Motel Safari
A meticulously restored 1950s Route 66 motel offering an authentic, immersive retro experience with themed suites.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the neon glow
Motel Safari
Best Time
Experience the neon glow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A meticulously restored 1950s Route 66 motel offering an authentic, immersive retro experience with themed suites.
"You'll feel like you stepped back in time with the decor, old-time radio, and friendly guests."
🎯 Book a Themed Suite
Opt for suites like Rawhide or Elvis for an immersive retro experience!
✨ Appreciate the Details
Enjoy the vintage radios, oldies TV, and original fixtures – it's part of the charm!
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.9 · 611 reviews
Type
Motel
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Authentic Mid-Century Decor
Step into a time capsule with original fixtures, furniture, and vintage touches in every room.
Themed Suites
Various suites available
Stay in rooms like the Rawhide or Elvis suite for a unique, Western-themed experience.
Iconic Route 66 Signage
Capture that classic Americana shot with the motel's recognizable and beautifully preserved sign.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Retro Vibe
Book Your Themed Suite
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book a Themed Suite
Opt for suites like Rawhide or Elvis for an immersive retro experience!
✨ Appreciate the Details
Enjoy the vintage radios, oldies TV, and original fixtures – it's part of the charm!
🚶♀️ Walkable Dining
Several great restaurants are just a short walk away, like Kix on 66.
🧺 Free Laundry Access
Guest services offer free laundry with detergent – a great perk!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book a Themed Suite
Opt for suites like Rawhide or Elvis for an immersive retro experience!
✨ Appreciate the Details
Enjoy the vintage radios, oldies TV, and original fixtures – it's part of the charm!
🚶♀️ Walkable Dining
Several great restaurants are just a short walk away, like Kix on 66.
🧺 Free Laundry Access
Guest services offer free laundry with detergent – a great perk!
🐪 Meet the Camel
Don't forget to say hello to the camel in the front office!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Motel Safari is overwhelmingly praised for its authentic mid-century charm, meticulous restoration, and unique themed suites. Guests love the attention to detail, cleanliness, and the friendly service from the owner, Rich. It's a highly recommended stop for Route 66 travelers seeking a nostalgic experience.
"I’m a huge fan of mid-century aesthetic so this place ruled. I like it when places have original fixtures and furniture along with being CLEAN! Loved the attention to detail with the radio on in the room and the TV set to an oldies channel. The sign out front is accurate; comfy beds and speedy internet. And the water pressure in the shower was divine. There’s a cool outside lounging area as well and the lobby is super cute with neat merch and a fishtank wooaohh. Thank you, Rich!"
Bridget
"We looked forward to staying here and were glad we made the trip. We opted for the Rawhide suite, a tribute to Clint Eastwood, and it was roomy and comfortable and well done up in a western theme... and only a little more $ than a regular room, in my opinion. Worth it! We enjoyed meeting Rich, the owner, and hearing about his passion for the motel. Tucumcari is pretty sleepy but it has a real Route 66 feel. The Railroad museum and Historical museum were both great... we spent the morning there before leaving town."
Scott C
"Absolutely adorable retro hotel! From the decor to the old time radio playing in the room, to the other guests all sitting outside visiting, you’ll feel like you stepped back in time! We stayed for one night in the family suite and it was perfect for us! We had plenty of room to spread out but were still all together. The new owner, Rich, was very friendly and gave great food recommendations. The bed was too soft for me but my hubby thought they were very comfy. The air is window units. They worked really well, but it would get warm when it shut off and then it would kick back on. Still was effective at cooling, but not the “modern AC” some might expect. Just remember you’re staying at a retro place and you’ll know what to expect. Guest services were conveniently located and each room gets one free load of laundry. There was even detergent to use if needed. We loved it and would absolutely stay again!"
Allison Alexander
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Motel Safari is located in Tucumcari, New Mexico, directly on Historic Route 66 (which largely follows I-40 in this area). If you're driving, simply follow I-40 and take the appropriate exit for Tucumcari. Many travelers use it as a stopover on longer road trips between Oklahoma City and Tucumcari.
Yes, Motel Safari is easily identifiable by its iconic, classic sign, which is a popular photo opportunity.
The drive to Tucumcari is primarily on I-40, which is generally well-maintained. However, always check local road conditions before your trip, especially during inclement weather.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Motel Safari is a place to stay, not an attraction with entry tickets. You book a room for an overnight stay. Prices for themed suites are considered a bargain, around $110 per night.
Standard check-in and check-out times apply. It's best to confirm these directly with the motel when booking, but typically check-in is in the afternoon and check-out is in the morning.
Yes, you can typically book rooms directly through their website or via online travel agencies. It's recommended to book in advance, especially if you have your heart set on a specific themed suite.
Generally, you need to be 18 years or older to book a hotel room. Please verify with Motel Safari for their specific policies.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is a charming step back in time, with a strong mid-century aesthetic. Guests often describe it as feeling like they've traveled back to the 1950s, with vintage decor and a friendly, communal vibe.
Amenities include free WiFi, free parking, and in-room features like vintage radios and TVs. Some rooms have kitchenettes. There's also a cute lobby with merchandise and a fishtank, plus an outside lounging area and fire pit.
Reviews consistently praise the cleanliness of the rooms, even with the vintage furnishings. Guests appreciate the attention to detail in maintaining the retro feel while ensuring a spotless environment.
Expect original fixtures, vintage furniture, and themed decor in the suites, such as Western themes in the Rawhide suite or rockabilly elements in the Rockabilly Suite. The attention to detail is a highlight.
Yes, free WiFi and parking are provided for guests, which is a convenient amenity for road-trippers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Motel Safari itself doesn't have a full-service restaurant, it's conveniently located near dining options. Kix on 66 is a popular spot just a short walk away.
The owner, Rich, is known for giving great food recommendations. Kix on 66 is frequently mentioned as a nearby dining choice. Tucumcari has a classic Route 66 feel with several local eateries.
There is no mention of breakfast being served at the motel. However, you can find local diners and cafes in Tucumcari for breakfast options.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic 'Motel Safari' sign is a must-capture shot.
Yes, guests are encouraged to take photos of the unique vintage decor and themed suites. It's a photographer's dream for capturing retro Americana.
There are no specific restrictions mentioned for guest photography, but always be respectful of other guests' privacy.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can provide beautiful lighting for the sign. Evenings are also great to capture the neon glow.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit