24 Coolest Airbnbs in the US Worth Traveling For

I spend a lot of time tracking down memorable places to stay across the United States. As a professional travel writer, that’s taken me all over the country and into homes that are wildly different from one another, from treehouses overlooking vineyards, to desert houses designed like UFOs, to A-frame cabins near national parks, to city penthouses where the soaking tub is a major reason to book.

I even own one of the homes on this list, so I know exactly what makes a stay worth the trip. These are the coolest Airbnbs in the US that I’d send my own friends to.

In the US, where trips often involve long drives, big landscapes, or planned city breaks, where you stay can shape the experience in a real way. Hotels tend to prioritize consistency, which works for some trips, but it doesn’t always reflect the setting or the reason people travel in the first place. Many stays on Airbnb do, especially when design, location, or privacy play a role in how the trip unfolds.

If you’re planning a trip where the stay itself matters, these are the most unique Airbnbs in the US. I’ve stayed in some of these myself and researched the rest obsessively.

My Top 3 Favorite Unique Airbnbs in the US

1. The Award Winning 2-Story Cereal Box (Texas): Best for a themed getaway the whole family will talk about for years, and it’s at the very top of my wishlist.
2. Whimsy Homes Colorful Cabin (California): Best for a cozy-but-design-forward forest stay that works for families, couples, and longer trips. (Yes, it’s mine!)
3. The Sonoma Spyglass (California): Best for couples who want a morning sauna, wildlife sightings, and Sonoma wine country.

The 24 Coolest Airbnbs in the United States You Need to Book

This list brings together some of the coolest Airbnbs in the United States that I’ve either stayed in myself, researched closely, or have on my bucket list.

Each one stands out because of how it’s designed, where it’s located, or what it allows you to experience once you’re there.

The Award Winning 2-Story Cereal Box

Good for: Families, couples, themed-stay lovers, birthday trips
Location: Tyler, Texas, United States
Why stay here: Two-story cereal box design, fully stocked cereal bar, Milk Carton sauna, 8-foot cereal bowl hammock
Rating: 5.0 from 41 reviews (Guest Favorite, top 5% of homes) | Hosted by Trey and Michaela | About $660/night with fees

This is a WOW Airbnb in every sense, and it’s been high on my list ever since I saw it on Instagram a couple months ago. The Cereal Box is a two-story, cereal-themed Airbnb on 2.5 wooded acres about 20 minutes outside Tyler, and every detail leans in, from a 22-foot tile mosaic to cereal-light displays in the drop ceilings. The whole home revolves around a fully stocked cereal bar with milk and drinks. Upstairs, the king bed sits near a 120-inch projector screen that hangs over the open space above the cereal bar, so movie night is basically mandatory.

Outside, the Spilled Milk patio has a fire pit and lounge seating under the pines, plus an 8-foot cereal bowl hammock filled with cereal-shaped foam pieces and a Milk Carton sauna. It sleeps four with a king, a full fold-out, and the sofa, which makes it one of the most fun Airbnbs in the US for a family birthday trip. Guests keep mentioning how clean it is and how much kids love the cereal bar.

Worth it if you want the most fun themed Airbnb in Texas and a breakfast nobody forgets. Skip it if you need flexible cancellation (bookings are non-refundable) or want to be close to town, since guests say most things in Tyler are a 25 to 30 minute drive.

The Nut House

Good for: Couples, solo travelers, unique stays, unplugged trips
Location: Aubrey, Texas, United States
Why stay here: One-of-a-kind tree house design, private acreage, immersive nature setting, fire pit nights
Rating: 4.95 from 132 reviews (Airbnb Guest Favorite) | Hosted by Katie and Ty

The Nut House is a sculptural tree house designed to look like a massive acorn, suspended among the trees on a private stretch of land just outside Denton. The living space is compact but well planned, with a lofted king bed, porch seating, and views of the creek and surrounding woods. Time here naturally centers around being outdoors, whether that means slow mornings listening to birds, exploring the property, or settling in by the fire as the sun goes down. It’s a unique Airbnb that feels completely removed from daily life without being far from town.

This stay is best for guests who are comfortable with a more outdoors-forward setup. The bathroom is located a short, well-lit walk from the house, which is important to know before booking. Cooking is simple rather than full-scale, and the layout works better for couples or solo travel than for families. If you’re looking for a vacation rental that prioritizes privacy, quiet, and a one-of-a-kind setting over extra amenities, this one is for you. 

