There are endless unique places to stay in the US, and our list has the best from across the country from our own road tripping experience and plenty of research. From caves transformed into luxury getaways to historic (and maybe haunted) hotels, these are the coolest places to stay across the United States.
For those seeking adventure, the US offers a plethora of unique stays. Some featured accommodations, from the rugged wilderness of Alaska to the scenic beauty of South Carolina, promise not just stays but unforgettable outdoor and nature experiences.
Or, step into a world of imagination with amazingly creative hotels. From the colorful Madonna Inn in California to the eclectic Roxbury in New York, many of these unique boutique hotels stand out! With so many accommodations, from luxurious hotel rooms to glamping tents, we prefer to get into this list to see for yourself.
Below, the most unique places to stay in the United States are listed alphabetically by state. So, if you’re looking for the most unusual accommodation in a state, you can browse down to it. We also have specific articles about a lot of states, which you’ll see. Or, if you’re planning a cross-country trip, you can find many options across the states you’ll visit!
Alabama: The Cave at Smith Lake
Alabama is full of unique stays from the Gulf Shores to the north forests, but nothing quite compares to The Cave at Smith Lake. This super unique accommodation and venue has the entire living area within a cave, plenty of outdoor features (such as patios, showers, and more) and enclosed rooms with forest views.
This hybrid indoor/outdoor living really immerses you out into the beautiful Alabama wilderness. If you’re looking for a getaway and to feel close to nature, this is it!
Alaska: Borealis Basecamp Unique United States Glamping Lodging
We’re starting off this list strong with one of the most unusual places to stay in the USA: The Borealis Basecamp. Just 20 minutes outside Fairbanks, Alaska, this is more than just a place to stay, but a snowy Alaskan adventure.
The photo above is one of the igloo accommodations, but they also have cubes and a house to cozy up in. Whichever you stay in, they have viewing windows placed for prime viewing, so you can enjoy the aurora lights are putting on a show even from bed!
The Borealis Basecamp only books experience packages, so when you book your accommodation, it includes tours and transport to and from Fairbanks. They offer two to four-night packages with activities such as snow machining, reindeer encounters, and dog sledding. If you’ve been curious about Alaska, this is your sign to dive in and find out for yourself!
Arizona: Shash Diné Eco Retreat Unique Place to Stay in the Southwestern Desert
The Shash Diné Eco Retreat is one of the most unique places to stay in the United States, bringing the outdoors and a Navajo cultural experience to guests. Located in north-central AZ, you can enjoy hiking and incredible stargazing as no artificial lights interrupt the night sky.
While a bit remote, the eco-retreat includes breakfast so you don’t have to worry about that. You can also arrange dinner with the property, or if you enjoy cooking outdoors, bring your own to cook over the fire!
In addition to the accommodations in the photos, you can also check out their covered wagons. To make it a full experience, The Shash Diné Eco Retreat Center offers a ‘Navajo Experience,‘ where you can stay two nights and enjoy breakfast, dinner, and cultural immersion.
This is one of many amazing unique places to stay in Arizona!
Arkansas: Luxurious Beckham Creek Cave
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to stay in a cave? If so, then Beckham Cave in the Ozarks has you covered—literally. The cave offers a unique blend of rustic luxury and natural beauty that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
The cave house has four bedrooms and can accommodate up to eight guests. At this size, it’s ideal for large family gatherings or even a small company retreat! It has a full kitchen, laundry facilities, balconies, and a fire pit.
Outside, there’s over 200 acres of natural scenery you can explore. You can have a picnic, go canoeing, hike, and even enjoy a waterfall, which is accessible depending on the season.
Traveling through Arkansas and love unique stays? Check out some epic unique places to stay in Hot Springs, AR and also in Eureka Springs, AR (just over an hour away from Beckham Cave)!
California: Creative and Iconic Hotel Madonna Inn
The Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo (about 100 miles North of Santa Barbara) stands out among the most unique places to stay in California. The hotel doesn’t shy away from using colors, patterns, texture, and glamour! It’s luxurious but has its own flavor of luxury with quirky Art Deco furniture and architecture.
Each of the 110 rooms and suites has its own theme, inspired by nature, destinations, time periods, and even activities like golf! As for other goodies offered at the Madonna Inn, there’s a bakery, a cafe, a restaurant, a cocktail lounge, and a poolside bar.
Check out more amazing unique stays in California.
California: The Queen Mary at Long Beach
That’s right—you can stay a night on the historic QUEEN MARY. This ship sailed the seas as a cruise ship and cargo liner from 1934 until docking her final trip in Long Beach in 1967. Today, she’s one of the most unique places to stay in the United States—no cruise required!
