If you’re tired of sterile hotel rooms, try something a little more adventurous on your next trip by booking a unique vacation rental instead. Whether you want a city-adjacent treehouse, a shipping-container cabin in the woods, a swank Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece, or a haunted Civil War farmhouse, there are fun and out-of-the-ordinary spaces across the country. Prices and amenities will vary, and some spots are booked for months to come, but one thing is for sure: You’ll be in for an unforgettable stay.
Prices and availability are subject to change.
Related: 22 Coolest Themed Hotel Rooms Around the World
Historic Converted Mill
Salt Point, New York Book It
If you find the sound of rushing water relaxing, try renting this converted 18th century stone mill in upstate New York. It sleeps nine and boasts original stone walls, a wood-burning fireplace and wood stove, and midcentury furnishings. When it’s warm, guests can swim in the nearby waterfall and stream, but beware of critters such as spiders and “the occasional cheeky mouse.”
Restored Vintage Caboose
Lock Haven, Pennsylvania Book It
This 1941 caboose has been retrofitted to provide a shower and toilet, dinette, and other modern amenities, but it still has plenty of retro charm to offer two guests. It’s also next to the Castanea Railroad Station, and outside that is a kiosk where visitors can learn about local railway history.
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Farm on the Coast
Saunderstown, Rhode Island Book It
This charming guest suite is in a barn built during World War II as part of a model farm. It includes a private bathroom, a small refrigerator, microwave, coffee pot, and Wi-Fi. You’ll find horses in their original stables at the other end of the barn; other residents include chickens, a dog, a cat, and a rabbit. Newport and its Gilded Age mansions are just 15 minutes away.
Related: Beautiful Barns and Farmhouses You Can Rent Across America
Historical Civil War Farmhouse
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania Book It
If you’re fascinated by the Civil War, don’t pass up the chance to stay in this farmhouse that was used as a field hospital after the Battle of Gettysburg. It sleeps four and has two bedrooms and a private bathroom, as well as a shared kitchen and family room. The owner says the place is haunted, but the ghosts “are all friendly.”
Hobbit Cabin
Talkeetna, Alaska Book It
The sod roof of this unique log cabin is alive with native Alaskan plants, and the inside is pure rustic charm — think wooden fish, bear pelts, and a log bed. A private bath is 15 feet away. Outside is the real attraction, though: Enjoy pristine lake and forest views, and Denali National Park with its stunning scenery is to the north.
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Three-Story Lookout Tower
Terrebonne, Oregon Book It
Designed to mimic a forest-fire lookout station, this tower sleeps up to four guests and offers panoramic views of the snow-capped Cascade Mountains in central Oregon. There is a reclaimed-lumber deck that wraps around the whole tower, a gas grill, an outdoor hot tub, and Wi-Fi. Nearby activities include golfing, rafting, fishing, and rock climbing.
Related: The Best Remote Vacation Spot in Every State
Off-Grid Adobe Dome in the Desert
Terlingua, Texas Book It
This solar-powered hideaway in far west Texas rests in the desert near Big Bend National Park. It sleeps up to three, and while there is a working kitchen and even Wi-Fi, there is no shower, and the composting toilet is in an outhouse. The biggest attraction might be the starry skies, since there is a dark-sky ordinance that limits light pollution.
Home of ‘Hammping’
Park Hills, Missouri Book It
Tucked away on 16 acres in the Ozarks, four waterproof hammock tents await visitors who want to experience something truly different. Outside are traditional hammocks for lounging, lined sleeping bags and mattresses for those wanting a more traditional camping experience, a fire pit, camping chairs, and cooking equipment. A bathroom is a short walk away.
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Historical Forest Church Retreat
Bentonville, Virginia Book It
This late 19th century country church has become a cozy getaway for four, making communing with nature even more of a religious experience. An original altar mural makes for a stunning centerpiece, but the modern kitchen, bathroom, and hot tub will keep you comfortable. Shenandoah Park and Skyline Drive are just minutes away.
