Top 10 Unique Airbnbs in the US: from a missile base bunker and a rainforest treehouse to a hobbit hole and a haunted castle
The United States of America is beautifully diverse, offering travelers just about everything they could want: scenery, cities, and atmosphere to suit every taste. And quite importantly for traveling, you can always find some interesting Airbnb near all the major and fascinating attractions in the United States. Reflecting the essence of the country, they offer an amazing range of ambiance and decor, from spaceships to Hobbit dens. See for yourself by exploring this top of the most unique Airbnbs in the US.
1. Tiller, Oregon: mountaintop prairie
Airbnb address: Off the Grid and Forty Feet Up!
Available Accommodations: 1 bedroom, 4 guests
Experience a vacation in the middle of a private prairie that somehow sits 40 feet above the ground: that's exactly what this hotel about 10 miles from Tiller, Oregon, feels like.
Its 2009 building is modeled after early 19th-century U.S. Forest Service fire lookout towers, and it overlooks the Umpqua National Forest. You're in the heart of it, surrounded by 160 acres of scenic private land. If you miss peace and quiet and are looking for a place to renew, this is your chance: in a 40-acre meadow in the middle of the forest and off the grid. The only noise you'll hear here is the birds singing in the valley and the wind rustling in the crowns of the trees at the edge of the meadow, so nothing will stop you from enjoying being one with nature and organizing the thoughts in your head in an atmosphere of perfect peace. You can spend your time here reading, meditating, playing games, relaxing in the hammock at the bottom of the hill, relaxing in the secluded hot tub with spring water and wood stove, and watching the stars and the surrounding beauty of nature.
The historic tower model has been remodeled with the addition of modern essentials into one of the most unusual Airbnbs in the United States. Inside, there is a fully equipped kitchen with a refrigerator and stove, lamps, and heat. Comfortable beds are located in the dome and on the first floor, and there are windows all around the building. There is also an outdoor shower. The nearest good grocery stores are in Canyonville and Shady Cove, so take care of groceries ahead of time.
This hotel can be your starting point for exciting day trips. For example, within an hour and a half drive is Ashland, home to the Shakespeare Festival, and historic downtown Jacksonville, also known as the site of the Britt Festival. You can get to Crater Lake in two hours; it takes half as long to get to Seven Feathers Casino in Canyonville, and it takes 45 minutes to get from the hotel to South Umpqua Falls or the starting point for rafting on the Rogue River.
The hotel is fairly budget-friendly and operates seasonally, with 2024 opening in early April. Reservations are available from 3 or 4 days depending on the day of the week.
2. Joshua Tree, California: Kellogg Doolittle House
Airbnb address: The Kellogg Doolittle House
Available accommodation: 3 bedrooms, 6 guests
In the heart of Joshua Tree National Park is a luxury Airbnb that you simply must visit. The Kellogg Doolittle House is a true architectural masterpiece that he created after 25 years of working with architect Frank Lloyd Wright and translating that experience into one of the most exclusive Airbnb homes not only in the United States but in the world at large.
The house, whose exterior is striking, is located in the heart of the desert on the quiet edge of a national park. It consists of three bedrooms and the same number of bathrooms. You won't find any straight lines in the interior, while it is planned as much as possible in keeping with the surrounding landscape.
The stylish modern kitchen is open-plan and, together with the living space, is harmoniously integrated into the rock formation, even though it is a million years old. Yet there is no sense of pressure inside, thanks to cleverly integrated glass panels through which you can watch the sunrise and sunsets. All you'll be surrounded by are ancient boulders, so if you need a secluded retreat, there's no more secluded place to be. Guests can expect complete privacy and access to the park. If you are a fan of bouldering, you can try your hand at the remote areas.
Virtually every detail on the outside and inside was created by Kellogg and master craftsman John Vugrin by hand. Every element looks luxurious, from the huge round bed under a glass dome, the stunning rain shower, and the decorative fireplace to the futuristic-shaped furniture and outdoor Jacuzzi. That's why the cost of staying in this masterpiece of organic architecture is just as impressive. Outside, there's a fire pit, barbecue grill, and outdoor dining area, as well as free driveway parking for 6 spaces.
