ROOTED IN PARKWAY HISTORY
Modern Vintage
Back To The Future
A mid-century landmark, the Hi-Ho Motel first opened its doors in 1960, right as America’s love for road trips and roadside lodging was hitting full stride. Its construction came about a decade after the Stratford portion of the Merritt Parkway was completed, making it a convenient and stylish stopover for travelers exploring Connecticut’s scenic byway. The iconic Hotel reopened in 2015, following a thorough rehab and restoration.
Everybody knows the Hi-Ho! My memory of driving up the Parkway as a kid and seeing the red neon sign is emblazoned in my mind. When the property came up for sale, I knew it was a no brainer. It’s been awesome!"
Property Owners
The Swinging Sixties
Hotel Hi-Ho has seen travel trends and guest expectations evolve since the 1960s—but its vintage spirit still shines through. Once a classic roadside stop for Parkway travelers, today it’s been reimagined with modern design and thoughtful amenities. The result is a boutique stay that feels fresh and convenient, while staying rooted in the charm of its mid-century beginnings.
Music
The 1960s were a revolution in music, blending rock ’n’ roll, soul, folk, and pop into the soundtrack of a generation. Elvis Presley and The Beatles set off global crazes, while artists like Bob Dylan and Joan Baez gave voice to change. Motown brought soul to the airwaves, surf rock captured the carefree spirit, and psychedelic sounds closed out the decade. Whether on a jukebox at a roadside motel or blasting from a car radio along the Merritt Parkway, music in the ’60s defined not just a sound—but a lifestyle.
Travel
In the 1960s, America was on the move. Families piled into gleaming Chevrolets, Fords, and Cadillacs, cruising newly built highways in search of beaches, colleges, and weekend escapes. The Merritt Parkway, with its art-deco bridges and tree-lined curves, became more than just a road—it was a scenic gateway through Connecticut. Roadside motels like Hotel Hi-Ho offered the perfect stop for drivers chasing the freedom of the open road, blending convenience with the style of the era.
Architecture
The 1960s were the golden age of the American roadside motel. Architecture was simple yet stylish, often featuring two-story layouts with wraparound balconies, geometric railings, and plenty of parking right at your door. Bold signage, neon lights, and mid-century design details signaled modernity and convenience to travelers cruising the highways. Motels like Hotel Hi-Ho captured that spirit—functional, approachable, and infused with the optimism of the era’s road-trip culture.