25 seriously cool Airbnbs in the US, from a futuristic UFO in Joshua Tree to a hobbit home in Washington
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- With a little digging, you can find seriously cool Airbnbs and sort by unique listings.
- From hobbit homes to UFOs, we rounded up truly unique, cool Airbnbs across the US.
- All are highly-rated homes at a range of price points from $93 to $600 per night to start.
Although many travelers have stayed in Airbnb apartments or houses before, there is a whole sub-section of unique Airbnb listings rising in popularity for more memorable experiences.
These are one-of-a-kind accommodations that go beyond Airstreams and tree houses, from a UFO in Joshua Tree to an underground hobbit home in Washington, and are available to book if you know where to look.
To help make it easier, we scoured Airbnb for the coolest homes across the US that feel lifted from a fairy tale, movie, or your wildest imagination.
Browse all of the coolest Airbnbs below, or jump to a specific area:
- The coolest Airbnbs in the Northeast
- The coolest Airbnbs in the South
- The coolest Airbnbs in the West
- The coolest Airbnbs in the Southwest
- The coolest Airbnbs in the Midwest
- The coolest Airbnbs in Hawaii
- FAQ: Cool, unique Airbnb homes
- More of the most unique Airbnb homes
These are the coolest Airbnbs, sorted by area and price from low to high.
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Airbnb
Book this Vermont stone home on Airbnb
This whimsical cottage charms from the first glance with its white stone exterior and unrefined shape. Despite the off-grid appearance, this home offers all of the modern comforts you could need, from heated bathroom floors to a thermostatically controlled propane stove.
The organic, nature-inspired decor includes a wood-burning stove fireplace, maple tree trunk sink, painted flower dresser, and carved wooden end tables. Little built-in wall pockets found throughout the home act as vases for various plants and flowers. Eat at the indoor dining table or choose to dine on the garden terrace with views of the meadow, woods, and mountains.
During the day, explore 10 acres of surrounding woodlands or take a short walk to check out the town hall. There is also a river nearby for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. While the Airbnb is located in a seemingly remote location, it's only a short 10-minute drive to cities like Arlington.
Cottage connected to lobster boat in Machiasport, MaineAirbnb
Book this Maine lobster boat on Airbnb
Savor a true Maine experience by stepping aboard a lobster boat, which comes as part of any stay in the adjacent cottage. On board, there is a library and lounge accessible via a short series of boardwalks and decks.
The cottage itself is surrounded by the Long Point nature reserve and offers stunning views of Holmes Bay. The interiors are midcentury modern with tasteful nods to the nautical theme, including a wire fish sculpture, an old boat steering wheel, and model ships.
The home is minutes from some of Maine's best hiking trails, and is a short drive to popular destinations including Acadia National Park, Campobello Island, Eastport, and the Schoodic Peninsula.
Creekside Kingsley gristmill in Clarendon, VermontAirbnb
Book this Vermont gristmill on Airbnb
Located in the charming Vermont countryside, this Airbnb is the United States' only original gristmill and covered bridge that's also a residence. Although it's a national historic site, you won't have to worry about daytrippers wandering across your vacation because it's off-limits to the public and exclusively for guests. As an added perk, a gourmet breakfast is included in your stay.
The house itself is four stories and a massive 3,000 square feet. The interior is old-fashioned in keeping with the historic nature of the surrounds, with quilt-bedecked beds and timbered ceilings. The river outside is Vermont's warmest, which is good news for swimmers wishing to take advantage of the lodging's private breach or two floating tubes.
Whimsical boho loft in New York City, New York
Airbnb
Book this New York City loft on Airbnb
For a memorable city stay, it's tough to beat this eclectic and art-filled New York City loft in the heart of Gramercy. With exposed brick walls, a wood-carved four-poster bed, and plants strewn throughout, this spot has a frenetic though welcoming vibe.
Set one flight up in a vine-covered brownstone, you'll feel like you're in your private museum as you peruse the myriad paintings, sculptures, and antiques. At night, soak in the clawfoot tub set right next to the wood-burning fireplace, or curl up with a good read from the numerous bookcases.
Of course, exploring all New York City has to offer is also easy from this home base.