3. Orondo, Washington: mountain hygge
Airbnb Address: Underground hygge
Available Accommodation: 1 bedroom, 2 guests
Fans of Tolkien's work will love one of the most stunning Airbnbs in the United States, which is located in Washington State. Nestled right into the side of a mountain in the Columbia River Gorge is a very authentic hobbit hole with an iconic round doorway. Inside, there are plenty of accents that reference the famous novel, as well as thoughtful details to help you pass the time here with interest, such as a carpentry table with tools or polished wood chess. Outside, the house is surrounded by orchards, views of flower-dotted hills, the Columbia River, and stunning sunsets, and guests get six acres of scenic grounds to stroll around. It's a great choice not only for Tolkienites but also for a family weekend getaway that's worth its price.
The interior artfully reminds you of your experience of reading a book or watching a movie. The exterior wall is masonry with round windows at the top, and the green round door at the entrance is flanked by pots of flowers and a wooden chair next to a miniature table: the only thing missing here seems to be a fairy-tale short man smoking a pipe. Inside, there's plenty of wood used in the decor, such as in the bed's table of contents, wall paneling, hanging chandelier, and metal elements such as quirky pendant lights, wall candelabras, and door ornamentation. Such amazing Airbnbs in the US are remarkable because every detail here serves as inspiration: it will make you feel like a child again, just discovering Tolkien's world.
There is no kitchen in this hotel, but eating utensils and a "hot bar" with tea, coffee, and cocoa, as well as a coffee maker are present. A short drive away is the charming RiverWalk Inn Cafe. The bedroom has one bed for two guests and a cozy fireplace to warm up in the winter. The bathroom is equipped with a deep soaking tub and shower, as well as bath amenities.
There is a parking area at the bottom of the hill, and the house must be accessed via a short but fairly steep trail. This is a great place to relax, get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and focus on nature.
4. Roswell, New Mexico: missile base bunker
Airbnb address: True Cold War Relic Atlas F Missile Silo / Bunker
Available accommodations: 2 bedrooms, 4 guests
This Airbnb is definitely one of the most unique homes not only in the US but in the world. Could you imagine staying overnight in a missile base bunker? The renovation of a missile silo has created an extraordinary underground home where travelers can now stay in search of a unique experience. To maximize the atmosphere of this place, a guided tour is offered to the accommodation, which is included in the price. During this familiarization tour, you will learn the amazing history of the place and the principles of base management. Despite this atypical location of your "room", you don't have to worry about the quality of your stay: all necessary services are available, including Wi-Fi.
This bunker used to house the launch control center (now the top floor of the apartment), and a service tunnel leads to a 186-foot-deep missile silo. To get to your Airbnb, you'll have to make a mysterious journey down narrow corridors with thick armored doors, circular passageways, and metal staircases: the original entourage won't let you doubt the mysterious atmosphere of this place. Then you will enter a cozy modern apartment with one bedroom and a bathroom with shower, bath, and toiletries. The bedroom has twin beds, you can also ask for additional inflatable beds. The apartment is about 1,250 square feet and is decorated with various historical displays and plenty of books. There's also a cozy living room with a dining table and a fully equipped kitchen with food and drinks.
Outside, there is free parking, a fenced garden, a campfire spot, and a communal barbecue grill. The apartment can be rented for long-term stays. This is a truly unique Airbnb in America and well worth the money spent.
5. Geneva, Florida: man cave
Airbnb address: ManCave apartment
Available Accommodation: 1 bedroom, 3 guests
This original Airbnb in Florida, USA is located in a working airplane hangar, which would probably be hard to imagine. However, this "man cave" is indeed part of it, and the space around it is occupied by a garage and a maintenance station.
The interior fully lives up to the name "Man Cave". The ceilings and walls are decorated with an eclectic array of things and decor elements like images of airplanes and cars, dangling traffic lights, dart targets, airplane parts, and even a boat and a motorcycle. This is a variant when the colorful and saturated interior does not look overloaded but makes you want to look at it more and more, each time noticing new details.
The central place is occupied by a bar with an entertaining counter decorated with memorabilia from the past under glass, and a leather sofa. There is satellite TV, Internet access, an old slot machine, air conditioning, a hanging chair, and a fireplace, all of which make for a fun time in pleasant company. Inside there is a bathroom with a shower, and in the loft, there is a bed designed for two. One more guest can be accommodated on the sofa.
There is no full kitchen, but there is a microwave, refrigerator, toaster, and coffee maker, as well as a gas grill. There's a grocery store a couple of miles away where you can stock up or buy food before you arrive, and there's a restaurant outside 46 (Geneva General) that serves a great breakfast. It's a great Airbnb choice to stay with a couple or two friends for an affordable fee and take advantage of the endless entertainment options nearby.
