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Motel Check-in 15:00 · Check-out 11:00

The Shady Dell

Stay at The Shady Dell Motel, Bisbee, AZ. Rated 4.6 from 351 reviews. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking, close to Queen Mine Tour and historic attractions.

1 Old Douglas Rd, Bisbee, AZ 85603, United States View on map
9.2/10
Exceptional Based on 357 recent guest reviews
Free Wi-Fi Free parking
What recent guests emphasize

Unique vintage charm with attentive service

Guests highlight a nostalgic experience staying in well-maintained vintage trailers, accompanied by friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a memorable visit for those seeking something different in Bisbee.

Guests often praise

  • Authentic vintage trailers and unique accommodations, including classic cars and a 1947 yacht.
  • Friendly, helpful, and responsive staff, especially appreciated for prompt problem resolution.
  • Inviting outdoor spaces with firepits and relaxing seating that enhance the retro vibe.
  • Excellent food and service at the adjacent Dot’s Diner, praised for breakfast and occasional special dinners.
  • A lively and welcoming social atmosphere, including live local music and communal spaces.

Worth knowing

  • Accommodations reflect their original mid-20th-century design, so luxury amenities are limited.
  • No pool or fitness center available on-site; amenities focus on a quaint, nostalgic experience.
  • Outdoor furniture in some units may need maintenance, though overall stays are described as comfortable.
  • Fully booked weekends are common, so advanced reservations are recommended.
  • Location close to local attractions and within walking distance of Lowell’s Main Street area.

Best for

  • Travelers who appreciate retro or vintage aesthetics and a step back in time.
  • Visitors looking for a unique lodging experience beyond typical hotels or motels.
  • Guests interested in exploring Bisbee’s local culture, history, and nearby attractions.
  • Couples or solo travelers seeking a cozy and quirky overnight stay with character.
  • Those who enjoy social gatherings, local music, and an inviting community atmosphere.
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About this property

Welcome to The Shady Dell

The Shady Dell is a distinctive motel situated at 1 Old Douglas Rd in Bisbee, Arizona. It offers a unique lodging experience through a collection of vintage trailers and a 1947 yacht, all permanently parked across sprawling grounds. Guests looking for a nostalgic stay will find the setting appealing, with many trailers featuring outdoor seating areas reminiscent of a bygone era. The property embraces its retro character rather than modern luxury, which aligns with guest comments praising a well-maintained but simple atmosphere.

Facilities include complimentary Wi-Fi and free parking, though there is no pool or fitness center on site. The motel operates a straightforward check-in time of 3 PM and check-out at 11 AM. Adjacent to the property is Dot’s Diner, a local eatery highly rated by visitors, offering convenient dining options that complement the motel’s laid-back vibe. Several guests highlight the friendly and helpful staff, contributing to a welcoming environment despite the modest amenities.

Located in Bisbee, the motel is well placed for exploring nearby attractions such as the Queen Mine Tour, offering immersive underground history, and the Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum. Visitors interested in local culture also often take the Old Bisbee Ghost Tour. The Shady Dell’s setting suits travelers focused on sightseeing, recreation, or experiencing the town’s charm rather than those seeking upscale accommodations.

With a strong 4.6 rating from 351 reviews, the property receives consistent praise for its atmosphere and character. However, some guests note the vintage trailers maintain their original features, so those expecting modern conveniences might find the experience basic. This motel is ideal for visitors seeking something different, a step back in time, and a cozy place to stay while exploring Bisbee and its surroundings.

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

Not available at this property

Pool
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.

JHC
John Hornick Chef’s Apprentice Mar 29, 2026
10

Someone in Lowell told us to check this place out, just across the road from the end of Lowell’s Main Street, just past the police station. What a discovery, which I call AirstreamBnB! Spread across a couple of acres are around 20 vintage, permanently parked trailers, all of which are available for overnight rental, and some of which have vintage cars parked outside. If you look up the word “quaint” in the dictionary, you should see a photo of this place. The trailers are named for their brand, such as “Royal Spartanette” and “1947 Airfloat,” and there’s even a “1947 Tiki Bus”” and a permanently beached 1947 yacht (why so many from 1947?). Many of the trailers have tables and chairs like your grandparents had, for relaxing outside your temporary non-mobile home, and there’s also a firepit surrounded by Adirondack chairs. Unfortunately, we couldn’t see inside any of the trailers because the place was fully booked on a beautiful March weekend, but a couple of guests said they stay here every year. Lest you think Shady Dell is a recent nostalgic brainstorm that may not last, it has been an overnight destination for over 30 years. On weekends, the adjacent Dot’s Diner is open (see my separate review). We will stay here the next time we visit Bisbee. YouTube’s Chef’s Apprentice

JAV
james austin v Mar 22, 2026
10

Just as cute as the pictures!! We came from Tucson and Seattle for an overnight to facilitate a bike ride in the area, and The Shady Dell was off the Charm-o-meter scale. Loved the vintage cars and variety of trailers (and a boat!). I'll be back again for sure.

JB
Jason B. Mar 17, 2026
10

It's a great little trailer park. Remember, the units are from the 50s. So if you're looking for luxury, not your place. Everything is well maintained by Justin. We had a problem on a late arrival, he fixed it right away. That's great service. Everyone at Dots Diner very nice great food and service. We will definitely be back.

DC
Donner Correia Feb 22, 2026
10

Must go to stop if staying in the area! Great atmosphere and staff, trailer was clean and comfy . Had a great breakfast from Dot's Diner and a Great live local Band on Saturday night. Enjoyed meeting locals and travelers like ourselves at The Shady Social Club Gazebo . Definitely a return trip in Maybe the Boat or another choice trailer. Thanks again for a great experience.

NK
Nate Kola Jan 10, 2026
10

Been coming to bisbee for years and finally got to stay at the dells whoot whoot stayed in the yacht. Magical thank you will be back many more times

TH
Tyson Hugie Jan 03, 2026
10

I loved this step back in time. I rented the 1955 Airstream and enjoyed every minute of it. Thanks for the hospitality.

DB
Dean Bloomfield Jan 03, 2026
10

Did a staycation at The Shady Dell in the 1947 Chriscraft boat so awesome and cozy had a wonderful stay. The outside couch on the back deck could sue some help lol. But overall excellent time!!!

TL
Tara Leslie Dec 22, 2025
10

Such a great little spot. They definitely make you feel like you've stepped back in time. Jennifer and her team are incredibly friendly and welcoming. This is our new favorite place to stay when going to bisbee. Great breakfast as well and they do a special dinner every month.

Location & neighborhood

Where you'll find The Shady Dell

Bisbee, Arizona, USA

Based on sightseeing, recreation, and getting around

  • Lowell School 1 min Walk
  • Lowell Plaza 6 min Walk
  • Douglas Rd. at B St. 10 min Walk
  • Tucson International Airport 1 hr 38 Car
Things to do nearby

Worth the walk or a quick ride

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

Queen Mine Tour 4,043 reviews

Queen Mine Tour

478 N Dart Rd, Bisbee, AZ 85603, United States

4.8 · Tourist Attraction
Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum 649 reviews

Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum

5 Copper Queen Plaza, Bisbee, AZ 85603, United States

4.7 · History Museum
Old Bisbee Ghost Tour 178 reviews

Old Bisbee Ghost Tour

5 Copper Queen Plaza, Bisbee, AZ 85603, United States

4.7 · Tourist Attraction
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