Sands Motel

If you’re on a budget and hunting for a classic 1950s motel experience, look no further than the Sands Motel in Grants, New Mexico.

Back in its prime, the Sands Motel was more than just a place to rest your head. It featured a restaurant, cocktail lounge, and even a service station. Owned by Jim and Billie Shue, and later Leon and Cecile Koch, this roadside gem promised “Modern, New Carpeted Rooms, Restaurant, Cocktail Lounge & Service Station.” It was also proud to offer free televisions, telephones, and a peaceful spot just off the highway. Even Elvis Presley found his way to this little corner of Route 66.

Today, the Sands Motel remains a budget-friendly stop, offering free parking, cable TV, WiFi, and a microwave and fridge in every room. With its carpeted floors and vintage wooden furniture, it’s not exactly high-end, but it’s a slice of road trip history for those looking to save a buck.

For the Elvis fans out there, you can even stay in Room 123, the “Elvis Presley Room,” where the King himself once laid his head. The room is decorated with photos of Elvis and even a copy of his marriage certificate.

As you roll through Grants, you’ll spot the big, bright yellow Googie-style neon sign for the Sands Motel lighting up the Mother Road. The motel itself sits just a half block off Route 66, so it’s easy to find but far enough to offer a quiet night’s rest.

It might not be the flashiest stop on Route 66, but the Sands Motel puts you right in the heart of Grants, close to attractions like the New Mexico Mining Museum, the iconic Route 66 Neon Drive-Thru Sign, and the local favorite, El Cafecito.