Built in 1966, the East Ridge complex was a motorist's welcome station to the Volunteer State! It featured a classic design with 90 guest rooms situated in two-story guest buildings and included an on site beauty parlor.

The Motor Lodge last flew the Howard Johnson's banner in 1987, and by that time its Restaurant had either been torn down or converted into a Bob Evans. Subsequently the Motor Lodge operated as Hospitality Inns of America. By 2002 just an empty field and the ghost sign remained.