Found Photos of Motels and Hotels in the U.S in the 1960s and ’70s

In the 1960s and 1970s, motels and hotels in the U.S. often featured distinctive, retro styles. Motels were typically single-story buildings with rooms arranged around a central parking lot, making them convenient for travelers. They had neon signs, colorful, eye-catching designs, and often included amenities like swimming pools and small diners. Popular chains like Holiday Inn and Howard Johnson’s standardized services.

Hotels from this era tended to be mid-century modern in design, with clean lines, bright colors, and bold patterns. Many had distinct architectural features such as large glass windows and sleek, geometric shapes. Inside, you’d find a mix of formica furniture, shag carpets, and vibrant decor.

Both motels and hotels were geared towards comfort and convenience, reflecting the optimism and growth of the post-war era. These vintage photos were found by Mark Susina that show what motels and hotels in the U.S looked like in the 1960s and 1970s.

Sunshine Beach Motel, June 1960

High Life Motel, Indian River, Michigan, circa 1960

Kel-Lake Motel, Route 66, Carthage, Missouri, circa 1960

Kel-Lake Motel, Route 66, Carthage, Missouri, circa 1960

Westerner Hotel, circa 1960

Woman at Glenn Vegas Motel, Las Vegas, circa 1960

Vintage motel, circa 1961

Vintage motel, circa 1961

Family at motel, circa 1962

The Ainsworth Motel at 1900 Jefferson Davis Highway in Arlington, Virginia, circa 1962

Wigwam Village, circa 1962

Northland Motel, circa 1963

Chevrolet at motel, circa 1964

Motel pool in Albuquerque, New Mexico, August 1966

Lisbon Motel, circa 1967

Presque Isle Motel, Michigan, 1967

Thunderbird Inn, Williams, Arizona, October 1967

Woman at motel pool, circa 1969

Lincoln Continental at the Quality Inn, October 1973

Imperial House Motel, Dayton, Ohio, 1974

Slumberland Motel, 1262 National Hwy, Cumberland, Maryland, circa 1976

Gorham Motor Inn, White Mountains, New Hampshire, circa 1977

Family at motel and Buick Skylark, 1978