A collection of welcoming accommodations
Seeking to provide our readers with a pleasurable and unique riding experience, Thunder Press presents several biker-friendly places of lodging. And while often “biker friendly” actually translates into “motorcycle tolerant,” we believe these establishments have proven themselves to be businesses where you can truly enjoy the chance to plant both your kickstand and your body. Often owned and operated by riders, these lodgings were selected either through personal experience of the Thunder Press staff or the recommendations of other riders.
We have divided the U.S. into four sections that roughly corresponds to North America’s time zones, starting with the Eastern territory. From there, we’ll follow the sun west to the Pacific.
Enjoy your stay!
Colonial Motel—North Conway, New Hampshire
Some of the best motorcycle riding in the entire northeast is the White Mountains in New Hampshire. Most noted is the Kancamagus Highway, a.k.a. “the Kanc.” Located on the White Mountain Highway is the Colonial Motel. The owners pride themselves for having the friendliest, most efficient staff in the area and have even offered riders towels and a makeshift cleaning station to wash down that dirty sled. While the Colonial may be a little light on amenities (other than a pool), the cleanliness and low rates make this a stellar establishment that should not be missed. www.thecolonialmotel.com
Old Clark Inn—Marlinton, West Virginia
“At the Center of it All,” the Old Clark Inn is owned by riders who take special care for their two-wheeled visitors. They offer motorcycle-only parking with security lighting, available bike covers, and a host of amenities including a cleaning station with rags, cleansers and wax, chain lube, air compressor maps of local rides, Internet access, a covered porch and a commons area along with a laundry service to tidy up any nasty road gear. www.oldclarkinn.com/motorcycles
Fireside Cottages—Maggie Valley, North Carolina
Recommended by local riders, the Fireside Cottages are located 1.5 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway that offers some of the finest riding in the Eastern U.S. Toss in the town’s world-renowned Wheels Through Time Museum featuring scores of vintage motorcycles, with the majority up and running, and nearby Pigeon Forge and you have a fantastic base station to launch riding expeditions and complete your bucket list. (The riding through the Asheville area is phenomenal.) Completing the Fireside experience is the Mountaineer Restaurant that offers everything from PB&J to surf and turf. They can even pack you a picnic basket lunch. www.firesidecottage.com
Copperhead Lodge—Blairsville, Georgia
Ideally situated in the mountains of North Georgia, Copperhead Lodge provides easy access to famous motorcycle rides such as the Gauntlet, Tail of the Dragon, the Cherohala Skyway, and Six Gap. Due to its location Copperhead entertains a lot of riders. In the main lodge they offer 11 rooms along with a bunkroom (hostel) for those on a budget. Covered parking for motorcycles is available under the veranda at the lodge as well as a restaurant. Cabins are available throughout the property, most with a garage and private hot tub. Groups are welcome. www.copperheadlodge.com
Key Lime Inn—Key West, Florida
From the mangrove-lined roadways to the turquoise waters, there is no better way to experience the Florida Keys than aboard a motorcycle. And while “Bikers Welcome” signage is present at a lot of lodgings, the Key Lime Inn is synonymous with riders. Shaded motorcycle-only parking allows you to keep your bike right outside the door of your cottage. A free continental breakfast is served poolside each day. Duval Street is within walking distance, as is Sloppy Joe’s and Captain Tony’s, each laying claim that Ernest Hemingway was a frequent customer. www.historickeywestinns.com/key-lime-inn
While this is in no way a comprehensive listing, it does represent some of the best biker-friendly lodging currently available. As is standard with any travel, always check in advance for availability and rates. If you have suggestions or comments about these or other places of lodging you’d recommend, don’t be shy!
