14 Unique Vacation Rentals You Need to Visit for a One-of-a-Kind Trip
One of the many reasons travelers choose unique vacation rentals over a run-of-the-mill hotel chain: the built-in experiences they offer. There’s a certain thrill to booking a cool, private home that allows you to transition into your best vacation self.
Whether you’re bringing the whole family or seeking a one-of-a-kind vacation rental for two, these unique homes will inspire a forever-talked-about adventure.
In This Article:
1. The Jurassic Retreat
Just in time for the June 2022 release of Jurassic Park: Dominion, this family-friendly home is a dinosaur-lover’s dream getaway tucked into the Washington woods. Be prepared, though: you won’t have this spacious three-bedroom to yourself. You’ll share your unique vacation rental with a life-size tyrannosaurus rex, velociraptor, and triceratops!
The modern-meets-prehistoric home also has a private hot tub, open-concept interior, and all the amenities you could ask for while journeying back in time about 65 million years. We recommend cueing up the 75” Smart TV so the whole gang can watch their favorite dino flicks.
2. A Wild West Getaway
Pack up the wagon and get the horses ready because we’re taking a trip to the wild, wild west. This cowboy-approved ranch in Lucerne Valley, California looks just like the set of your favorite Western movie. Staged with a rustic post office, classic barber shop, and saloon on the property, you and up to nine others can make a quaint frontier town your very own.
When you’re ready to saddle up and explore, this unique vacation rental doesn’t disappoint. The property offers off-roading adventures in the open desert, and is only a short drive from San Bernardino National Forest and Big Bear Lake. It’s your vacation, of course, so if you’d prefer to lay low under the tin roof and snuggle up next to the fireplace, we fully support that decision.
Speaking of support: All of our homes are backed by our Rest Easy Promise that your one-of-a-kind vacation rental will be safe, clean, and ready for you and your loved ones’ arrival.
3. The “Balinese” Oasis
Treat yourself to an international experience without needing to stamp your passport. This tropical sanctuary on Florida’s eastern coast is loaded with spa-like amenities (hello soaking tub, tiki huts, and waterfront hammocks), making it the perfect destination for honeymoons and girls’ trips alike.
From nearby white-sand beaches to bottlenose dolphins splashing around a lagoon, there’s no shortage of memorable adventures right outside your door. This cool place to rent is sure to delight travelers of all types — and it never hurts to feel like you’ve traveled internationally while saving time and money.
4. Castle in the Smokies
Whether your loyalties lie with Rapunzel or you’re more of a Harry Potter fan, this regal castle makes fantasy a vacation reality. Snuggled in the majestic Smoky Mountains, you and up to 15 other guests can have uninterrupted views of Mount Le Conte — even from your private hot tub — and plenty of space to explore. (You can also enjoy nearby Gatlinburg and all it has to offer.) Once back at home, your fortress has plenty of entertainment options. Channel your inner competitor with a game of pool, darts, foosball, or Pac-Man. No matter the activity, it’s bound to be a leveled-up experience in this unique home thanks to the majestic touches that help you royally relax.
Not quite ready to book? Favorite your top picks now for easy reference when planning your future vacations.
5. The Cozy Dome
Embark on a one-of-a-kind vacation when you stay in this quaint dome just outside of Blanco, Texas. With room for two and the character of an above-ground hobbit home, it’s an affordable vacation rental perfect for couples or the solo traveler.
The innovative architecture is what sets this studio space apart from so many other vacation rentals — it’s like a tiny home, but with an extra pop of personality. And with a state park, winery, and lavender farm nearby, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure before returning to your snug hideaway.
6. Riverside Shipping Container
If rich history, bold character, and wide-open spaces make your list of vacation must-haves, you won’t want to miss out on this shipping container home. Family-run since 1899, the 400 acres of organic farmland give you plenty of room to roam — along with direct access to the Spring River — while the modern living space is a perfect fit for four.
Pack your days with new experiences in nearby Branson, then come back home for incredible stargazing from the large deck. (You can also warm up by the fire pit during chillier seasons.)
7. A Disney Lover’s Dream Home
When it comes to family-friendly retreats, this themed vacation rental near Disney (it’s a mere 10 minutes away) stands out from the rest. With an action-packed game room, heart-warming references to your favorite characters, and space for 10, it’s the perfect accommodation for a multi-generational family adventure.
After a fun-filled day in Orlando, you can take a break from the crowds and dip in your private swimming pool. Or, challenge your companions to a competitive game of foosball in the air-conditioned arcade. Wherever your Disney vacation ideas lead you, when staying here you’re pretty much guaranteed to make lifelong memories with the ones you love most (and Mickey Mouse, of course).
