Route 66 Rail Haven - Image 1
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Route 66 Rail Haven

4.4
·2k reviews·Springfield, United States

Step back in time at this iconic Route 66 motel, famous for its Elvis Presley suite and classic Americana charm.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdLow
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Route 66 Rail Haven - Image 1

Route 66 Rail Haven

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time at this iconic Route 66 motel, famous for its Elvis Presley suite and classic Americana charm.

4.4
(2k reviews)

"Sleep where Elvis slept and soak in the nostalgia of the Mother Road!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Book the Elvis Suite Early! 👑

This iconic room is highly sought after. Reserve well in advance to guarantee your stay with the King!

Cleanliness Varies Slightly 🧼

While generally clean, some reviews mention carpets needing attention. Barefoot walkers beware!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Elvis Suite

The Elvis Suite

Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven

Sleep in the legendary room where Elvis Presley once stayed. A must for music and history buffs!

Historic Route 66 Signage

Historic Route 66 Signage

Exterior of the motel

Capture the quintessential Americana with the classic neon sign. Perfect for that retro road trip photo.

Outdoor Pool & Hot Tub

Outdoor Pool & Hot Tub

Motel grounds

Relax and unwind after a day on the road in the motel's refreshing outdoor pool.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Retro Vibe

Step back in time at the Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven. This historic motel offers a unique glimpse into the golden age of road trips. Book the Elvis Suite for a truly memorable experience!

Route 66 Essential Stop

Located directly on the iconic Route 66, the Rail Haven is a must-visit for any road trip enthusiast. Plan your itinerary to include this classic stop for a taste of Americana.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Enjoy the pool and ambiance
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

RUTA 66 🇺🇸🏜️ Día 1 Chicago - Odell - Springfield - St. Louis ❤️‍🔥EN YOUTUBE el vídeo completo de este primer día @ Felicidad Interior Bruta 🚘✨♥️ #route66 #roadtrip #neiperte
@felicidadinteriorbruta
10.2K likes • 277.5K views

Book the Elvis Suite Early! 👑

This iconic room is highly sought after. Reserve well in advance to guarantee your stay with the King! Instagram+1

Cleanliness Varies Slightly 🧼

While generally clean, some reviews mention carpets needing attention. Barefoot walkers beware! Reddit

Don’t worry Corey brought jokes @bestwestern #railhaven #travel #dadjokes #bestwestern #hotelroom #elvis #themehotel
@aprettycoolhoteltour
8K likes • 155.2K views
Driving from Chicago to LA can be rough but this week we’re showing you some fun stops along historic Route 66! First up, @bestwestern Rail Haven motel. They have just a couple theme rooms but it’s definitely worth a night on your road trip!👀🔥 #themehotel #hotelroom #50sstyle #vintage #elvis #classiccar #bestwestern #cadillac #pink
aprettycoolhoteltour
4.8K likes • 243.3K views

Free Breakfast Included 🍳

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast with good options, including biscuits and gravy. Reddit

Pet-Friendly Options 🐾

The grounds are spacious enough for a nice walk with your pup. Reddit

🌙 ELVIS DURMIÓ AQUÍ… Y NOSOTROS TAMBIÉN 🎸 En pleno corazón de Springfield, Missouri, hicimos parada en uno de los moteles más emblemáticos de la Ruta 66: el mítico Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven, donde en 1956 el mismísimo Elvis Presley se hospedó en su gira por América 🇺🇸. 🛏️ Dormimos en las mismas habitaciones donde se respira historia pura: neones clásicos, surtidores antiguos y vibes autén...
manias45
18 likes • 267 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book the Elvis Suite Early! 👑

This iconic room is highly sought after. Reserve well in advance to guarantee your stay with the King! Instagram+1

Cleanliness Varies Slightly 🧼

While generally clean, some reviews mention carpets needing attention. Barefoot walkers beware! Reddit

Free Breakfast Included 🍳

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast with good options, including biscuits and gravy. Reddit

Pet-Friendly Options 🐾

The grounds are spacious enough for a nice walk with your pup. Reddit

Snap Photos of the Sign! 📸

Don't miss capturing the classic neon sign, a true Route 66 icon. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.4
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Guests generally praise the Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven for its historic charm, friendly staff, and convenient Route 66 location. The complimentary breakfast and pet-friendly policy are also highlighted as positives. Some minor cleanliness concerns, like carpet condition, have been noted, but overall satisfaction remains high for those seeking an authentic roadside experience.

