Wigwam Hotels and Teepee Motels of Route 66

What comes to mind when you think of Route 66? Novelty architecture and teepee motels!

The Wigwam Motels started as a motel chain in the 1930s. Built to resemble Native American teepees, they were mistakenly named wigwams. Originally there were seven wigwam villages (Kentucky, Alabama, Florida, Arizona, Louisiana, and California). Today three of the villages remain, two of which are located on 66. The surviving sights can be found in Holbrook, Arizona (Wigwam Village #6) and San Bernardino, California (Wigwam Village #7). All are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Developer Frank A. Redford patented his teepee design in 1936. The original design included a swastika which was associated with peace in Native American culture.

The Holbrook, Arizona motel was bulit in 1950 by Chester E. Lewis and is within close proximity to the Petrified Forest National Park, Meteor Crater, and the Grand Canyon. Lewis’ contract with Redford was interesting: He was able to purchase Redford’s design and the name “Wigman Village” in exchange for coin-operated radios installed in each motel room. Every dime that was inserted for 30 minutes of listening would be sent to Redford as payment. You can’t get much more 66 than that …

Currently, the Arizona location hosts 15 teepees and rooms boast originally restored hickory furniture and AC amongst other accomadations. While you’re there, look around the parking lot for refurbished 1960’s vintage cars.

The Lewis family continues to operate the Wigwam Village #6 to this day. This particular village has been on the National Register of Historic Palces since May 2, 2002. The location is so iconic that it’s made its way into “Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas” and Pixar’s “Cars.” Have you stayed in the wigwams? Leave a review on our website to give travelers a sense of what to expect.