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Place to Stay: Motels & Motor Courts

  • The Roxbury Motel – Roxbury, NY

    The Roxbury Motel – Roxbury, NY

    The Roxbury Motel

    Roxbury, NY

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    The Roxbury Motel’s theatrical exterior sets the stage long before you step inside. 📸 The Roxbury Motel

    The Roxbury Motel
    • Address: 2258 County Hwy 41, Roxbury, NY 12474
    • State: New York
    • Website: theroxburyexperience.com

    Overview
    The Roxbury Motel is a Catskills landmark known for its theatrical design, storybook architecture, and commitment to doing things differently. From the exterior alone, it’s clear this is not a traditional roadside stay.

    Why It’s Worth a Stop
    It’s memorable in the best way. The Roxbury leans fully into whimsy and creativity, making it a standout for travelers who appreciate humor, bold visuals, and a sense of play baked into their surroundings.

    What to Know Before You Go
    • Every room is uniquely themed
    • Advance booking is strongly recommended
    • Located in the Catskills, about a scenic drive from NYC
    • Best suited for adults or older teens

    Fun Fact
    Many guests return specifically to stay in a different themed room each time.

  • Driftwood Motel – Montauk, NY

    Driftwood Motel – Montauk, NY

    Driftwood Motel

    Montauk, NY

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    Light-filled interiors at the Driftwood Motel reflect Montauk’s easy, ocean-first pace. 📸 Driftwood Motel

    Driftwood Motel
    • Address: 2178 Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY 11954
    • State: New York
    • Website: https://www.driftwoodmontauk.com/

    Overview

    Set on a low bluff above the Atlantic, the Driftwood Motel is an old-school Montauk stay with front-row ocean views and wide, open grounds. It feels relaxed and unpolished in the best way, shaped more by salt air and sunsets than trends.

    Why It’s Worth a Stop

    This is Montauk before the scene. Fire pits flicker at dusk, Adirondack chairs face the water, and days revolve around the beach rather than reservations. It’s especially appealing outside peak summer, when the coastline quiets down and the ocean takes center stage.

    What to Know Before You Go

    • Seasonal property, typically open late spring through early fall
    • Mix of oceanfront and oceanview rooms, plus cottages
    • Direct beach access, pool, and outdoor gathering spaces
    • Not walkable to town; a car is helpful
    • Many activities and events are offered in the peak summer months

    Fun Fact

    Montauk has long been called “The End,” a nickname that still fits when you’re watching the sun drop into the Atlantic from the Driftwood’s bluff.

  • Fenwick Islander Motel – Fenwick Island, DE

    Fenwick Islander Motel – Fenwick Island, DE

    Fenwick Islander Motel

    Fenwick Island, DE

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    Fenwick Islander Motel in the heart of Fenwick Island’s beach district. 📸 The Fenwick Islander Motel

    Fenwick Islander Motel
    • Address: 1 DE-1, Fenwick Island, DE 19944
    • State: Delaware
    • Website: https://www.fenwickislander.com/

    Overview
    Fenwick Islander Motel offers a simple, no-fuss beach stay just a short walk from the shoreline. Rooms are clean and straightforward, the pool is a welcome spot to cool off, and the motel’s central location makes it easy to explore Fenwick Island on foot. It’s an unfussy, comfortable choice for travelers who want classic coastal convenience.

    Why It’s Worth a Stop
    The location is a standout — close to the beach, restaurants, the lighthouse, and Fenwick’s more laid-back shops. It’s budget-friendly in an area where summer prices can climb fast.

    What to Know Before You Go

    • Outdoor pool open in season.
    • Walkable to the beach (about 2 blocks).
    • Rooms have exterior entrances in classic motel style.
    • On-site parking available.
    • Expect simple spaces — cleanliness and location are the highlights.
    • Recently renovated to include new laminated wood floors, new furniture, and upgraded beds and bedding.

    Fun Fact
    Fenwick Islander sits right near the state line, making it easy to pop between Delaware and Ocean City, Maryland.

