When you think of stunning views for travel, you probably imagine luxury mountain resorts or elegant beachfront villas. But sometimes, the most amazing scenery comes with an affordable motel stay—yes, a simple roadside motel with a million-dollar view you didn’t expect.
Here are 5 motels in the United States where the views are the highlight, proving you don’t always need five stars to feel on top of the world.
Mountain View Motel – Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Why It’s Special: Tucked away in the Smoky Mountains, this cozy motel offers stunning sunrise views from your balcony: mist over the peaks, forests that stretch for miles, and a peaceful mountain atmosphere.
What to Expect: Simple rooms, warm hospitality, and private balconies with mountain views. Perfect for families or couples looking for a budget-friendly Smoky Mountain getaway.
Sea Cliff Motel – Old Orchard Beach, Maine
Why It’s Special: Just steps from the sand, this modest beachside motel surprises visitors with direct ocean views. You can hear the waves from your bed and watch the sunrise over the Atlantic without spending a fortune.
What to Expect: Simple but clean rooms, a private deck or patio, and a short walk from Old Orchard Beach’s classic pier and boardwalk.
Madonna Inn – San Luis Obispo, California
Why it’s special: Okay, this one’s a little quirky: the Madonna Inn is a retro roadside motel, famous for its quirky themed rooms and hillside views. Many rooms overlook the rolling green hills and coastal mountains of Central California’s wine country.
What to expect: Extravagantly decorated rooms with all-pink decor, friendly service, and perfect views from the terrace or pool.
Desert Hills Motel – Route 66, Arizona
Why it’s special: On historic Route 66, this vintage motel offers a classic neon ambiance and panoramic desert views. At sunset, the red rock formations and endless sky offer an unexpected spectacle for its price.
What to expect: Classic American charm, neon signs, and easy access to nearby canyons and roadside restaurants.
Silver Lake Motel – Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
Why it’s special: Overlooking beautiful Silver Lake and surrounded by pine trees, this budget-friendly accommodation surprises guests with tranquil lake and mountain views. You can wake up, enjoy your coffee, and watch eagles soaring.
What to expect: Simple rooms, friendly owners, and a lakeside setting close to hiking, fishing, and water sports.
The Bottom Line
Sometimes you don’t need a luxury resort to enjoy an unforgettable view. These motels prove you can wake up to mountains, beaches, lakes, and sunsets without spending a fortune. So, the next time you’re planning a road trip, look beyond the big chain hotels—you might find a hidden gem with an unforgettable view.
