Planning a getaway in the Sunshine State and looking for unique places to stay in Florida? You’ve come to the right place! Florida is home to scenic beaches and beautiful tourist attractions so it is important to choose the perfect place to match your fun-filled staycation.
Why not skip the typical, boring accommodations and opt for unique ones? Florida is home to an underwater lodge, century-old cabins, themed homes, and gorgeous architecture… In this article, I’ve got you covered for fun and unusual Florida accommodation.
Below I will recommend 12 cool places to stay in Florida which will help you enjoy some time away that’s a bit more interesting than usual. Make sure to let me know which other properties I should add to this list, and check out some more unique places to stay guides at the bottom!
For your posts from your Florida trip, check out these Florida captions for Instagram, unique things to do in Naples Florida, the best places to watch the sunset in Florida, and the best Key West sunsets too.
Great Escape Lakeside – 13BR Game-Themed Unique Florida Rental
Location: Clermont, Florida
One word: FUN. Equipped with games in every room, to say that Great Escape is one of the most unique places to stay in Florida is an understatement! If you have a family or are a kid at heart, you will surely have the greatest time at the Great Escape Lakeside! It’s directly next to a lake, with tons of human-sized outdoor AND indoor games and even gameshow. There are 13 rooms with space for 46 people!!
Curious what’s inside? Well, each room has a different game theme- such as pacman, monopoly, scrabble, clue, vegas, laser tag, and more. Among others, you can play Human Foosball, spend the day fishing and canoeing, sleep in a 360-degree Pac-man maze, enjoy arcade games and slot machines, watch movies in the Jumanji-themed theater, swim in a 40,000-gallon ‘Go Fish’ pool, spa, lazy river, multi-story waterslide, and many many more!
Apparetnly this huge house was featured in the Guinness Book of World Records and on the news! Check out their listing for the complete list of fun activities you can expect during your stay.
Amelia Schoolhouse Inn – Converted Schoolhouse Boutique Hotel
Location: Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island
Built in the late 1800’s, Amelia Schoolhouse Inn originally operated as a place for learning in Amelia Island. During the 20th century, this place ceased its function as a school and was converted into a multi-use property for long decades.
Recently in 2018, the establishment was fully restored into a boutique hotel with 17 guest rooms, an outdoor pool, a courtyard, and an upscale bar. Retaining some of the original school details with added modern touches, this inn is perfect for those who love old and historic buildings! Amelia Schoolhouse Inn is also located near many local attractions. You can rent a bike from the friendly staff and explore the local shops, restaurants, nearby bookstores, or even go to the nearest beach.
Prince Road Container House – Eclectic Container Home in St. Augustine
Location: St. Augustine, Florida
It’s no doubt the Prince Road Container House is a unique lodging in Florida, but what makes it even more unique is it’s story! In 2017, Hurricane Irma destroyed the house that was once here. And the owner, working with architects, decided to re-create the space into something totally unique: a container house.
Built out of nine shipping containers, the home has four bedrooms, a sauna, living room, and kitchen. Plus, the interior is just as eye-catching as the exterior. Inside, you’ll find carefully (and colorfully) crafted vintage and mid-century design.
So, what are you waiting for? If you’re planning a group trip to St. Augustine, this place should be at the top of your list!
Mangrove Place: 2BR Camper Amongst Nature on Mini Farm
If you are looking for unique getaways in Florida where you can get amongst nature, relax in a private hot tub, and still have some of life’s comforts and your own private space, check out Mangrove Place.
This LUXURIOUS camper feels like a fancy apartment on the inside, but is just steps from your own private space on a mini farm full of animals you can visit. There’s a double bedroom and another with bunk bed to fit the whole family.
You will have access to the Indian River a few minutes away as well as kayaks and bicycles to explore the area. The camper is just outside Melbourne, Florida which is not far from Orlando. This is a perfect getaway from Orlando with the ideal mix of comfort/privacy and nature immersion.
Don CeSar – Majestic Pink Seaside Resort in St. Pete Beach
Location: Saint Petersburg, Florida
The Don CeSar is truly one of the most unique hotels in Florida for it’s bright exterior and lavish ambiance. The resort is ideal for romantic getaways, family vacations, and friends escapes as it’s located on a massive resort. Here, there are amenities to serve everyone, including two outdoor pools, a spa, and multiple restaurants.