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Book this Florida airplane hangar on Airbnb
Billed as a "man-cave" and built inside an airplane hanger, this colorful stay is a dream for aviation enthusiasts. There is nothing usual about this space, with eclectic decorations ranging from suspended model airplanes and motorcycles to vintage slot machines. Between the hanging egg chair, maps littered across the walls, LED-lit bar, and American flag tiling in the bathroom, the decor is eclectic, but in a fun and quirky way.
There is one Queen bed in the loft, as well as additional cots available upon request. Pets are allowed, as long as they aren't left unattended. The home includes a kitchen space with a coffeemaker, bar, microwave, toaster oven, and refrigerator.
During the day, you can milk Pygmy goats at an on-site barn or go horseback riding across 500 acres of parks for an additional fee. Or, admire the classic cars that the hosts work on in the garage and maintenance facility on the property. In the evenings, relax in front of the wood-burning fireplace and enjoy satellite TV, Wi-Fi, and A/C.
Boxcar bunkhouse in Canyon, TexasAirbnb
Book this Texas boxcar on Airbnb
This 111-year old rustic boxcar located on a Texan ranch went through an extensive restoration and remodel and now serves as a unique stay for history buffs.
As you might expect, the boxcar's layout is long and narrow and essentially one room. However, the home is highly functional, with one Queen bed, a pullout sofa, a tall glass dining table, and a small bathroom. Other noteworthy features include the shower, which is located in a former ice chute. There is also a private hot tub built into the ground at the end of the patio.
The boxcar is conveniently located near Palo Duro Canyon State Park and Cadillac Ranch. After a day of hiking and exploring, return to the boxcar and enjoy free Wi-Fi and a meal on the gas grill.
Ark in Springfield, TennesseeAirbnb
Book this Tennessee ark on Airbnb
This wooden ark, nicknamed Kellysjubilee, is located next to a picturesque pond on a peaceful, 50-acre property. The ark features multiple wooden decks, cabin-style octagonal windows, and touches of flowers throughout.
Inside the ark, you'll find appropriately all-wood interiors, as well as a small stocked kitchen, and previous guests have mentioned being greeted by fresh flowers, comfortable robes, chocolates, and snacks.
On the property, you can take a walk to the creek, through various hiking trails, and even a labyrinth, or you can spend your day fishing in the pond. End your day by soaking in the private hot tub on the deck of the ark, roasting marshmallows by the fire pit, or stargazing on clear nights. Though the ark is located in a quiet, secluded location, it is only a 30-minute drive to Nashville.
Secluded glamping yurt in Topton, North CarolinaAirbnb
Book this North Carolina yurt on Airbnb
This luxury yurt offers the ultimate glamping experience in the Great Smoky Mountains right next to a stream. While it may be in a remote area surrounded by nature, you can stay plugged in with free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen satellite TV. There is no cellular service, but the host does offer guests a satellite phone.
Inside, find exposed wooden beams, a tree-root lamp, a wildlife-patterned rug, and two bedrooms with colorful quilts. The kitchen has high-end appliances and opens up to a spacious balcony and gazebo.
Additional highlights include a hot tub located along the creek and a private porch with gas and wood fire pits. There are three other yurts on the property, but they are all secluded and separated from one another.
Find more of the best yurt rentals here
Grass dome house in Johnson City, TennesseeAirbnb
Book this Tennessee dome on Airbnb
This grassy earth house perched atop a cliff overlooks an old rock quarry pond with a plunging manmade waterfall.
Besides the incredible views, which you can take in from the sprawling porch with a fire pit, there's a number of creature comforts in this turf-roofed dwelling, including a Keurig and air-fryer. High ceilings, huge round windows, and mostly white decor accented by lavender furnishings create a bright and airy space.
Be aware this is a place to unplug and disconnect. There's no Wi-Fi, but you can soak up your surroundings in the outdoor tub.
Bubble dome with hot tub in Todd, North CarolinaAirbnb
Book this North Carolina bubble dome on Airbnb
For a remote nature experience with all the perks of staying in town, this glamping bubble tucked among the trees is just a five-minute walk from downtown Todd in North Carolina. It's an idyllic place for a weekend getaway, complete with a furnished gazebo, grilling area, and a full outdoor kitchen.