Related: 20 Amazing Church Makeovers
Underground Hygge
Orondo, Washington Book It
Built into a mountainside in the Columbia River Gorge, this Hobbit-style cozy getaway for two has a charming round doorway, stone fireplace, carved wooden sink, inviting tub, and breathtaking views from the patio. Note that there’s a short, steep hike from the parking area, and four-wheel drives are necessary in the winter.
Related: Hobbit Holes, Missile Silos, and Other Cool Underground Homes You Can Rent for the Night
Bourbon Country Getaway
Springfield, Kentucky Book It
This apartment for two is in a horse barn in Kentucky’s rolling countryside, and offers a full bathroom, eat-in kitchen, and laundry room. Outside is a gas grill and porch for enjoying the peaceful scenery. Area attractions include the Maker’s Mark distillery, wineries, golf courses, and plenty of horse farms, of course.
Related: 15 Drinking Pilgrimages You Need to Make
Mud Hut With Bridge View
Portland, Oregon Book It
What better way to enjoy Portland’s eco-friendly vibe than in a hand-built mud hut for two? It has a wood stove for heat but no electricity, so light a few candles after dusk. A full bathroom is available in the adjacent owner’s home, and there’s a covered outdoor kitchen (complete with a four-tap kegerator). Enjoy views of the St. John’s Bridge and proximity to canoeing and hiking.
Related: 27 Vintage Photos of Historic American Bridges
Dome of Your Dreams
Harpers Ferry, West Virginia Book It
The last time you heard about a geodesic dome may have been geometry class, but now’s your chance to sleep in one. It sleeps up to 10 and sits on 2 wooded acres. Features include 25-foot ceilings, a spiral staircase, a full kitchen, and a wrap-around porch. Just a few miles away, Harpers Ferry offers plenty of history, hiking, rafting, and tubing.
Related: 22 of the Smallest Towns in America
Laura’s Cottage
Savannah, Georgia Book It
This 1799 guesthouse with pine walls, floors and ceilings was used in the filming of a Robert Redford movie, “The Conspirator,” and is just off Columbia Square in the heart of historic Savannah. Highlights include a Juliet balcony overlooking a private garden, antique furniture, a full kitchen and bathroom, and Wi-Fi.
Appalachian Container Cabin
Otto, North Carolina Book It
As if the stunning views aren’t enough, this 300-square-foot cabin is remarkable in its own right. Made out of shipping containers, the thoroughly modern space sleeps two, or more if your party includes small kids. There’s a full bathroom, a deck, and a fire pit for roasting s’mores and breathing in the mountain air.
Related: 17 Creative Shipping Container Conversions
John Steinbeck’s Studio
Pacific Grove, California Book It
A charming retreat that was once John Steinbeck’s writing space, this 1920s studio sleeps two guests and features plenty of original features, including pitched roofs, built-ins, and a gingerbread-cottage exterior. Cable TV and Wi-Fi are available, and the studio has a fully stocked kitchen, full bathroom, and dedicated patio.
Related: 40 Famous People’s Homes You Can Visit
‘Glamping’ Tent Retreat
Carbondale, Colorado Book It
When you want to rough it just a little bit, “glamping” at this mountain ranch a half-hour from Aspen is the way to go. A large safari tent holds a California king bed for two guests. Outside is a large deck, and a bathroom and shower are a short walk away. The ranch also hosts plenty of livestock, as well as working artists who have turned barn stalls into studios.
Related: 30 Glamping Retreats for Upscale Social Distancing
‘Man Cave’ in an Airplane Hangar
Geneva, Florida Book It
Northeast of Orlando, this man cave in an airplane hangar that sleeps up to three guests has to be seen to be believed. There’s a bar, fireplace, a full bathroom, and plenty of eclectic decor and Americana on the walls. In the nearby garage, the owners work on classic cars, farm equipment, “and other manly things.”
Secluded In-Town Treehouse
Atlanta Book It
Airbnb’s one-time “most wished-for listing” is only minutes from downtown Atlanta, but feels like a private retreat. There are three rooms connected by rope bridges: an antique-filled living room, a bedroom with organic linens, and a deck with a hammock. Note that there is no bathroom — one is a short walk away, however.
