Route 66 Neon Renaissance: Restoring the Historic Skyliner Motel in Stroud, OK

Route 66 Neon Renaissance: Restoring the Historic Skyliner Motel in Stroud, OK

Author: Harley Covington and Brett Manzer June 1, 2026 Duration: 34:09

Stroud, Oklahoma is experiencing a massive neon renaissance! Thanks to the town's "Neon on Main" project, over 45 custom vintage signs are lighting up the corridor. In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we dive into the crown jewel of this glowing history: the spectacular revival of the historic Skyliner Motel.

Originally opened in the late 1950s by Jack and Lorene Tarter, this quintessential Route 66 motor court eventually went dark. Enter new owners Charles Palmer and Cody Paige. In 2025, they took the property down to the studs, fully upgrading the infrastructure while completely restoring the iconic, original turquoise-and-red neon sign.

If you love Mother Road history but hate outdated, musty rooms, the Skyliner Motel gives you the best of both worlds. Tune in to find out what it's like to stay there today, what travelers are saying, and where to explore in Stroud!

Inside the Episode:

  • The Neon Renaissance: How Stroud is bringing back the classic glow of Route 66.

  • Modern Retro Stay: What to expect inside this 10-room boutique motor court (including contactless 24-hour entry, killer showers, and crisp AC).

  • Perks & Accommodation Details: Room setups (Comfort Single, Deluxe Single, Comfort Double), free Wi-Fi, and morning coffee. (Note: Leave the furry friends at home—this property is not dog-friendly).

  • Where to Eat & Explore: We map out your walking-distance itinerary, featuring a pro-tip for saving money at a historic local diner!

Listener Pro-Tip! 🍽️

The Skyliner Motel is just a 0.4-mile walk from the historic 1939 Rock Cafe. Show your Skyliner Motel receipt at the Rock Cafe to get 10% off your meal! You can also grab breakfast right across the street at the local donut shop or stroll over to Gathering Grounds Coffee.

Local Attractions Mentioned:

  • Route 66 Spirit of America Museum (0.5 miles away)

  • Ed Smalley Centennial Park & the Route 66 Centennial Monument

Plan Your Stay:

  • Location: 717 W. Main Street, Stroud, OK

  • Phone: (918) 290-0637

  • Book Direct: skylinermotel.com

Also discussed: Enid Street Outreach Services - Agape House Berry Farm – KOCO - Blue Whale Park - RENDEZVOUS PIZZA - Missy's Donuts & Bakery

#Route66 #OnlyInOK #SkylinerMotel #StroudOK #NeonOnMain #OklahomaTourism #TravelOK #ExploreOklahoma #VintageNeon #MotorCourt #Route66Centennial #HistoricPreservation #OkieTravels #RoadTripUSA


Hosts Harley Covington and Brett Manzer invite you to join them on the Only in Oklahoma Show, a podcast dedicated to uncovering the genuine character of the state. This isn't a typical travel guide; it's a series of conversations and explorations focused on the unique people, local spots, and compelling narratives that collectively define Oklahoma's identity. Each episode moves beyond the stereotypes to reveal why the state is a profoundly underrated destination, even to many who live there. You'll hear from community pillars, creative minds, and keepers of history whose stories are woven into the landscape. The podcast digs into the cultural and societal layers that make a place feel like home, covering everything from hidden roadside attractions and regional cuisine to contemporary issues shaping local towns. It’s an audio tour driven by curiosity and a desire to showcase that Oklahoma is far more than just "OK." Tune in for an authentic and engaging perspective that might just change how you see this part of the country, all delivered by the award-winning team behind the microphone.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 50

Only in OKlahoma Show
Podcast Episodes
The 100-Square-Foot Mistake & Oklahoma's Most Adorable Small Towns [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:39
Is it a National Park or a clerical error? In this episode of the Only in OK Show, Brett and Harley dive into the hilarious history of Guthrie's "smallest National Park" and explores the most charming small towns across…
Forget Big Bend! 🌵 Discover Oklahoma's Secret Desert Wilderness [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 50:33
Is Oklahoma hiding a massive desert adventure? 🦬🏜️ In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we're skipping the 8-hour drive to Texas and heading straight to the Charon Gardens Wilderness Area in the Wichita Mountains. If…
Shawnee's Painted Horses [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:37
In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we're exploring the "public art gallery without walls" in Shawnee, Oklahoma. Discover the story behind the Painted Horses, a collection of nearly 40 life-sized fiberglass masterpie…
Chasing Stars at Black Mesa & The Future of Tinker AFB [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:51
Discover the "Gold Standard" of the Great Plains. In this episode of the Only in OK Show, Brett and Harley take you to the furthest corner of the Panhandle to celebrate a historic milestone: Black Mesa State Park has off…
The Christmas Extravaganza [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:46
In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we discuss our plans for Christmas this year. We also give a festive review of Ralphie's in downtown Chickasha, located in the historic El Chedos/The Outpost building. Highlights o…
🎄 Oklahoma Christmas Guide: Traditions, Lights, & Festive Fun! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:00:26
Welcome to "The Only in OK Show" definitive guide to Christmas time in Oklahoma! Hosts Brett and Harley take you on a festive journey through the Sooner State's unique holiday customs, events, and traditions. What Makes…