Spend evenings roasting marshmallows over the two firepits, or soak in the hot tub. Then kick back and take advantage of the fact that this Airbnb comes with a Bose Bluetooth speaker and an iPad for streaming.
If you can tear yourself away from the views, there's plenty to do nearby. It's just a 20-minute drive into Boone and numerous hiking trails are close to the home.
Floating tiki suite in Key West, FloridaAirbnb
Book this Key West floating tiki hut on Airbnb
If water views are what you seek, this tiki hut in Key West delivers in spades given the fact that it's essentially a floating home. You'll enjoy all the benefits of being on a boat on the water without the chore of you actually having to maneuver it yourself.
The suite is more of a glamping experience but waking up is a dream, thanks to a trio of French doors that open up on the water from the bedroom (which has a King-size bed). Plus, you'll be able to spot ocean wildlife from the porch, including dolphins, stingrays, and manatees.
The structure is designed to be self-ventilating, with a high vaulted ceiling and thatched roof to encourage salty breezes. And while you'll want to bring ice with you to chill your drinks, the roto-molded cooler keeps things cold for up to nine days.
The home aslo comes with two stand-up paddleboards, a hammock, and snorkeling gear.
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Airbnb
Book this California dome on Airbnb
This 20-foot dome is located in an open field that is part of a horse and farm animal sanctuary. It boasts a direct view of the Pacific Ocean, which you can enjoy through triangular, floor-to-ceiling windows.
The isolated nature makes it an ideal choice for travelers looking for a fully immersive glamping experience, and the dome is entirely off-grid, meaning there is no electricity or Wi-Fi. However, there is phone service for AT&T and Verizon users.
There is one bed, a shared shower on the property with two shower stalls, as well as a propane space heater and propane fire pit that can be used at an additional cost.
Spend your day meditating in nature, relaxing at one of the local beaches, or hiking in a nearby state park. At night, head back to the geo-dome to catch a stunning sunset before watching the stars emerge.
Dome in the desert in Joshua Tree, CaliforniaAirbnb
Book this Joshua Tree dome on Airbnb
A coveted Airbnb Plus listing, this home in Joshua Tree is less than a three-hour drive from Los Angeles, and under an hour from Palm Springs, which makes it just right for urbanites' weekend getaways.
Secluded in the desert among a cluster of scrub trees, living here is low-key but comfortable, with airy living spaces punctuated by pops of marigold and whitewashed brick.
Ready for all seasons, the dome features a wood-burning stove, space heaters, and air conditioning. Bedrooms have King beds with memory foam mattresses, and the windows open up so you can fully soak in the desert landscape — a serene way to start and end your days.
Zen soaking oasis in Arcata, CaliforniaAirbnb
Book this California home on Airbnb
If you're looking to soak the days away in your own little oasis, this cozy studio in Humboldt County, California is one of a kind. The studio is comfortable, with purple velvet decor and quilts adorning the walls, but the real appeal happens outside.
Two red bathtubs were turned into soaking tubs in a private moss-covered area, with another copper soaking tub filled via a waterfall. There's also a luxurious cedar sauna with a beautiful riverstone exterior, plus a patio for relishing garden and pond views.
For breakfast, enjoy two farm-fresh eggs, steel-cut oats, and coffee or tea as part of your stay. The host even invites you to harvest kale from the living wall just across from the bike shed in the courtyard.
The home is within walking distance to the nearby town of Arcata where the local plaza offers plenty of shops, restaurants, and microbreweries. The Arcata Community Redwood Forest is also a few minutes away, as is the Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary.
Futuristic UFO in Joshua Tree, CaliforniaAirbnb
Book this Joshua Tree UFO on Airbnb
If you're looking for something that's completely out of this world, this glamping site in Joshua Tree, California comes in the shape of a UFO.
It's one of the original Futuro houses constructed in the 1980s, and though there are others around the globe, this is the only one you can spend the night in.
Now renovated and thoroughly modern, this solar-powered stay includes two Queen beds, a Bluetooth sound system, a coffee maker, and an outdoor kitchen and shower.
The whimsical decor includes colorful rugs, bright orange pillows, and on-trend furnishings like futuristic pod chairs that look straight out of the "Jetsons."
