Fodor's Expert Review Pioneertown Motel

When new owners took over this motel built in 1946 as a bunkhouse for film stars shooting in and around Pioneertown (like Gene Autry, who used Room 9 for late-night poker games), they gave it a much-needed rehab while respecting its cowboy movie roots, so, although there are still beat-up wood doors and exposed-beam ceilings, there are also new sink basins, tiled showers, air-conditioning, and property-wide Wi-Fi. The decor leans hard into the Western-meets-high-desert aesthetic, with Mexican blankets, potted succulents, rope curtains on the closets, black-and-white photos of rock formations, and cowhide rugs. Guests can gather at outdoor tables and seating vignettes or in a 24-hour lounge with games and gourmet coffee; there's also an event space. It isn't fancy, but it isn't trying to be, and it definitely has a vibe.