Cool Getaway Homes: 50 Unique Vacation Rentals In The U.S.

We all have different ideas of what makes for the perfect vacation. Some of us love the beach, while others love to visit cities and enjoy their cultural offerings. Others view time away as an opportunity to live a different life altogether.

Let’s take a look at how to find the vacation rental of your dreams, whether that’s a treehouse, a rustic cabin with a hammock and no Wi-Fi or a hobbit house straight out of a fairy tale of your own making. We’ve uncovered hidden gems in every state for your next vacation.

How Can I Find A Unique Vacation Rental?

If you’re open to the possibilities for your next travel adventure, finding a unique vacation destination isn't difficult. Simply Google unique vacation rentals in the area you want to explore.

State by state below, we’re getting you started with unique rental options, no matter where you live.

Alabama

Lake Shore Cabin: This unique Airbnb located in Guntersville features striking wood finish, scenic views of the lake, and recycled tree stumps that serve as column posts. $179/night.

The Glass House: Witness stunning views of the lake in Bremen from this architectural wonder including wraparound glass walls. $1,343/night.

Alaska

Orca Island Cabin (Yurt): The outdoor lover will enjoy this eco-friendly yurt in Seward complete with a round-trip water taxi excursion, surrounded by natural snow-capped mountain views. Perfect for a couple or solo traveler wanting to get off the grid. $790/night.

Arizona

Walk to Downtown Scottsdale: A fun getaway in Scottsdale featuring a heated pool, miniature putting green, and outdoor fireplace. $375/night.

Scenic view of Sedona Mountains: Floor-to-ceiling windows and a wraparound deck show off Arizona’s famed red rocks. Property has apple, peach, plum and fig trees. $450/night (Vrbo).

Arkansas

1930s Treehouse Cabin: A quaint, renovated 1930s cabin located in Eureka Springs featuring large decks and overlooking Lake Lucerne. Surrounded by beautiful natural forest, but only two miles from downtown dining and shopping. $135/night.

California

Hollywood Hills Midcentury Home with City Views: Want to live like Marilyn Monroe for a week? This vacation home will help you really feel it. $1,295/night.

Pirates of the Caribbean Getaway: An out-of-this-world experience in Topanga Canyon located in Los Angeles County. Create a magical trip with your partner by sleeping in a fully furnished tepee and enjoy a psychedelic light show while bathing in the hot tub. $225 for one-night stays, but special rates apply.

Colorado

Unaweep Yurt at Thimble Rock: This fully furnished yurt located in Gateway hosts breathtaking views of the canyon. Escape the stress by immersing yourself in the natural landscape and wildlife. $195/night.

Connecticut

Storybook Castle: This elegant 1917 castle located in Ellington is inspired by a wealthy family’s trip to England. $182/night.

Delaware

Quaint Beach Cottage: Only a quick walk to Bethany Beach, this quiet cottage is a perfect getaway for a family. $275/night.

This Tiny House in Ocean View packs a punch! Located on an organic farm, the owners create a unique experience for guests and customers by providing farm-to-table dining. $105/night.

Florida

Historic Architecturally Distinct Apartment: A majestically designed home within Winter Park. This property features striking architecture and is located near gourmet restaurants and high-end retail shopping. $150/night.

Villa near Disney Resort, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld: Vacationing families can enjoy Disney-inspired decor featuring rooms designed with “Frozen” and Mickey Mouse in mind. Complete with a game room and access to the pool. $259/night but higher prices are common.

Georgia

This famous Intown Treehouse is a fairy-tale haven that lies outside of Atlanta. Featured in multiple magazines and media publications, and it’s one of Airbnb’s “most wish-listed properties in the world.” $389/night.

Hawaii

Ocean View near Waikiki Beach: Location. Location. Location. Close to everything you could hope for, this Oceanview studio lives up to its name. Walking distance to central downtown, Waikiki Beach and shopping. Enjoy breathtaking views of the skyline while lounging outside. $149/night.

Idaho

Boise Romantic Downtown Getaway: Enjoy a cozy retreat from the hustle and bustle of the daily grind with this cute downtown getaway. Relax and soak in the clawfoot vintage tub. $200/night.

