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2-star hotel Check-in 16:00 · Check-out 10:30

Circle R Motel

Stay at Circle R Motel, a laid-back 1950s-style motel in Salida, CO. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, grab-and-go breakfast, and easy access to Arkansas Headwaters rafting.

304 E Rainbow Blvd, Salida, CO 81201, United States View on map
8.4/10
Very Good Based on 521 recent guest reviews
Free Wi-Fi Free parking Accessible Air-conditioned Pet-friendly
What recent guests emphasize

Insightful guest feedback on comfort and value

Visitors appreciate the motel’s retro charm, affordability, and friendly service, while noting some wear linked to its vintage character. Ideal for travelers seeking a clean, budget-friendly stay with convenient access to outdoor activities.

Guests often praise

  • Clean and comfortable rooms with appealing 1950s retro decor.
  • Friendly and attentive front desk staff providing helpful service.
  • Great value for money with affordable rates and included amenities like free Wi-Fi.
  • Convenient location near outdoor recreation such as rafting and hot springs.
  • Pet-friendly policy welcomed by travelers with dogs.

Worth knowing

  • The property shows some signs of age, especially in bathrooms and general wear.
  • Room quality can vary, with some guests noting minor maintenance issues.
  • Not within immediate walking distance to downtown; about a 20-30 minute walk.
  • Breakfast is limited to grab-and-go options rather than full service.
  • Quiet atmosphere suitable for restful stays, even during peak tourism seasons.

Best for

  • Budget-conscious travelers looking for clean and comfortable accommodation.
  • Outdoor enthusiasts visiting Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area and nearby hot springs.
  • LGBTQ+ friendly travelers seeking an inclusive and relaxed environment.
  • Pet owners wanting a welcoming place to stay with their dogs.
  • Visitors who appreciate vintage charm and a nostalgic roadside motel experience.
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About this property

Welcome to Circle R Motel

Circle R Motel is a laid-back roadside property with a retro 1950s style, located just off East Rainbow Boulevard in Salida, Colorado. It offers simple accommodations with free Wi-Fi and a grab-and-go breakfast, catering to travelers who appreciate vintage charm combined with basic modern conveniences. Check-in is from 4 PM and check-out is required by 10:30 AM.

The motel’s clean rooms have received praise for comfort and retro decor, though some guests note that certain areas, like bathrooms, show signs of wear consistent with an older property. Affordability is a consistent highlight, making Circle R a practical choice for visitors seeking value without extensive amenities. The friendly and attentive staff have also been mentioned positively in reviews.

Set about 1.6 miles from the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area and half a mile from the Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center, the location suits guests interested in outdoor activities such as rafting, kayaking, and soaking in natural hot springs. It is approximately a 20-to-30 minute walk to downtown Salida, where additional dining options and attractions, including the Salida Museum, can be found.

This LGBTQ+ friendly motel welcomes travelers looking for an affordable, no-frills base in Salida. It also accommodates well-mannered pets with a small fee, appealing to guests traveling with dogs. While the property embraces its vintage roots, guests should be comfortable with some typical signs of age and the motel’s straightforward, budget-oriented style.

Summary compiled by GoHotelly editors from verified guest reviews, partner descriptions and editorial notes.
Facilities & essentials

What's on-site and what you should know before you arrive

The short version: what's available day-to-day, and the key practical details most travelers search for.

Most popular facilities

Free Wi-Fi
Free parking
Accessible
Air-conditioned
Pet-friendly
Kid-friendly
Hot tub
Golf course

Not available at this property

Breakfast
Pool
Restaurant
Airport shuttle
Fitness center
Verified guest reviews

What recent guests are actually saying

Reviews from travelers who stayed here in the last 12 months, grouped to help you spot the pattern quickly.

LI
Louis Inghilterra Apr 01, 2026
10

Had a wonderful one night stay at the Circle R. The rates were reasonable and affordable. The room was very clean and comfortable. I loved the retro style decor throughout the property, so glad to see a fabulous vintage motel is well kept and cared for. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Salida to stay at the Circle R if they are looking for a clean, affordable night stay. Looking forward to returning!