Docked in the port of Long Beach, the Queen Mary offers 200 rooms and suites. The interior design of the accommodations pays homage to the ship’s history with modern flair and it’s always such a fun sight to see while exploring Long Beach.
Despite there being no cruise involved, you can enjoy plenty of ‘cruise-style’ fun as if you were a guest in the past. There’s a bar and restaurant with luxurious details that embrace the ship’s past. Plus, you can play games on deck or wander the ship, taking in the ocean views.
More Roundups of unique places to stay in California:
Colorado: Cute Mermaid Cottage in La Garita Mountains
It’s cute, creative, and located on 35 acres in the beautiful Colorado outdoors: it’s the Mermaid Cottage! Consider this your base camp for the best Colorado adventures. On the property, you can bike or hike, and within an hour’s drive, you can reach hot springs and sand dunes.
The cottage itself is a piece of art, with recycled beer/wine bottles used to create colorful details along the walls. The house has everything you need to feel at home as well including a full kitchen and outdoor grill. Just don’t forget to bring your own food to make use of them! With the bed facing large sliding glass windows, you’ll love resting up in bed, taking in the distant mountain views.
Florida: The Unusual Jules Underwater Hotel
If you’re a scuba diver, Jules Underwater Hotel should be on your bucket list! Located in Key Largo, it’s one of many unique places to stay in Florida. But here, you must gear up, and scuba dive into the lodge to get inside. Crazy right? And if you’re not a certified diver, don’t worry; they offer courses to get you started!
While in the lodge, you’ll be connected during your stay through the Command Center telephone—and there’s even Wi-Fi! From the bed, you can bask in the aquatic view through the 42-inch circular window. It’s certainly a hotel view few can brag about having, right?
They offer several ways to enjoy the lodge, from a four-hour pizza lunch adventure to luxurious overnight stays (with pizza delivery!).
Georgia: Unique and Quirky Isetta Inn and Hostel
If you had to sum up this charming boutique hotel in Savannah, Georgia, in a single word, it would be “eclectic.” Featuring vintage furnishings, vibrant decor, and local artwork, it’s an ideal spot for artists and creatives.
The Inn offers a variety of spaces, including a hammock-adorned porch, a cozy reading nook, a living space, and a kitchen. Additionally, Isetta provides bike rentals to help you enjoy Savannah to the fullest!
The rooms continue the hotel’s creative spirit, each with its own distinctive design and theme. For instance, the Stargazer Room features a bed that’s actually suspended from the ceiling—yes, a hanging bed! Explore their rooms to find the one that best matches your style.
Just be aware that it’s part hotel and part hostel – not all rooms come with private bathrooms, so double-check the details when you book. If you want more options, check out more unique places to stay in Savannah.
Hawaii: Hana-Maui Resort for a Remote Hawaiian Paradise
Located in a remote corner of Maui near the end of the famous ‘road to Hana,’ the Hana-Maui resort is unique in so many ways – but still luxurious. This resort allows you to get a true taste of Hawaiian adventure while exploring the beautiful island of Maui.
Although the resort is quite far from most of Maui, it has tons of activities offered on-site, from lei-making, canoeing, wellness classes, lots of spa treatments, biking, hiking, and even horseback riding. It’s one of the most adventurous hotels on this list that also offers luxurious bungalows and king rooms.
There are unique stays in Maui all over the price spectrum, however – check my list for more options!
Idaho: Stay in the Giant Idaho Potato
There’s something about staying in a potato that just makes sense in Idaho. So, if you are passing through this state that is famous for potatoes, you’ve got to stay here! The Big Idaho® Potato Hotel isn’t just unique from the outside (after all, it’s a potato!), but the interior is also awe-worthy.
The 28-foot-long potato is just 20 miles from the capital, Boise, and can host two guests. While a rustic potato on the outside, the interior is luxurious and spacious. The giant spud can sleep two guests and has a separate bathroom with a spa tub and skylight for star-gazing!
Illinois: Cloran Mansion Bed & Breakfast for Historic Charm
Galena, Illinois, is known for being like a jump back in time: over half of the buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places, and you can stay in many of them, too! Enter: Cloran Mansion B&B.
From the brick facade to the outdoor fire pit to the elegantly adorned historic rooms, this unique stay takes you back in time – but makes it fancy. This stunning mansion was build by Irish immigrants in 1880, and has changed hands a lot over the years. But the current owners pride themselves on providing a unique experience for all guests to enjoy.
Check out more historic and unique stays in Galena, IL if you love a good story.
