Motel 6 & Century Bowl

Returning from Anaheim, let's exit Highway 99 and rest for a bit at the Motel 6 in Merced. This chain was started in 1962 and this unit was probably one of the first 50 or so. Unlike a modern Motel 6, this one featured an attached restaurant and bar.

After 40 years, the pool area layout hasn't changed much. This veteran lodge now flies under the Super 8 banner but otherwise looks to be a survivor. The very tall Richfield gas station sign remains but now pushes the Vallero brand.

Just down the road, the long-shuttered Century Bowl awaits it's fate. This classic alley used to be a friendly haunt for those seeking a little ten-pin fun, and for now the great sign continues to call out to passers-by. But the fate of this urban relic appears all but certain. Does Merced really need another Walgreens? Perhaps, but it will be sad to see this old palace torn apart and hauled away...leaving one final 'open frame' on the community scorecard.

The Shadow Of Your Smile - Sandpiper Lodge

Now let’s travel about 300 miles north of Anaheim, on good old Highway 99. Here we are in Merced, at the site of that cities newest motel, The Sandpiper. Not sure if the inspiration came from the Burton-Taylor film of the same name or was simply a wistful reference to the beautiful Pacific Ocean which was (and still is) only about 200 miles to the West.

The Sandpiper had rooms for the budget-conscious as well as luxurious suites for those better off. Each room was “…elegantly appointed and magnificently furnished and equipped with individually controlled heat and refrigeration.” There was a “…Bridal Suite, Conference Room, and Background Music”..? Phone RA 3-1034 to reserve your room.


Aahhhh…What a (non) difference 45 years can make. The Sandpiper still stands in most of its original livery, the pool is still heated, the parking lot had some fairly new cars parked in it and business appears to be OK. Only one thing I’m not sure of: do they still have Background Music?