There is more to an overnight stay than just having a place to rest your head. It is a significant part of your getaway. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, your overnight accommodations should be a place where you can unwind, relax, and feel rejuvenated by the time the sun comes up.
When it comes to the motel experience, this opportunity is often hit or miss — except when you stay at The Starlight Motor Inn. It is set apart from the rest.
The History of the Starlight Motor Inn
The Starlight Motor Inn was built in 1961 on the site of Woody Rogers’s old Studebaker dealership — a landmark in this North Charleston neighborhood. Originally named The Host of America, it was an independent family-fun business that gave travelers an affordable destination.
This modular-built motel stood the test of time, remaining in place for over six decades. Until, unfortunately, it became shuttered to the public around the turn of the century, along with so many memories.
In 2020, plans to bring it back to life sparked.
So, what sets the Starlight Motor Inn apart from the rest? She is a survivor. She had her heyday decades ago, took a rest, and is now revamped and ready to go, providing memories for a new generation of family and friends.
The Starlight Motor Inn opened its doors in 2023.
A Retro Time-Capsule
The new owners of the motel could have transformed it to match our modern-day expectations found in most hotels around the country. Instead, they did something better. They brought it up to date with all the modern-day amenities but they revived the retro-vibe.
Walking into The Starlight Motor Inn is bound to stir up feelings of nostalgia — or make you feel like you have been transported back in time.
Original touches have remained the same, such as the decorative lattice beams and the bricks used in the pool house bar. The pink and teal colors throughout the entire space give you the feel of a tropical oasis set in mid-century South Florida.
While some motels may have kept their doors open, doing upgrades along the way, the Starlight Motor Inn has completely renovated the space, bringing together the old and new for a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
The Rooms
The new owners don’t want you to lack anything while you are here. That’s why the vintage-inspired rooms are equipped with everything you need — color TV, free cable, free Wi-Fi, private bathroom, refrigerator, coffee machine, and all the extra little touches to make it feel like home away from home.
The best part? While they offer the traditional king and queen room, they also allow you to feel like a kid at camp again. At The Starlight Motor Inn, you can have a room with two sets of bunk beds and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the pool. Rumor has it you can get from bed to pool in 5 seconds flat.
No detail was left untouched in the renovation. You will have a wall-mounted flat-screen TV, but you also have an old-school Frigidaire refrigerator and furniture that is kin to the 1960s and 70s. This makes your overnight experience at The Starlight Motor Inn nothing short of remarkable.
The Fun Times Roll
While rest is key to a healthy, happy life — so is having fun. And here, the fun times just roll. The sparkling turquoise pool provides all guests with the chance to relax, refresh, and refill. Vintage-inspired lounge chairs, the art-deco pool patio, and the endless sunshine make it hard to leave.
But, alas, the day must come to an end.
Find your way to The Burgundy Lounge (its original name) conveniently located on the property. It has been around since 1966 and restored with wood paneling and, like the rest of the property, a retro feel.
Unwind with an adult beverage while listening to featured local bands. It’s the best way to end a day.
What Sets The Starlight Motor Inn Apart?
Rehabbing old motels and transforming them into modern spaces is not a new concept. It is happening all around the country. Here, though, the combination of nostalgia and the right price is just one more thing that sets this motel apart from the others.
Affordability and fun all wrapped up in an unmatched package. That’s what you will find at the Starlight Motor Inn.
The Starlight Motor Inn is a restored mid-century motel located in Charleston, SC perfect for restful days and playful nights. Stay. Swim. Dine. Drink.