Off-the-grid tower at summit prairie in OregonAirbnb
Book this Oregon tower on Airbnb
Modeled after the Fire Lookout Towers built by the US Forest Service in the early 1900s, this summit prairie home is perched 40 feet in the air. Set on 160 acres of private land deep within the Umpqua National Forest, wild animals like deer, elk, bears, cougars, coyotes, and bobcats roam freely in the area.
Inside are all the essentials, including a full kitchen, comfortable beds in the cupola, and two rocking chairs from which to enjoy the breathtaking views.
There is also a spacious deck, the two Adirondack chairs, a fire pit, wood-fired and spring-fed hot tub, vegetable garden, and hammock.
Rock house built into the hills in Yucca Valley, CaliforniaAirbnb
Book this California rock house on Airbnb
This stone villa sits on five acres of land and was built using boulders gathered from nearby mountains during the '60s and '70s. It features floor-to-ceiling windows, slanted wooden ceilings, dramatic stone archways, and carved rock walls.
But the architecture isn't all that sets this listing apart. The hosts describe this house as a living breathing sculpture, with everything built by hand. Unique interior design features include wood-burning stoves, an Egyptian-esque tiled mural in the bathroom, and a fireplace carved into the rock steps.
This three-bed villa can comfortably accommodate four guests, and any additional guests can stay in an on-site airstream ($50 additional cleaning fee applies for using the airstream).
There is also a hot tub, target range, wading pool, and the option to book a facial or in-room massage. Because of the sensitivity of certain architectural elements in this Airbnb, the host requests that all guests be 18 and over, so this is not ideal for families with young children.
See more caves and rock homes you can rent
Underground hobbit house in Orondo, WashingtonAirbnb
Book this Washington hobbit house on Airbnb
This magical earth house will transport you straight from Washington to the set of "The Lord of the Rings."
Located next to the Columbia River Gorge, it offers incredible views of the mountains, river, and on-site hiking trails from round windows. The charming indoor area comes with a cozy stone fireplace, an oversized iron chandelier, a wooden bathtub, and a barrel of drinking water attached to the wall.
This Airbnb is best for travelers looking for a solitary nature getaway, as there is no Wi-Fi or cellular reception. There is also no kitchen, so come prepared. While the property is off-grid, it uses solar-powered energy for running water, electricity, and a flushing toilet. The home can accommodate two guests over the age of 12, and pets are also welcome.
A-frame next to the Hollywood sign in Los Angeles, CaliforniaAirbnb
Book this LA home near the Hollywood sign on Airbnb
This A-frame enjoys iconic surroundings, perched in the Hollywood Hills right next to the famous Hollywood sign itself.
Built in 1963 and once owned by the band The Association, this home features 30-foot ceilings, a stone fireplace, and funky decor such as peace signs and colorful quilts.
A private hot tub on the back patio provides a place to enjoy those famous views, and a King-size bedroom has an outdoor shower and a second private patio. Music lovers will especially enjoy the vintage Audiophile sound system in the living room and the grand piano.
Easily access 4,000 acres of hiking and horseback riding right out the front door, including the hike to Hollywood sign if you want to get even closer.
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Airbnb
Book this adobe Taos home on Airbnb
Airy and bright thanks to cream interiors, this serene adobe house was originally the dance studio of flamenco artist María Benítez.
Its current incarnation, however, is a dreamy boho-chic getaway with an indoor hammock, a clawfoot bathtub, and wood-beamed ceilings that crown white adobe walls.
There's also a pullout sofa and two bikes available to ride into town; the home is close to the Taos historic district. You can also take a birdwatching stroll in the wide-open desert surroundings.
Floating tree house in Nephi, UtahAirbnb
Book this Utah floating tree house on Airbnb
Embrace your wild side as you cross the 70-foot suspension bridge to reach this floating tree house in central Utah.
Climb the ladder to the second-story bedroom or go all the way up to the crow's nest with a deck 30 feet off the ground and a table and two chairs. Sit back and enjoy the stunning view from atop the trees or head up at night for stargazing.
The interior feels like a rustic cabin with wood paneling and a giant tree trunk jutting from floor to ceiling. There is one Queen-sized bed, two sofa beds, an extra mattress, and a private bathroom on the ground floor at the base of the suspension bridge that leads up to the tree house. Take advantage of a barbecue grill, pavilion with gas fire pit table, and a spa area to relax in after a long day exploring.
