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The USA itself is brimming with unique destinations to explore. From the tranquil vistas of the Grand Canyon to the vibrant streets of New York City – whatever your vibe is, you’ll find in the States.

To level up your travels around the USA,  you’ll want to uncover the best stays across the country. Travelers these days are looking for something more than cookie-cutter hotels and motels…

Travellers don’t just want a place to rest their heads, but rather a unique experience from their accommodation! Who wants to show off an average hotel suite on Insta stories when you can give a tour of your own private potato? Yep, that isn’t a typo… you can really stay inside a potato!

With ultra-eccentric and quirky properties popping up all over the country scoring an unforgettable stay is a breeze! However, due to the plethora of stays, you could spend hours scrollin’ through the archives of Airbnb… 

But don’t you worry, my friend! I’ve done all the heavy lifting for you. In this article, I’m going to hand deliver you the BEST Airbnbs in the US

For a getaway off the grid, and far from mainstream, check out what I find to be of some of the coolest Airbnbs in the US.

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    dani at a glamping/ luxury camping spot
    That feeling when you arrive at a seriously awesome Airbnb!
    Photo: @danielle_wyatt

    The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.

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      1. Invisible House – California

      Invisible House
      • $1929 / Night
      • Located in Joshua Tree on 90 acres of land that features a mountain and hiking trails

      This impressive mirrored home is a whopping 22 stories long and creates a magnificent sci-fi image of the Joshua Tree National Park desert.

      Inside, you’ll find a 100-foot pool, three enormous suites, and a dream kitchen with all the modern amenities you could ever need. The grand floor-to-ceiling windows look out over every inch of the desert. You can spend your days looking out over the landscape, reading books in the streaming natural light, and enjoying calm tunes on the sound system.

      If you’ve been looking for a place to escape – or your own spaceship – the Invisible House is the spot for you.

      2. The Tiki Suite – Florida

      The Tiki Suite
      • $599 / Night
      • Key West, Florida a short distance away from The Hemingway Home and Museum and The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory.

      Glamping is the trendy thing now, but what about glamping on water? Oh yes, there’s such a thing and it’s perfect for a romantic getaway. 

      If you’re looking for where to stay in Key West, Florida, get ready for a one-of-a-kind accommodation experience. This property is off-the-grid but has many amenities to make up for the lack of modern conveniences. Who wants modern conveniences when you have a king bed in front of French doors that open up to the ocean?

      Watching dolphins and manatees from a hammock, anyone? Snorkeling with stingrays or paddle boarding into the sunset sounds amazing! Did I mention this place is so remote that you can only reach it via water taxi? Yeah, no crowds here! After dark, just ask Alexa to turn the lights on for you.

      The Tiki Suite in Florida is my kind of heaven.

      Alpaca Treehouse in the Bamboo Forest
      • $374 / Night
      • Located in Atlanta, Georgia in the East Atlanta neighborhood

      This Alpaca Treehouse in the Bamboo Forest is simply sublime – hidden away in an 80 year old bamboo forest, decorated with stained glass windows and skylights. The bamboo is zen to be in, from the sound of the wind running through it to the plush queen bed. This treehouse sleeps two but if you want to party, there are a couple of other cabins on the property, too. 

      You’ll be staying on a working farm, with Illamas, alpacas as well as chickens, dogs and cats around which make for a good view. Look out over the farm as you enjoy your morning coffee or a glass of wine on the large porch. This is an absolutely epic spot to stay in Atlanta

      The hosts are so warm and friendly and will be more than happy to help you with anything you need, just reach out. You can opt to go on a tour of the farm (Billie Eilish has!) and meet the animals if this is something that tickles your fancy. There are all the fabulous amenities you could desire, a full modern toilet (as well as a composting toilet!) and marble bathroom included.

      It also has wooden floors, ultra-modern furnishings, and an open-floor concept with high ceilings to ensure that natural light flows throughout. You’ll have everything you need on hand in the fully-equipped kitchen, too. Georgia has some amazing treehouses, but this is by far my fave!

      4. Creekside Hideaway – Montana

      Creekside Hideaway
      • $306 / Night
      • Located in Clancy, Montana only a short drive away from restaurants and parks

      Montana is one of the best places to visit in the US for many reasons, including its epic accommodation. Not your typical mountain foothills getaway, this unique Airbnb with chic Scandinavian details is both fun and cozy. I bet you’ve never showered in a tree trunk before. Well, here’s your chance!

