Want a getaway that’s anything but average? These unique U.S. stays turn your trip into a story—think treehouses, lighthouses, and desert domes made for memory-making.
Highlights:
Unique Places to Stay in the USA:
1. Sleep Beneath the Waves at Jules’ Undersea Lodge in Key Largo, Florida
Rating: ★★★★★
© Jules' Undersea Lodge
Location:
Key Largo, FLHighlights:
Jules' Undersea Lodge is the world's first underwater hotel, offering an unforgettable experience at the bottom of the lagoon at Key Largo Undersea Park. This unique resort offers overnight stays, scuba diving courses, and underwater adventures for those looking for a truly extraordinary vacation.Recommended For:
Adventurous travelers, certified scuba divers, and those seeking an unusual and unforgettable vacation in one of the world’s most unique accommodations.What I Love: ♥
The incredible underwater experience, cozy bedrooms with windows for fish-watching, and the opportunity to dive and explore the lagoon world right outside your window.- Stay in cozy underwater rooms featuring large windows where you can lie down and watch the marine life just outside, with attached bathrooms and hot showers for comfort.
- Relax in the lounge area with books, music, and movies, or make use of the fully stocked kitchen with a refrigerator and microwave for your convenience.
- Adventure by taking part in scuba diving courses or enjoy a three-hour Mini-Adventure in the lagoon. Guests can also enjoy pizza lunches in the lodge for a unique experience.
- Access to the lodge is limited to certified scuba divers, as the hotel rests at 21 feet below the lagoon surface.
Address:
Jules' Undersea LodgePhone: 305-451-2353
Romantic Places to Stay in the USA:
2. Stay at Heceta Head Lighthouse, Oregon
© Courtesy of haveseen - Fotolia.com
Location:
Florence, ORHighlights:
Heceta Head Lighthouse offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience to spend the night in a working lighthouse. Built in 1894 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this stunning lighthouse features six beautifully appointed guest rooms with breathtaking views and antique furnishings.Recommended For:
History lovers, adventurous travelers, and anyone seeking a unique and peaceful getaway in a historic and scenic location.What I Love: ♥
The historic charm of the lighthouse, the cozy rooms with wood-burning fireplaces, and the spectacular views of the surrounding coastline.- Stay in one of six guest rooms, each with a queen-sized bed, cozy down duvets, wood-burning fireplaces, and antique furnishings for a comfortable, nostalgic experience.
- Relax in intimate parlors, perfect for unwinding while taking in the magnificent views of the coastline and surrounding landscape.
- Explore the property’s fully equipped guest kitchen, ideal for preparing meals, and enjoy a gourmet breakfast as part of your stay.
- Access to five bathrooms with showers and bathtubs, offering added comfort and convenience during your stay.
- Discover the surrounding area, a diverse and scenic region with plenty of attractions and historical sites to explore.
Address:
Heceta Head LighthousePhone: 866-547-3696
3. Unplug in Artistic Tranquility at Casa Gallina in Taos, New Mexico
© Casa Gallina
Location:
Taos, NMHighlights:
Casa Gallina offers a tranquil oasis at the edge of Taos, surrounded by breathtaking views of the Taos Mountains. This peaceful New Mexican retreat features five adobe-style casitas, perfect for guests seeking comfort, adventure, and relaxation in a serene, pastoral setting.Recommended For:
Outdoor enthusiasts, travelers seeking a peaceful getaway, and those looking for a charming New Mexican experience with plenty of local art, culture, and outdoor activities.What I Love: ♥
The cozy, traditional New Mexican style of the casitas, the combination of state-of-the-art technology with rustic charm, and the wide variety of outdoor activities to suit all interests.- Stay in one of five beautifully decorated adobe-style casitas featuring bright, traditional New Mexican furniture, antiques, and textiles from both New and Old Mexico.
- Relax with cozy wood-burning stoves or kiva fireplaces, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere throughout your stay.
- Cook your own meals in a fully equipped kitchen, and enjoy modern conveniences like a wireless laptop computer, high-speed Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and a surround sound system.
- Explore the surrounding area with activities such as hiking, mountain biking, white water rafting, and skiing, or enjoy the excellent shopping, art galleries, and restaurants in the town of Taos.
Address:
Casa GallinaPhone: 575-758-2306
Affordable Places to Stay in the USA:
4. All Aboard for a Whimsical Stay at the Red Caboose Motel in Pennsylvania
© Red Caboose Motel
Location:
Lancaster County, PAHighlights:
Red Caboose Motel offers a unique and historic lodging experience in the heart of Pennsylvania's Amish farming community. Stay in caboose cars for a one-of-a-kind accommodation, surrounded by beautiful countryside and close to popular attractions.Recommended For:
Families, train enthusiasts, and travelers looking for a charming and unique stay in the heart of Lancaster County, with close access to local attractions.What I Love: ♥
The fun and nostalgic experience of staying in caboose cars, the farm-to-table dining at the Red Caboose Restaurant, and the on-site interactive petting zoo.- Stay in comfortable caboose cars, each equipped with refrigerators, microwaves, cable TV, private bathrooms, showers, and bathtubs. Some rooms feature private decks with views of the countryside and the historic Strasburg Railroad.