Worth it if you want a one-of-a-kind treehouse an easy drive from Dallas. Skip it if a detached bathroom is a dealbreaker.

Zion A-Frame

Good for: Couples, anniversary trips, design lovers, slow desert travel
Location: Hildale, Utah, United States
Why stay here: A-frame design, canyon setting, hot tub and fire pit, access to Zion National Park backcountry
Rating: 4.92 from 483 reviews (Guest Favorite) | Hosted by Mindy

This A-frame sits at the edge of Southern Utah’s red rock landscape, with uninterrupted canyon views and a design that fully leans into its surroundings. A floor-to-ceiling window wall opens the living space directly onto a tiered deck system, letting natural light and desert air pour inside. From the bed, the deck, or the hot tub below, the focus here is always outward toward the canyon, with panoramic views that change constantly throughout the day.

The layout is ideal for couples who want privacy without feeling isolated. The bathroom is separate from the main cabin but just steps away, and the outdoor setup encourages time spent outside, whether that’s grilling, soaking under the stars, or sitting by the fire pit after sunset. While Zion National Park is an easy drive away, the property also offers direct access to surrounding public land, making this a strong choice for travelers who want a quiet home base with immediate access to the desert.

Works best for couples who want canyon views and a hot tub. Not ideal if you need Wi-Fi or want to be right at the park gate, since Zion is about 45 minutes away.

Crestone Hobbitat

Good for: Couples, small families, creative retreats, slow mountain travel
Location: Crestone, Colorado, United States
Why stay here: Earth-sheltered home, mountain and desert views, dark skies, proximity to a national park
Rating: 4.96 from 293 reviews (Guest Favorite) | Hosted by Jeff and Ruthann

The Crestone Hobbitat is an earth-sheltered home set into the landscape at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and it’s unlike anything else I’ve stayed in. I love the curved walls and organic layout, which make the whole place feel calm instead of boxy or conventional. The windows frame both mountain and high-desert views, and the living space feels warm and grounding, especially after a day spent outside.
This home works well for couples, but it’s also one of the few unique stays that can comfortably handle a small family without feeling cramped. There’s room to spread out, the setting is quiet, and the dark skies here make nighttime stargazing a highlight.
Great Sand Dunes National Park is less than an hour away, which makes this a great vacation rental if you want access to dramatic landscapes without staying somewhere busy. If you’re drawn to homes with personality and thoughtful design, this one really sticks with you.

Worth it if you love organic architecture and dark skies. Skip it if you need two full bathrooms, since there’s one full bath plus a half bath.

Whimsy Homes Colorful Cabin

Good for: Families, couples, friend trips, dog-friendly getaways
Location: Arnold, California, United States
Why stay here: Adult treehouse design, colorful interiors, cedar hot tub, forest setting near Big Trees
Rating: 4.88 from 92 reviews on Airbnb | Co-hosted by me

Whimsy Homes is my own cabin!! I renovated it with one clear goal in mind: to create an adult treehouse that still feels playful, cozy, and actually comfortable. I wanted color, nostalgia, and personality without giving up luxury, so you’ll find bold decor mixed with thoughtful details like organic mattresses, a professional coffee setup, and a cedar hot tub tucked under the pines. With more than 50 trees on the property, the whole place smells like cedar and forest air year-round, which is one of my favorite parts of staying here.

The layout is designed to work for real trips, not just quick weekends. There’s room for families to spread out, space for kids to play, and enough quiet corners for adults to slow down. I love how the deck becomes an extension of the living space, whether that’s morning coffee outside or soaking in the hot tub after a day of hiking.

The cabin is close to Big Trees State Park, alpine lakes, and small mountain towns of Calaveras County, but it still feels tucked away once you’re home for the night. If you’re looking for a vacation rental that feels personal, a little nostalgic, and different on purpose, this is exactly what I hoped to create.

Worth it if you want a playful, family- and dog-friendly cabin with a cedar hot tub. Not the move if you want to walk to restaurants, since it’s a forest cabin and you’ll drive into town.

Willow Treehouse

Good for: Couples, anniversary trips, unplugged weekends
Location: Willow, New York, United States
Why stay here: Secluded tree house, pond setting, wood-heated hot tub, no Wi-Fi or cell service
Rating: 4.96 from 887 reviews (Guest Favorite) | Hosted by Avner | About $500/night in fall

The Willow Treehouse sits on a wooded property outside Woodstock (not to be confused with Woodstock, VT) overlooking a small pond that you can swim in when the weather’s warm. I like how quiet it is here without feeling remote in a stressful way. The windows look straight out into the trees, and the interior is set up for simple routines: cooking dinner, reading on the couch, listening to records, and watching the light change outside.