      There’s a secret passage to a lovely primary bedroom, but I would be fighting for a bed in one of the little sleeping nooks (basically modernized bunk beds) that are each equipped with their own light and outlet. After spending time outdoors hiking and exploring, evenings in front of the fireplace provide perfect endings to your days in the Elk Horn Mountains. You can’t look past Creekside Hideaway.

      Is This the Best Backpack EVER???
      audy on top of a mountain in japan with the osprey aether

      We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

      Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

      View on Osprey
      The Grace Airstream at Progress Park
      • $180 / Night
      • Located in Progress Park in Derby City, Kentucky close to shopping, restaurants bars and cultural attractions

      You’ve likely seen the outside of a vintage Airstream camper, but have you ever stayed inside a fully refurbished one? Glamping is taken to a whole new level in this 1974 Airstream Sovereign Land Yacht where you can enjoy the best of both worlds. 

      It has easy access to nature, including a beach right outside, and all the luxuries you’d get at a full-service hotel. With wood floors, a full kitchen, and chic decor, it won’t feel like you’re staying in a camper. It’s the fire pit and cozy hammock right outside that give it that rugged, outdoorsy feel! This Kentucky Airbnb won’t disappoint.

      Peaceful Treehouse with Ocean View
      • $3,100 / 4 Nights
      • Situated in Aptos, California in a quiet neighborhood next to Nicene Marks Redwood Forest State Park

      There are many treehouse accommodations around, but this Peaceful Treehouse might just be the coolest airbnb in the US. The host, Janice, is beyond fabulous and more than happy to accommodate anything you need. This treehouse is a bit tucked away, a short drive to epic hiking trails as well as the beach, and coffee shops and restaurants. 

      This is the sort of place you want to book for a few indulgent days of being house bound, curled up with a book. I mean, how could you not want to make the most of those floor to ceiling windows and wide open green space that’s around. I’d stock up at the local supermarket on your way in and supply yourself with treats and goodies to cook in the fully equipped kitchen.

      7. The Silo – Missouri

      The Silo
      • $198 / Night
      • Situated on five acres in Bonne Terre, Missouri within 15 minutes from restaurants and many attractions

      Knock “slept in a farm silo” off your bucket list with a stay at this unique Missouri Airbnb. You get the entire place to yourself which means you get the hammock and the double-decker deck all to yourself too.

      The chic decor is a stark contrast to the rugged exterior, and luxuries like a marble walk-in shower and cozy electric fireplace add to its charm. Nothing beats preparing dinner outdoors on a BBQ grill followed by an evening chillin’ around a roaring fire in the on-site fire pit. Book yourself into The Silo, you won’t regret it.

      Cave Glamping Suite
      • $185 / Night
      • Situated in Moab, Utah

      This unique Airbnb is truly off the beaten path and nestled in a cave in Moab, you’ll stay glamping style. Located on a private ranch on the bank of the Colorado River, the accommodation is literally built into the red rock banks. Despite all this, you’ll absolutely be comfortable with air conditioning, wifi, queen beds and a mini kitchen set up, AND, hot water!

      Make sure you bring a 4WD to get out to this Utah Airbnb, the drive along the river is a wee bit extreme. There’s also limited water out here so make sure you bring yourself a jerry can if you’re staying for more than a night… Which you will want to do for sure, once you see the stars and serenity that’s out here. 

      Rich and his team love the local area so definitely ask them for tips or advice on where to hike and explore the local area during your stay at the Cave Glamping Suite.

      9. The Lily Pad – Ohio

      The Lily Pad
      • $459 / Night
      • Located in Hocking Hills State Park near Logan, Ohio, and close to many hiking trails, nature areas, and attractions

      I think this shipping container-turned-tiny-home is definitely one of the coolest Airbnbs in the US. I mean, how do you turn a plain object such as a shipping container into a luxurious retreat complete with a full kitchen, bathroom, dining area, and fireplace?!

      Even the one bedroom is state-of-the-art with a large full-view window and blackout blind that you can control via remote. How cool is that?

      But wait, here’s the best part! A motorized garage door opens up to a patio with an outdoor hot tub, a swing, grill, and ambient lighting for those evenings you’d rather spend outdoors surrounded by nature. The Lily Pad is a dream!