  • Atlantis Inn – Rehoboth Beach, DE

    Atlantis Inn – Rehoboth Beach, DE

    Atlantis Inn

    Rehoboth Beach, DE

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    Atlantis Inn along Rehoboth Avenue, a longtime beach-motel favorite. 📸 Atlantis Inn

    Atlantis Inn
    • Address: 154 Rehoboth Ave, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971
    • State: Delaware
    • Website: https://www.atlantisinn-rehoboth.com/

    Overview
    Atlantis Inn is a classic, no-frills beach motel with a prime location along Rehoboth Avenue. Rooms are simple and tidy, the staff is welcoming, and the motel’s central spot makes it easy to spend the day exploring the boardwalk, beach, and local shops. It’s the kind of place where beach trips still feel uncomplicated.

    Why It’s Worth a Stop
    You can park once and forget about your car the rest of the trip — everything is within walking distance. It’s also one of the better-value stays during peak beach season.

    What to Know Before You Go

    • Outdoor pool available in summer.
    • Rooms are modest but well-kept.
    • Free parking on-site.
    • Walkable to restaurants, shops, and the beach.
    • Upper-floor rooms offer small balconies.

    Fun Fact
    Atlantis Inn has been welcoming summer visitors since the 1960s — and many families have stayed for generations.

  • Mayflower Motel – Milford, CT

    Mayflower Motel – Milford, CT

    Mayflower Motel

    Milford, CT

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    Mayflower Motel’s classic roadside setup offers budget-friendly comfort just off I-95 in Milford. 📸 Mayflower Motel

    Mayflower Motel
    • Address: 219 Woodmont Rd, Milford, CT
    • State: Connecticut
    • Website: https://www.mayflower-motel.com/

    Overview:
    Located just off I-95 Exit 40, the Mayflower Motel is a budget-friendly, family-owned stop in Milford offering quick access to local beaches, downtown, and nearby towns like New Haven and Bridgeport. Rooms feature cable TV, free Wi-Fi, and convenient in-room amenities like a refrigerator and workspace.

    Why It’s Worth a Stop:
    It’s a solid roadside choice for travelers who want easy highway access and a quiet place to rest. With clean, simple rooms, friendly staff, and rates that stay affordable even during peak seasons, the Mayflower Motel is a dependable base for coastal drives or weekend getaways.

    What to Know Before You Go:
    • Free Wi-Fi and premium cable (including HBO, Showtime, ESPN).
    • All rooms include a mini-fridge and air conditioning.
    • Pet-friendly rooms available.
    • Laundry facilities on-site.
    • Walking distance to shops, restaurants, and Connecticut Post Mall.
    • Extended-stay and seasonal rates available.

    Fun Fact:
    Milford’s downtown green—just a short drive from the motel—is the second-longest in Connecticut and often hosts festivals, concerts, and seasonal events.

  • Maple Motel – Newington, CT

    Maple Motel – Newington, CT

    Maple Motel

    Newington, CT

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    A no-frills roadside stay along the Berlin Turnpike—Maple Motel in Newington offers easy access to Hartford and beyond. 📸 Visit CT

    Maple Motel
    • Address: 2151 Berlin Turnpike, Newington, CT
    • State: Connecticut
    • Website: https://ctvisit.com/listings/maple-motel

    Overview:
    Tucked along the Berlin Turnpike, the Maple Motel offers basic, affordable accommodations just minutes from downtown Hartford, I-91, and I-84. Rooms come with free Wi-Fi, TV, mini-fridges, and microwaves—plus a handful of efficiency units for longer stays.

    Why It’s Worth a Stop:
    If you’re looking for a no-frills place to rest your head near the capital region, this small independent motel fits the bill. The location is convenient for travelers passing through or visiting Hartford on a budget.

    What to Know Before You Go:
    • Free Wi-Fi in all rooms.
    • All units include a microwave and mini-fridge.
    • 23 rooms total, including 6 efficiencies.
    • Rates typically range from $50–$80 per night.
    • No on-site booking website—call ahead or book through third-party sites.
    • Non-smoking rooms available.