This stay works best for couples who are comfortable fully disconnecting. There’s no Wi-Fi or cell service, which changes how evenings feel in a good way, especially when you’re lighting the fire pit or heating the hot tub with firewood. The bed is in a loft accessed by ladder, so it’s not ideal if stairs are an issue, and the pond is shared with the main house on the property. If you’re looking for a tree house in New York that prioritizes privacy, quiet, and time away from screens, this one does exactly that.

Works best for couples ready to fully unplug. Not ideal if you need to check email, climb ladders, or bring more than two people.

The Sonoma Spyglass

Good for: Couples, solo trips, wine country stays
Location: Sebastopol, California, United States
Why stay here: Detached sauna, wide valley views, quiet setting, close to Sonoma wineries
Rating: Rated 10/10 on Expedia | Hosted by Jade

I’ve stayed at the Sonoma Spyglass, and the sauna in the morning ended up being my favorite part. Sitting there early, then stepping outside and watching wildlife move across the property, made the whole stay feel slower in a way that stuck with me. The home itself feels larger than you expect, with an open layout and big windows that bring in natural light and uninterrupted views across the landscape. The patio is easy to spend time on, whether you’re having coffee, reading, or just watching what’s happening outside.

The location makes it simple to explore some of the best Sonoma wineries without feeling surrounded by crowds. Sebastopol is close enough for meals and errands, but once you’re checked in and back at the house, it’s quiet and private again.

This stay works especially well for couples who want a comfortable, well-designed home with a few standout features, rather than a packed schedule or resort-style setup. It’s one of the best Airbnbs in California and one of the coolest Airbnbs in the US for couples looking for romantic getaways. 

Worth it if you want a sauna, wildlife, and Sonoma wineries for two. Skip it if you’re traveling with more than two people or want campfires (they aren’t allowed).

Sage Canyon Cliff House

Good for: Couples, creative retreats, quiet desert trips
Location: Cortez, Colorado, United States
Why stay here: Built into a red rock cliff, stone living room walls, wide canyon views, near Mesa Verde National Park
Rating: 4.98 from 402 reviews (Guest Favorite) | Hosted by Laura and Grant | 2-night minimum

I have the Sage Canyon Cliff House one bookmarked for my next trip because of the way the house is built directly into the cliff wall. The stone carries straight into the living room, which is the detail that pulled me in, and the windows look out over McElmo Canyon and Sleeping Ute Mountain. From everything I’ve read and saved, the architecture feels tied to the landscape instead of sitting on top of it.

The house sits in a rural desert area outside Cortez, with Mesa Verde National Park about a 40-minute drive away. There’s no TV, but there is reliable Wi-Fi, which makes it workable for a mix of exploring and downtime. The porch faces down canyon, and the surrounding land looks open enough for stargazing and quiet mornings without nearby traffic or town noise. I’ll be staying here on my next Colorado trip. 

Works best for architecture lovers exploring Mesa Verde. Not ideal if dirt roads, spotty cell service, or shared outdoor space bother you.

Beautiful Timber-Frame Treehouse

Good for: Couples, anniversary trips, quiet weekends
Location: Wilmington, Vermont, United States
Why stay here: Hand-built timber frame, on-site milled wood, sauna and soaking tubs, multiple fire pit options

This Vermont tree house is custom built using maple trees cut and milled directly from the property, which is the detail that immediately caught my attention. The timber framing is visible throughout the interior, paired with stone elements and warm lighting that give the living space a solid, grounded feel. Inside, there’s a full kitchen, stone fireplace, projector for DVDs, and space set up for slow evenings with books or board games rather than screens.

Outside, the deck is set up for long stretches of time, with a barrel sauna, cedar soaking tub that can be used hot or cold, a propane fire pit, and a separate wood-burning chiminea. The layout keeps everything close together without feeling cramped, and the outdoor bar top makes it easy to spend meals outside when the weather cooperates. This is a tree house built as a standalone vacation rental rather than a novelty stay, with enough comfort and privacy for guests who want a quiet, well-constructed home base in Vermont in one of the most unique Airbnb East Coast properties.

Worth it if you want saunas, soaking tubs, and a hand-built Vermont retreat. Skip it if you want a lively ski-town base.