      10. Treehouse in Mt Hood – Oregon

      Treehouse in Mt Hood
      • $805 / 2 Nights
      • Situated in Mt Hood, Oregon 6 miles from Sandy

      Who doesn’t want to stay in an authentic treehouse like the ones you dreamed about as a kid? Add in the friendly labradors on the property and you have my childhood idea of heaven. Treehouse in Mt Hood is an off grid property with a fabulous selection of other unique stays on the property, too in case you’re traveling with a crew. 

      The property this treehouse is on is a 20 acre property with winding trails through the forest you can meander along and enjoy. There’s also a pond which you can kayak across and even has an island in it and a zipline if you’re feeling adventurous. There’s also heaps of outdoor games (disc golf, carpet-ball, horseshoes, a pendulum swing and basketball) – a big vibe for active relaxers. 

      This treehouse in Oregon is an absolute nature retreat – there’s minimal cell signal and no wifi so you can really immerse yourself in the wilderness. Remember that it is glamping (glamorous camping) and while there are comfortable beds, there isn’t a running toilet. There are, however, fabulous amenities and you’re only an hour from downtown Portland.

      Private Sage Canyon Cliff House
      • $261 / Night
      • Situated on Sleeping Ute Mountain in McElmo Canyon only 40 minutes away from Mesa Verde, Colorado

      Among the most unique Airbnbs in the United States is this gem built right into the side of a cliff. And yes, in case you were wondering, the cliff is part of the interior decor. You can’t get a more unique place to stay in Colorado!

      This cabin is fully equipped, minus a few things no one really needs on a relaxing escape from everyday life. In other words, there are no TVs to be found so you’ll be encouraged to enjoy the peaceful, natural desert surroundings. The cozy outdoor porch at the Private Sage Canyon Cliff House is a perfect spot to watch the sunset, view wildlife, or observe the night sky.

      Grass-roofed Earthen Hobbit Hut
      • $95 / Night
      • Located in Geyserville in California Wine Country

      If you’ve ever wanted to live like a hobbit or just simply enjoy a peaceful, rustic Middle-Earth-inspired space, this Grass-Roofed Earthen Hobbit Hut is the place for you.

      This one bedroom guesthouse is small, but talk about comfy! Everything you need for comfort is inside this little cob hut. Everything else you need, including outdoor showers, a dining area, a library, and a coffee bar, is just outside and are shared with other like-minded people who enjoy tranquillity and nature.

      Meditate in the on-site temple or soak up some vitamin D in the pool. Enjoy an end-of-day soak in the bubbling hot tub followed by a steamy session in the sauna or just sit around a communal fire under the stars.

      13. Artful and Cozy Home – Detroit

      Artful and Cozy Home
      • $441 / 3 Nights
      • Located in the historic neighborhood of Detroit, Michigan

      So this is a bit different to the rest of our programming, as this house is nestled in some luscious trees in Detroit city. But hear me out, this is a freakin’ cool Airbnb in Detroit.

      Set back from the street and surrounded by big old trees, this townhouse is a unique accommodation option in Eminem’s home town. This Artful and Cozy Home is a two story townhouse is homely, cozy and comfortable with brick and wood accents and warm lighting. 

      You’ll be happy here, tucked away in a quiet local neighbourhood where you can walk the streets safely in the heart of Detroit. There’s a fully equipped kitchen if you want to stay home and cook your own meals, cosplaying a local in this city. Or, you can stroll for 15-25 minutes into some of Detroit’s best attractions, restaurants and bars, it’s easy to explore Detroit from this unique spot!

      Agave Suite at JTH Tucson
      • $305 / Night
      • Located on 40 acres in a remote area near Saguaro National Park in Tucson, Arizona

      Agave Suite at JTH Tucson is a nature lodge, you’ll stay in a private room with access to everything to make your vacation dreams come true. How does dinner at sunset on an outdoor patio sound? Care for morning coffee on the rooftop lounge as the sun comes up over the desert? Or how about a relaxing, refreshing dip in the pool?

      Sounds like my kind of place and I didn’t even get to the room yet!

      This Tucson Airbnb has is all with a full kitchen, a fireplace to sit around on those chilly nights, and a private balcony to observe the undisturbed night sky. Did I mention that breakfast is served each morning? How’s that for a perfect start to your day before heading to the yoga room for some pre-adventuring zen time?

