The Motel Safari opened in 1959 during the height of Route 66's popularity. Developer Chester Dohrer used an architectural style known as Doo Wop or Googie to give it a distinctive appearance in Tucumcari, with features including counter-stacked brickwork, oozing mortar, openings in the cinder block walls, metal cylinders with perforated holes that light up at night, and a towering sign topped by Clyde the Camel. Although it was briefly a Best Western affiliate in its earliest days, it has always been known as the Motel Safari and was one of the most modern and popular motels of its period. In 2008, it began an extensive restoration and update that highlighted its mid-century modern features, revived custom-designed furniture from the original build, added period murals, and integrated 21st century upgrades and amenities. Today, the Motel Safari continues to welcome travelers from across the country and around the world.