Clark Farm Silos #3

Good for: Couples, solo travelers, small families
Location: Kalispell, Montana, United States
Why stay here: Rebuilt grain silo, mountain views, private campfire area, near Glacier National Park
Rating: 5.0 from 299 reviews (Guest Favorite, top 1%) | Hosted by Alyssa and Elijah | From about $310/night

Silo #3 is part of a small group of rebuilt grain silos set on a multigenerational family farm in the Flathead Valley. The structure keeps its original cylindrical shape, with a lofted bedroom above and an open living space below. Large windows face the mountains, and the interior feels airy without losing warmth, especially in the main living area where the layout stays simple and functional rather than decorative.

Each silo has its own designated fire pit area, which guests use in the evenings after spending the day outdoors. In the mornings, the kitchenette makes it easy to settle in with coffee while looking straight out at the mountains. The property sits within driving distance of Glacier National Park, and the location works well as a home base for hiking days or slower travel. Parking is nearby with a short walk to the silo, and the spacing between units allows for privacy while still sharing the wider farm setting.

Works best for a Glacier National Park trip with a cozy home base. Not ideal if you need to park at your door or skip the loft ladder.

Futuro House – Creatives Retreat

Good for: Creative groups, architecture lovers, unconventional desert stays
Location: Joshua Tree, California, United States
Why stay here: Rare Futuro structure, off-grid desert setting, fire pit nights, close to Joshua Tree National Park

The Futuro House is a restored flying-saucer structure set on five acres in the desert outside Joshua Tree. It’s one of a limited number of these homes worldwide, and the design is the main reason to stay here. Inside, the layout is open and flexible, with multiple sleeping options rather than traditional bedrooms. The circular interior and low light at night make it feel very different from a standard house, especially once the sun goes down.

The outdoor setup is where most time is spent. There’s a fire pit, space to cook outside, and wide desert views that make evenings and stargazing the focus. The property sits about a 20-minute drive from Joshua Tree National Park, with other local creative landmarks nearby. This stay is closer to camping than a traditional vacation rental, and it works best for guests who are comfortable with off-grid living and an imperfect, work-in-progress space. Reading recent reviews closely helps set expectations before booking.

Worth it if you want a rare Futuro and you’re fine roughing it a bit. Skip it if you want hotel-level polish or an indoor bathroom.

Big Idaho Potato Hotel

Good for: Couples, novelty stays, short Idaho trips
Location: Boise, Idaho, United States
Why stay here: Giant potato structure, spa-style silo bathroom, farmland setting, close to Boise
Rating: 4.9 from 1,344 reviews (Guest Favorite) | Hosted by Kristie and Allie

This one has been on my list for a while because it leans fully into being weird in a way that still feels comfortable. I mean, it’s a potato Airbnb! The entire stay is inside a giant potato that originally toured the country with the Idaho Potato Commission, and the interior is styled like a grown-up hotel room rather than a novelty prop. There’s a real bed, power outlets, a mini fridge, and a record player, which makes it feel like an actual place to settle into instead of a quick photo stop.

The bathroom setup is what really sold me. The custom silo spa sits just outside the potato and includes a soaking tub where guests spend a lot of time, especially at night. The property sits on open farmland outside Boise, so it feels removed while still being an easy drive into the city. Between the setting, the design, and the sheer fact that you’re sleeping inside a potato, this is one of the coolest Airbnbs in the world because you literally can’t find this anywhere else. 

Worth it if you want the most famous themed Airbnb in the country. Not the move if you’re a light sleeper, since a rail line runs alongside the property.

Lighthouse on the Beach with Hot Tub & Fire Pit

Good for: Families, group trips, beach stays
Location: Manzanita, Oregon, United States
Why stay here: Lighthouse structure, direct beach access, hot tub, fire pit, large living space
Rating: Listed from about $555/night (newer listing with few reviews so far)

This home is built as a full lighthouse, set directly on the sand with a short path leading straight to the beach. The top level of the lighthouse holds two hanging chairs and wide ocean views, which is where guests tend to start and end their days. Inside, the design leans nautical without feeling themed, using weathered wood, brass details, and vintage maritime touches throughout the living space.

I’m a huge lighthouse fan, and while there are many that are converted into rentals or hotels, most are outdated and uninspiring, which is why this Oregon lighthouse Airbnb is such a standout to me. 

