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 desert tipi, 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, but one thing is for sure: You'll be in for an unforgettable stay.
New Market, Alabama
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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.
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Talkeetna, Alaska
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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.
Phoenix
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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.
Pacific Grove, California
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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.
Sausalito, California
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Location, location, location: This two-bedroom floating home is just a few miles from the Golden Gate Bridge in a lively Sausalito harbor. It sleeps four and boasts a gourmet kitchen and a rooftop deck with bay and mountain views. Like animals? There's a pet goose named Simon, a one-legged seagull named Schuster, plus seals, herons, egrets, and sandpipers.
Pioneertown, California
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This handcrafted Sioux tipi is surrounded by boulders and sits on hundreds of scenic desert acres north of Palm Springs and near Joshua Tree National Park. It sleeps up to seven and has a fan in warmer months and a wood-burning stove for cooler weather. Other amenities include a natural pool, sauna, outdoor fire pit, and rustic communal kitchen.
Geysersville, California
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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.
Carbondale, Colorado
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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.
Denver
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This converted carriage house is tucked away in the back garden of a historic Denver home. The stunning interior has exposed brick, reclaimed wood, leather furniture and a luxurious bath and kitchen. Cable and Wi-Fi are part of the deal, and it's just a short walk to craft breweries and restaurants. You can even take a CrossFit class from the owner.
Geneva, Florida
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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."
Atlanta
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Airbnb's "most wished-for listing" in 2016 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.
Savannah, Georgia
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This 1799 guest house 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.
Volcano, Hawaii
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Five minutes from famous Kilauea and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, this custom-designed treehouse for two is in an old-growth rainforest, complete with stained-glass windows, two lanais, an outdoor shower, and a cedar hot tub. Amenities include a small kitchen, flat-screen TV, composting toilet, and fireplace.
Related: The Best of Hawaii on a Budget
Cottonwood, Idaho
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Among the odder structures offered, this home is built to look like a giant dog — a beagle, to be precise. It sleeps up to four and includes dog-themed books, games, and decor. A second-story deck affords great views of the prairie and stargazing at night, and, of course, canine companions are welcome.
Springfield, Kentucky
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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.
New Orleans
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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.
Pocasset, Massachusetts
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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.
Tyringham, Massachusetts
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This former sculptor's studio on the Santarella Estate in Western Massachusetts' Berkshire Mountains boasts a charming wood-clad exterior, a 35-foot ceiling and a gorgeous setting, complete with stone bridges, brooks, and a lily pond. The cottage sleeps two guests and has some nice amenities, including satellite TV and Wi-Fi.
Northport, Michigan
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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.
Ste. Genevieve, Missouri
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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.
Park Hills, Missouri
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Tucked away on 16 acres in the Ozarks, four waterproof hammock tents await for 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.
Lakeside, Montana
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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.
Taos, New Mexico
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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.
New York City
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Floor-to-ceiling windows? Check. Panoramic view of the city? Check. If you're willing to pay the eye-popping price, this ultra-modern pad that sleeps four has it all, including access to a fitness center, basketball court, library, playroom, and outdoor terrace. Located in the Flatiron District, it's also close to some of the Big Apple's landmarks, including the Empire State Building.
Bovina Center, New York
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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.
Salt Point, New York
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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 mid-century furnishings. When it's warm, guests can swim in the nearby waterfall and stream, but beware of critters like spiders and "the occasional cheeky mouse."
Otto, North Carolina
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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.
Wilmington, North Carolina
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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.
Sugarcreek, Ohio
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Live like a pioneer in this cabin dating 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 like 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.
Portland, Oregon
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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 also a covered outdoor kitchen (complete with a four-tap kegerator). Enjoy views of the St. John's Bridge and proximity to canoeing and hiking.
Terrebonne, Oregon
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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.
Lock Haven, Pennsylvania
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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.
Related: Creative Conversions of Planes, Trains, and Automobiles
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
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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."
Pittsburgh
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You won't miss this suburban Pittsburgh house that sleeps up to 10, which is covered in mirrors outside and in. Another highlight is a dizzying high-contrast patterned bathroom — toilet included — as well as a backyard garden with a pond. Amenities include a flat-screen TV, walk-in shower, and sunken tub.
Saunderstown, Rhode Island
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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.
Charleston, South Carolina
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It may be a houseboat, but the 12-foot ceilings, large windows, and calming color scheme make this one anything but rustic. In fact, you'll even have a shower and full-size toilet, heat, and air-conditioning. Situated in a private marina slip, the boat also has views of Charleston Harbor and the Ravenel Bridge.
Related: 19 Destinations Where Houseboat Rentals Beat the Beach
Hot Springs, South Dakota
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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.
Nashville, Tennessee
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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.
Terlingua, Texas
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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 outside. The biggest attraction might be the starry skies, since there is a dark-sky ordinance that limits light pollution.
Waco, Texas
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One of several HGTV "Fixer Upper" renovations that have popped up on rental sites, the five-bedroom Harp House is a must for any die-hard fan of the show. It sleeps up to 12 people and boasts high ceilings, exposed beams, and a gourmet kitchen. For true fans of Chip and Joanna Gaines, it's also only a mile from Magnolia Silos.
Irasburg, Vermont
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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.
Bentonville, Virginia
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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
Stanardsville, Virginia
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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.
St. Stephens Church, Virginia
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History lovers won't be able to resist this historic 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.
Orondo, Washington
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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.
Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
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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 two 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
Shepherdstown, West Virginia
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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.
Two Rivers, Wisconsin
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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-foot-long 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
Iola, Wisconsin
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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.
Shirley Basin, Wyoming
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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.
