The Rise and Fall of HoJo
Travelodge's Golden Era
Motel 6 and Its Historic Beginnings
The Unique Appeal of Ramada Inn
Days Inn: A Journey Through Time
The Luxurious History of Quality Inn
Red Roof Inn: Once a Trendsetter
Best Western: From Glamour to Basics
Super 8's Glorious Past
Econo Lodge: Affordable Elegance

In an era when road trips were the epitome of family vacations, several motel chains emerged as staples for weary travelers seeking comfort and convenience. These once-fancy motels combined affordability with a touch of elegance, offering families a taste of hospitality that was both accessible and charming. Over time, these chains have evolved, but their legacy remains a fascinating chapter in the history of American travel.

The Rise and Fall of HoJo

Howard Johnson, affectionately known as HoJo, was renowned for its ubiquitous orange roofs and signature ice cream parlors. It peaked in popularity during the mid-20th century, offering guests reliable service and a homely environment at affordable rates. However, competition and changing travel habits led to a decline, with fewer locations maintaining the original charm. Despite this, HoJo's contribution to road trip culture is fondly remembered by many.

Travelodge's Golden Era

Travelodge gained prominence by positioning itself as a family-friendly stopover with its endearing Sleepy Bear mascot. In the 1950s and 60s, these motels were celebrated for their clean, comfortable rooms and welcoming atmosphere. Travelers could count on standardized amenities that offered consistency across locations. Today, although the brand still exists, its early days stand out as a testament to its pioneering approach to hospitality.

Motel 6 and Its Historic Beginnings

Motel 6 revolutionized budget travel when it launched with an appealing $6 room rate, bringing value and simplicity to the forefront. Known for its no-frills accommodations, it provided travelers with an efficient and dependable place to rest without unnecessary expenses. Over the years, Motel 6 has managed to maintain its core philosophy while adapting to modern expectations, continuing to serve as a go-to option for travelers seeking budget-friendly options.

The Unique Appeal of Ramada Inn

Ramada Inn carved its niche by blending comfort with a hint of luxury, making it a preferred choice for families seeking something more than basic lodgings. Known for its quality service and slightly upscale touches, Ramada offered a sense of reliability and sophistication. Although the landscape of hospitality has shifted significantly, the Ramada brand adapts well to the needs of contemporary travelers, maintaining its reputation for providing welcoming stays around the world.

Days Inn: A Journey Through Time

Days Inn began with a vision of providing luxury at an affordable price. Founded in 1970, it quickly became known for offering comfortable accommodations with thoughtful amenities like a complimentary breakfast. Over the years, Days Inn adapted to travelers' changing needs, maintaining its welcoming service and strategic locations. Today, it balances nostalgia with modern comforts, ensuring the longevity of its reputation as a reliable choice for family travel.

The Luxurious History of Quality Inn

Quality Inn once stood out in the motel industry with its emphasis on upscale service and facilities. Notable for appealing architecture and attentive hospitality, it was considered a step above standard roadside options. Over time, Quality Inn evolved, simplifying to meet the expectations of budget-conscious families while still providing solid value. Its commitment to quality ensures guests feel at home whether on a business trip or a family vacation.

Red Roof Inn: Once a Trendsetter

Red Roof Inn burst onto the scene by positioning itself as a chic, affordable option for travelers, offering contemporary design and amenities like in-room phones and color TVs that were innovative at the time. Although its style has adapted to modern standards, Red Roof Inn remains a convenient and pet-friendly choice, continuing to offer reliable service and adapting to the needs of families and solo travelers alike.

Best Western: From Glamour to Basics

Best Western started with a bang, capturing the attention of travelers seeking elegance on the road, complete with pools and signature dining. As the market shifted, Best Western streamlined its offerings, focusing on consistent service and essential amenities without losing touch with its roots. Today, it strikes a balance between providing comfort and keeping costs reasonable, ideal for families seeking straightforward accommodations.

Super 8's Glorious Past

Super 8 was known for its simplicity and affordability with an inviting touch of style. Emerging in the 1970s, it offered clean and efficient rooms at a budget-friendly price, quickly gaining traction among travelers. As the years passed, Super 8 maintained its no-frills approach while updating services to suit contemporary needs, making it a steadfast option for families and road trippers looking for dependable hospitality.

Econo Lodge: Affordable Elegance

Econo Lodge, once known for its touch of class on a budget, provided travelers with a blend of comfort and affordability that catered to families. While it offered simplified accommodations, the focus was always on delivering quality service and coziness. The chain's appeal lay in its straightforward amenities like clean rooms and complimentary breakfast, making it a practical choice for families seeking value without sacrificing basic comforts. Even today, it remains a go-to option for those prioritizing practicality and affordability in their travels.