Related: Amazing Treehouse Vacation Getaways
Historic Shotgun House
New Orleans Book It
Narrow “shotgun” homes are a quintessential part of Southern architecture, and this one from the 1890s has been lovingly restored. It sleeps two and has high ceilings, a brick fireplace, original wood floors, and a gleaming kitchen. Shops, restaurants, and coffee shops are just a short walk away.
Silo Farm Haus
Ste. Genevieve, Missouri Book It
An original grain bin converted into a vacation getaway, this one-bedroom silo sleeps four and includes a cozy loft and a full-size kitchen and bathroom. The porch with a swing and wine cooler overlooks a 200-acre farm with a water quarry, and you’ll be minutes from wineries, antique malls, and hiking trails.
Modern Montana Tiny House
Lakeside, Montana Book It
Go small in Big Sky Country with this stunning tiny home south of Kalispell and Glacier National Park. The ultra-modern interior sleeps four and has a full-size kitchen and bath. The living area has a wood-burning stove ideal for chilly evenings, and the sliding glass doors open directly onto your deck in the woods. Skiing, hiking, and restaurants are nearby.
Related: 25 Coolest Tiny Home Rentals on Airbnb and Vrbo
Studio Earthship
Taos, New Mexico Book It
This “earthship” is a completely off-the-grid house — it generates its own electricity, catches rainwater, and uses no fuel — but it’s also sleek and modern, with Wi-Fi, a smart TV, full kitchen and bathroom, and even a high-efficiency washing machine. It sleeps up to four and affords desert mesa views out the massive front windows.
Catskill Mountain Schoolhouse
Bovina Center, New York Book It
This restored one-room schoolhouse down a quiet country road in the Catskills sleeps up to three guests and has loads of rustic appeal. Amenities include a small kitchen and a clawfoot tub, and nearby attractions include antique shops, skiing, and hiking. Peaceful mountain views await outside.
Historic Firehouse Suite
Wilmington, North Carolina Book It
This 1,700-square-foot suite on the second floor of a restored firehouse sleeps six in the thick of historic Wilmington. It includes a sparkling modern kitchen, large living and dining area, and two immaculate bedrooms. Bring a good book to take advantage of the reading nook in the firehouse tower, and enjoy walking to shops and restaurants.
Amish Country Cabin
Sugarcreek, Ohio Book It
Live like a pioneer in this cabin set on a scenic 150-acre farm in the heart of Ohio’s Amish country. Built in 1820, it accommodates up to six and combines rustic charm with modern comforts such as a full-size kitchen and air conditioning. There’s also a stone cooking fireplace and a rope bed for those who prefer a more authentic experience.
Horse Lovers’ Black Hills Bunkhouse
Hot Springs, South Dakota Book It
This cozy cabin sleeps up to four and is on a working quarter horse ranch — you can bring your own horses to stay, too, in corrals near the bunkhouse. Amenities include a small fridge, microwave, dining table, and porch. Nearby attractions abound, including Black Hills National Forest, Wind Cave National Park, and Evans Plunge Mineral Springs.
Related: 15 Best Dude Ranches for Escaping the Crowds
Historical Urban Cottage
Nashville Book It
This open-concept cottage for up to four guests has charm in spades: It’s been given an Architectural Historical Preservation award. It also has an ideal location in hip East Nashville, walkable to shops and restaurants. There is a private entrance and patio, loft, kitchenette, and full bathroom.
Related: 36 Bucket-List Destinations for Music Lovers
Farmstead Yurt
Stanardsville, Virginia Book It
Just minutes from Shenandoah National Park, this rustic yurt in the Blue Ridge Mountains sleeps six and has a full kitchen, bathroom, gas grill, and fire pit. Outside are a shared hot tub and a saltwater pool. It’s on a sustainable farm, so visitors can make friends with goats, chickens, and other livestock.
George Washington Stopover
St. Stephens Church, Virginia Book It
History lovers won’t be able to resist this historical farmhouse northeast of Richmond. Built in 1760, it sleeps up to six and reportedly hosted George Washington while he was traveling from Washington to Williamsburg. There are two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a full kitchen, and a fireplace. Outside, relax while watching horses in the pastures and geese in the farm’s pond.
