Jet Inn Motel

What did the U.S. look like before motels dotted the landscape? Before the Model T made car ownership within reach of a larger percentage of Americans in 1908, which began to trigger the building of motels, there were auto camps for the few vehicles - many horse-driven - on the roads. In 1904, there were more than 2.1 million miles of roads in the country, and more than 90 percent was unpaved.

Motels initially referred to a type of lodging that had one building with many rooms where all the doors faced the parking lot. In some cases there was a courtyard or common area. It could also be a series of cabins with common parking.

In the early hey-day of highway development, cars meant mobility. That new-found freedom along the American road system meant the motel could appear anywhere along the thousands of miles of freshly-paved highway and successfully cater to travelers.

Some of the oldest motels were located among legendary Route 66. For example, “Route 66: The Mother Road” by Michael Wallis researched for 17 years before writing his book, and Michael Karl Witzel showcases amazing photo illustrations in “Route 66 Remembered.”

If you and your travel partner are looking for local fun, ask for recommendations at the front desk. We can direct you to local theater(s) or cinema(s), dining establishments, and other entertainment venues for your enjoyment.