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Roadrunner Lodge

1023 E Route 66, Tucumcari, NM
Phone:

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The former Leatherwood Manor and adjacent LaPlaza Motel eventually became the Royal Inn which had closed by 2012. In 2014 the property was sold again and the name was changed to Roadrunner Lodge and an extensive rehabilitation was started that allowed the motel to reopen. Originally this was two separate motels that were built about twenty years apart.

This photo shows the 1940s La Plaza Court wing of the combined motels, note that it was still displaying the Royal Inn sign in 2012, . The 1940s La Plaza originally featured 15 rooms with attached garages. The garages were later converted to guest rooms. The mid-1960s Leatherwood Manor is a two story building. The La Plaza was listed in the 1952 edition of the Green Book guide for Black travelers.

When the two properties where combined the roofline of the newer motel was extended over the lobby of the older La Plaza Motel. The LaPlaza Motel lobby was then converted into guest rooms. I don't yet know when the motels were combined, but an early 1970s postcard shows it hadn't happened yet.

It's hard to miss the large Roadrunner Lodge sign while cruising down Tucumcari Blvd.

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Vintage Advertising Highlights

THE LA PLAZA COURT consists of 12 cabins, completely modern. Radios are in each cabin for you listening pleasure. All cabins are heated by Panel Ray heat and have garage accommodations. The nights are always cool. Enjoy the beautiful view from the lawn of your cabin of the historical Tucumcari Mountain. Excellent food may be had directly across the road. Truly a home away from home. On Highway 66 in Tucumcari, New Mexico.

Note: The La Plaza Court postcard shows the garages between rooms.
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Photo(s): 2012, 2015