The Star Lite Motel is a historic motel in Dilworth, Minnesota. It is one of the oldest buildings in Dilworth, and the oldest motel in Clay County. Earlier it was known as Charley's Motel. A previous owner created the neon sign that is regarded as the motel's most noteworthy feature.

Architecture

The motel is blue, L-shaped, and in a specific 1950s motel architecture style, with a red neon sign on the end of the building by the road. The sign's architectural style was recognized as historic by numerous 1950s motel historians and passersby. The motel is a single-story edifice surrounded by a large parking lot and empty fields.

History

Vivian Tang bought the Star Lite (formerly Charley's Motel) building in 1959 and operated it until the current owner, William Donovan, bought it. The motel was built in 1960. The motel was permanently closed in 2021. William and Rozeana were retired and moved to Moorhead. A large section of the motel has since been razed although the neon sign and a few rooms nearest to the office were kept.