New Jersey has a reputation for its diners, its parkways, and—for those in the know—its quirky, romantic roadside culture. If you’ve ever driven down Route 1/9 in Woodbridge, you’ve likely seen the sign. It’s hard to miss. The Loop Inn Motel, specifically located in the Avenel section of the township, is basically a landmark for anyone looking for something more adventurous than a sterile Marriott or a budget-friendly Holiday Inn. It isn't trying to be those things. Honestly, it’s leaning into a very specific niche: the "fantasy" getaway.
People talk. They whisper about the champagne-colored tubs or the neon lighting. But what’s the actual deal with the place?
What to Expect at the Loop Inn Motel
Let’s get the vibe right. This isn’t where you stay for a corporate retreat. The Loop Inn Motel is designed for couples, and it’s been that way for decades. When you walk into one of their specialty suites, it feels like you've stepped into a time capsule of 1980s romance, but with updated amenities. We’re talking about heart-shaped tubs. Yes, they actually have them. It sounds like a cliché until you're actually looking at one, and then you realize it’s kind of the whole point of the experience.
The room layouts vary wildly. Some are standard, but most people are there for the suites that feature "The Pool." These aren't just big bathtubs; they are heated, in-room swimming pools. It’s a level of luxury that feels both ridiculous and incredibly fun. You won't find many places in the Tri-State area that offer private pools inside the actual bedroom. It’s a logistical nightmare for most hotels, but the Loop Inn has made it their signature move.
The mirrors. Oh, the mirrors. They are everywhere. On the walls, sometimes on the ceilings. It’s part of the aesthetic. If you're looking for a minimalist, "Scandi-chic" Airbnb, you are going to be very, very disappointed. This is Jersey maximalism at its finest.
Location and Accessibility
Avenel is a funny little spot. You’re close to the Rahway border, right off the main drag. It’s convenient. If you’re coming from New York City, you’re looking at maybe a 40-minute drive depending on how much of a mess the Lincoln Tunnel is that day. It’s tucked away behind some commercial industrial areas, which gives it a sense of privacy. You aren't right on the sidewalk. You pull in, you park, and you’re basically in your own little world.
Nearby, you’ve got the Woodbridge Center mall if you need to buy a last-minute outfit, and plenty of local spots like Jose Tejas for a loud, high-energy dinner before you retreat to the motel. It’s a weirdly perfect ecosystem for a weekend staycation.
🔗 Read more: Why the Map of Colorado USA Is Way More Complicated Than a Simple Rectangle
Is the Loop Inn Motel Clean?
This is the number one question everyone asks. Let’s be real. When people think of motels with hourly rates or fantasy themes, their brains go straight to "grimy."
However, the Loop Inn generally maintains a surprisingly solid reputation for cleanliness compared to its peers. Management knows that in the age of Google Reviews and TikTok tours, one bad photo of a stained carpet can tank a business. They’ve invested in keeping the water systems for those in-room pools filtered and the linens crisp. Does it feel "brand new"? No. It feels like a well-maintained property that has seen a lot of history.
You might see some wear and tear on the furniture. Maybe a chip in the tile or a remote control that’s seen better days. But the core stuff—the tubs, the pools, the beds—usually gets high marks from guests who go in with realistic expectations. It’s a motel. It’s not the Four Seasons. Adjust your lens accordingly.
The Famous Amenities (And the Odd Ones)
Most motels give you a tiny bar of soap and a scratchy towel. Here, it’s about the experience.
- In-Room Heated Pools: This is the heavy hitter. They are deep enough to actually swim in, not just soak.
- Heart-Shaped Whirlpools: These are classic. They often come with mood lighting that you can adjust to various neon hues.
- Fireplaces: A lot of the suites have electric or gas fireplaces. It adds a layer of "cozy" to the "kitsch."
- Saunas: Some of the higher-end suites actually have private saunas.
It’s worth noting that they offer different "tiers" of rooms. If you book the basic room, you’re getting a pretty standard motel experience with maybe a slightly nicer bed. You have to go for the suites to see why this place has stayed in business for so long while other roadside motels have turned into long-term housing or been demolished.