The layout works well for groups, with three bedrooms including two kings and a bunk setup that makes sense for families. There are multiple places to spread out inside, plus outdoor seating, a hot tub, and a fire pit positioned for evenings after the beach. The house sits right on the Oregon Coast, close enough to walk into town, but far enough back from crowds to keep the beach outside the door feeling open and uncrowded.

Works best for families and groups who want the beach outside the door. Not ideal if spiral stairs are tricky for anyone in your crew or you’re bringing a dog.

Gingerbread House Tower in the Berkshire Hills

Good for: Couples, small families, slow weekends
Location: Tyringham, Massachusetts, United States
Why stay here: Storybook tower layout, garden setting, multiple sleeping levels, Berkshire Hills location
Rating: 4.98 from 361 reviews (Guest Favorite) | Hosted by Joshua and Shaun

This stay is part of the Santarella Estate in the Berkshire Hills and occupies the tower portion of the Gingerbread House. The entrance opens into a large sitting area with windows facing the gardens, a hanging chair, and space to spread out without feeling closed in. A sliding door separates one bedroom on this level, while the tower section holds the kitchenette and dining area before stairs lead up to the loft bedchamber.

The layout is vertical and a little unexpected, which is what makes it memorable. The tower bedroom sits above the main living space with a canopy bed, while the lower level balances open space with defined rooms. The bathroom is larger than expected, with a double vanity and walk-in shower. Outside, the grounds include gardens, a lily pond, stone bridges, a running brook, and seating areas scattered across the property.

The location works well for exploring the Berkshires without staying in a town center. Hiking, swimming ponds, and nearby Berkshire towns are all within a short drive, but most guests spend time on the property itself, moving between indoor spaces and the gardens throughout the day.

Worth it if you want a storybook estate in the Berkshires. Skip it if four people sharing one bathroom sounds like a nightmare.

Forest Cabin at Parcel

Good for: Couples, families of four, design lovers, lake trips
Location: Maple City, Michigan, United States
Why stay here: Scandinavian-inspired cabin, private dock access, forest sauna, luxury finishes

The Forest Cabin is a modern Nordic-style retreat tucked into the woods with shared access to Little Traverse Lake, and the design alone is reason enough to book. I love the sky-high ceilings and exposed Douglas fir beams, which make the space feel both airy and grounded at the same time. The main-floor king bedroom keeps things comfortable, while the loft bedroom adds flexibility for families or friends. Inside, everything feels considered, from the bold tiled bathroom with heated floors to the plywood kitchen fitted with Bosch appliances, Le Labo toiletries, and Parachute linens.

The best part of this stay is how the indoor and outdoor spaces connect. The private patio and fire pit make evenings easy, while a boardwalk leads through the woods to a shared dock on the lake, where mornings tend to stretch longer than planned. The concrete forest sauna, shared with the neighboring Meadow Cabin, is a standout feature, especially after a swim or a cold-weather walk. It’s easy to spend entire days moving between the sauna, the lake dock (better than a pool!) and the wood stove, with the cabin itself feeling more like part of the landscape than something separate from it.

Works best for design lovers who want a sauna and a lake dock. Not ideal if you want total privacy, since the sauna and dock are shared with the neighboring cabin.

The Royal Bohemian

Good for: Design lovers, city stays, friends visiting San Francisco
Location: San Francisco, California, United States
Why stay here: Maximalist interiors, Castro views, walkable neighborhood, private deck

My mom stayed at the Royal Bohemian while visiting me in San Francisco, and I still think about it. The color, the layers of decor, and the way every room feels carefully styled without being precious really stood out. The apartment sits on the top floor of a 1930s building, and the living room opens onto a deck with wide views over the Castro, Twin Peaks, and the city beyond. You notice new details every time you look around, from art pieces to lighting to the way the rooms flow together.

The location is hard to beat if you want to experience San Francisco on foot. It’s a short walk to the heart of the Castro, with cafes, bars, shops, and transit right nearby, but the apartment itself stays quiet once you’re inside. The layout works well for friends or family visiting the city, with a main bedroom and a separate sleeping alcove, a full kitchen, and a dining room that actually gets used. If you’re looking for a city Airbnb that feels personal, expressive, and very San Francisco, this one delivers on all of that without feeling like a hotel in disguise.

Worth it if you want a maximalist San Francisco apartment in a walkable neighborhood. Skip it if you need an elevator or a flexible cancellation policy.

