Driving down Route 109 in East Farmingdale, you can’t really miss it. The neon signs. That specific architectural vibe that feels like a time capsule from an era when "motor inns" were the height of roadside convenience.
Most people call it the Hollywood Hotel Farmingdale NY, though if you look at the actual signage or your GPS, it technically goes by the Hollywood Motel. It’s one of those local landmarks that everyone knows, but very few people—at least the ones living in the surrounding Long Island neighborhoods—actually talk about visiting. It sits right near the intersection with the Southern State Parkway, a prime spot for travelers, but also a place shrouded in a bit of suburban mystery and local lore.
The Vibe and the Reality
Honestly, when you step onto the property at 400 NY-109, you aren’t getting the Beverly Hills version of Hollywood. It’s more of a gritty, retro-glam aesthetic. You’ve got rooms with mirrors on the ceilings and large, heart-shaped Jacuzzis. It’s the kind of place that caters to a very specific crowd. Whether it's couples looking for a "staycation" with a bit of kitsch or travelers needing a spot near Republic Airport, the Hollywood has carved out a niche that has kept it in business for decades while other independent motels have folded.
The rooms are a mix of standard accommodations and what they call "Theme Suites." If you're looking for a generic Marriott experience, this isn't it. You're going there for the whirlpool. The Hollywood is famous—or perhaps infamous—for its specialized tubs. It’s a polarizing spot; some people love the nostalgic, "no-tell motel" energy, while others are put off by the lack of modern, corporate polish.
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Why Everyone is Searching for Hollywood Hotel Farmingdale NY
Let’s get into the heavy stuff. Most people aren't searching for this hotel just to book a room for a business trip. In October 2020, the Hollywood Motel made headlines for a tragic reason. Two men were found dead in one of the room's Jacuzzis. This incident sparked a massive amount of online interest and local speculation.
The Suffolk County Police investigated the scene, and while the news was initially jarring, authorities later suggested the deaths did not appear to be criminal. Still, events like that tend to stick to a place’s reputation. When you combine that with a 2017 fire that broke out in a vacant structure on the property, it’s easy to see why the "Hollywood" name carries a bit of weight in Farmingdale.
What You Actually Get for the Price
Despite the headlines, the motel operates 24/7. It is an adults-only establishment, which tells you pretty much everything you need to know about the target demographic. They offer:
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- Whirlpool Suites: The main draw. These aren't your standard bathtubs; they are large, tiled basins designed for two.
- Hourly and Overnight Rates: This is a rarity in the modern hotel industry but a staple of the older motor inn culture on Long Island.
- Convenience: It’s less than five minutes from the Farmingdale LIRR station and literally around the corner from the American Airpower Museum.
The prices fluctuate wildly. During the low season in January, you might find a room for under $180, but on a Saturday night in the middle of summer, those rates can skyrocket. It’s basically a supply-and-demand situation for people who want a private space without the commitment of a major hotel chain.
The Local Perspective
Growing up on Long Island, the Hollywood Motel—along with its spiritual sibling, the Commack Motor Inn—was always the subject of jokes. It’s the place where you go when you don’t want to be seen, or when you want a night that feels like a scene from a B-movie. But there's a certain respect for it, too. In a world where every corner of Farmingdale is being turned into a luxury apartment complex or a generic Starbucks, the Hollywood remains stubbornly itself.
It’s one of the few places left that reflects the 1950s and 60s car culture of New York. The layout, where you can often park right outside your door, is a relic. It's functional. It’s private. It’s unapologetic.
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Navigating Your Stay (If You Actually Go)
If you decide to book a room at the Hollywood Hotel Farmingdale NY, go in with your eyes open. This isn't a 4-star luxury resort in the traditional sense, despite what some booking sites might claim in their automated descriptions.
- Check the Room First: Like many older motels, quality can vary from room to room. Ask to see the space before you finalize the payment.
- Bring Your Own Entertainment: While they have flat-screen TVs and some basic streaming services, don't expect a high-tech hub.
- Explore the Area: Farmingdale’s Main Street is actually fantastic. You’ve got spots like The Library or Croxley’s for great food and drinks, which are way better than anything you'll find in a vending machine at the motel.
- Transport: If you don't have a car, Uber and Lyft are very active in this area. Don't try to walk across Route 109; it's a highway, and people drive like they're in a qualifying lap at nearby Riverhead Raceway.
The Hollywood Hotel Farmingdale NY is a piece of Long Island history that refuses to quit. It’s seen fires, police investigations, and decades of changing social norms, yet the neon stays on. Whether it’s a local "shh-don't-tell" spot or just a convenient place to crash after a flight into Republic, it remains one of the most talked-about addresses in the 11735 zip code.
Actionable Insights for Travelers
If you are planning to stay at or visit the Hollywood Motel, ensure you call ahead directly at 631-694-7100 to confirm current rates, as third-party sites often list outdated pricing. Always verify the check-in time, which typically starts later in the day (around 6:00 PM) compared to standard hotels. For those interested in the area's history, a visit to the American Airpower Museum nearby provides a great daytime activity before heading back to the neon lights of the Hollywood.