WESTERN MOTEL IN VINITA, OKLAHOMA
If you’re traveling the historic Route 66 or the Jefferson Highway, make sure to stop at one of Oklahoma’s most charming roadside motels: the Western Motel in Vinita. This vintage motor lodge has been welcoming travelers since the 1950s, and today, it continues to offer comfortable stays with a touch of nostalgic Americana.
ON BIG BLEND RADIO: This episode features Beth Hilburn, co-owner of the retro-charming Hi-Way Cafe and Western Motel in Vinita, Oklahoma. Nestled on both the historic Jefferson Highway and legendary Route 66, these roadside gems are must-stops for travelers seeking nostalgia, great food, and unique attractions. Watch here in the YouTube player or download the episode on Podbean.
A Storied Past
Originally built in the 1950s by Henry and Emelia Wrage, the property was first known as the Quarter Horse Motel, complete with motel rooms and even horse stables for traveling equestrians. In the 1970s, it was rebranded as the Western Motel.
In 2001, Bill and Barbara Wood purchased the motel—Bill was 80 years old at the time! They operated it for nearly two decades until Bill passed away at the incredible age of 100 in 2020. In early 2021, their daughter Beth Hilburn and her husband Alan took over, embarking on a major renovation project to bring new life to the historic motel.
Modern Comfort Meets Retro Charm
Today, the Western Motel features 20 newly remodeled rooms with full size beds, each updated with modern flooring, fresh paint, and thoughtful decor. Each room comes equipped with:
- A small refrigerator
- WIFI
- Streaming TV
- Microwave
Three rooms have been specially designed for Route 66 and Jefferson Highway road trippers, paying tribute to the motel’s legacy as a mid-century waystation.
Lighting Up the Past: New Neon Sign
In 2025, the Western Motel received a grant through the Oklahoma Route 66 Association and Department of Commerce to install a brand-new neon sign—a nostalgic recreation of the original 1950s design. Created by Encino’s 3D Signs in Tulsa, the sign features a cowboy on horseback spinning a lasso, a visual homage to classic roadside Americana.
On April 12, 2025, over 150 guests gathered for a festive sign-lighting celebration as the iconic neon once again lit up the Oklahoma sky.
More to Come! Beth and Alan hint that there’s another exciting enhancement coming soon to the Western Motel—stay tuned for an official announcement.
Grab a Bite Next Door!
Just steps away from the motel is their sister property, the Hi-Way Café—a perfect spot to enjoy a hearty meal before hitting the road again.
Whether you’re a nostalgic traveler, Route 66 enthusiast, or simply passing through Vinita, the Western Motel offers a friendly welcome, a great night’s rest, and a little slice of American history.
Address: 437866 US-60, Vinita, Oklahoma, 74301
Phone: +1 (918) 256-7542
Facebook: Western Motel Route 66
Instagram: @westernmotelroute66
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