Ramada Inns Approaches 650 Hotels Across the United States

In 1976, Ramada Inns reportedly operated nearly 650 hotel properties, reflecting the continued expansion of the American hospitality company established by Marion W. Isbell and his associates in the 1950s. Headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, Ramada had developed from its early roadside accommodation operations into a nationwide hotel network serving motorists, business travellers, and tourists. Its growth was supported by hotel development and franchising, which enabled the brand to extend its presence across major highways, commercial centres, and urban markets. By the mid-1970s, Ramada was among the established national lodging chains competing for customers throughout the United States. The company's expansion occurred during a period when branded hotels and motor inns had become common features of American travel infrastructure. Ramada offered accommodation across different property sizes and locations, extending beyond its original roadside motel concept. Its reported network of nearly 650 hotels represented substantial growth compared with the approximately 250 properties attributed to the chain in 1970. However, the precise 1976 property count has not been independently confirmed through a contemporary annual report. Ramada continued operating and developing its hotel business in subsequent years, including expansion into international markets.