Motor Inns Are the New Airbnb

Your next stay should be at an affordable renovated motor hotel

- EMILY HAVENER

in a world of interstates and fast-food chains, we may pay homage to the metaphor of the journey being a destination in itself—but do we really mean it? The trend of renovating motor inns and lodges would indicate yes, at least for some. In the economic boom following World War II, and before President Eisenhower’s national interstate project made smaller highways obsolete, increased access to and affordability of automobiles meant that people were going on road trips—and they needed somewhere to stay. Enter the motor hotel (from which we get the word “motel,” according to Andrew Wood, author of City Ubiquitous: Place, Communication, and the Rise of Omnitopia), where you could drive up, park, and go straight to your room.

Now these properties, many of which had fallen into disrepair or been abandoned, are being revitalized with custom designs inspired by retro, mid- century, and even disco styles. Covid-19 boosted the appeal as people chose road trips over flights, with the bonus of being able to avoid crowded lobbies and elevators. Now, they’re expanding that appeal: There’s convenient contactless check-in, sure, but there’s also a deliberate effort to create accessible, affordable spaces with personality for both travelers and locals to “staycation” in, with amenities like swimming pools, on-site restaurants, outdoor patios and firepits, and live local music—giving travelers a reason seek out these unique properties, whether they’re in the bustling heart of a city or along a quiet mountain road.

HISTORIC CHARM, HISTORIC PRICES

In North Charleston, just outside a city where lodging usually begins at $400 a night, the 51-room