Review: Pioneertown Motel

How did it strike you on arrival?
It's a rustic Western motel originally built in the 1940s by Roy Rogers that's been done up with all the amenities a city slicker could want.

What’s the crowd like?
It's a ragtag bunch of Southwestern enthusiasts looking to cut loose and have a good time.

The good stuff: Tell us about the rooms.
Vaulted ceilings with exposed beams make the cozy rooms, which are adorned with adorable Western elements such as cowhide rugs, Pendleton throw pillows, and Mexican blankets, seem more spacious.

We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?
Beds are comfy, but admittedly aren't as luscious as what you'd find at a five star resort. You'll be so tuckered out from hiking the nearby nature reserves though that you'll still sleep like a log.

How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that worth a mention?
Will they allows us back if we swipe one of the Pendleton throw pillows? We sure hope so.

Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.
Though the bathrooms are pared back, they're still leaps and bounds better than a campout.

Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?
No Wi-Fi, but you're in the desert to detach, right? Right?

What do they have for food and drink?
There's no room service, but there's complimentary coffee and pastries at the front desk, and of course plenty of great eats at Pappy & Harriet's next door.

Staff: If you could award one a trophy, who gets it, and why?
Full credit goes to the folks who decided to restore this totally hip Western property. It's truly a gem and a slice of SoCal history.

Anything stand out about other services and features?
Look, there's no spa or gym, but what you're here for is the serenity of the desert, and you get a double dose of that.

What was most memorable about your stay?
Getting to feel like a real cowgirl without leaving the creature comforts of the city behind.

Bottom line: worth it, and why?
The proximity to the stellar music at Pappy & Harriets and the desertscape alone are worth it, but if that doesn't seal the deal, it's the quiet time amongst the landscape, and the epic sunsets, that will.