The rooms and suites also compliment the resort with their creative interiors (although not as bodly and pink!). They also feature windows with ocean views, so even when you don’t want to hangout beach front, you can still take in the sights.
On top of the incredible architecture and luxurious amenities, the resort even caters to events and weddings. And we have no doubt this is a location no guest will forget!
Eclectic Hideaway in Palm Beach
Location: Southside West Palm Beach
When I first found this amazing Florida rental, I thought that this is what I want my home to look like one day! Filled with decorations, trinkets, and interesting furniture from the hosts’ world travels, this Palm Beach getaway is perfect for those who want something interesting.
This 3-bedroom house has TONS of color and worldwide touches. There’s a pretty big saltwater pool in the back, with a burning garden and lots of open space. There’s a terrace perfect for relaxing on a warm day, and the third bedroom is in a cute cottage-like shed out the back.
Sanford’s Houseboat – Rent a Houseboat for a Unique Florida Stay
Location: Sanford, Florida
This 60-foot, 2-story houseboat located in Sanford, Florida, is not your ordinary staycation home! Featuring smart TV’s, a strong Wi-Fi connection, huge comfortable beds, and kitchen appliances enough to accommodate your needs, Sanford’s Houseboat is one of the most ideal and unique places to stay in Florida.
The boat is safely and permanently docked in one of the marinas on the beautiful Lake Monroe, so guests do not have to worry about the houseboat being unstable. It’s got more space and amenities than a regular room – and steps from the water!
Sanford Houseboat is strategically located near restaurants and main tourist spots. With just a short walk, you can already arrive at many local shops, art galleries, and wine bars!
Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort – Retro + Colorful Hotel
Location: Universal Studios Orlando
Universal’s Cabana Bay Resort is a colorful themed Florida Hotel next to Universal Orlando. It makes the list of the most unique places to stay in Florida because of its fun retro theme that almost even reminds me of the Jetson’s. You’ll find block colors ALL around and tons of fun things to do.
You can see the theme park and water park from most of the colorful rooms – everything Universal is within walking distance! It’s not quite on the beach as its name suggests… but if you count the waterpark next door, then it’s steps away. If you like a quirky hotel and theme parks, this could be your next trip in Florida.
Glasshouse In the Sky – Modern Miami Penthouse
Location: Harbor Island, North Bay, Miami
This is my next top pick for unique places to stay in Florida or Miami for larger groups. Located on a tiny island between North Beach and the mainland, you are literally surrounded by water. This is accentuated by the floor-to-ceiling windows and minimalistic and trendy design!
This gorgeous vacation rental has 6 bedrooms and apparently has space for 17 people. It’s the perfect Florida getaway for a group fo friends or family so you can be close to all the action but still have your own little corner of paradise. I’d say one of the best features besides the sleek design and high ceilings is the huge pool outside with a view of the bay!
The Driftwood Resort – Historic Beachside Hotel
Location: Vero Beach
Established in 1935 by prominent figure Waldo E. Sexton, this beachfront resort boasts of being a part of the National Registry of Historic Places. If you are a history buff, look no further because, from its exterior itself, The Driftwood Resort will make you feel like you are in Old Florida.
Not only does it radiate a rustic vibe similar to the whole area, but it also provides utmost comfort and convenience to guests by being equipped with two outdoor, air conditioning, television, and kitchen appliances right on the sand. The best part is that this hotel is located near multiple restaurants and local shopping areas and it is not frequently packed with tourists. Book a reservation now and enjoy the view of the Atlantic Ocean right from your patio!
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino
Location: Hollywood, Florida
Live music fans, this is for you! If you love music and fun themed hotels, you should look into the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. Located in Hollywood, Florida, this hotel and casino features 469 luxury rooms and suites. It’s not like the boutique hotels I usually recommend, but couldn’t be left out as it’s definitely one of the unique places to stay in Florida.
Perfect for tourists who fancy a rocking nightlife, Hard Rock Hotel is known for its famous restaurants, live concerts, over a hundred table games, guitar pool, and poker room. There are tons of pools, waterfalls, rock museums, and a massive casino too. Overall, guests can surely never run out of things to do inside the hotel premises which makes it an ideal place to stay in.