Indiana: Historic Crowne Plaza Union Station
The Crowne Plaza stands out as one of the most unique places to stay in the USA, from its history to modern amenities. Before it was a hotel, it was Indianapolls’ Union Station, which today stands on the National Register of Historic Places. The train theme continues to this day with train car guest rooms. Indeed, there are a few unique railroad-themed (and more) hotels in Indiana.
If you’re planning an event, this hotel is also a true gem for them! There’s a grand ballroom, the luxurious Lincoln meeting room, and studio spaces for groups. If you are looking for a more remote getaway in Indiana, Brown County is the place – a true USA hidden gem! These Cabins in Brown County IN will provide epic forest and lake views.
Kentucky: Jailer’s Inn Bed & Breakfast
The history of the Jailer’s Inn Bed and Breakfast as a jail is surprisingly recent. While it was built as a jail in 1819, it ran until 1987! But don’t let that scare you away. Not only is the inn one of the most unique places to stay in Kentucky but it’s nestled in one of the most charming towns in the US: Bardstown.
The rooms embrace historical decor and have private bathrooms. Want to enjoy a jacuzzi tub? Some of the rooms offer these, so be sure to book one! In addition to the immersive stay, the hosts will treat you to a historical property tour and free breakfast as you stay in a real jail.
Maine: Waterfront Lodging Under Canvas Acadia
Glamping and Maine are two words that just belong together. Especially here in Under Canvas Acadia, where the natural scenery is almost from a dream. Located in Surry, this glamping treasure is right by the ocean. It features modern glamping tents in the rugged outdoors.
And when we say the tents are modern, we mean it! Not only do they appear contemporary, but they all have their own private bathroom. For families, you get an additional tent just for the kids. And while it doesn’t sound like this unique place to stay in Maine can get any better, some tents feature star-gazing windows. Who wouldn’t want to fall asleep with that view, surrounded by the sounds of nature?
Massachusetts: Historic Liberty Hotel
The Liberty Hotel combines luxurious, artistic, and classic interior design into one impressive package. Located in Beacon Hill, the hotel is ideally placed for visiting places like the waterfront Lederman Park, the Boston Public Market, and the Museum of Science.
As soon as you arrive, you’re treated like royalty with a welcome champagne. The hotel offers beautiful rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, a seating area, and a work desk. Bringing your furry friend? The hotel stands out for its dog-friendly services, which include dog walking and sitting.
This hotel is also perfect for foodies, with its numerous restaurants and a bar. You can even opt for private dining for events. If you are exploring further, check out unique (and witchy) places to stay in Salem, MA.
Michigan: Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island
If you want to vacation at one of the most creative and cool places to stay in the United States, the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island is it! Seriously, it’s quirky, grand, and luxurious. Aside from being known among unique Michigan hotels for its interior design, it’s also known for having an unusual world record: it has the longest porch in the world, at 660 feet!
At the Grand Hotel, each room is a work of art, with its own unique decor. No matter which one you choose, you’re guaranteed to fall in love the moment you step through the door. Whether you’re here to enjoy the quaint cafes, explore the beautiful nature, or indulge in water activities on Mackinac Island, a stay at the Grand Hotel will wrap up your trip in a perfect, personalized package.
Minnesota: Historic Roundbarn Farm
The Roundbarn Farm offers a romantic and quaint escape into the Minnesota countryside. As it’s one of the last round barns left in the state, it’s one of the more unique places to stay in Minnesota and a historic experience. The rooms combine historic interior design featuring luxurious antique furniture and modern accents.
Aside from the rooms, the property itself is incredible, with gardens you can relax in. Another reason to look forward to staying here is the daily home-cooked breakfast included in your stay!
New Mexico: Kokopelli’s Cave – Unique Cave Stay in the United States Desert
It’s time to get into one of the most uniqie places to stay in New Mexico: Kokopelli’s Cave! Located in Farmington, New Mexico, you can overlook New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona, and Utah in one fall swoop from here.
While built into a cave, this rustic dwelling has modern amenities. Want to cook? There’s a full kitchen. Do laundry? The cave’s got a washer and dryer! And the cherry on top of it all is the spa tub. But wait, it only gets better because there are two porches to enjoy your morning coffee or tea.
If you want an escape that’s private and unique, don’t skip out here! This is one of our favorite stays in the whole country. To make the most of a stay here, bring along groceries and prepare to get cozy for a few days in the New Mexico wilderness.
New York: Roxbury Motel with Creative Themed Rooms
The Roxbury is like the Madonna Inn’s East Coast cousin. It’s indeed one of the most creative and unique places to stay in the United States. The motel has many creative contemporary rooms and suites you won’t forget. There are rooms with themes like coconut creme pie, the dancefloor, and polka dots (I’ve always wanted to live inside a delicious pie… haven’t you?! 😉 We’re not kidding when we say every accommodation is a visual feast!
