There’s an argument to be made that Kokopelli’s Cave is the most unique place to stay in our state. As incredible as that experience may be, the cave accommodations consist of one 1700-square foot suite, making it more of a rental than a hotel. However, there is a New Mexico hotel that provides a one-of-a-kind stay that you’ll remember fondly for years to come.

The Blue Swallow Motel transports you back to the height of Route 66’s popularity, and the days of sock hops and poodle skirts. This traditional motor court is a perfectly preserved slice of the past, with period-appropriate amenities.

Tucumcari, a small New Mexico town located near the Texas Panhandle, is one of the best places to see what the Mother Road was like in its heyday.

By day, visitors can appreciate the town’s murals and adorably kitschy stores. At night, Tucumcari is illuminated by neon.

The crown jewel of this display is the Blue Swallow Motel.

The Blue Swallow was established in 1939 and it’s been family-run ever since.

The families have changed over the years – the longest operators were Lillian Redman and her husband who owned the motorcourt for four decades. Today, the motel is owned and operated by the Mueller family. Throughout the years, weary road trippers pulling off Route 66 (or I-40) have received a warm welcome here.

Over the years, the Blue Swallow hasn’t changed much – and that’s by design. The exterior features pinkish stucco, surrounding a courtyard where travelers gather in the evenings to shoot the breeze.

The most unique aspect of this motel is that the rooms come with attached garages…

…which are decorated with themed murals!

The Blue Swallow Motel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Although the 12 rooms are painstakingly maintained, they are in keeping with a bygone time. So accommodations are comfy yet simple.

Inside the rooms you’ll find embroidered bedspreads that create a homespun, vintage atmosphere. Some feature blue swallows, a reference to the hotel’s name.

Rooms are even equipped with rotary dial phones!

But you’ll also enjoy more modern conveniences like air conditioning, television, and Internet access.

Just like swallows, which return home each year, you’ll find yourself longing to come back to this unique motel.

Classic car owners flock to the Blue Swallow for the garages and the nostalgia. You’re likely to see some vintage autos during your stay, but that also means that the Blue Swallow tends to be booked far in advance. If you’d like to spend a night here, visit the motel’s website. The Blue Swallow is located at 815 E. Route 66 Boulevard in Tucumcari.

Have you been to this one-of-a-kind motel?

While you're visiting Tucumcari, here are some suggestions for fun activities in the area.