I realized at the end of writing this that “The Guitar Hotel” is actually a different property. So, if you want to stay inside the guitar check their listing here.
Lounging in Color – Unique Colorful Penthouse in Wynwood
Location: Wynwood Arts District (just outside Miami)
Yet another amazing and unique Florida getaway for groups, this colorful and artsy Wynwood penthouse is the perfect expression of the area. There are 3 bedrooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, a spacious living room, and vibrant art on each and every wall.
This home has an eclectic character, with modern touches and artistic features. It’s located RIGHT in the center of the Wynwood arts district, making it the perfect Florida staycation idea or a great place to base for adventures in the area or some fun Miami romantic date ideas.
Plus, since you’ll be staying in Wynwood, don’t miss out on immersive experiences such as a food and street art tour or even a party bike bar crawl!
Jules’ Undersea Lodge
Location: Key Largo
Whether you dream of becoming a mermaid, being powerful enough to live underwater, or just experiencing once-in-a-lifetime adventures, Jules’ Undersea Lodge is the perfect place for you. Located in Key Largo, Florida, this place is the only underwater hotel in the United States!
Guests need to dive down 21 feet into the lagoon and swim under the lodge to enter this magnificent hotel. Worry not about being uncomfortable inside the living space because every bedroom is air-conditioned, has a telephone that connects to the Command Center, and other amenities that will make your stay comfortable!
The view from the 42-inch circular bedroom window is breathtaking, so much so that guests can see the richness of marine life and artificial reefs. They can also offer SCUBA training sessions or certifications for the full experience. Don’t forget to order the iconic pizza that will be delivered by a scuba diver during your stay!
Wizard’s Way– Unique Harry Potter-Themed House
Calling all Potterheads! This Harry Potter-themed house will make you feel like you are a wizard who’s living in Hogwarts. You can choose from a range of rooms depending on your preference—some bedrooms follow the theme of each house of Hogwarts, Dumbledore’s office, Hogwarts Express, and many more!
There is also a movie room that is designed to look like the Forbidden Forest and a game room where you can spend your time playing foosball and mini quidditch with your family. Located in Davenport, Florida, this home is 15 minutes away from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
You can spend the whole day in the Wizarding World and go home to this hotel for the full magical experience! The staff gives away complimentary candies from Diagon Alley and other Harry Potter-themed memorabilia, which will make your stay a whole lot better.
Orchid White – Unique Spanish/Boho Home in Palm Beach
Location: West Palm Beach
Yet another stunning large property, Orchid White is a completely Spanish-style white villa in West Palm Beach, close to all the shops and amenities. I would have to say the design and decor of this unique spot is something between feeling like you’re in Mexico or Tulum, a bit of Europe, and old Florida.
With white walls and ample outdoor space, you would have plenty of room for yourself even if you fill all 4 rooms with people. Hang out in the courtyard or under the billows of bouganvillea for a true retreat.
Florida is amazing, either for living or traveling. If you need help with anything regarding moving there, don’t hesitate to reach out to professional movers from Florida.
Love unique stays?! Me too! Check out some more below:
- Unique Places to Stay in Tennessee
- Unique Places to Stay in North Carolina
- Unique Places to Stay in Ohio
- Unique Places to Stay in Texas
- Unique Places to Stay in California
- Unique Places to Stay in Bali
- Unique Places to Stay in Tulum
- Unique Places to Stay in Cozumel
Passionate, full-time travel blogger with over 230k on social media and 150kMPV blog. Extraordinary photographer with two DSLR's + a drone with a love for capturing candid moments, epic drone shots, and magical compositions. I'm a natural-born content creator originally from California, but I've been on the road for 9 years living, working, traveling, blogging, and photographing my way around the world. I recommend the most amazingly adventurous and unique + boutique travel experiences/stays and helpful products to my audience and write comprehensive guides on my website that have helped millions of travelers so far. I love to inspire people to plan their dream trips, and many readers have given feedback as such. The reach on my platforms continues to soar, especially when combining cutting-edge social content with optimized articles on my high-authority website.