7 Coolest and Most Unique Places to Stay in the US

It can sometimes feel like you’re spoiled for choice when planning a vacation in the US, with so many cities and accommodation options to choose from. This article will highlight seven of the coolest places to stay across the States, ranging from cabin rentals in Michigan to kitsch hotels in California and invisible homes in Joshua Tree.

Learn about the things you can see and do near these accommodations, as well as some info on transportation, car rental and airport accessibility.

What makes this property unique?

Ever dreamed of staying the night in a repurposed 1950s gas station? SPACE CASTLE has you covered. Featuring barbecue facilities and a hot tub out back, this two-bedroom property may look like any other ramshackle gas station, but inside you can find one of the most unique places to stay in the US. The artistic aesthetic of SPACE CASTLE is visible upon entry, with themed rooms brimming with antiques that transform the space into a living, breathing art installation. The influence of the American West is felt throughout, so much so you can almost imagine Jim Morrison kicking back and calling this place home. 

Location/Directions

Located in the uniquely named city of Truth or Consequences, SPACE CASTLE can be found in the Hot Springs District, a short distance from the natural wonder of Elephant Butte State Park. While the city does have its own airport, hiring a car may be your best bet if you’re planning on exploring the surrounding desert and its natural attractions. The Geronimo Museum offers insight into the history of the area, while the hiking trails of Timber Mountain are always worth a visit. For connecting flights, Albuquerque is just over a two-hour drive away and passes through the landscapes of the Navajo Nation en route.

What makes this property unique?

Situated in La Follette, Tennessee, Minnies Mountain Lakehouse is a luxurious log cabin fitted with all the facilities you might need. The three-bedroom, four-bathroom accommodation is ideal for family gatherings of up to ten guests and features a cosy, open-plan living space suited to holiday season relaxation. Outside, there’s a fire pit for roasting s'mores and a hot tub with mountain views. Minnies Mountain Lakehouse is one of the most unique cabin rentals in Tennessee, equipped with all your typical log-finished furnishings, a coffee machine and a gourmet kitchen perfect for late-night snacking. 

Location/Directions

Minnies Mountain Lakehouse is located a short 45-minute drive from Knoxville, situated in the relatively rural setting of La Follette. While the nearest airport to the property is McGhee Tyson, airports in Nashville and Lexington may provide better flight options. The lakehouse is located in an ideal spot for hiking, biking, canoeing and wildlife spotting along the picturesque Powell River, while many camp sites also operate in the area. Other notable outdoor spots and attractions nearby include Norris Lake and the Norris Dam State Park. 

What makes this property unique?

If you’re looking for some unique beachfront accommodation in the Florida Keys, look no further than this two-bedroom villa. The Anglers Reef Getaway is situated within a resort complex of old-timey Floridian houses, where gated security and a private swimming pool allow families to completely unwind in safety. Offering two bedrooms and two bathrooms, this powder-blue property is good value for money considering its location in one of the Florida Key’s most popular spots. One standout feature is its porch and balcony – an ideal spot for some evening drinks after a day exploring the Keys. 

Location/Directions

Anglers Reef Getaway is located a short distance on foot from the restaurants and stores of Islamorada. It’s a great access point for boat tours, reef snorkeling excursions and other attractions. Florida’s cultural capital, Miami, is located two hours away by car and is a suitable spot for connecting flights. If you’re traveling with kids, Disneyland Orlando is a 4-5 hour drive from the property, depending on road traffic or how early you set off.

What makes this property unique?

The Invisible House is one of the most unusual places to stay in Joshua Tree. Renowned for its 360-degree carbon-neutral glass facade, the property has its own private desert and mountain. Internally, the three-bedroom accommodation is completely open plan and offers floor-to-ceiling windows that bring the natural world in. Contemporary design is present throughout, lending itself to a Bond villain-type vibe, complimented by its 30 meters swimming pool stretching the length of the home. This means you can roll out of bed and swim your way towards your breakfast. 

Location/Directions

Situated just under two kilometers from Joshua Tree National Park, the Invisible House is an absolute icon of the unique accommodation scene. The surrounding area is ideal for hiking along nature trails, while a short drive will take you to the iconic 1960s holiday destination that is the Salton Sea. Palm Springs International Airport is 35 kilometers from the property, while flights from LAX are accessible via a two-hour drive through the San Bernardino Forest. Las Vegas and the Hoover Dam are also a three-hour drive from this unique vacation home.

What makes this property unique?

The Madonna Inn is a must-visit for anyone planning a vacation to San Luis Obispo. Originally opened in 1958 by interior designers Alex and Phillis Madonna, their mission was to ‘make more people happy’. The resort-style complex is renowned for its 100-plus rooms, each adorned with antique decor, kitsch interior design and an individual theme. Themes include antique cars, American independence, Pioneer America and a jungle room featuring a dinosaur fossil. The property also features a bakery, wine cellar, gold rush-themed steakhouse, 13-meter waterfall, swimming pool and a hot pink tennis court that only adds to the campy, kitsch appeal. 

Location/Directions

San Luis Obispo’s Madonna Inn is located within walking distance of the Irish Hills Nature Reserve and the restaurants, stores and attractions of Downtown and the Old Town Historic District. To get to San Luis Obispo, hire a carand take the three-hour drive from either Los Angeles or San Francisco, or take the train to experience the natural beauty and regional landscapes of a leafier California.

What makes this property unique?

Located in Charlevoix, Michigan, the Mushroom Houses are the brainchild of architect Earl Young, who designed these unique vacation spots in the early 1900s. Featuring postcard imported thatched roofs from Europe, the Mushroom Houses offer traditional log-cabin-style accommodation near Lake Michigan, with each of the four homes having been recently renovated by their latest owner. Thatch House, the main home within the complex offers six bedrooms and is suitable for family gatherings and post-wedding celebrations. 

Location/Directions

The Mushroom House’s location on the shores of Lake Michigan places you in an ideal spot for boating, sailing and fishing. The property’s proximity to the region’s Great Lakes is another bonus, while cities like Detroit, Milwaukee and Chicago are accessible by car and plane. Those planning a vacation to the Mushroom Houses should also consider Michigan’s diverse seasons before booking. Depending on the time of year, expect sunny climes or heavy snowfall, both of which will determine the type of vacation and attractions you’ll be able to enjoy. 

What makes this property unique?

Surrounded by acres of natural sequoia woodland, this lake-view property is embedded in the leafy surroundings of the Sequoia National Forest. Offering spectacular views across the Kern River and Isabella Lake, the three-bedroom property has all the basic amenities you need before exploring the awe-inspiring surrounding woodland. Previous visitors have enjoyed early mornings drinking coffee on the veranda, watching the mist rise from the lake and the deer wandering right up to the door. The property also includes free Wi-Fi and private parking, meaning you’ll be able to plan your hiking routes with ease.

Location/Directions

This three-bedroom panoramic lake view apartment is located in the heart of Sequoia National Forest in the state of California, not far from Yosemite National Park. While Kern Airport offers some flights, the closest airport is Bakersfield. That said, renting a car may be your best means to get by, with Los Angeles only a two-hour drive away. If you’re planning a simple weekend of hiking, this unique vacation rental places you in the heart of the action, surrounded by untouched landscapes, wilderness and wildlife for kilometers.