8. A Schoolhouse Studio
Entertain your inner history buff by making a renovated schoolhouse your vacation home base. Complete with quirky decor like old school desks and chalkboards — and nostalgic games like marbles and jacks — it’s an affordable vacation rental that’s certainly far from ordinary.
And since every school session needs time for recess, it’s convenient that this West Virginia studio is just minutes from vineyards and hiking trails. The studious traveler can also grab a book and unwind by the gas fire pit in the private backyard, making this unique home a solid A+.
9. Cliffside Alaskan Escape
With sprawling acreage and breathtaking natural surroundings, there’s nothing quite as unique as this dream-worthy villa. Sitting a little higher than other Alaska vacation rentals, it’s literally perched on the side of a cliff.
It takes going off the grid (while still enjoying ultra-modern amenities) to new heights, too. The luxurious villa has room for nine, a hot tub overlooking the Alaska Range, and 22 acres ready for exploration. Just imagine: after a day of glacier hiking, you take a bayside soak while eagles soar up above. Aren’t you feeling more relaxed already?
10. The Luxury Treehouse
Star in your own whimsical adventure when you stay in this fancy treehouse rental on Hilton Head Island. Fit for six guests, its light-filled interior and panoramic views offer a truly unique treehouse experience. Whether you’re inside cooking up a favorite meal or relaxing on the private deck, the airy architecture keeps you connected to nature throughout your stay.
You can also venture out to explore 12 miles of beaches, historic local hotspots, and a full range of good eats found in Hilton Head. Once you’re ready to unwind, your upscale treehouse is a welcoming retreat for watching the sun set over the marsh.
11. Ted Williams’ Former Home
It’s not everyday that you have the opportunity to claim a Red Sox Hall of Famer’s home as your own. Ted Williams and his Vogue model wife, Dolores, previously lived in this Vermont haven. Filled with memorabilia from his 19-year MLB career in Boston, it’s a baseball family’s dream getaway. You can even take a seat next to Williams himself (in statue form) while the whole crew roasts marshmallows by the fire.
Of course, a trip to this unique vacation rental wouldn’t be complete without exploring nearby Killington Mountain or fishing in the Connecticut River. Once back home, make time to enjoy the expansive backyard with a few rounds of catch.
12. The Medieval Mansion
While the exterior of this unique home doesn’t look out of the ordinary, one step inside will transport you to the thirteenth century. Set just outside of Salt Lake City, it’s a vacation rental truly fit for kings and queens thanks to the castle- and dungeon-style decor. (There are even armor-clad knights guarding your living spaces to help you truly rest easy.)
After you unpack, take a stroll through the nearby botanical gardens or conquer the slopes of Park City. You can spend your nights playing themed board games, soaking in the jacuzzi, or snuggling up in the massive home theater. Braveheart, anyone?
Looking for another medieval adventure? Consider the Castle of Joy, a fantasy-like destination in North Carolina ideal for up to eight guests.
13. A Historic Church
Centrally-located in downtown Durand, this beautifully-renovated historic church has tons of charm. With original stained glass windows and a spiral staircase worth drooling over, the open concept floor plan can comfortably accommodate 10 guests.
You’ll feel the warmth of the Wisconsin sun as it colorfully lights up your space each morning. But you won’t want to linger in bed too long — there are a bunch of great bars, restaurants, and hiking trails this charming small town to really round out an ideal Midwestern vacation.
14. Renovated Gas Station
Formerly a full-service Sinclair, this gas station vacation home in Schulenburg, TX is bursting with personality. The functional ’50s jukebox and historic decor give blast-from-the-past energy, while the huge windows let in tons of natural light. And with a fenced-in backyard — not to mention a fire pit, grill, and backyard games — you’re guaranteed a getaway to be pumped about.
Snap a few photos in front of the property’s mural before heading out for an afternoon of local wine tasting, or wind down from a day trip to Austin with stargazing on the rooftop deck. With loads of character and must-have amenities, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more unique place to rent.
Find Unique Vacation Rentals for You
If exciting and memorable experiences are what you’re after, these unique vacation rentals are sure to deliver. And no matter where your inner adventurer takes you next, you can rest easy knowing your comfort is the highest priority when you book with Evolve.
Looking for more travel inspiration? From desert escapes and luxurious getaways to family road trip itineraries and wine regions worth exploring, we have plenty of ideas to help plan your next vacation.