"We had a wonderful stay at Best Western on rt 66. The staff were friendly the rooms were clean. We didn't have a shower curtain but it worked out.. overall a basic good breakfast. Coffee was fresh and good. We got to see the room Elvis stayed in .. The grounds are big so we were able to take a nice walk around with our pup."

Becky Evans Seward

"Great hotel with very courteous and helpful staff. Rooms were clean and had all the amenities. Breakfast had fresh food and plenty of options. You can park your car in front of your room and the parking lot is well lit and safe. Would recommend staying here."

Namit Juneja

"This hotel was full of amenities! They have everything you need and then some. TV, microwave, iron, iron board, coffee maker, fridge, even a hair dryer. I can't say much for how they make up the bed, no comforter? The bed was comfortable though. The AC works great! Very friendly staff even late at night shift."

Tahani

What People Like

Historic Route 66 location
Friendly and helpful staff
Complimentary breakfast

What People Dislike

Carpet cleanliness issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

To reach the Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven from Chicago, you'll typically drive southwest on I-55 S, which largely follows the historic Route 66 path. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours depending on traffic and stops. Many travelers use this motel as a key stop on their longer Route 66 road trip. TikTok

Yes, the motel is conveniently located directly on the historic Route 66 in Springfield, Missouri, now known as St. Louis Street. Its iconic neon sign makes it easily recognizable for travelers. InstagramReddit

Many travelers recommend a self-drive itinerary, often with pre-booked accommodation. Companies offer these packages, or you can plan your own route, stopping at iconic spots like the Rail Haven. Reddit

Springfield, Missouri, itself is rich with Route 66 history. You'll find other vintage motels, diners, and attractions that make it a great base for exploring the Mother Road. Instagram

Yes, the hotel offers well-lit and safe parking, with the convenience of parking your car directly in front of your room. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Route 66 Rail Haven is a hotel, so you book a room to stay overnight. There are no separate admission tickets required to enter the property or see the general amenities. Instagram

Standard hotel check-in and check-out times apply. It's always a good idea to confirm these directly with the hotel upon booking or arrival. Reddit

The Elvis Suite is a themed room and may have a different rate than standard rooms. It's recommended to check pricing when booking, as it's a popular and unique offering. Instagram+1

As a Best Western, they may offer various discounts such as AAA, AARP, or loyalty program benefits. Check their official website or inquire when booking. TikTok

Typically, access to themed rooms like the Elvis Suite is reserved for guests staying in that specific room. It's best to book a night to experience it fully. Instagram

🎫 🧳 Onsite Experience

The motel offers an outdoor pool, hot tub, complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, TV, microwave, iron, ironing board, coffee maker, fridge, and a hairdryer. Reddit

Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is provided for guests, allowing you to stay connected during your stay. TikTok

Yes, the Rail Haven is pet-friendly, and the grounds offer space for walks with your furry companions. Reddit

The vibe is distinctly retro and nostalgic, celebrating the golden era of Route 66. It's a step back in time with themed elements and classic motel charm. Instagram+1

Absolutely! Built in 1938, the Rail Haven is a historic staple of Route 66 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2010. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, a complimentary breakfast is included with your stay, featuring fresh food and a good variety of options, including biscuits and gravy. Reddit

Springfield offers numerous dining options along Route 66 and in the surrounding areas, from classic diners to more contemporary eateries. TikTok

Yes, fresh coffee is available as part of the complimentary breakfast. Reddit

Yes, rooms are equipped with a microwave and a refrigerator, which is convenient for storing snacks and drinks. Reddit

The breakfast is described as basic but good, with fresh coffee and popular items like biscuits and gravy. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The iconic neon sign, the exterior of the motel with its classic architecture, and the themed Elvis Suite (if you're staying there) are prime photo spots. Instagram+1

