A Starburst on the Boulevard

The Holiday Motel. Just the name conjures up images of a bygone era, a time when Las Vegas wasn’t solely defined by glittering mega-resorts. Located along U.S. 91 (now Las Vegas Boulevard), the Holiday Motel was a quintessential piece of Las Vegas history, a welcoming beacon for travelers arriving by car. Originally debuting in 1952 as the Holiday Inn (completely separate from the later national chain), it evolved into the Holiday Motel by the early 1960s, perfectly aligning with the post-war boom in automobile travel.

The mid-1950s and 60s were a transformative period for Las Vegas. The burgeoning automobile culture fueled the growth of roadside lodgings, turning the boulevard into a dazzling display of neon and promises of adventure. The Holiday Motel’s architecture was classic motor court – low, horizontal buildings radiating around a central parking court and pool, offering budget-friendly accommodations conveniently located near both Downtown and the burgeoning Las Vegas Strip. It catered to a diverse clientele: weary motorists, touring entertainers, and convention-goers all found a comfortable and affordable place to rest their heads.

The Sign That Shined

But what truly set the Holiday Motel apart was its incredible neon sign. Installed between 1956 and 1958, this Googie-inspired masterpiece was more than just a directional marker; it was a work of art. Bursting with starbursts, a dynamic chasing-bulb arrow, and layered “Holiday Motel” panels, it practically begged to be photographed. And photographed it was – appearing on countless postcards, travelogues, and showcasing the playful spirit of Las Vegas. The sign became a minor celebrity in its own right, a testament to the artistry and exuberance of the era.

Decline and Preservation

As the decades passed, the Holiday Motel, like many vintage establishments, began to show its age. By the 2000s, the property had fallen into disrepair. However, the sign’s enduring pop culture status only amplified its importance. A devastating room fire in December 2016 underscored the motel’s decline, and in 2017, the Holiday Motel officially closed its doors after over 60 years of operation.

Thankfully, the legacy of the Holiday Motel wasn’t allowed to fade. Preservationists immediately rallied to save the iconic neon sign. A public campaign resulted in its dismantling and relocation to the Las Vegas Neon Museum’s restoration facility. Today, the beautifully restored sign proudly stands in the Neon Boneyard, a permanent reminder of Las Vegas’s vibrant roadside history.

While the Holiday Motel itself now houses The BLVD Boutique Apartments, its dazzling sign lives on, ensuring the story of this beloved motor court is never forgotten. It serves as a poignant reminder that Las Vegas was built not just on extravagant casinos, but also on the countless, charming motor courts that lined the boulevard, welcoming travelers with the promise of adventure.