
Dreaming of a stateside road trip? We’ve handpicked our favourite American-style retro motels and hotels to stop off at along the way for those trips when New York isn’t what you’re after. Plus, three more local options for those looking to experience the charm a little closer to home.
Romeo’s Motel & Diner

Inspired by the love motels on Route 66, Romeo’s Motel & Diner looks like a scene out of a Hollywood movie – except it can actually be found on the sandy island of Ibiza. It’s been brought to life by the playful hospitality team, Concept Hotel Group, and is draped with colour.
Each suite pays tribute to a famous stop on Route 66 – from bright headboards and neon signage to old school ring up telephones and personal bars.
Snapping a photo by the kitsch candy red and white pool is obligatory, and there’s even a Las Vegas style mini chapel you can get married in.
The Dive Motel
Roll back in time and head to The Dive Motel for a one-of-a-kind stay in Nashville. The space has kept America’s old-school motel style at its heart, with rooms draped with 70s wallpaper, disco balls and shag carpets.
Fittingly keeping its dive bar-esque name in line with the decor, the on-site bar is world-famous for its style and drinks. Grab a seat at one of the green leather lined booths and let the good times roll.
Don’t miss out on stopping by the pool either, complete with colourful parasols and lounge chairs.

Del Marcos Hotel

Del Marcos Hotel was originally designed for its owners Samuel and Adele Marcus by William F. Cody, and was Cody’s first independent commission in Palm Springs, helping to spearhead his career. Nowadays the 17-room modernist hotel is a hotspot with locals and those travelling from all over the world, thanks to its signature native stone and redwood look and quirky architectural features.
TWA Hotel
Bear with us on this one as it’s located just by JFK Airport, but the TWA Hotel is a fun one to include as you’ve got your very own birdseye view of the runways.
Whether you’re just arriving from a long-haul flight or you’re heading back across the pond, the hotel provides quite the stay. Book into the Howard Hughes Presidential Suite for next level hospitality – think mid century modern vibe interiors slotted alongside views of the runway.
The whole hotel is packed with a whole lot of red – it’s got a Twin Peaks red room kind of vibe, perfect for fans of David Lynch.

The Beverly Hills Hotel
One of the world’s most famous hotels, The Beverly Hills Hotel is a dream destination for anyone who wants to experience the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to its fullest. Feel like a movie star as you step onto their signature red carpet and find your little corner of paradise.
Every aspect of the hotel is divine, from the signature suites and rooms to the hotel pool, complete with pin-striped loungers and picture-perfect cabanas.
Austin Motel

From relaxing by the pool to grabbing light bites from their Mexican inspired menu, Austin Motel ticks all of the boxes when it comes to a true motel stay. Each room is uniquely decorated, from colourful headboards to retro mini fridges and amenities.
There’s even an on-site bodega (corner shop to us Brits) and a memermising kidney-shaped swimming pool perfect for a dip.
Located just south of the Colorado River and Downtown, and walking distance to the famous bat bridge, it’s handily located in the heart of Austin’s cultural hub – expect to find the best dining, nightlife and shopping options just moments away.
Mollie’s Motel
For an American-style stay a little closer to home, look to Mollie’s Motel. You’ll find two retro motels in Bristol and Oxfordshire, perfect for a quick weekend getaway out of London.
Aside from the iconic motel exterior, inside you’ll find a diner serving up American roadside staples, from all-day eggs and cheeseburgers to hot wings and rotisserie chicken. Plus, a whole lot of waffles, pancakes and shakes too.
A new motel is opening up in Manchester this year so be sure to check out that if you’re heading up to the trendy city soon.
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Tropicana Ibiza
Another gem from the Concept Hotel Group, Tropicana Ibiza is a hotel with character. None other than Tom Cruise and his character Brian Flanagan from Cocktail were the inspiration behind this colourful spot.
Expect an 80s Miami vibe here, from cocktail shakers in the room and martini glasses that turn into showers to a pink and neon yellow pool space that’s itching to be snapped for the ‘Gram.

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A luxury night in the desert? You can count us in.
Part of the Ace Hotel Group, this Palm Springs stay is filled with American nostalgia. There are two types of stays you’ll find here. For those looking for a rural escape from it all, their rooms are minimalist, natural and filled with neutral fabrics and tones. Outside you’ll find their pool that evokes memories of the teen movie pool parties – grab a cocktail and dive right into the atmosphere.
For more holiday inspiration, check out our travel section