Death Valley desert hideaway in Beatty, NevadaAirbnb
Book this Death Valley home on Airbnb
This 1,200 square-foot house deep in the high desert of Death Valley, Nevada beautifully incorporates the surrounding vistas and landscapes that abound. Set on 80-acres of land with unobstructed views over the desert and mountains, this tiny home packs a lot of punch between its office, large open kitchen, dining room, and three bedrooms.
Extra hangout space is available thanks to a 900-square-foot furnished deck with a sunken hot tub. Sliding glass doors can be completely opened for seamless indoor/outdoor living and interiors have a minimalist theme, but are still cheerful thanks to plenty of colorful and bright red dining chairs and a green-tiled bathroom.
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Airbnb
Book this Wisconsin boat on Airbnb
Located on Lake Michigan, this houseboat rental is charming despite its relatively tight quarters.
The all-in-one kitchen/living space features a cute blue Smeg fridge, a cozy dining nook, and a plush bed. The deck is pretty on a sunny day with plenty of seating and a handy charcuterie board set-up to take advantage of during sundowner cocktails.
Relax onboard playing cards or head onshore to the marina for the hot tubs, heated pool, or restaurant.
Be aware there aren't showers on board, though there is a toilet. However, the showers at the marina are easily accessible.
See more of the best boats on Airbnb
Chic shipping container in Rockbridge, OhioAirbnb
Book this Ohio shipping container on Airbnb
While a shipping container may not sound ultra-luxe, this one is especially posh. Sleeping up to six guests in three bedrooms, this home is made up of a shipping container with two levels, including a cabin on top connected via a narrow, spiraling staircase.
The expertly styled interiors include a wooden bench-style dining table, a buttery leather couch, a spa-like bathroom with a deep soaking tub, and floor-to-ceiling bedroom windows for dramatic views of the surrounding forest. Some of the windows even act like garage doors and can be lifted up for an indoor-outdoor experience.
There's also a large deck with string lights and patio furniture arranged around a fire pit, along with a grill. As an extra bonus, there's a private hot tub on its own mini deck accessible via a boardwalk.
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Airbnb
Book this Hawaii rainforest home on Airbnb
Located eight miles to Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, this rainforest retreat is 120 feet deep in the woods. It's also 15 feet off the ground for a sense of being totally immersed within the surrounding rainforest.
The Airbnb is designed for relaxing, with an eight-foot teak Balinese daybed on the lower deck, or lanai, and a small table for games or a cup of tea. An airy bedroom offers panoramic cathedral-style windows and a bed raised four feet off the ground, the better for gazing up at the clouds.
A bathroom is located behind barn doors off the center walkway with a separate rainfall shower (heated by solar power and propane) and adorned with hanging plants with a handmade Koa wood washbasin. On the upstairs lanai, there's a furnished seating area for stargazing through a canopy of eucalyptus and guava trees.
FAQ: Cool, unique Airbnb homesWhat are the coolest Airbnbs in the US?
Why, the ones on this list of course! We did extensive research to find the coolest homes on Airbnb available to rent.
How do I find super cool, unique homes on Airbnb?
After plugging in as much essential travel information as you know, including date, the number of guests, and destination, refine your search further by heading to the "More Filters" button.
You'll find a specific section outlining different types of unique stays to choose from, and you can easily pull up some of the site's more interesting homes by selecting cool Airbnbs like houseboats, yurts, castles, tree houses, domes, and more.
You may also refine your search further by combining unique Airbnb searches with specific amenities like pools or hot tubs.
How do Airbnb cancellations work?
Each property for short-term rentals has its own cancellation policy, so be sure to read the fine print before you book and message the host if anything is less than clear. Policies range from Flexible to Strict, with different cancellation and refund policies for each tier.
Is Airbnb safe?
The CDC has stated that US travel is safe for fully vaccinated individuals.
Airbnb also has the Airbnb Enhanced Clean for hosts that involves training and getting certified in strict cleaning protocols designed to reduce COVID-19 transmission. These cover everything from wearing personal protective equipment and what cleaning supplies to use to how to clean between guests.
More of the most unique Airbnb homesAirbnb
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