Staying at unusual Airbnbs in the US will open up opportunities for interesting experiences. For example, you'll be on a private farm while staying here, so for a small fee, you can diversify your leisure time with a horseback ride or learn how to milk goats. There's free parking on site and a communal garden behind the house, a fire pit, and benches to sit on by the river. And don't forget to mark on the world map on one of the walls the place where you came from: you'll see that travelers from many different continents have managed to visit this "cave".
6. St. Paul, Minnesota: The Haunted Manor
Airbnb address: The Manor Master Chamber
Available accommodations: 1 bedroom, 4 guests
When choosing the most unusual Airbnbs in the US, be prepared for the fact that this house will already have residents, because they don't leave it. At least, the locals assure that this stately 1884 estate is home to paranormal creatures. If such "neighbors" do not scare you, and you are on the contrary a fan of everything mystical and "ghostly", then this place will definitely be on your list of the most memorable Airbnbs in the United States of America where you should spend the night.
The estate looks quaint and imposing both inside and out. The house resembles a castle, which only adds to the mysterious atmosphere. The rooms have high ceilings and lots of windows, which make the space feel more spacious and airy due to the abundance of sunlight. Inside, it is filled with thoughtful details and antiques: you will see old dark wood furniture, worn leather suitcases, stuffed animals, and black-colored plumbing fixtures. A beautiful spiral staircase leads up to the bedroom. It is cozy and spacious and adjoins the bathroom with a small whirlpool tub, shower, and laundry room. There is a double bed in the bedroom, and in addition to it you can put an inflatable bed for two more people. There is also a stylish kitchen, fully equipped with everything you need for cooking. The rest of the space is divided between the dining area and the living room with the library.
The estate has been owned by the same family for generations. In the past, the Pioneer Press has named it the most mysterious house in St. Paul. In addition to lodging, guests can make reservations and attend unusual themed events such as paranormal investigation photo and video shoots, murder mystery dinners, rituals, pajama parties, etc.
There is a large enclosed yard outside the house with a campfire, picnic areas, and parking.
7. Taos, New Mexico: An Otherworldly House
Airbnb Address: Taos Mesa Studio Earthship
Available accommodation: 1 studio, 4 guests
This home, located in the heart of the New Mexico desert surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, looks so futuristic from the outside that it seems like the set of some science fiction movie. At first glance, it's hard to believe that this is not a secret facility, but one of the most interesting Airbnbs in the United States. The structure made of concrete curved walls and a single pane of glass creates an otherworldly atmosphere that disappears as soon as you step inside. There you'll find a beautifully bright studio with plenty of light and space. There is one double bed and a daybed that can be converted into space for two more guests, a bathroom, and a large fully equipped kitchen. The bed in the bedroom sits against a glass wall, so you can admire the view of the desert and craggy mountains in the distance right from the bed. But if you like to sleep longer, there are great blackout curtains.
The home, hand-crafted by the owner and named "Earthship," is self-contained: rainwater is collected through sloped windows, electricity is provided by solar panels, and the temperature inside is kept at 72 degrees year-round without the use of air conditioning. A greenhouse is attached next to the house, which helps maintain the temperature and infuses the air with the pleasant aroma of fresh mint. Despite being self-contained, the house doesn't force you to forgo modern conveniences: on the contrary, there's fast Wi-Fi, a TV with Netflix, a washing machine, a luxurious deep stone bathroom, and so on.
There's free parking on site and a private patio with space for a campfire. This is a nice and fun place to vacation with friends on a small budget. It is suitable as a stopping point for summer approaches and winter sports, as the Taos ski valley is only 20 minutes away.
8. Woodridge, New York: glamping dome
Airbnb address: Outlier Inn Geo Dome 1 on Farm Upstate Catskills
Available accommodations: 1 bed, 16 guests
If you think the variety of architectural forms should have run out near the end of the list of the most amazing Airbnbs in the United States, this glass yurt in the picturesque forest village of Woolridge makes you believe that human imagination has no limits. In the Catskill Mountains, 90 miles from New York City a 12-acre site is an original place to stop - a bucolic farm with access to hiking trails and a pond.
Use this spot for an inspiring, measured rural vacation during which you'll have the opportunity to interact with sheep, goats, and alpacas, warm yourself by the fire, stroll along a scenic trail, or bask in the sun by the pond. It's an affordable vacation option with a very creative staycation program: there's a recording studio, a seasonal vintage clothing store, and a fiber arts workshop. Daytime yoga is not to be missed either, and communal lunches are a regular occurrence here.