      15. ManCave Apartment – Florida

      ManCave Apartment
      • $92 / Night
      • Situated on a private airstrip in Geneva, Florida a short drive away from beaches and top attractions

      Although the name implies a perfect getaway for the guys, ladies enjoy staying here too. Even pets are welcome in this Florida Airbnb.

      What makes this one of the most unique Airbnbs around is it’s located in an airplane hangar. If admiring the workings of classic cars and farm equipment is your idea of leisure time, this is the place for you.

      Forget about perfectly placed ornaments and frilly things, the interior of this place is packed with all the vintage items your heart could desire from old bar signs to nostalgic pictures. Oh, and there’s a bar and fireplace you can enjoy from the living room couch, too. The ManCave Apartment is quirky but so cool.

      Florida has some incredible treehouses and cabins, it’s such a fun way to stay!

      16. Underground Hygge – Washington

      Underground Hygge
      • $250 / Night
      • Situated on six acres of mountainous landscape in Orondo, Washington

      Located on the side of a mountain, Underground Hygge comes complete with a classic round door and rustic interior, like something out of a fairytale! Enter into a world of warmth and hygge with a fireplace and classic furnishings.

      Exit into the vast countryside with rolling hills as far as the eye can see. It’s remote, and the scenery is out of this world. There are no crowds but some rabbits and deer may join you for morning coffee.

      Pirates of the Caribbean Getaway
      • $145 / Night
      • Located in Topanga, California near Topanga State Park, Santa Monica, and Malibu

      Just when you thought you’d seen all the most unique Airbnbs, this one jumps out to surprise you. It’s like tropical island paradise meets pirates’ quarters!

      You get the rustic guest house all to yourself, and the property has everything you could need in a fun, quirky accommodation. Waterfalls, ponds, tropical decor, ambient lighting, and lush greenery – oh my! Hang out in the hammock, hot tub, outdoor daybed, or patio – the choices are endless. This Pirates of the Caribbean Getaway is the perfect retreat.

      18. Converted WWII Train Car – Tennessee

      Converted WWII Train Car
      • $153 / Night
      • Located in Maryville, Tennessee in a hidden away location

      It looks like an old WWII train car on the outside, but it’s a palace on the inside! Of course, the lovely patio is a dead giveaway that there’s something more to this place than meets the eye.

      When you step inside this Converted WWII Train Car, you step into history and rustic charm.  This former kitchen train car has been transformed into a stunning, open-plan Airbnb complete with wood flooring and bright, contemporary decor. Outside, you can enjoy campfires around the fire pit and starry nights relaxing in the gazebo.

      I hope you like dogs because there are six adorable pups ready to greet and slobber all over you! You won’t find another Tennessee Airbnb like this one.

      The Big Idaho Potato Hotel Farm Stay
      • $190 / Night
      • Approximately 20 miles South of downtown Boise, Idaho

      So far, you’ve read about some pretty unique properties, but this has got to be the most unique Airbnb on this list.  You’ll be sleeping in a giant root vegetable, but digs are far from the dirty earth where potatoes grow.

      Once part of a cross-country Big Idaho Potato Tour (yes, that’s a real thing), this spud found its final resting place on a large plot of farmland featuring an outdoor dining area. Inside, you’ll be surprised to find a full bathroom and kitchen, a fireplace, a record player, and a bright, beautifully designed interior.

      That silo you see in the back? That’s where you can enjoy a relaxing soak with a view of the night sky! Book yourself in at The Big Idaho Potato Hotel Farm Stay for one of the most unique accommodation experiences you’ll ever have.

      The Bloomhouse by Lodgewell
      • $473 / Night
      • Located in a remote area on a hill above Austin, Texas

      If corners and confined spaces (think office cubicles) represent the limitations we have in our everyday lives, The Bloomhouse represents everything that goes against those limitations. In other words, here’s your ideal escape from the rat race, where you can leave those confined spaces behind.

      Literally, because there are no corners or straight lines to be found in this unicorn-shaped structure. It has been restored to its original 1970s magnificence, just as it was when free-spirited hippies dared to escape the ordinary. The seclusion, the architectural wonders of the interior, and the beautiful outdoor space with a fabulous dining area make this a must-experience Airbnb.

      Located close to the heart of town, you can visit the best bits of Austin with a calm home to return to.