If you are staying in the Elvis Suite, you are welcome to take photos. For other guests, it's best to ask permission or admire it from the outside. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The retro aesthetic of the motel and its location on Route 66 make it a fantastic backdrop for vintage car photography. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful for capturing the motel's charm. The neon sign looks particularly striking at dusk or night. Instagram

Generally, guests are free to take photos around the public areas of the motel. For private rooms, it's respectful to only photograph your own space. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven offers a fun and engaging stop for families on a road trip. The outdoor pool is a big hit with kids, providing a great way to cool off and burn energy. Reddit The motel's retro theme and the story of Elvis can also spark children's imaginations, making it more than just a place to sleep. Instagram Plus, the complimentary breakfast is a convenient way to fuel up for a day of driving without extra hassle. Reddit

Consider booking a standard room for a comfortable stay, or if your budget allows, the novelty of the Elvis Suite might be a fun, albeit brief, experience for older children interested in music history. The spacious grounds also offer a bit of room to stretch their legs. Reddit

🚗 Route 66 Enthusiasts

For dedicated Route 66 enthusiasts, the Rail Haven Motel is an essential pilgrimage site. Its status as a historic property on the Mother Road, complete with a classic neon sign, makes it a prime photo opportunity and a tangible link to the highway's golden age. Instagram+1 The fact that Elvis Presley stayed here in 1956 elevates it to legendary status, offering a chance to connect with a significant piece of American pop culture history. Instagram+1

Booking the Elvis Suite is a must-do for many, providing an immersive experience into the King's era. Instagram Even if not staying in the themed room, the motel's overall ambiance and its direct location on the route make it a perfect spot to soak in the nostalgia and appreciate the enduring legacy of Route 66. Instagram Many travelers use this as a key stop on their cross-country journey, appreciating its authenticity. Reddit

💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers

The Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven can be a good option for budget-conscious travelers, especially considering its prime location on Route 66 and the included amenities. The complimentary breakfast saves money on dining out first thing in the morning, and free Wi-Fi and parking are always appreciated. Reddit While not the cheapest motel on the entire route, its value comes from the combination of location, history, and included services. TikTok

Look for standard rooms rather than the themed suites if budget is the primary concern. Reading recent reviews for the most up-to-date information on room condition and pricing is advisable. Reddit The ability to park directly in front of your room also adds a layer of convenience that can be appealing. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of the Elvis Suite

The Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven holds a special place in rock and roll history, primarily due to its association with Elvis Presley. In 1956, during his tour, the King of Rock and Roll stayed at this very motel. To commemorate this iconic visit, one of the rooms has been transformed into the Elvis Suite, meticulously decorated with memorabilia and a style that evokes the King's era. Instagram+1 Visitors often book this suite specifically for the unique experience of sleeping where Elvis once did, making it a pilgrimage site for fans. Instagram+1 The suite features elements that fans would recognize, adding to the immersive retro atmosphere. Instagram

Staying in the Elvis Suite offers more than just a place to sleep; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in a piece of music history. The attention to detail in the decor aims to transport guests back to the 1950s, a pivotal time for both Elvis and Route 66. Instagram While the rest of the motel maintains a classic roadside motel charm, the Elvis Suite is the undeniable star attraction for many. Instagram It's a testament to the enduring legacy of Elvis and the cultural significance of Route 66. Instagram

Route 66: The Mother Road Experience

The Route 66 Rail Haven is more than just a hotel; it's a gateway to experiencing the legendary Route 66, often called the 'Mother Road'. This historic highway stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica, California, and is synonymous with American road trip culture, freedom, and nostalgia. TikTok Staying at the Rail Haven allows travelers to connect with the history and spirit of this iconic byway. The motel itself, with its classic architecture and neon signage, is a perfect example of the roadside attractions that once dotted the route. Instagram+1

For those undertaking a full Route 66 road trip, the Rail Haven serves as a crucial stop, offering a comfortable and historically significant place to rest. Reddit Travelers often seek out these authentic, vintage motels to enhance their journey, providing a stark contrast to modern, chain hotels. Instagram The experience is about embracing the quirky charm and historical significance of each stop, making the journey as memorable as the destination. Instagram The motel's location in Springfield, Missouri, places it in a region rich with Route 66 heritage, making it an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions. Instagram

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