Pricing and Booking Realities
It isn't cheap. That’s the catch. You might think "motel" means $80 a night. For the pool suites at the Loop Inn Motel, you could easily spend $300 to $500 depending on the night of the week and the season. They also do "short stays"—usually 4 to 8 hours. This is a common practice in this industry, catering to couples who just want a few hours of privacy away from kids or roommates.
💡 You might also like: Bryce Canyon National Park: What People Actually Get Wrong About the Hoodoos
You can’t always book these online through the usual sites like Expedia or Booking.com. Sometimes you have to go through their direct portal or even call. It’s a bit old-school, but it works.
Why People Still Love These "Adult" Motels
There’s a certain nostalgia at play. In the 1960s and 70s, "honeymoon resorts" in the Poconos were the peak of romance. New Jersey had its own version of this with places like the Loop Inn and its sister properties. While most of the country transitioned to boring, beige hotel chains, these places survived because they offer something you can't get at a Hilton.
It’s about escapism.
When you’re inside a room with a fireplace, a private pool, and no windows looking out onto a parking lot, you could be anywhere. You could be in Vegas. You could be in 1975. You’re definitely not in Avenel anymore. That’s the draw. It’s a "destination" that doesn’t require a flight.
The Competition
New Jersey used to have more of these. The Gallery in South Amboy was another big name, but the Loop Inn has outlasted many of its rivals by staying relatively modern. They’ve updated the TVs. They’ve improved the lighting. They understand that even if the theme is retro, the technology shouldn't be.
Common Misconceptions
People think these places are "sketchy."
📖 Related: Getting to Burning Man: What You Actually Need to Know About the Journey
Honestly? Most of the people you see in the lobby are just normal couples. You’ll see young people on a budget who want a "cool" Instagram background, and you’ll see older couples who have been coming here for twenty years to celebrate an anniversary. It’s a mix. The staff is usually pretty professional and used to the "no-questions-asked" nature of the business.
One thing to keep in mind: the walls aren't always soundproof. It’s a motel. Sound travels. If you’re looking for total, tomb-like silence, you might have a tough time if the neighbors are having a particularly loud celebration in their pool.
Practical Advice for Your Visit
If you're actually planning to head down to the Loop Inn Motel, don't just wing it.
- Book the Suite: If you get a standard room, you're missing the point. Spend the extra money for the pool or the large whirlpool.
- Check the Water: When you get in, run the jets in the tub immediately. If there's any issue, call the front desk right then. Don't wait three hours.
- Bring Your Own Entertainment: While they have TVs, the Wi-Fi can be hit or miss. If you're planning a movie night in the tub, download it beforehand.
- Food Delivery: Most local places will deliver right to the door. It’s way better than trying to find a "nice" restaurant nearby while you're in your bathrobe.
The Reality of the "Jersey Motel" Scene
New Jersey’s land value is skyrocketing. A lot of these older motels are being sold off to developers who want to build warehouses or luxury apartments. The fact that the Loop Inn is still standing and thriving tells you there’s a massive demand for this kind of "kitsch" luxury. It’s a weird, wonderful part of the state’s identity.
It’s not for everyone. Some people will find it tacky. Some will find it overpriced. But for those who want a story to tell and a private pool to swim in at 2:00 AM without leaving the room, there really isn't anything else like it.
Your Next Steps
If you’re thinking about booking, call them directly to ask about the specific features of the room you’re eyeing—some pools are larger than others. Always check their "specials" page on their website, as they sometimes run mid-week deals that are significantly cheaper than weekend rates. Lastly, make sure you have a valid ID and a credit card for the deposit; they are strict about the rules to keep the environment controlled and safe for everyone.
Go in with an open mind. Enjoy the neon. Take a dip in the heart-shaped tub. It’s a quintessential New Jersey experience that everyone should try at least once, even if just for the kitsch of it all.
Research Note: Information is based on current regional business listings and guest service standards for the Woodbridge/Avenel area as of 2026. Facility offerings like saunas or specific pool dimensions are subject to maintenance schedules and room-specific availability. Always verify the specific suite "amenity list" during the booking process to ensure the features you want are active.