Wigwam Motel
Step back into the golden age of Route 66 at this iconic 1950s motel, where guests sleep in individual concrete and stucco teepees. Each retro room is flanked by a vintage classic car parked right outside. It's one of only three surviving Wigwam Villages in the United States.
- Admission
- Free to visit and photograph; room rates apply for overnight stays
- Hours
- Exterior visible 24/7; lobby hours vary daily
- Duration
- 15-30 minutes for photos, or overnight stay
- Parking
- Free parking on-site for visitors and guests
- Access
- Teepee entrances have a small step; limited wheelchair accessibility due to historic construction
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Built in 1950 by Chester E. Lewis, the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook is one of the few surviving examples of the iconic "Wigwam Villages" designed by Frank Redford. These concrete and stucco teepee-shaped cabins became a quintessential symbol of mid-century American road trip culture.
Today, guests can still book a night in one of the fifteen individual teepees, which are arranged in a U-shape around the main office. The property functions as a living museum, featuring vintage classic cars permanently parked in front of the rooms to complete the 1950s aesthetic.
While the interiors have been updated with modern conveniences like air conditioning, they retain their original handmade hickory furniture. It remains a beloved, nostalgic stopover for travelers exploring the historic stretches of Route 66.
Ratings
hotelVisitor Tips
- ◆ Book your stay well in advance, as these historic teepees are highly popular and often sell out months ahead.
- ◆ Take time to photograph the vintage cars parked outside each room during sunset for the best lighting.
- ◆ Visit the small on-site museum located in the main office to see historical memorabilia and Route 66 artifacts.
- ◆ Walk around the property at night when the iconic neon sign lights up for a classic retro photo opportunity.
Heads Up
- ◆ The rooms are relatively small and circular, so travelers with large amounts of luggage may find the space a bit tight.
- ◆ As a preserved mid-century property, amenities are basic, and there is no on-site pool or modern fitness center.
Common questions
Do the individual wigwams at the Holbrook Wigwam Motel have private bathrooms?
Yes, every wigwam room is equipped with its own private bathroom, which includes a toilet, sink, and shower.
Can you take photos of the vintage cars if you are not staying overnight?
Yes, visitors are welcome to stop by during the day to take photos of the historic property and the classic cars parked outside, provided they do not disturb guests.
Are the wigwam rooms equipped with air conditioning?
Yes, all wigwam rooms are fitted with modern air conditioning and heating units.
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