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2-star hotel

Foothills Retro-Modern Motel

Stay at Foothills Retro-Modern Motel in Auburn, CA. Enjoy free parking, premium cable, on-site bar, bowling, and proximity to downtown and local parks.

13431 Bowman Rd, Auburn, CA 95603, United States View on map
9/10
Exceptional Based on 561 recent guest reviews
Free Wi-Fi Free parking Accessible Outdoor pool Air-conditioned
What recent guests emphasize

Comfortable retro-modern stay with friendly service

Visitors consistently highlight the motel's clean, updated rooms with a charming vintage style, along with attentive staff and welcoming atmosphere. Its location near Auburn attractions and pet-friendly policy also stand out.

Guests often praise

  • Clean, recently renovated rooms featuring comfortable beds and modern amenities.
  • Friendly, helpful staff providing local tips and exceptional customer service.
  • Inviting retro aesthetic blending vintage charm with contemporary comfort.
  • Pet-friendly accommodations allowing guests to bring their dogs.
  • Convenient location close to dining options, local parks, and historic Auburn.

Worth knowing

  • Rooms may occasionally have a mild musty smell typical of older buildings, but ventilation helps.
  • Availability can be limited, especially during peak times or unexpected delays on nearby roads.
  • The property offers basic motel accommodations with some unique amenities like an on-site bar, bowling alley, and pool.
  • Parking is free and included with the stay, adding to the convenience for travelers.

Best for

  • Travelers seeking a stylish, retro-inspired motel with modern comforts.
  • LGBTQ+ friendly guests looking for an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Visitors who want easy access to outdoor activities and local historic sites.
  • Pet owners wanting accommodations that warmly welcome their dogs.
  • Guests interested in a relaxed, budget-friendly stay with added entertainment options nearby.
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About this property

Welcome to Foothills Retro-Modern Motel

Foothills Retro-Modern Motel offers a blend of mid-20th century charm and contemporary comfort in Auburn, California. Situated just off Interstate 80 and a short 2.7 miles from downtown Auburn, the property attracts visitors seeking an accessible base near local attractions. The motel features a retro-themed design combined with recently updated interiors, praised by guests for its cleanliness, comfortable beds, and distinctive vintage details such as mini Coca-Cola fridges and a stylish shower setup.

The accommodation includes basic but well-maintained rooms equipped with premium cable and modern amenities. Complimentary parking and morning snacks add convenience, while on-site entertainment options like a bar, bowling alley, and pool provide additional leisure opportunities. The motel is also LGBTQ+ friendly, welcoming a diverse range of guests.

Guest feedback highlights a quiet, inviting atmosphere with staff noted for their helpfulness and professionalism. While most reviewers appreciate the updated look and comfort, some mention a musty odor in rooms, which is attributed to the property's age but reportedly dissipates with ventilation. Pet-friendly policies are welcomed by those traveling with dogs.

The location serves well for exploring nearby points of interest such as Auburn State Recreation Area Ranger Station, Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, and Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park. Sacramento International Airport is accessible within a 44-minute drive, making the motel a practical choice for travelers. Several other motels are located nearby, but Foothills Retro-Modern Motel stands out for its unique aesthetic and a more personalized atmosphere.

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
Outdoor pool
Air-conditioned
Pet-friendly
Bar
Smoke-free

Not available at this property

Breakfast
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.

CM
Christina Marie Apr 09, 2026
10

Stayed for the first time recently and it was truly wonderful. The room was clean, modern and the beds were very comfortable with plenty of soft pillows! The in-room Keurig was a nice touch as well. The motel itself was nicely updated, quiet and overall very quaint. Loved that our dog was welcome too! All in all we thoroughly enjoyed our stay and will most definitely be back. Highly recommend 10/10! :)

AL
Angela Larkins Apr 06, 2026
10

I stayed here twice when I was traveling back and forth between Auburn and the Bay Area and this was the most coziest nicest place I have ever stayed in Auburn. The staff were very friendly, professional and very helpful with places to eat and parks to visit, I can’t remember the managers name at the time but he was especially helpful with directing me to one delicious restaurant right down the road which is Maria’s restaurant. The rooms were very clean and the bed was firm but comfortable. Most importantly, I felt safe and slept great!!! I loved the retro details like the mini Coca-Cola fridges and cups and the spa like shower with lighted mirrors. If I ever get a chance to visit Auburn again, I am staying here.