Illinois

Unique Artist’s Loft in the middle of Downtown Chicago. Lounge while drinking coffee surrounded by a blooming rooftop garden. Take in the working art made by the owner, a local artist. $123/night.

Indiana

A stylish Broad Ripple Village apartment is perfect for art lovers and located in the heart of this eclectic Indianapolis neighborhood. $81/night.

The “Y” at Keystone offers contemporary decor and modern architecture in Indianapolis. Natural light illuminates a spacious interior and guests can enjoy the amenities of peering down onto an open-floor concept from the catwalks. $432/night.

Iowa

This farmhouse-style home in Des Moines is completely renovated with beautiful white and black decor accents throughout. $189/night.

Kansas

This Santa Fe Boxcar allows you to live out your Boxcar Children fantasies. You’ll have the entire boxcar to yourself with a table and chairs in the backyard for you to enjoy the beautiful Kansas skies. Only 30 minutes from Wichita near the quaint town of Yoder. $100/night.

Kentucky

This repurposed church in Louisville now gives off a modern, vibrant feel and is walking distance to dining and shopping. Large enough to host growing families comfortably; features a relaxed outdoor patio. $591/night.

Louisiana

The Hotel Monteleone is located one block from the French Quarter and has a reputation of being haunted. In fact, the ghostly happenings have been documented by paranormal experts. Fascinated? Skeptical? Check it out for yourself. $500/night.

Maine

Modern downtown loft in Bangor. Originally built in 1833, this renovated loft is near local eateries and shopping. The minimalist design and open patio make this an ideal vacation for couples. $175/night.

Maryland

The Treehouse Camp at Maple Tree Campground offers a beautiful, wooded campground and includes lodging like the FireFly Deluxe Tree House, a one-of-a-kind Hobbit House, cozy Tree Cottages, rustic Tree Houses and Tent Camp Sites. These affordable accommodations cost less than $100/night.

Massachusetts

Formerly the Charles Street Jail, The Liberty is a luxury hotel in the West End of Boston. It’s centrally located, close to the Museum of Science and Kendall Square. Around $500/night.

For fans of poetry, American history and ghosts, Longfellow’s Wayside Inn checks all the boxes. It’s been operating continuously since 1716. Less than $300/night.

Michigan

Paris Loft near downtown Detroit features exposed red brick, local art, and a rooftop terrace. $228/night.

Minnesota

This Magic Studio in Minneapolis is complete with a forest decorated bedroom, wolf-themed shower and forest-like hallway. $239/night.

Mississippi

This Elegant Jackson-based home is perfect for large groups and families and includes three spacious bedrooms. $145/night.

Missouri

Located in Hermann, The Cottage is surrounded by tranquil forest. This B&B is only a mile from the Missouri River, Stone Hill Winery and the Hermann Wine Trail. $507/night.

Montana

You can rent a stylish Airstream with a hot tub if you’re interested in glamping in Montana. You can bring your pets, enjoy Wi-Fi and sleep in a plush queen-sized bed while you enjoy the great outdoors. $280/night.

Nebraska

This boho "jungalow" situated near downtown Omaha is the ideal spot for a traveling pair or family. You’ll love the eclectic furniture and decor, as well as its location. Walking distance to shopping and dining, it’s no wonder this home is a popular stop! $120/night.

Nevada

An hour from the nonstop lights and liveliness of Las Vegas is a tiny home called The Peacock. Enjoy horseback riding and rodeo events on this real dude ranch. $125/night.

New Hampshire

A great choice for families, the Lumen Nature Retreat is located in the White Mountains and only 2 hours from Boston. Unplug and reconnect to family in this rustic setting. Less than $100/night.

New Jersey

If you’re a Bruce Springsteen fan, you’ll want to stay at The Asbury Hotel in legendary Asbury Park to soak up the lively music scene, beaches and restaurants. Make sure to visit the nearby Stone Pony, home to many rock and roll legends. You’ll also be able to visit New York City – just over an hour away via NJ Transit commuter trains. $800/night during summer months.