Aside from enjoying your room, the property has lots to do. If you’re outdoorsy, you’ll love the hiking trails and waterfalls. For some extra relaxation and fun, there’s a pool, spa room, and game center at the Crooked Cabana.
North Carolina: Blind Tiger – Unique Design Hotel
The Blind Tiger is one of the most unique places to stay in the United States for its stand-out interior design, incredible hosts, and location (the beautiful Asheville, North Carolina). Among all the boutique hotels and unique stays in Asheville, we love this one because they want to make sure you truly embrace the Asheville lifestyle!
The B&B creates an exclusive setting, with only 14 rooms and a cottage. The best ones feature bathtubs, private entrances, and even fireplaces. As for ensuring you enjoy the great Asheville outdoors, the Blind Tiger offers picnic baskets and blankets to guests to take along on outings.
There are tons of amazingly unique stays in North Carolina beyond boutique hotels – check them out!
North Carolina: Durham Hotel with Retro Design
The Durham Hotel has to be one of the most cool hotels in North Carolina, especially for design lovers. With retro art-deco furniture, artwork, and bold colors and patterns, the Durham is unforgettable. After a stay here, you’ll agree it’s one of the coolest places to stay in the US.
In addition to their individual design, the rooms include coffee delivery, a snack tray, and Burt’s Bees goodies. The floor-to-ceiling windows are not only great for views but also add style. Outside the rooms, the hotel has an American restaurant, a rooftop bar, and a cafe also carrying the creative ambience.
Ohio: The Hummingbird Yurts – Cool US Lodgings in Nature
Located in Hocking Hills, you’ll find a one-of-a-kind place to stay: The Hummingbird Yurts. While the outside of the yurt looks bland, the inside is luxurious—Instagrammable, might we add? Inside, there’s a queen bed, bathroom (with a shower), and kitchenette. Yep, it fits all of those things! With extra space to spare.
Outside the yurts, you can enjoy the fire pit or play pool, board games, and darts in the barn. If we still haven’t convinced you, this is one of the most unique places to stay in Ohio; each yurt has a private deck with a jacuzzi. Imagine staying here on a cool fall or winter day and relaxing under the stars in your private jacuzzi tub. Sign us up!
Oregon: The Vintages Trailer Resort
If you’ve ever dreamed of living in a travel trailer but can’t quite afford the time or money for the lifestyle, the Vintages Trailer Resort can help bring that dream to life (temporarily, at least!). The best part is that all of the design and logistics are done for you as well! So, if you’re headed to Oregon, consider this one of the most unique Oregon accommodations you’ll find.
The trailers at Vintages Trailer Resort are not just about the novelty. They are modern, equipped with updated amenities like kitchenettes and air conditioning, ensuring your comfort during your stay. With a variety of sizes and styles to choose from, you can find the perfect little home for you.
Some trailers even boast private showers and bathtubs! And that’s not all- the property offers outdoor amenities like bicycles and fire pits, adding to the charm.
Oklahoma: Hummingbird Treehouses
If you’re seeking a rustic getaway, the Hummingbird Treehouse is your childhood treehouse dream come true in eastern Oklahoma. Of the unique lodgings in Oklahoma, the Hummingbird Treehouse stands out for its proximity to the Lake Eufaula State Park.
The treehouse can host up to four guests and has loads of outdoor fun, such as hiking. There’s also a fire pit, hammocks, corn hole, and horseshoes to make your stay fun and comfortable. It’s a real escape, considering there’s no WiFi, making this one of the most unique places to stay in the United States that we absolutely love.
Pennsylvania: Red Caboose Hotel – Unusual Lodgings in the United States
This is one of the most unique places for train lovers to stay in the United States! The property is home to various accommodations, including cabooses, a mail car, and conductor’s quarters. Each has a different interior, some reflecting modern design and others boasting beautiful Victorian decor.
There’s also a barn on-site that you can rent out for events. It’s perfect for hosting events like weddings and birthdays among a beautiful farmland backdrop. Plus, you can give your guests the extra treat with a caboose stay!
If you are exploring Pennsylvania, make sure to check out some unique places to stay in Gettysburg and unique stays in Philadelphia too!
South Carolina: Edisto Treehouses
There are so many reasons the Edisto Treehouses are some of the most unique places to stay in the US. First, they’re only accessible by kayak or canoe. Second, they’re bona fide treehouses! And third, there’s no electricity, meaning you must use candles and lanterns. If all of this sounds fun, this South Carolina adventure awaits you!