Cozy School Bus Conversion
Shepherdstown, West Virginia Book It
Relive those bus rides to school with a stay in this unique converted bus on a country road in West Virginia. It can accommodate up to three guests and has a full bed and sofa, a wood stove, and a hammock and tree swing just outside. Guests can use the bathroom and kitchen in the owner’s nearby home.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Schwartz House
Two Rivers, Wisconsin Book It
Calling all architecture buffs: This Frank Lloyd Wright home, otherwise known as Still Bend, was designed in 1938 and sits on a marsh on the edge of Lake Michigan. It has four bedrooms for up to six people. Highlights include the dramatic, 63-footlong living room, three fireplaces, loads of interior brick and cypress, and Wright’s signature built-in furniture.
Related: 20 Bucket List Buildings in America You Need to Visit
Retro Lakefront Home
Iola, Wisconsin Book It
Got a soft spot for the ’70s? Then this “fabulous, funky” lakefront home that sleeps four is for you, with its retro orange and green furniture and groovy sleeping loft. Perched on the edge of Lake Iola, it offers easy access to canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. It’s well-stocked with DVDs, books, and board games from the ’70s, but in keeping with the theme, there’s no internet.
Fully Restored 1920s Sheep Wagon
Shirley Basin, Wyoming Book It
It’s rustic and a bit cramped, but if you ever played “Oregon Trail” as a kid, this sheep wagon on a 30,000-acre Wyoming ranch is a must. Outside, you can hike, bike, fish, hunt, stargaze, and visit with livestock. The wagon sleeps four and has cold boxes, a wood-burning stove/oven, and a pull-out table. For lights or power, you’ll need to bring your own generator.
Fairytale Gingerbread House
Geysersville, California Book It
This tiny, charming cottage looks like it was ripped straight from the pages of Hansel and Gretel. It sleeps two and features stained-glass windows, a thatched roof, a loft, and a wood-fired oven outside; nearby are a communal pool, sauna, hot tub, and bathroom. If you’re more of a “Lord of the Rings” fan, check out the Hobbit Hut next door.
Wings Neck Lighthouse
Pocasset, Massachusetts Book It
What could be more quintessentially New England than staying in a lighthouse? Bring friends: The attached keeper’s home sleeps up to eight people in three bedrooms. There’s an eat-in kitchen, a stone fireplace, and of course, sweeping views of the Atlantic from the lighthouse lantern room, accessed by an old spiral staircase.
Bavarian-Style Castle
Irasburg, Vermont Book It
If you can’t fly to England or Ireland to fulfill your castle dreams, this impressive Vermont version is a worthy stand-in for up to eight guests. Near some of Vermont’s most notable ski slopes, it sits on 20 acres with a stocked pond and private trails. Other highlights include a gourmet kitchen, a wine room, a game room, and a hot tub where you can watch the sun sink over the mountains.
Related: 20 Mansions You Can Actually Afford to Rent
Cottage at Winchester Manor
New Market, Alabama Book It
Small but packed with personality, this 100-year-old cottage sleeps two and sits on a property that has served as a post office, jail, doctor’s office, and antique store. The open-concept space has a kitchenette, full bathroom, flat-screen TV, and courtyard access. Guests are less than 15 miles from Huntsville, and a country restaurant is a quick walk across the street.
Modern Farmhouse
Northport, Michigan Book It
This picture-perfect, updated 1900s farmhouse near Lake Michigan has three bedrooms and bathrooms for six guests and boasts a chef’s kitchen, sauna with rain shower, radiant floor heat, Wi-Fi, and a flat-screen TV. Step outside to meet the free-range chickens, cook in an outdoor kitchen, or relax in a hammock.
Remodeled Airstream
Phoenix Book It
Tucked away in a modern courtyard in downtown Phoenix, this thoughtfully modernized Airstream sleeps three. It has its own shower and kitchenette, but if you get too cramped, head outside and take a load off in the inviting hammock. It’s walkable to restaurants, bars, and coffee shops.
