My wife and I are thinking about going cross-country. I'm tired of those big chain hotels. Is there a book or website that can show the smaller drive-up motels?
I second reading TripAdvisor reviews. You will have to analyze the comments in your own mind and make your own conclusion but most of the time they are pretty accurate. I would also suggest you look into bed and breakfast type properties. They may be time limiting as breakfast is usually only served for a few hours in the morning but can be very comfortable and interesting.