It's a step back in time, not a modern luxury stay.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Neon Sign
Exterior
The glowing Desert Hills Motel sign is a quintessential Route 66 photo op, especially at night.
Vintage Motor Inn Charm
Exterior & Interior
Experience the authentic, retro aesthetic of a classic roadside motel, a photographer's dream.
Route 66 Location
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Positioned on the historic Route 66, offering a true taste of classic American road trip culture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Retro Vibe
Book with Caution
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Perfect for Photoshoots
Creators love this spot for editorial and vintage-style photoshoots. The neon sign is a must-capture!
🚗 Route 66 Vibe
Embrace the classic roadside motel feel. It's a step back in time, not a modern luxury stay.
What's being filmed at The Desert Hills Motel on Route 66?
Tulsa, OK
⚠️ Check Reviews Before Booking
Experiences vary widely. Some find it charming, others report rude staff and outdated rooms.
💡 Manage Expectations
If you're seeking modern amenities, this might not be for you. It's about the retro charm.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Perfect for Photoshoots
Creators love this spot for editorial and vintage-style photoshoots. The neon sign is a must-capture!
🚗 Route 66 Vibe
Embrace the classic roadside motel feel. It's a step back in time, not a modern luxury stay.
⚠️ Check Reviews Before Booking
Experiences vary widely. Some find it charming, others report rude staff and outdated rooms.
💡 Manage Expectations
If you're seeking modern amenities, this might not be for you. It's about the retro charm.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for the Desert Hills Motel are polarized. While some guests praise its authentic Route 66 charm, clean rooms, and reasonable prices, others report negative experiences with rude staff, outdated facilities, and uncomfortable beds. It's a place that offers a distinct vintage vibe but may not meet modern hotel expectations.
"Worst experience of my life 🙃 😪 lady was rude and short, gave us looks like we was out of our area and the experience was just not pleasant! For what they charge it isnt worth it, room was outdated, air-conditioning was loud and barely worked, beds are hard as heck and you can feel the springs, not to forget she called at 1005am check out is at 11 asking us do we know what time it is and that check out is at 11 my companion said yes it's 1005 she replied not by my watch it's 1020 they kinda got into small argument! Will never be going back there again worst experience by far!"
Paul Leverich
"The woman was very rude. Asking way more than hotel is worth. Stay away unless u like wasting money."
Mike Curtis
"We had a very pleasant stay, stayed there twice in two different occasions. Room had the old time vibe."
idafrancesca
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Desert Hills Motel is located on Route 66 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. It's easily accessible by car, situated at the intersection of Route 66 and Yale Avenue.
Yes, as a motel, ample parking is typically available directly outside the rooms or in a designated lot for guests.
It's located on the historic Route 66, placing you near other classic roadside attractions and diners like Tally's.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the neon sign is part of the motel's exterior. You can view and photograph it from the outside without purchasing tickets.
Check-out times can be strict, with some guests reporting being contacted before the official time. It's best to confirm directly with the motel.
Yes, the motel offers both daily and weekly rates, catering to longer stays for those exploring the area.
📸 📸 Photography
For the iconic neon glow, evenings and nighttime are best. Daytime offers good opportunities for capturing the motel's vintage architecture.
The entire exterior, especially the main sign and the vintage motel facade, are prime photo spots. The surrounding Route 66 area also offers great backdrops.
Yes, photographers and creators often use the motel for editorial and vintage-themed photoshoots due to its unique aesthetic.
🎫 🏨 Onsite Experience
Rooms maintain an 'old time vibe' with vintage decor. Some guests find them charming, while others note they are outdated with issues like loud air conditioning.
Yes, Wi-Fi is listed as an amenity, though performance can vary.
Reviews suggest the beds can be hard, with some guests feeling the springs.
Basic amenities include kitchenettes and Wi-Fi. Some rooms may have non-working TVs, and staff may not always be able to resolve issues promptly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Be prepared for the motel's authentic, sometimes dated, charm. While the visual appeal is high, ensure you have the right gear for low-light conditions to capture the neon effectively. Respecting the motel's operational status as a place for guests to stay is crucial during any photoshoot.
🚗 Route 66 Enthusiasts
While the experience might not be luxurious, it's about the journey and the history. Embrace the vintage decor and the unique character of the place. It’s a chance to experience a piece of American road trip culture that is increasingly rare.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Neon
Many visitors come specifically to photograph this iconic sign, using it as a backdrop for creative shoots or simply to document their journey along the historic highway. The motel itself, with its low-rise structure and vintage charm, complements the sign perfectly, offering a complete package for those seeking an authentic Route 66 experience.
While the sign is a major draw, remember that it's part of an active motel. Be respectful of guests and property when taking photos, and consider visiting during off-peak hours for the best experience. The motel's location on Route 66 in Tulsa also places it near other historic sites, making it a convenient stop for road trip enthusiasts.
Navigating Guest Experiences
Common complaints include instances of perceived rudeness from staff, particularly regarding check-out times and service. Some guests have also reported problems with outdated facilities, such as loud or ineffective air conditioning, hard beds, and non-working amenities like televisions. These issues, coupled with pricing concerns, have led to some very negative experiences.
Conversely, other guests have had 'very pleasant stays', praising the cleanliness and the 'adorable' retro atmosphere. The key takeaway for potential visitors is to manage expectations: if you're seeking a modern, amenity-rich hotel, this may not be the best fit. However, if you're looking for an authentic, budget-friendly step back in time on Route 66, and are prepared for a potentially quirky experience, it might be a memorable stay.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit