Fabulous 40 Motel in Adrian, Texas: A Classic Route 66 Stop-
Sometimes life presents challenges and changes, and these situations do not discriminate based on the calendar or season. I embarked on a very impromptu return visit to the West Texas panhandle—both Route 66 and destinations beyond civilization. After exploring some original alignments between Shamrock and Adrian—famous for its Midpoint, I arrived at this popular Route 66 destination enjoyed by travelers from all over the globe. I had hoped to visit Midpoint Cafe and Dreammaker Station, but my timing was off as this was their off-season in between Christmas and New Year's Day.
I spotted a catching sign for the Fabulous 40 Motel, beautifully curated with nostalgic flair and a flashing OPEN sign, offering Route 66 souvenirs. I decided to stop in, purchase a room key tag, and visit with my new friends Ramona and Roy, who have owned and operated the motel for the past decade.
As we chatted, I knew I needed to take photos of the property, learn their story, and share it. These classic Route 66 businesses are true labors of love, keeping an important tradition alive, and they rely on traveler support to survive.
The Fabulous 40 Motel came to be in 1966, and its name was rooted in two ideas. At the time, Interstate 40 was under construction. Route 66 communities like Adrian hoped the interstate would bring opportunity—though for many, it ultimately caused significant harm. The original plan also called for 40 rooms, but only 20 were ever built. The second building never materialized, which turned out to be a blessing in disguise: fewer rooms to manage and occupancy that aligns naturally with demand.
Roy and Ramona are on-site full time, giving both the property and its guests the care they deserve. They acquired the business from family in 2016 and handle nearly everything themselves—building maintenance, repairs, and housekeeping, with occasional help from family when needed. With retro buildings comes undeniable charm and nostalgia, but caring for them is a full-time commitment with few real days off. It’s the kind of dedication that’s increasingly difficult to justify for younger generations.
The couple hopes to reopen the vintage game room soon, adding an updated amenity while preserving the motel’s quiet, country atmosphere. For travelers, the reward is supporting a local family deeply invested in the legacy of Route 66 while enjoying a nostalgic, personalized experience. Arrive as a guest; leave as a treasured friend.
Things here are still done the old-fashioned way, with manual bookings and limited online resources. That only adds to the authenticity, perfectly pairing with a motel that invites guests to step back in time. I’m glad I stopped to tour the Fabulous 40 Motel, met new friends in Roy and Ramona, and I look forward to future stays along this enduring stretch of Route 66.
📞 Call to Book - (806) 214-3043 Reservations are handled the old-fashioned way—by phone. Call ahead to check availability and speak directly with the hosts.
If you’ve stayed here, consider sharing your experience on TripAdvisor. Reviews help small, independent motels stay visible to future travelers.
Follow the Fabulous 40 Motel on Facebook for updates, photos, and news from Roy and Ramona as they continue preserving this piece of Route 66 history.
Thanks for supporting local Route 66 business!!
If you'd like to support my journey, my premium coffee table book, Route 66 Roadscapes : Stories Through The Lens would complement any coffee table or reading nook with pre-centennial roadside and hidden surprises. Both photographs and stories / narratives make it a must read.
