8 Unique Places to Stay in the US (Not Your Typical Hotel)

Looking for unique places to stay in the US? We got you!

With the hot season upon us, it's time to start planning this year's travels (if you haven't already). Most of us tend to plan trips around a destination, completely neglecting accommodation. However, there's no need to travel far and wide to have a great time. Destination stays are the new trend that's here to stay.

Cookie-cutter hotel rooms no longer cut it in 2024. Travelers hunt properties with a story to tell; thankfully, those can be found in your neighborhood. Why waste your holidays on long flights and uninspiring motels? The US offers jaw-dropping landscapes and unique vacation rentals for every possible niche and preference.

In this article, we've rounded the most unique places to stay in the US to make this year's memories unforgettable. From romantic cabins in the desert to fairytale castles overlooking the ocean, you'll find a stay that suits your needs. Don't forget to book with Houfy to save on booking fees!

Cool Places to Stay in the US

1. Whitewater A-Frame Cabin

Amidst the California desert, there's a small oasis for the perfect mountain getaway. All hail the king of glamping, welcome to Whitewater Cabin! This architectural marvel, featuring 8-inch, hand-carved cedar timbers imported from the mountains of British Columbia, is a magical retreat for all nature lovers.

With warm, cozy interiors, comfortable furnishings, and expansive windows for natural light, it creates the perfect atmosphere for romance. The cabin sits next to an ever-running stream fed by water from the San Gorgonio Mountains. The whole area is covered by hiking trails, which are begging to be explored.

This place is the epitome of relaxation, from stargazing and bird watching to brushing up on your photography or plunging into the pool. You can also explore Whitewater, a hidden gem of a town, or if you enjoy shopping, drive for 15 minutes at the Desert Hills Premium Outlets for a proper spree.

Whitewater A-Frame Cabin

2. Trident Castle - Port Antonio

If you've always wanted to wear a gown and stroll in a castle's corridors, this is your chance to make your dream come true. When it comes to unique places to stay in the US, the Trident Castle is one of the first that pops into mind. This 40,000 ft² beauty, with a staff of seven, stands on seven acres of a peninsula in Port Antonio, Jamaica.

It's one of the largest private homes in the Caribbean, dating back to 1979. It took ten years to complete, built as a private residence by Mr. Earl Levy, a hotelier, architect, and builder. Located on Pegg Point, at the mouth of Turtle Crawle Harbour, it features eight bedrooms with full bathrooms, two living rooms, terraces, a courtyard, a ballroom, and a banquet hall.

If you plan a wedding, a business conference, or a family reunion on private grounds, this is your chance to live an experience like no other. But if you just want an unforgettable vacation far away from the hustle and bustle, this is a dazzling stay unlike anything you've lived before. The castle also features a pool with a large terrace, overviewing the ocean for stunning pink sunsets.

Trident Castle - Port Antonio

3. Stay Suite -Vineyard Retreat - Paso Robles

Who said you must go to Italy for a luxury vineyard experience? This gorgeous 1000 ft² Suite overlooking a private vineyard promises a relaxing retreat in the heart of Paso Robles, California. Surround yourself with authentic local wineries and breweries, enjoy stunning views from every window, and take each day slowly.

Follow the roads with just cows around you for total tranquility and peacefulness. The Suite is like a 5-star hotel in the countryside, featuring luxurious bedding, a walk-in shower overlooking the vineyard, and a private balcony for sipping your morning coffee or evening wine. It's a feast for the eyes completely off the grid and solar-powered.

Downtown is also just a short drive away, where you can enjoy delicious brunch (don't miss The Cowgirl Cafe and the Brunch Paso!). As part of your stay, the owner offers discount codes and gift cards for wine tasting to immerse yourself in the concept fully. If you book multiple nights for your stay, you'll also receive a complimentary bottle of wine upon check-in.

Stay Suite -Vineyard Retreat - Paso Robles

4. Greers Ferry Lakefront Cabin - Tumbling Shoals

A lakefront cabin couldn't be missed from our list of unique places to stay in the US. Greers Ferry Lakefront Cabin, located at Tumbling Shoals, Arkansas, will be your refuge if you love swimming, fishing, and boating. Directly across from Dam Site Marina, it offers elite views and easy lake access.

The fully furnished cabin features a large porch, many windows, and new appliances. Landscaped with natural rock and adult trees, it's a cozy home the whole family will enjoy. Imagine sipping your coffee while watching the sun go down, with the trees reflecting on the waters and the birds singing. Dreamy!