Historic One-Room Schoolhouse in the Countryside

Good for: Couples, small families, creative resets, unplugged weekends
Location: Plum City, Wisconsin, United States
Why stay here: 1907 schoolhouse, single-room layout, clawfoot tub, quiet countryside views
Rating: About $169/night with a 2-night minimum

I grew up in Wisconsin, and this converted schoolhouse Airbnb looks just like the schoolhouses I remember driving past as a kid and wondering what it would be like inside. The entire home is one open room with high ceilings, original hardwood floors, and big windows looking out over rolling farmland. The setup is simple, with a queen bed, a twin bed, a couch, books, records, board games, and a small desk that makes it easy to read or write without distractions. There is no TV, no WiFi, and very little noise, which makes the space feel calm in a way that is hard to fake.

The bathing room is open and centered around a restored clawfoot tub meant for long soaks, especially in the evening. Outside, the yard is wide and quiet, good for watching the sunset or laying out a blanket under the stars.

Nugget Lake is nearby for easy walks or canoeing, and the surrounding back roads are made for slow drives. This stay works best if you are comfortable with shared space and older buildings and want a countryside escape that feels personal, nostalgic, and rooted in place.

Works best for anyone craving a quiet, screen-free countryside reset. Not ideal if you need a shower (it’s a clawfoot tub) or a bathroom door.

The Copper Fox Treehouse

Good for: Couples, families with older kids, design lovers
Location: Pownal, Maine, United States
Why stay here: Fox-shaped treehouse, hand-built details, forest setting, access to state park trails
Rating: 4.99 from 196 reviews (Guest Favorite, top 1%) | Hosted by Heidi

The Copper Fox Treehouse is shaped like a red fox head and sits tucked into the woods next to Bradbury Mountain State Park. The design is the reason to stay here. Inside, everything is custom, from the curved walls to the fox-themed details worked into the finishes. The main sleeping area is in the snout with large windows that bring in morning light, while the ear lofts hold bean bag beds that kids tend to love. The space feels playful without being childish, and the craftsmanship is obvious as soon as you step inside.

Getting to the treehouse involves a short uphill walk along a lit gravel trail, which helps keep the setting quiet and removed. Evenings usually revolve around the fire pit or the gas stove inside, and days are easy to fill with hiking straight from the property or driving into nearby coastal towns like Freeport or Portland.

This stay works best for couples or families with older kids who are comfortable with ladders and shared sleeping spaces and want something imaginative that still feels carefully built.

Worth it if you want the cutest treehouse in New England. Skip it if a 500-foot uphill walk with your bags or a steep ladder is a problem.

Mirror Cabin in the Black Hills

Good for: Couples, solo trips, romantic weekends, tiny home stays
Location: Lead, South Dakota, United States
Why stay here: Mirrored tiny home, Black Hills views, hot tub and fire pit, quiet mountain setting
Rating: 9.6/10 from 14 reviews on Vrbo and Expedia

The Mirror Cabin in the Black Hills is a 200-square-foot tiny home designed to reflect its surroundings, so the landscape stays front and center. During the day, the mirrored exterior blends into the hills, while inside the layout stays simple and comfortable with a queen bed positioned for sunrise views. Even though it’s compact, the space feels cozy rather than tight, especially with most time spent outside on the patio.

The outdoor setup is what makes this tiny home memorable. A private hot tub, fire pit, and wide-open views turn evenings into something slow and unstructured, whether you’re watching weather roll through or sitting outside after dark. Blackout curtains give privacy at night, and there’s extra storage space in a small shed to keep the cabin uncluttered. It’s close enough to town to be practical, but once you arrive, it feels removed in the way people usually hope a tiny home stay will.

Works best for couples who want a hot tub and big views. Not ideal if you’re visiting in winter without 4WD, since the road has five switchbacks.

Private Luxury Glamping Dome – Hot Tub & Views

Good for: Couples, anniversaries, low-effort nature trips
Location: Whittier, North Carolina, United States
Why stay here: Geodesic dome, mountain views, hot tub, near Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Rating: 4.99 from 315 reviews (Guest Favorite)

I love glamping domes like this North Carolina glamping dome because they let you feel close to nature without giving up comfort, and this one nails that balance. The view is what grabbed me first. From bed, you’re looking straight out toward the Smoky Mountains, and I think the sunrise alone is reason enough to book. The dome itself feels open and calm, with enough space to move around without losing that cozy, tucked-in feeling that makes domes special. Mornings stretch longer than planned here because you don’t feel rushed to go anywhere.

