Though the ’50s and ’60s have long passed, retro hotels across the country keep the spirit of the atomic age alive and thriving. Born from decades defined by new ideologies, a booming economy, and impressive structural innovations, the period presented a new style in American history—one not based on reviving aesthetics of the past, but rather looking firmly towards the future. The era saw the emergence of unique architecture aesthetics such as googie, duck, and parkitecture. Graphics and art grew more vibrant, and fashion experienced a revival in haute couture as a rebellion against austere styles of the past. It’s for these reasons that retro motels are so much more than just kitschy roadside destinations: They’re portals to a distinct moment in design history. From a reimagined airport terminal to a Route 66 rest stop, AD visits nine endlessly cool and effortlessly fun retro hotels.