A stay at the treehouses is a full adventure. On day one, you’ll kayak or canoe 13 miles to reach your treehouse. The treehouses have grills and utensils but don’t forget to bring your own food. While the trips are usually only arranged for one night, you’re welcome to stay longer!
If you end up in the city, there are some fun date ideas in Charleston I have recommended here.
South Dakota: Historic (& Possibly Haunted) Bullock Hotel
If you’re planning a visit to the incredible Black Hills National Forest, staying at the Historic Bullock Hotel in Deadwood complements any South Dakota experience. The hotel, which was the first in Deadwood, really makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The old-timey Midwestern decor and architecture are unlike anything I’ve seen before!
Aside from the decor and design, the hotel is a unique place to stay in the USA for another reason: its paranormal activity. Opened by Seth Bullock in 1985, legend has it he still roams the hotel, playing host and whistling when hotel staff aren’t working enough. It seems like a friendly enough ghost, right?
Tennessee: The Russell Boutique Hotel
From the outside, this hotel resembles its original form — a church from 1904! But inside, you’ll find a boutique hotel with creative and colorful interior design. And while the design and decor are modern, you’ll notice inspiration taken from the building’s past as a church, making it one of Tennessee’s most unique places to stay.
Aside from the creative rooms, this boutique hotel features a bar, rooftop, and pool. From the lobby to your room to the roof, there’s loads to enjoy during your stay here without having to leave! Plus, its East Side location is perfect for wandering downtown Nashville.
Texas: Boca de La Roca Private Mountain Lodge
Moving to the middle of nowhere sounds daunting, but the private mountain lodge in Boca de La Roca, Texas, makes it easy to get a taste of solitude without uprooting your whole life. This lodge is totally off-grid (powered by solar!) and off the beaten path, away from highways, noise, and neighbors.
With 81 acres, this is a small slice of heaven where you can hike, cook, rest, and stargaze. While the lodge looks small, it’s super spacious, with two bedrooms, a full-size kitchen, a deck, a dining area, and two bathrooms.
It’s definitely the best of the cool places to stay in Texas if you want to leave society behind for a few days with epic views. Or, check out some unique places to stay in Fredericksburg – Texas’s beautiful wine country.
Utah: Sorrel Silver Ranch Resort for Amazing Moab Views
Nestled on a scenic stretch of the Colorado River, Sorrel River Ranch Resort is an upscale resort set on 160 acres of ranchland. This 4-star haven exemplifies high-end accommodations in Moab with its charming log cabins, rustic wooden interiors, and handcrafted pine beds that offer stunning views of the river and the surrounding red mesas.
The luxury suites at Sorrel River Ranch Resort offer modern amenities, including kitchenettes, porches, and private balconies with panoramic views of the river and nearby mountains. Room styles vary, but all feature delightful Western-inspired decor.
The resort also has a cozy café, an equestrian center, an outdoor pool, a hot tub, a fitness center, hiking trails, and tennis courts. For those seeking a luxurious stay in Moab, this is the place to be! Check out more unique stays in Moab here for inspiration.
Vermont: Tälta Lodge for Outdoor Adventuring
Looking for the perfect base for your adventures in Stowe, Vermont? The Tãlta Lodge has got you covered among unique places to stay in Vermont. The lodge blends rustic and modern, with rooms and suites in a tellingly Nordic style.
The interior design of the accommodations isn’t just pretty but also well thought out, with unique storage areas. So bring all the outdoors gear you want! If you want an even more upscale experience, you can opt for an accommodation with a private balcony or deck.
Washington State: Cute Hobbit Home with Large Lawn
There are plenty of unique places to stay in Washington, but one of the most unique is the Hobbit Home in Bainbridge Island! While not the biggest (it can accommodate two adults and a small kid), it offers a generous outdoor space. In the yard, you’ll be surrounded by greenery and can hang out by the fire pit.
What we love the most about here is the cute exterior and interior design of the hobbit home. It’s super fun, especially for children! Now, while we said it was small, luckily if there’s more than two people in your group, the property allows camping on the lawn too!
Wisconsin: The Knickerbocker on the Lake
When it comes to unique places to stay in Wisconsin, the Knickerbocker is a true home away from home with an old-school edge! With a kitchenette and seating area in each room, you can get extra amenities your usual hotel doesn’t bring.
Built in the 1920s, the hotel was renovated in the 1980s and still holds its original charm through its architecture. Aside from its functionality and history, it’s also well-located near attractions in Milwaukee, such as the Riverwalk Plaza and Pabst Theater.
