31. The Blue Swallow Motel

Perhaps one of the most popular motels along Route 66, The Blue Swallow Motel has been in operation since 1941 and still provides patrons with private garages for their vehicles.  Originally received as a wedding gift from her fiance, Lillian Redman ran the motel for over 40 years before stepping back from the hospitality business in her late 80's.  Since that time, there have been other owners, but Kevin and Nancy Mueller have maintained the true character of The Blue Swallow since 2011 that would have made Lillian proud. Named by Smithsonian Magazine as "the last, best and friendliest of the old-time motels", The Blue Swallow Motel has caught the attention of everyone from Pixar films to Bob Dylan.   Featured in the classic movie Cars, The Blue Swallow's neon is a wink in the movie to The Cozy Cone Motel, which displays in neon, "100% Refrigerated Air" slogan. Join The Route 66 Podcast host Anthony Arno as he talks with Kevin Mueller about maintaining and operating one of the most popular destinations along the Road.  The episode features talks about: Kevin and his wife looking for a semi-retirmement career along Route 66 What the Mueller's didn't know about Route 66 and The Blue Swallow Motel Truly understanding the appeal of The Blue Swallow  Transitioning from a corporate executive to managing an iconic Route 66 establishment Behind the scenes renovations at The Blue Swallow What the Mueller's wish they knew before taking over The Blue Swallow A typical day at the motel The life of Lillian Redman, early proprieor of The Blue Swallow (1958)