Wigwam Motel - a kitschy unique place to stay in California on Route 66
Wigwam Motel, San Bernardino - one of the many unique places to stay in California
As you are heading into the final stretch towards the end of historic Route 66, 'The Mother Road', you'll enter the town of Rialto / San Bernardino, Ca.
Just when you think there isn't much to see, BAM! You're greeted by 20 amazing wigwams and just like that you are transported back in time to the era of unique and kitsch architecture motels.
Our teepee
The Wigwam Motel was built in 1949 and although it's 75 years old, the owners have done a great job in maintaining its original flair, while updating many amenities.
- a refrigerator
- flatscreen TV (with cable)
- wifi
- bathroom (with shower)
- quite a powerful A/C (which was great since San Berdoo can reach temps over 100).
The bed was comfortable and the hot water and pressure in the shower was one of the strongest I've felt, so no complaints there. There is no closet of any kind, so hanging clothes would pose a bit of a problem but we managed. Some may say that the furniture is outdated in the wigwams, but the rooms are clean and when going to any historic motel, modern design shouldn't be a priority. If you want glam, then most historic places aren't for you.
In the middle of the property surrounded by 2 umbrella adorned picnic tables along with 3 chaise lounge chairs was the swimming pool, cozy and clean. The front desk is nice enough to supply pool towels upon request.
They also have a reasonable selection of Wigwam / Route 66 souvenirs available for purchase as well as some photos on the wall spanning the motels history. Madhu, who was working the office was very friendly and talkative which is always a pleasure.
The immediate surrounding area could use for some improvement, but you are a short drive to a supermarket, some eateries, and a few liquor stores. I'd recommend driving rather than walk.
About a 15-minute drive from the motel we found a great vegan / vegetarian Chinese restaurant called Happy Family Vegetarian, which has been in business since 1981. They offer many options to fit all needs such as fake fish and meats, tofu, etc. We ordered 3 dishes from there most popular items, and we were not disappointed, it was delicious. I'd also recommend their flavorful flower tea. It's not a surprise that it's one of the top vegan restaurants near San Bernardino.
For a unique family-friendly attraction of San Bernardino that's worth the visit, just a quick 10-minute drive to 1398 E St. you'll find the unofficial McDonald's Museum on the exact location of the first Mcdonald's Hamburgers that was opened in 1948 by brothers Dick and Mac McDonald. Although the original building was long demolished, thankfully the original sign was saved. The museum is free and is loaded with many collectibles and information spanning the history of the birth of McDonald's. Definitely one of Historic Route 66 interesting destinations.
McDonald's first location (1948)
McDonald's History
The Wigwam Motel has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places list and is an absolute must stop and certainly one of the kitschiest motels of California, so if you're near the area, drop by one of the more unique places to stay on Route 66. After all, it was quirky enough to inspire The Cozy Cone Motel in 'Disney's Cars' movie. There are only 3 of these motels left in existence and how often do you have a chance to relax in a wigwam shaped motel room?
We unquestionably will be exploring more Route 66 vintage motels in the future!
As the song goes, 'When you take that California trip, get your kicks on Route 66!'
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- Wigwam Motel
- Happy Family Vegetarian
- McDonald's Museum - open daily 10 am - 5 pm (no link available)
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