Step back in time at a little roadside stop where retro A-frame cabins, vintage charm, and modern comfort create a unique roadside escape.
Travelers cruising down I-5 in Southern Oregon might do a double take when they spot a row of eye-catching A-frame cabins rising up from the roadside. That’s the Ranch Motel, an inviting throwback to the golden age of road trips, offering comfort, charm, and a big dose of retro style.
Vintage And Comfortable, The Ranch Motel Near Oakland, Oregon Is Still Worth A Stop
Located just off the highway in Rice Hill (a few minutes north of Oakland), this independent roadside motel has been turning heads since the 1960s. The architecture alone is enough to make anyone curious. Each guest room is housed in its own A-frame structure, complete with classic lines and cozy interiors that stir up a little nostalgia for simpler times.
Inside, the rooms blend vintage character with practical comfort. Cleanliness is clearly a top priority, and while the buildings reflect their mid-century roots, the owners have made thoughtful updates where it counts. The loft-style A-frames are a favorite for families or anyone looking for a fun, cabin-like stay. There’s even a family-sized layout with two beds downstairs and another tucked up in the loft. Kids love it. Grownups might, too.
The Ranch Motel isn't trying to be fancy, but that’s part of the charm. It’s a relaxed, affordable spot where a long day on the road can end with a sandwich at the table, a cold drink, and a little TV in the background. Out back, grassy fields stretch out behind the cabins, giving guests a peaceful view to wake up to. And for those who enjoy a little socializing, the shared fire pit is a fine place to swap travel stories over a glass of local wine.
Staff here are known for being welcoming and helpful, offering the kind of friendly service that’s becoming harder to find these days. The couple who run the place clearly take pride in the details, right down to the lobby’s Lego model of one of the A-frames and the Ranch Motel keychains for sale.
The Ranch Motel Oregon Information
- Location: 581 John Long Rd, Oakland, Oregon
- Please Note: While the address is in Oakland, this motel is actually 10 minutes north of Oakland in Rice Hill. It's next to the Rice Hill Inn, and just down the street from Flying J Travel Center, so you'll be able to gas up and grab snacks on your way out as you hit the road after your stay. There's also a Denny's nearby if you want to grab a bite to eat there.
- Get more information at the Ranch Motel website.
For anyone looking to break up a drive between Seattle and the Bay Area, this little motel hits the sweet spot: right off the highway, easy on the budget, and way more memorable than a chain hotel. The Ranch Motel may be small, but it leaves a lasting impression, and that’s exactly what makes it such a gem.