- Dine at the Red Caboose Restaurant, offering hearty, old-fashioned family-style meals made from fresh, local Amish farm ingredients.
- Explore nearby attractions such as the Pennsylvania Train Museum, the Sight and Sound Theater, and Dutch Wonderland. The kids will love the on-site interactive petting zoo with sheep, goats, chickens, and ponies.
Address:
The Red Caboose Motel at Paradise StationPhone: 717-687-5000
5. Check Into The Bivvi in Breckenridge
© The Bivvi
Location:
Breckenridge, COHighlights:
The Bivvi in Breckenridge is a cozy, mountain lodge designed for adventurers, ramblers, and mountain gurus. With contemporary accommodations, modern amenities, and breathtaking mountain views, it offers the perfect home base for exploring the outdoors.Recommended For:
Outdoor enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and travelers looking for a comfortable, social environment with easy access to Breckenridge’s dining, bars, and natural beauty.What I Love: ♥
The modern and cozy atmosphere, the hot tub and outdoor fire pit for relaxing with new friends, and the beautiful mountain views from the rooms.- Stay in one of 10 rooms, including six classic hotel rooms and four contemporary hostel-style rooms with bunk beds. All rooms feature Norwegian Pine beds, personal reading lanterns, privacy curtains, private bathrooms with showers, and balconies with stunning mountain views.
- Relax in the hot tub or by the outdoor fire pit, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure while enjoying a glass of wine or craft beer from the bar.
- Enjoy a delicious complimentary breakfast served each morning to fuel your outdoor activities.
- Explore the town of Breckenridge, just a short walk away, offering a range of restaurants and bars for a relaxed evening after your adventures.
Address:
The BivviPhone: 970-423-6553
Places to Stay For History Buffs:
6. Travel Back in Time in a Vintage Trailer at The Shady Dell in Bisbee, Arizona
© The Shady Dell
Location:
Bisbee, AZHighlights:
The Shady Dell in Bisbee, Arizona, offers a quirky and unforgettable stay in vintage trailers and camper vans. Established in 1927 along the famous Highway 80, it’s now a one-of-a-kind destination for guests looking to experience nostalgic charm and unique accommodations.Recommended For:
Travelers looking for a unique and vintage experience, those seeking a nostalgic getaway, and anyone wanting a memorable stay in one of Arizona’s hidden gems.What I Love: ♥
The vintage charm of the quirky trailers, the nostalgic atmosphere, and the outdoor grilling facilities for a relaxed, DIY meal under the stars.- Stay in one of the vintage trailers, each comfortably furnished with beds and linens, a small refrigerator, and a coffee percolator. Some trailers also include a toilet and sink for added convenience.
- Relax in a cozy trailer with no cooking facilities for safety reasons, but enjoy the use of outdoor grills to barbecue your meals and experience the rustic charm of the property.
- Explore the unique facilities of the trailers, and take advantage of bathroom and shower facilities just a few steps away.
- Note: The Shady Dell welcomes guests over 15 years of age only, making it an ideal retreat for adults seeking a tranquil and nostalgic experience.
Address:
The Shady DellPhone: 520-432-3567
7. Climb, Crash, and Connect at The Crash Pad in Chattanooga, Tennessee
© The Crash Pad
Location:
Chattanooga, TNHighlights:
The Crash Pad is an eco-friendly, LEED Platinum-certified hostel located in Chattanooga's vibrant Southside neighborhood. Opened by two climbers in 2011, it provides a homey and welcoming atmosphere with both boutique-style private rooms and 24 bunk beds in a shared space, making it a great option for both solo travelers and groups.Recommended For:
Budget-conscious travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a friendly, comfortable, and eco-conscious place to stay in Chattanooga.What I Love: ♥
The relaxed, home-like vibe, eco-friendly design, and the convenient location near restaurants and bars. Plus, the outdoor terrace and fire pit create a perfect setting to unwind after a day of exploring.- Stay in boutique-style private rooms or in the common area with 24 bunk beds. Enjoy modern amenities such as free 24-hour computer access, Wi-Fi, fresh bed linens, and central climate control.
- Relax in the cozy living room, a popular gathering spot, or on the outdoor terrace with a fire pit, perfect for mingling with fellow travelers.
- Cook your own meals in the full kitchen, or enjoy a complimentary ‘do-it-yourself’ breakfast with freshly roasted coffee each morning.
- Explore the Southside neighborhood, with a variety of restaurants and bars within walking distance for evening entertainment.
Address:
The Crash PadPhone: Not listed
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