AK
art kleinrath Mar 16, 2026
8.0

Found the room clean and inviting. Our room had a full apartment sized refrigerator. Instead of the usual " dorm room size". We appreciated the extra room and a real freezer to freeze packs for our cooler. It is old (I understand the vibe) but things are looking worn too. I think that may be part of people's comments. It is not something that bothers me but I deducted a star for that. MY partner was bothered by its age showing. It is not spanking new like a Hilton. Staff was most wonderful and went out of their way to be helpful. It is on the edge of town so there are restaurants you can walk to.I definitely would go again. It is a throwback to my memories of family vacations at the "motor courts". Including the community grill.

BM
B Mark Mar 09, 2026
10

It’s an old budget highway motel, but I mean that is the best possible way. Great ‘50s style inside and out. Friendly front desk. Clean rooms. The bathrooms are showing their age. It’s not located near the historic downtown, but I walked, and it took about a half hour. There is a good amount of food and drink though near the motel along Highway 50. I’ve stayed here twice. Once during the busy peak tourism season when it was full and once in the off season when it was not full. It was quiet both times. Your enjoyment of this motel will depend on your expectations. Can’t beat the price. So you can save money if you’re willing to overlook some typical rough-around-the-edges. Long live Circle R!

MV
Milton Vasquez Mar 06, 2026
10

Great place for the price! Dylan at the front desk provided excellent customer service—very detailed and attentive. Highly recommend.

JH
Julyn Hovis Feb 25, 2026
10

Such a cute retro hotel in salida. Only 5 minutes away from downtown but still plenty of places to eat around. The front desk is super friendly and no problems with check in. The room was remodeled and has a super cute color theme. Bed is very comfortable. I'm usually one of those that could not fall asleep the first night when it's not my own bed but had no problems falling asleep here. Water pressure is also very well which I always appreciate. I highly recommend this place whether you're in salida for a quick trip or an extended stay.

KF
Klaire Funderburgh Feb 01, 2026
10

This is our favorite little hotel in Salida! We always make it a point to stay here on vacation, whether passing through for stopping for some great hikes and wonderful escape. We recently stayed in another motel in a different town and kept saying how much we missed this place. They are completely dog friendly and allow our two well-mannered Bernese to stay with us (no vacation is complete without the pups!) with a small pet fee. They have places to walk the dogs and it's not too loud so the dogs aren't up all night. Always kind and helpful staff. Easy check in process and the cleaning staff does a great job. The rooms are always super clean and a cute little space. We even had a noise machine in our room. We love the mini kitchen and the bathroom is always clean. Great prices, great location and great staff and owners. Always our go to!

KA
Kayden Albert Jan 20, 2026
8.0

I’ve stayed here about five times over the years, and overall it’s a decent place to stay. It’s very affordable and the rooms are cute, though they can vary quite a bit. In my experience the rooms are usually clean, but the bathrooms and laundry could use more attention. That said, the staff are friendly, and it’s one of the cheapest places you can stay, especially with a hot tub included. If you’re okay with some wear and tear, it’s a good value for the price.

BS
Bart S Jan 15, 2026
8.0

Decent room, but a bit cold. Room was clean enough, but not perfect. Keeping in mind the price its actually a great value for your money! A few spots to eat around but about 5 mins by car or a 20 minute walk downtown there were some great places as well. Super friendly staff- has to be said

Location & neighborhood

Where you'll find Circle R Motel

Salida, Colorado, USA

This simple, retro 1950s-style motel is 1.6 miles from rafting and kayaking at Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area and 0.5 miles from the Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center.

  • Salida Chaffee Shuttle at 52 Jones Ave EB 8 min Walk
  • Gunnison–Crested Butte Regional Airport 1 hr 15 Car · 1 hr 48 Transit
Things to do nearby

Worth the walk or a quick ride

Curated spots travelers usually pair with a stay in Colorado. Distances are rough real-world times, not straight-line.

Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area 62 reviews

Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

307 W Sackett Ave, Salida, CO 81201, United States

4.7 · State Park
Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center 786 reviews

Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center

410 W Rainbow Blvd, Salida, CO 81201, United States

4.4 · Indoor Swimming Pool
Salida Museum 31 reviews

Salida Museum

406 1/2 W Rainbow Blvd, Salida, CO 81201, United States

4.5 · Museum
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