What makes this a true glamping stay is how little you have to compromise. You still get a hot tub, a fireplace, a real bed, and a proper bathroom, but you’re surrounded by woods instead of walls. Evenings tend to revolve around the fire pit or soaking outside while the light fades over the mountains. It’s close enough to the Great Smoky Mountains to make day trips easy, but once you’re back at the dome, it feels quiet and private again. If you like glamping that feels comfortable rather than rustic or fussy, this one fits right in with that style.

Worth it if you want glamping near the Smokies without giving up a real bathroom. Skip it if you’d rather be walking distance to town.

Thimble Rock Point

Good for: Couples, anniversary stays, design-forward canyon escapes
Location: Unaweep Canyon (Mesa County), Colorado, United States
Why stay here: A-frame built into a canyon mountainside, granite cliff views, private hot tub, high-end finishes
Rating: 4.96 from 340 reviews (Guest Favorite) | Hosted by Nick

Thimble Rock Point is a jaw-on-the-floor Colorado Airbnb that feels carved right into the canyon walls. I saw this listing and immediately saved it for a future trip since ARE YOU KIDDING ME?? Look at it!

You get huge canyon and valley views from this modern A-frame, which sits about 7,000 feet up in Unaweep Canyon, plus a private hot tub for sunset soaks. The space is spotless, fully stocked for actual cooking, and so quiet you forget other people exist. If you want a romantic, peaceful, nature-heavy escape with serious wow factor, this one is a must-bookmark.

It’s especially cozy in winter and shoulder season, when the hot tub faces straight into a snowy canyon. During the day, the light moves across the rock walls and completely changes the mood of the living space. It’s private, quiet, and scenic in a way that feels earned, not overbuilt.

Works best for couples who want a dramatic, remote canyon escape about 45 minutes from Grand Junction. Not ideal if you don’t have AWD or 4WD for November through March.

Glass House Near Sequoia National Park

Good for: Girls trips, national park trips, design lovers, nature-focused stays
Location: Three Rivers, California, United States
Why stay here: All-glass walls, hanging fireplace, river access, Sequoia National Park basecamp
Rating: 4.91 from 215 reviews (Guest Favorite) | Hosted by Sequoia Vacation Rentals

I stayed at the Glass House on a girls trip a few winters ago, and it’s still one of my favorite national park stays. The entire main living space is wrapped in glass, so you’re constantly connected to what’s happening outside. I loved gathering around the hanging fireplace at night, then waking up to soft morning light and trees in every direction. Watching wildlife wander past the windows and seeing the stars from bed made the house feel more like part of the landscape than something placed on it.

The location is ideal if Sequoia National Park is the focus of your trip. The park entrance is an easy drive, but the house itself feels private and quiet, with river access close by and plenty of room to spread out on the property. The two-bedroom layout works well for friends traveling together, and the mix of design and comfort makes it a great place to come back to after long hiking days. If you want a Sequoia basecamp that feels special without sacrificing warmth or practicality, this one really delivers.

Worth it if Sequoia is the focus of your trip. Skip it if you want a lot of privacy, since curtains do the heavy lifting, even for the bathroom.

Luxury Lakeview Ski Chalet in Lake Tahoe

Good for: Large groups, ski trips, multi-family stays, luxury lake vacations
Location: Tahoma, California, United States
Why stay here: Lake Tahoe views, sleeps 10, hot tub, ski resort access, design-forward interiors

This Lake Tahoe chalet checks a box I didn’t fully have filled yet: a true luxury ski house that also works beautifully for big groups. Perched above the lake on Tahoe’s quieter West Shore, the views are front and center from nearly every room, including the deck and hot tub. I’m especially drawn to the mid-century details inside, like the hanging fireplace and the way the living space is oriented toward the water instead of the TV. With five bedrooms and multiple king suites, it’s set up for groups who want privacy without feeling scattered.

What makes this a strong ski-season pick is how well it balances comfort with location. Homewood is close, and Palisades and Heavenly are easy day trips, but coming back here feels like the reward. Heated bathroom floors, a fully equipped kitchen that can actually handle group cooking, and a hot tub overlooking the lake make cold nights feel cozy. It works just as well for a Tahoe winter ski week as it does for a summer lake trip, which is exactly what I look for when I’m bookmarking a splurge stay for a group.

Works best for big groups who want lake views and ski access. Not ideal if you’re a couple on a budget.