New Mexico

Delve into history and comfort in this 100-year-old adobe farmhouse in Santa Fe complete with a cactus garden. $414/night.

New York

This former synagogue in NYC is now completely renovated with a decked-out library, cathedral ceilings, jacuzzi, steam room, sun room and wine cellar. $2,686/night.

North Carolina

This spacious downtown loft in Asheville is near breweries and restaurants. Take in the sights right from your open-air balcony overlooking the bustling Lexington Avenue. $367/night.

North Dakota

This beautiful downtown Fargo loft is just what you need to take a relaxing weekend trip. The stunning architecture combined with featured local artist’s work will set the scene for a perfect vacation. $164/night.

Ohio

This downtown Cleveland loft is perfect for furry friends, business retreats or a weekend getaway. You’ll have plenty of space to sprawl out in this open-concept home. $343/night.

Oklahoma

This restored 1932 Tudor home is registered as a historic landmark. It’s a beautiful getaway for weary travelers looking for some R&R. At only $117/night, this is a perfect place to wind down.

Oregon

A beautiful Pacific Northwest retreat named Wald House PDX was developed by a renowned architect in 1979. This haven is located near downtown Portland and serves locally sourced coffee every morning. $350/night.

Pennsylvania

This industrial chic loft will brighten your day with its past life as a flashlight factory. The unique interior features one-of-a-kind chandeliers and other eclectic decor. $332/night.

Rhode Island

The Sarah Kendall House in Newport is a formal bed-and-breakfast that is filled with antiques and provides stunning harbor views. It’s also walking distance from the White Horse Tavern. $250/night.

South Carolina

This converted wedding chapel features an astonishing 20-foot ceiling and handsomely crafted stairwell made out of heartwood pine.  A short walking distance to downtown Charleston, it’s a great group gathering spot for future brides and retreats. $1,034/night.

South Dakota

Want to get off the grid? The Still House in Rapid City, South Dakota will accommodate – there’s absolutely no electricity, but otherwise, it offers all the amenities you’d find in any hotel room, like a hot shower and a solar battery station. Better still, you can bring your dog along. $250/night.

Tennessee

The Library in Music City is centrally located near the Broadway district in Nashville. Rustic red brick interior will have you singing happy tunes all weekend. $1,271/night.

Utah

Ever wonder what it’s like to live in a modern, stylish tiny house? Stay in Cliffside Cabins and get a taste of smaller home living. You’ll be near Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon. $132/night.

Vermont

If you’re a Lord of the Rings fan, a stay at The Hill Hobbit House in Middletown Springs might be for you. This unique architecture is located on 12 green acres and has been widely featured in travel magazines. $400/night.

Virginia

If you’re an aficionado of gothic-glam decor, you might like the Nocturnal Gardens in Richmond. It’s a second-floor walk-up with a private entrance and two full living rooms. $105/night.

Washington State

A hobbit house on the west coast, Underground Hygge is located in Orondo. This inspired dwelling is nestled right in the Columbia River Gorge mountainside and offers gorgeous views. $400/night.

West Virginia

This dreamy barn loft located in Fayetteville is perfect for an intimate weekend in a comfortable canopy-draped bed. $120/night.

Wisconsin

American architect Frank Lloyd Wright designed this home located in Two Rivers. It has been featured in major media outlets such as the Travel Channel, The New York Times, Dwell Magazine, and many more. $679/night.

Wyoming

Last but not least, Wyoming offers an opportunity to stay in a beautiful barndominium on a working farm with friendly farm animals. This bed-and-breakfast offers a full list of activities like horseback riding, roping lessons, cheese/butter making class and homemade food. $100/night.

The Bottom Line: Live A Different Life In Your Unique Vacation Rental

On your next vacation, would you like to see what it’s like to live a different life, instead of just seeing a new place? Or are you thinking of a more permanent change – like downsizing to a tiny house – that you’d like to try out before you commit? Hopefully, we’ve given you some ideas to explore.

Want to learn more about unique homes for sale? Our Learning Center can help you explore your options.