The latest addition is a natural stone outdoor grill where you can cook fish catches and savor them with your loved ones. Days here are serene, and life is lived at a slower pace. If you want to reconnect with yourself or your family, add the Greers Ferry Lakefront Cabin to your travel itinerary.

Greers Ferry Lakefront Cabin - Tumbling Shoals

5. Renowned Architect! Views/Theatre/Game Room/Hot Tub - Gatlinburg

This custom ultra-luxury mountain-top villa in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, was designed by renowned architects, secluded among the clouds and stars. Boasting 5800 ft² indoors and multiple decks and sunrooms facing Mt LeConte, it's a project like no other.

If it's the all-inclusive luxury you seek this season, you just found your cocoon. Featuring a seven-person hot tub, a high-end 100'' projector movie theatre, seven TVs, and multiple game rooms with pool, ping-pong, and jukebox, you're in for a treat. Fluffy beds, three fireplaces, and even a Harry Potter dungeon await to impress you.

This dazzling home can accommodate up to 20 people, making it an oasis for game enthusiasts. Far away from neighbors but yet super close to main attractions, it combines location with privacy. Only 5.4 miles driving distance to Gatlinburg and 6.2 miles to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this hidden gem is a destination on its own.

Renowned Architect! Views/Theatre/Game Room/Hot Tub - Gatlinburg

6. Floating Stationary Houseboat on the River - East Dubuque

Have you ever stayed at a floating oasis amidst the Mississippi? I guess not. This newly remodeled 70-foot houseboat might be slightly different from a regular home, but it promises equal comforts and even more fun! Although the boat doesn't move and the engine is shut down, you still enjoy the beauty of a river setting.

From swimming and kayaking to boating and fishing, there's no shortage of activities here. Read your favorite novel on the roof or slide from the boat slip for endless splashes. Gaze upon the stars with a glass of wine or enjoy cooking time with your loved ones. The 70 ft roof is equipped with a bar and outdoor furniture for the utmost comfort in nature.

The houseboat features a custom kitchen, a master bedroom, a bunkhouse room, and a basement bedroom. The living room has a pull out couch with a queen size bed. Overall, it can accommodate up to 10 people, for a one-of-a-kind stay.

Floating Stationary Houseboat on the River - East Dubuque

7. Oceanfront Kitty Hawk Beach Cottage Sweetheart - Outer Banks

If you're looking for unique places to stay in the US that promise exhilarating ocean views, a little cottage in Outer Banks, North Carolina, will give you endless blue horizons. This sweet cocoon that accepts furry companions is conveniently located on the beach with direct ocean access off the deck steps.

Sit on the tall captains chairs and watch the dolphins during sunset while sipping your favorite beverage, or freshen up your fishing skills for a freshly caught dinner. An outdoor shower and charcoal grill complete the experience for total slow living. You can also explore the nearby towns, light houses, great dunes, and wildlife refuges, or travel to the northern beaches to see the wild horses.

The cottage can accommodate up to 6 people in a King, Queen and Twin Bedroom. With a tasteful beach decor and comfortable furniture, it's bound to convey a laid-back ocean atmosphere. Dine at the table with a sea view and gaze out the windows as the pelicans fly by. Ethereal!

Oceanfront Kitty Hawk Beach Cottage Sweetheart - Outer Banks

8. Glen House - Newry

Our list with the most unique places to stay in the US concludes with the Glen House at Sunday River Newry, Maine. This is the ultimate year-round luxury estate home, spa, and entertainment destination wrapped into one magnificent vacation rental estate.

It's ideal for extended family vacations, reunions, special occasions, holidays, and retreats, and can accommodate up to 26 people in 9 bedrooms. It includes endless amenities and entertainment options such as a movie theater, pool, sauna, spa, billiards room, 3 kitchens, 4 bars, and a treehouse playground.

In addition to the year-round activities Sunday River valley has to offer, the house itself is a destination. Watch your favorite movies at the 20-seat movie theater with 120” screen, popcorn machine, and candy dispensary. Or relax in the 8 custom spa bathrooms, the outdoor shower, or the 2 Jacuzzi soaking tubs. Talk about vacations!

Glen House - Newry

Book Your Unique Stay in the US!

Whether your style is relaxing under the sound of waves, or living in an actual castle, there's a rental on this list that calls your name. Hopefully, our selection of unique places to stay in the US will inspire you to explore what this country has to offer. It's time to cut on the one-size-fits-all hotels and mass tourism, and enjoy memorable stays that you'll cherish forever.

Thankfully, with Houfy you can book your accommodation directly with hosts without middleman and service fees. Simply pick the one that strikes your fancy, talk directly with the owner, and make your reservation. This way you can save money for the things that matter most in your trip, or maybe book one more night!