JM
Jim Mertz Feb 16, 2026
10

We were unable to use I-80 due to a snow closure and were looking for lodging at the last minute. Foothills Retro Motel showed a vacancy on a lodging app but when we arrived the "No Vacancy" sign was lit. The front desk staff asked that I try to book the room via the app. By that time it showed no rooms available. The two desk employees did some searching, including talking with housekeeping as well as physically going to a room to see if it was available - all in pouring rain. Luckily, there was a room and we happily stayed there. The room itself was very nice. Updated in a retro look, and immaculately maintained. We can't say enough positives for the employees who helped us out during this unplanned stay.

LH
Lea Hoeke Feb 12, 2026
10

This place is truly a hidden gem. My fiancé and I live in Folsom and we wanted to get away for a night or two and we stumbled up on Foothills Motel. It is super cute, recently renovated, super cheap, clean and the bowling alley is right down the walking path. Historic Auburn is only 2 miles away. We will definitely be back. Happy New Year!

LS
Lisa Slinkard Jan 31, 2026
10

Super cute retro motel, rooms are nice. Within walking distance of good food, a bowling alley and a really cool metaphysical shop. My only con - the room had a musty smell, not horrible and cleared up when I opened the back door. It should be expected though, this place has been around since the 50s.

BW
Blaine Wasylkiw Jan 25, 2026
10

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Foothills Motel in Auburn absolutely lives up to the hype. I’ve been wanting to stay here ever since I discovered their Instagram account about two years ago, and I can confidently say, it did not disappoint in the slightest. The retro aesthetic is incredible. It has that perfect vintage roadside charm, but with a modern, fresh, recently renovated feel that is very well done. The rooms are big, warm, clean, and super comfortable. I loved everything about the design, from the spacious layout to the stylish finishes. The bathroom and shower are huge, the bed is incredibly comfy, and the large TV and private patio really made it feel like a boutique stay rather than a typical motel. The staff was genuinely friendly and welcoming, and the location is excellent. You’re within walking distance of great food and drinks, including The Lounge at Foothill Bowl, which was such a fun spot. The 10 percent discount I got there thanks to staying at Foothills Motel was a really nice perk. There are also great nearby options for Japanese, Mexican, and Beach Hut Deli, so you’re set for whatever you’re craving. One of my favorite parts was the exterior. The property is beautifully designed, and at night it lights up in such a cool, classic way that it’s worth taking a walk around just to admire it. If you love retro style, comfort, and friendly local hospitality, Foothills Motel is a must stay in Auburn. I’ll absolutely be back.

MB
Markus Burns Jan 03, 2026
10

Stayed here twice so far. First off, the rooms are recently renovated and clean. Far better than other hotels in the Auburn area and way more comfortable. We love the dog friendly accommodations that are offered. The property is well maintained, quite, and makes for a relaxing evening after a long day. You won’t find better value on 80 and often make this our home base for skiing. What a hidden gem!

MD
Marissa Davis Jan 03, 2026
10

Had the best time at this adorable motel! Love the classic feel on the grounds and in the rooms, love that you can take pets. The perfect little place for a simple get away. Staff was super kind as well.

Location & neighborhood

Where you'll find Foothills Retro-Modern Motel

Auburn, California, USA

This 1940s retro motel just off Interstate 80 is 2.7 miles from downtown Auburn.

  • Auburn 52 min Walk
  • Luther / Garth 8 min Walk
  • Auburn Crossings 9 min Walk
  • Sacramento International Airport 44 min Car · 3 hr 2 Transit
Things to do nearby

Worth the walk or a quick ride

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

Auburn State Recreation Area Ranger Station 200 reviews

Auburn State Recreation Area Ranger Station

501 El Dorado St, Auburn, CA 95603, United States

4.8 · Forestry Office
Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park 2,094 reviews

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park

310 Back St, Coloma, CA 95613, United States

4.7 · State Park
Folsom Lake State Recreation Area 5,652 reviews

Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

7755 Folsom-Auburn Rd, Folsom, CA 95630, United States

4.6 · State Park
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