      Private and Secluded Large House
      • $249 / Night
      • Situated in Palm Springs, California close to hiking and biking trails

      Ceilings 26 feet high, two and a half bathrooms, a giant kitchen with indoor and outdoor dining areas – what is this, a castle?

      Not quite. This Private and Secluded Large House is a geodesic dome house and another one of the most unique Airbnbs in California. The spacious bedrooms overlook the mountains, desert, and nearby Palm Springs. There’s also a pretty cool loft bedroom!

      Outside, you have five acres of space to roam. The city lights of Palm Springs can be seen at night, but they don’t obstruct the starry sky!

      Dreamy Treehouse Above Park City
      • $199 / Night
      • Situated in a scenic canyon about an hour away from Park City, Utah

      This Dreamy Treehouse Above Park City is like something out of a kid’s adventure movie, with some fancy grown-up touches. 

      It’s only accessible by 4×4, which means you won’t be bumping into too many people. In my opinion, it doesn’t feel like a real treehouse unless it’s remote and surrounded by nature. Two-legged visitors may be scarce, but you will sure get a visit from some four-legged ones! Fancy hanging out with a moose?

      The wood interior gives it a rustic feel, while the full kitchen adds a touch of luxury. I think the bedroom loft with a skylight would be my favorite spot to hang out. But then again, there’s that private deck that opens up to the undisturbed night sky.

      Airbnb Experiences in the US

      Do you fancy a day trip to go with that nice little apartment?!

      Airbnb Experiences is a feature offered by Airbnb that allows hosts to offer unique, curated activities to guests – or to anyone who’s interested in, even if they’re not staying at an Airbnb property. These experiences can range from cooking classes and guided tours to art workshops, outdoor adventures, and more.

      Two people sit in chairs posing for a photo dressed in traditional samurai armor.
      Photo: @audyscala

      Airbnb Experiences was created to offer travellers a deeper connection with a destination by offering truly unique experiences, all led by locals who are both knowledgeable and passionate about their city.

      Some personal highlights of my Airbnb Experiences include a tapas bar-crawl in Granada, a Samurai workshop in Kyoto, and a graffiti spotting bike ride around Bogota.

      Street Art Walking Tour in Brooklyn

      Street Art Walking Tour in Brooklyn

      Stroll through the vibrant Brooklyn streets, where walls burst with colour. Your local guide will lead you through Williamsburg and Bushwick, introducing you to iconic sites and hidden gems. As you walk, you’ll hear the stories behind the art and the artists, learning how these neighbourhoods have become a canvas for creativity. It’s more than just a tour- you’ll dive into Brooklyn’s creative soul.

      Hollywood Hills Sunset Hike

      Hollywood Hills Sunset Hike

      Nature lovers buckle up and get ready to escape the city.  Hike through the Hollywood Hills as the sun sets with incredible views with each step. Take in iconic sights like the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory, all bathed in golden light. This peaceful, guided hike offers a perfect blend of nature and panoramic views of the city.

      Learn Surfing in Malibu

      Learn Surfing in Malibu

      There’s something magical about stepping onto the sandy shores of Malibu, where the Pacific stretches out in front of you, and the waves beckon. Whether you’ve never touched a surfboard or you’re looking to refine your skills, this (***one-on-one/group**) session offers you the opportunity to experience California’s surf culture first-hand. All gear is of course provided but be sure to bring your own waves.

      Don’t Forget Your US Travel Insurance

      Healthcare in the US sure ain’t cheap! make sure you grab some good travel insurance before heading out to one of these epic Airbnbs.

      ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

      They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

      SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

      Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

      Final Thoughts on the Coolest Airbnbs in the US

      So, there you have it – 22 of the most unique Airbnbs in the United States! 

      Want more, have a look at these epic yurts in Texas for something more unqiue.

      These are the places you want to book if you want to escape reality, get away from the norm, and have an ADVENTURE. Why would you stay in a run-of-the-mill hotel when a potato awaits – can you tell I’m obsessed?

      Whether you wish to be tucked away in the mountains, off-the-grid in the desert or suspended from a tree in a Redwood Forest, trust and believe that Airbnb has the place for you!

      Happy adventuring!

      Two girls riding bikes across The Golden Gate Bridge United States of America.
      Some may even come with their own cycles 😉
      Photo: @amandaadraper

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      the broke backpacker team at the water temple in bali
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