We’re your hidden gem of a neighbor.
Our historic and revived motel sits just south of downtown Columbus. Located in historic German Village, when you stay with us you are steps away from the best local bars, restaurants, and businesses in the area. Check out our neighborhood page to learn more about the area.
Motel Amenities Include:
Free on-site parking
Contactless check-in
complimentary wifi
Outdoor seating area
EV charging ports
Dog-friendly (select rooms)
We’re sustainably powered
Most of our electricity comes from the beautiful Ohio sunshine, thanks to the solar panels we installed on our roof. We’re proud that our vintage building has new, energy efficient HVAC, doors and windows, and low-VOC furniture coatings and paint. Our operations are sustainable and as eco-friendly as possible.
History
motels in america
Mid-century Americans embraced a long drive. Whether they were journalists on assignment, musicians on tour, or families on vacation, folks weren’t afraid of the open road. All they needed was a place to rest along the way. Enter motels.
The blinking neon lights of motel signs told drivers everything they needed to know: Vacancy. Low rates. Color TVs. Motels checked all the boxes — a clean bed, a warm shower, and a loaded vending machine. Passersby knew exactly what to expect, and took pride in the places they stayed and the people they met throughout their adventures. Motels were quintessentially American. And now they’re making a comeback.
the south wind motel
Designed by prominent local architect Harold Schofield, the South Wind Motel opened its doors in 1959 advertising modern amenities like 21-inch color TVs, wall-to-wall carpeting, and a continental breakfast. Its original owner was Benny Newpoff, an avid golfer who beat Jack Nicklaus at a pro-am qualifier that same year.
revived and reimagined
In the 1990’s and early 2000’s, the South Wind Motel was worn down and tired. After purchasing the motel in 2021 and spending over a year on top-to-bottom renovations, the Kelley family re-opened the South Wind Motel in early 2022.
Determined to celebrate and preserve the independent American roadside motel, the Kelleys opted to forego any affiliation with a national chain. The Kelleys have deep roots in German Village: their great grandparents immigrated to this neighborhood from Germany, their grandparents lived and worked here, and their relatives own and operate Plank’s Bier Garten across the street.