Historic 1890s Carriage House with Saltwater Pool in New Orleans

Good for: Couples, solo travelers, slow city trips, Southern charm lovers
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
Why stay here: 1890s carriage house, saltwater pool, walkable Uptown location, classic New Orleans architecture
Rating: 5.0 from 429 reviews (Guest Favorite) | Hosted by Skye

This 1890s carriage house in New Orleans is a rare city Airbnb that feels both deeply rooted and restful. Set on a quiet, tree-lined street in Uptown, the space blends historic character with modern comfort, from antique furnishings and tall windows to a newly renovated kitchen and marble-tiled bath. Natural light fills the house throughout the day, and the layout feels calm and livable rather than styled just for photos.

The saltwater pool and brick patio are the highlight of this stay, especially in warmer months. Mornings start slow here, afternoons disappear poolside, and evenings feel easy after walking back from Magazine Street, Audubon Park, or the St. Charles streetcar. The pool and yard are shared with the hosts, but the carriage house itself is fully private, making this a great option if you want a New Orleans stay that feels personal, peaceful, and distinctly Southern without being touristy.

Worth it if you want a quiet Uptown base with a pool. Skip it if you need a private pool or on-site parking, since the pool is shared and parking is on the street.

Coolest Airbnbs in the US Comparison Chart

If you’re still deciding, here are all 24 of the coolest Airbnbs USA travelers can book, side by side, including the ones I’ve stayed at myself. Ratings are from Airbnb unless noted.

FAQ: The Coolest Airbnbs in the US

What Are The Coolest Airbnbs In The US?

The coolest Airbnbs in the US are the ones you can’t find anywhere else in the world: the Cereal Box in Texas, the Big Idaho Potato Hotel, the Copper Fox Treehouse in Maine, and the Futuro House in Joshua Tree. These are some of the craziest Airbnbs in America, and they still come with real beds and real comfort.

What Are The Coolest Airbnbs In The US For Couples?

For couples, I love the Willow Treehouse in New York, the Sonoma Spyglass in California, Thimble Rock Point in Colorado, the Mirror Cabin in the Black Hills, and the Zion A-Frame in Utah. Each one feels like a private retreat with a hot tub, a sauna, or a view that makes the whole getaway.

What Are The Coolest Airbnbs In The US For Groups?

The best picks for groups are the Lake Tahoe ski chalet (it sleeps 10), the lighthouse on the Oregon Coast with three bedrooms, and my own Whimsy Homes cabin, which has room for a family to spread out. The Crestone Hobbitat also works for a small family.

What Is Airbnb OMG?

Airbnb OMG is Airbnb’s category for its most unusual homes, and stays like the potato hotel, the Futuro House, and the Copper Fox Treehouse are exactly the kind of OMG Airbnb listings you’ll find there. Airbnb also has a WOW category, and the Cereal Box is a WOW Airbnb through and through. Browsing these categories is one of the easiest ways to find Airbnb unique stays.

How Do I Find A Cool Airbnb Near Me?

If you’ve been searching “cool Airbnb near me,” start with the state closest to you in the chart above, then browse the unique stays Airbnb groups into categories like OMG, Treehouses, and A-frames. Searching Airbnb USA listings by category instead of by city surfaces way more weird Airbnbs and fun Airbnbs.

Are Themed Airbnbs Worth It?

A themed Airbnb is worth it when the stay is the trip, like a birthday at the Cereal Box or a night in a giant potato. Just know they’re often small for the price and book up fast, so plan ahead for weekends and holidays.

Travel Tips For Booking The Best Airbnbs In The US

My top travel tips: check where the bathroom is (several of these have detached bathrooms), read the cancellation policy, and look for ladder lofts if anyone in your group has mobility issues. Most of these rentals don’t allow events or parties, so ask before you rent for a celebration. The top Airbnbs in the US also book months out, so treat them like hotels in peak season and reserve early.

Which Of The Coolest Airbnbs In The US Should You Book?

If you’re planning a couples getaway, book the Willow Treehouse or the Sonoma Spyglass. For a family trip, the Cereal Box and Whimsy Homes are my picks. For a big group, go with the Lake Tahoe chalet or the Oregon lighthouse. For an outdoor adventure, base yourself at the Zion A-Frame or Clark Farm Silos near Glacier National Park, and for a city weekend, nothing beats the New Orleans carriage house.

These are the cool Airbnbs in the US I love most, and I’ll keep adding to this list every time I find a new favorite. I hope it helps you pick the perfect stay for your next trip, since there are so many incredible destinations and places to see across the country. If your favorite home isn’t featured, drop a comment below so everyone can see!