Introducing the Resties: These Are the Best Uncommon Overnights Across the U.S.

I traveled full-time in a Sprinter van for many years, trekking across the country, seeing so much more than I ever anticipated. I slept in desert plains, with nothing but nature as far as the eye can see. I woke up cliffside on the West Coast to whales breaching the surface of the Pacific. But sometimes, as wonderful as those views were, it was finding a safe, soft place to lay my head that really recharged my batteries.

Thanks to our panel of expert road trippers, we have our list of some of the best, uncommon overnight accommodations across the United States. For the Uncommon Overnights category, we asked Margaret and Corey Bienert of A Pretty Cool Hotel Tour to pick their favorite stops in the U.S. They’ve road-tripped to over 30 states and have found that the journey is definitely as important as the destination. So, rather than just reserving a room at a roadside chain, take a look at these incredible overnight spots and start getting inspired for your next travel adventure.

Northeast Winner: Adventure Suites, North Conway, New Hampshire

This is one of the coolest themed hotels in the country. From classics like a Cave room all the way to a Nightclub room with a light-up dance floor and DJ booth, Adventure Suites has something for everyone. It's more than just a fantasy-focused stay as the hotel brings in new technology to create much more interactive experiences, like in their Haunted Castle suite that is so full of surprises it almost feels like a theme park ride that lasts all night long.

Not only are the rooms next-level, but the service is spectacular, there's a bar and restaurant on-site, a spa, a beautiful sprawling property, and while chances are you won’t want to leave your room during your stay, the good news is even if you need something you won’t have to go far.

Southeast Winner: 7F Lodge, College Station, Texas

7F Lodge is a romantic bed and breakfast with private cabins nestled in the woods. Here, you won’t find a cave room or nightclub, but instead their cabins are all themed in ways that feel appropriate to their surroundings like the Barn, which is as rustic as it sounds but also so comfortable and luxurious enough to have a heart-shaped tub, Sugar Shack, which has a little bit of 70s spice to it, or Hill Country, which is a quaint getaway complete with a jacuzzi tub on the screened-in porch. This place feels simple but sophisticated at the same time, with all the privacy you could want, but also the amenities that make it an incredibly cozy stay.

Southwest Winner: The Dive Motel, Nashville, Tennessee

Visiting The Dive Motel feels a lot like stepping into the 70s, or so we imagine, with the entrance being through a bar that has a massive spinning disco ball, wood paneling on every wall, and gorgeous green booths. Each of the rooms is uniquely decorated, but all have a strong retro vibe complete with a “party switch” that instantly turns on sparkling lights and dance music.

There's plenty of animal print, faux fur, and shag carpeting to go around, plus there’s the draw of a lovely swimming pool at the center of the property. It really is the perfect weekend spot with great food and drinks, but be aware it is a 21 and up establishment.

Midwest Winner: Don Q Inn, Dodgeville, Wisconsin

The Don Q Inn is a theme hotel that has been open since the 70s. A man named Don Quinn wanted to give people a unique experience, so he set out to create hotel rooms that were unlike any other stay, including one where he used an old cheese vat to create a gigantic 300-gallon tub. Once he sold the business, the next owners loved his ideas and expanded on them by adding a space-themed room, a hot-air balloon room, a cave room, and more.

This is an incredibly quirky place, which you realize as soon as you are greeted by a circle of vintage barber chairs in the lobby, and it feels a little bit like you’re staying overnight in a museum. If that sounds fun to you, pack your bags immediately. Oh, and don’t forget to stop at the equally eclectic House on the Rock nearby!

West Winner: Madonna Inn, San Luis Obispo, California

The Madonna Inn must be at the top of your list for anyone interested in themed stays or kitsch, over-the-top decor. This place feels otherworldly as every inch of the hotel, cafe, bar, and even outdoor spaces reminds you you’re somewhere incredibly special. The signature pink floral carpeting throughout the main building is a delight to see in person, there are golden cherubs hanging from the ceiling, colorful stained glass on every window, and the rooms are all uniquely decorated in patterns and colors and fixtures that feel straight out of a fairytale—some are even carved right into boulders so you’re partially staying in a cave.

If you can’t stay the night, you can still enjoy a meal in their cafe or steak house, and either one is a glorious experience with endless details to enjoy. Oh, and don’t forget to try their Pink Champagne Cake!

Editor's Pick: Starlight Motor Inn, North Charleston, South Carolina

The Starlight Motor Inn in North Charleston, South Carolina, is a beautifully restored mid-century motel that captures the spirit of 1960s Americana with a modern twist. Originally opened in 1961 as the Host of America, it holds the distinction of being the South's first modular-built motel, with each room prefabricated and assembled on-site like drawers into a steel frame. After years of decline, the property underwent a thoughtful renovation and reopened in 2022, preserving its iconic pink façade and breezeblock accents while updating the interiors with contemporary comforts.

The Resties celebrate the best of roadside America; you can view all of the winners here. Want to nominate your favorite pit stops? Fill out the nomination form.