The space has a spacious bedroom with one large bed. The shower room and kitchen are located separately outdoors. The kitchen is equipped with a grill, stove, refrigerator, and everything you need for cooking. "The highlight" of the yurt is the giant window: you can start each morning by settling down in front of it with a cup of coffee and watching the stunning lush wildlife landscape before your eyes.
Despite having only one bed, this yurt can accommodate up to 16 guests thanks to the many alternative accommodations: sleeping bags, air mattresses, etc. The yurt is on a small platform and has a wooden floor.
The farm has a greenhouse, vegetable garden, and a lake across the road. You can buy vegetables and eggs on site, but the rest of your groceries should be taken care of before you leave town. Free parking is available on site.
9. Terlingua, Texas: vacation in the desert
Airbnb address: Domeland: Off-grid Adobe Dome near Big Bend
Available accommodations: 1 bedroom, 3 guests
Another "themed" retreat on the list of top 10 unique Airbnb's in the US is located in the West Texas desert near Big Bend National Park. It's a beautiful earthen dome that resembles a small, self-contained Star Wars-style house. It has even been a contestant on the Mighty Tiny Houses show. This Airbnb is removed from the outside world, while still being located in one of the few "dark sky" territories that offers unprecedented views of the stars. Despite its isolation, it's not that difficult to get to: it's about 25 minutes by car from Big Bend Park or the historic ghost town of Terlingua.
The dome is off the grid, and power is supplied by solar panels: it's enough for lights, kitchen appliances, phones, and laptops, but don't count on appliances like a hair dryer. Outside, it looks like an earthen structure with elaborate shelter from heat, wind, cold, and rain. It is designed for only three people. Inside there is one large bed and a sofa. The kitchen is small but quite functional: there is a stove, oven, and refrigerator.
The dome is equipped with everything you need for off-grid living, but guests are asked to strategically consume water, the most valuable resource in the desert. It is also recommended that you bring your own drinking water. There are also no showers on site: instead, you can use a portable outdoor shower or use the $2 coin-operated shower in town. There is Wi-Fi inside, and there is a campfire area, grill, and parking near the house.
The best part of this Airbnb is outside: sit comfortably in a hammock in the evening to admire the incredible colors of a desert sunset, gaze at the incredibly rich starry sky, and encounter amazing sunrises. These experiences are worth far more than what you'll pay to stay in this truly one of the distinctive Airbnbs in the US (plus, the cost is in line with the services provided here).
10. Volcano, Hawaii: a rainforest hideaway
Airbnb address: Peaceful Rainforest Treehouse Retreat
Available accommodation: 1 bedroom, 2 guests
Stunning in its proximity to nature, this Airbnb is just eight miles from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park in the United States, and it's a short walk from here to idyllic beaches. This Airbnb is a treehouse that stands 15 feet high in the middle of the rainforest. This place is perfect for fans of a fully immersive vacation in the middle of nature who love to spend time exploring the surrounding scenery. You can have a romantic weekend getaway here or go on a trip with an equally adventurous traveler.
On the lower veranda is a sitting area surrounded by hanging plants, with a day bed that can be used to sit with a book, drink coffee, or play games. There are also showers and a bathroom downstairs. Climbing the stairs to the second floor, you enter the bedroom with a large bed in the center on a raised platform. The space underneath can be used as a closet. The house is created from natural eco-friendly materials: the walls are woven from bamboo, the sinks are made from koa, and the furniture is handmade from wood.
The whole territory and the house inside are decorated with interesting decor: in the garden, you can see small statues of Buddha, the path to the house in the evening is lit by "fireflies" in a jar, and on the walls hang bizarre masks and paintings in Hawaiian style, and the free space on the verandas is filled with pots of bamboo and flowers. This place is not only worth putting on the list of the most amazing Airbnbs in the US but also the best tree houses.
It doesn't have a full kitchen, but it does have a coffee maker and the necessary utensils for eating. Upstairs, there is an open veranda with wicker furniture overlooking the rainforest: it's a great place to relax and observe nature. Around the house, you can stroll through a beautiful garden with ferns, anthurium, flowers, and succulents.
This Airbnb can be booked for long stays (28 days or more). It is a good example of an inexpensive rainforest vacation where the main attraction will be the delightful surrounding nature.
