With their splashy neon signs and retro vibes, motels have always embodied a distinctly Americana romance, symbolizing the adventure, freedom, and independence of the open road.

Despite their inherent nostalgia, motels are only just turning 100 this month, as the first “motor hotel” opened halfway between San Francisco and L.A. on December 12, 1925. The idea was born from the rise of car culture and the post-WWII industrial boom, created for a newly optimistic nation dreaming of progress and comfort.

Lately, they’ve been gaining newfound popularity. COVID-19 lockdowns are partly to thank for that: Road trips saw a resurgence during the pandemic as people eschewed flying for driving and tended to travel domestically. Simultaneously, trips to national parks and trends like stargazing cau

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