    Fun Fact:
    The Berlin Turnpike was once part of the old post road between Hartford and New Haven, making it one of Connecticut’s most historic—and motel-filled—routes.

  • Stardust Motel – North Stonington, CT

    Stardust Motel – North Stonington, CT

    Stardust Motel

    North Stonington, CT

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    The Stardust Motel in North Stonington—an easy, affordable stop for Mystic and casino travelers. 📸 Stardust Motel

    Stardust Motel
    • Address: 544 Providence-New London Turnpike, North Stonington, CT
    • State: Connecticut
    • Website: https://ctvisit.com/listings/stardust-motel

    Overview:
    Conveniently located at Exit 93 off I-95, the Stardust Motel offers easy access to Foxwoods, Mohegan Sun, Rhode Island beaches, and Mystic attractions. This classic roadside stop features newly remodeled rooms with air conditioning, satellite TV, Wi-Fi, microwaves, and mini-fridges.

    Why It’s Worth a Stop:
    It’s a no-fuss, well-kept place to rest between casino visits, coastal drives, or stops along the Connecticut Wine Trail. Rates are affordable, service is friendly, and the location makes it easy to explore southeastern Connecticut without straying far from the highway.

    What to Know Before You Go:
    • Close to casinos, Mystic Seaport, and area beaches.
    • Rooms include microwave, mini-fridge, Wi-Fi, and daily housekeeping.
    • Ample parking and easy access to all rooms.
    • Rates range from $49–$175 depending on season and room type.

    Fun Fact:
    Despite its retro name, the Stardust was recently remodeled and now offers some of the cleanest, most reliable budget lodging in the area.

  • Atlantic Motor Inn – Wethersfield, CT

    Atlantic Motor Inn – Wethersfield, CT

    Atlantic Motor Inn

    Wethersfield, CT

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    Retro charm meets modern convenience at this classic motor court near Hartford. 📸 Atlantic Motor Inn

    Atlantic Motor Inn
    • Address: 1840 Berlin Turnpike, Wethersfield, CT
    • State: Connecticut
    • Website: atlanticinnct.com

    Overview:
    This restored mid-century motor court near Hartford pairs retro architecture with clean, comfortable rooms. Each room features exterior entry, direct parking, and a bit of 1950s Americana charm.

    Why It’s Worth a Stop:
    It’s conveniently located near major routes but still feels tucked away. Bonus: updated mattresses, free Wi-Fi, and reasonable rates make it a savvy choice for budget-conscious travelers.

    What to Know Before You Go:
    • No-frills stay with updated bedding and basic comforts.
    • Easy access to downtown Hartford.
    • Each room has private exterior entrance.
    • On-site management.

    Fun Fact:
    The property retains its original one-story layout and neon sign—making it one of the few surviving examples of classic motor court design in the region.

  • Clinton Motel – Clinton, CT

    Clinton Motel – Clinton, CT

    Clinton Motel

    Clinton, CT

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    A low-key stay with easy access to beaches and coastal towns—Clinton Motel keeps it simple. 📸 Clinton Motel

    Clinton Motel
    • Address: 1666 Boston Post Rd, Clinton, CT
    • State: Connecticut
    • Website: https://www.clintonmotel.net/

    Overview:
    A modest, family-run motel just off I-95, the Clinton Motel offers clean rooms, comfortable beds, and a warm welcome. It’s a reliable overnight option for travelers exploring the Connecticut shoreline.

    Why It’s Worth a Stop:
    You won’t find trendy updates here, but you will get a solid night’s rest at a fair price, with a personal touch from the owners. Great for road-trippers or anyone looking to keep it simple.

    What to Know Before You Go:
    • No frills—basic room setups with mini-fridge and TV.
    • Located near outlet shopping and beaches.
    • Parking right outside your room.
    • Best to call directly for reservations.

    Fun Fact:
    Despite its low profile, the Clinton Motel has earned a loyal following—some guests even bring fresh-baked goods for the front desk.