Horseshoe Bend Motel unveils new sign as part of vintage vacation experience

By: 
Garrett Randolph

The Horseshoe Bend Motel in Lovell recently unveiled its updated sign, a beautifully restored version of the original 1973 design. The new sign is just one part of owner Bobbi McJunkin’s broader efforts to create a unique vintage vacation experience for guests, while also preserving the historical charm of the motel.

McJunkin, who took over managing the motel five years ago, has worked to balance the property’s retro character with modern upgrades. Her journey to Lovell began when she moved to be closer to her father and help him run the motel.

“I moved to Lovell a few years ago to help my dad with the motel and be closer to him,” McJunkin said. “I had an opportunity to restart a business and be closer to my family. I am extremely blessed to be a part of this community.”

The sign’s design was chosen to retain the motel’s original feel, offering a nod to the past while attracting a new generation of travelers who appreciate retro charm.

McJunkin explained that the restoration is part of a larger effort to transform the motel into a true vacation experience. The motel now features a charming garden area and pergola seating where guests can enjoy picnics and relax outdoors.

Inside, 75% of the rooms have already been remodeled, with plans to finish the remaining 25%, which includes updates to 10 bathrooms.

“We are working toward the motel being a vintage vacation experience,” McJunkin said. “The outdoor silo area is an incredible project I’m hoping to start soon. We are also working on finishing the parking lot, which is currently under development.”

The outdoor silo project, set to feature food trucks and additional guest spaces, is part of McJunkin’s plan to partner with local businesses, including Miller Fabrication and Pryor Mountain Electric, to bring the vision to life. These partnerships highlight McJunkin’s commitment to involving the Lovell community in the motel’s growth.

A significant boost to these efforts came from the Main Street America and American Express Backing Small Business grant, which helped fund not only the sign restoration but also other essential upgrades.

“The sign has been restored to the original 1973 version. We wanted to keep it as historical as possible with a vintage vibe,” McJunkin said.

The grant allowed the motel to run electricity to the new silo area, update linens and begin work on projects that will further enhance the guest experience.

“Lovell is a charming throwback to times gone by,” McJunkin said, adding, “We are so lucky to have places like the Hyart Theatre and Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area. It has a heart not found in every community. I hope that as new businesses come, we as a community maintain the historic heritage laid before us while growing and prospering.”

McJunkin is passionate about keeping Lovell’s small-town values alive as the town continues to evolve. She believes that even as new businesses arrive, it’s important to stay rooted in the history and traditions that make Lovell special. By restoring the sign and continuing to modernize the motel, McJunkin is contributing to Lovell’s growth while preserving its unique character. She also expresses deep appreciation for the support she’s received from the local community.

“The Lovell community has been so generous in their support of our little motel. Whether it’s hosting their workers and families or helping us with the amazing services they offer, it means everything when you’re starting out,” she said.

McJunkin is looking forward to completing the remaining renovations at the Horseshoe Bend Motel, with plans to finish the parking lot and add more amenities for guests. She also hopes to continue working closely with other local businesses, ensuring that the motel remains a community focused enterprise.

McJunkin is exploring new interests like riding a Harley and spending more time outdoors. Family remains a priority for her, and she hopes to spend more time with her children, both of whom have started new businesses of their own.

As she looks ahead to the future of the motel and Lovell, McJunkin is excited about the possibilities, both for her business and the community as a whole. She encourages others to support local businesses as Lovell continues to grow.

“I wish for all the new businesses that come that they receive that same excitement and support,” McJunkin said.

 

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