Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, AZ
The Wigwam Motel in Holbrook is unique these days. Originally, it was a part of a small chain of Wigwam Villages built in the 1930s and 1940s, which has now dwindled to just two independent locations.
This motel features free-standing concrete and steel tipis (not wigwams like the name would imply) instead of traditional rooms, giving guests a one-of-a-kind lodging experience.
Each industrial tent comes fully equipped with modern amenities, but the design preserves the retro charm that has made this Route 66 landmark famous. The neon sign out front, flickering against the high desert sky, welcomes travelers just as it did decades ago. Staying here feels like sleeping in a living postcard of America’s golden highway era.
Beyond the accommodations, the motel is perfectly positioned for exploring the Arizona stretch of Route 66. Nearby attractions include the Petrified Forest National Park, the Painted Desert, and the downtown of Holbrook with its diners and shops.
Our Stay
We stayed at the Wigwam Motel while traveling Route 66. Having been on the road for days, it was important that we not only find comfortable accommodations, but unique ones that make the trip even more enjoyable.
Making our way slowly west, we had just ridden through the Petrified Forest National Park, and had worked up an appetite after admiring some of the coolest pieces of preserved wood we could find.
Luckily, just down the road from our tipi was the Butterfield Stage Co. Steak House. Few things beat sinking your teeth into a tender steak after a long day (or long weeks) riding a motorcycle.
Once we made it back to the motel, we settled in for some rest, which was easy to do since the concrete walls blocked out all outside sounds. The rooms were small, but had everything we needed to get cozy and comfortable.
Next time you travel through Holbrook, AZ, why don’t you give sleeping in a wigwam a try?
Facts & Info
Amenities
- Free, open parking area around the units
- Vintage display cars from the ‘50s and ‘60s
- Easy room access
- Compact rooms with enough space to spread out gear
- A small museum in the main office with Route 66 memorabilia, local artifacts, and petrified wood
- A/C in each unit
Nearby Attractions
- Petrified Forest National Park
- Meteor Crater
- Historic Route 66 Downtown Holbrook
- Route 66
Nearby Roads
The Wigwam Motel sits right on historic Route 66, making it a perfect base for riders who are cruising the Mother Road through northern Arizona. From here, you can hop east toward the Petrified Forest or head west into wide-open desert stretches that eventually lead to the Painted Desert and beyond.
Southeast, you’ll find Eagar, where you can hop on the Coronado Trail, which rises up into the mountain for the thrilling twisties. You can also ride north to view the spectacular Canyon de Chelly, but make sure your bike has enough mileage as gas stations are scarce in the Navajo Nation.
Food & Dining
Local dining in Holbrook is limited but charming. You’ll find small, classic diners and roadside joints that lean into the Route 66 nostalgia.
Within walking distance from the motel is the aforementioned Butterfield Stage Co. Steak House, which is perfect if you’ve really worked up an appetite. Find it at 609 W Hopi Dr, Holbrook, AZ.
Price
$105/night
Location
Find it at 811 W Hopi Dr, Holbrook, AZ.