Why settle for the ordinary when your next getaway could be an adventure in itself? Across North America, unique accommodations offer travellers the chance to experience something truly extraordinary—from historic submarines and treehouses to glamorous retro hotels and futuristic lodgings. Each stay is a blend of comfort and novelty, transforming a simple overnight into a memory that lasts. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking to escape the everyday, these incredible destinations invite you to explore, relax, and embrace the unexpected.
In this guide, we dive into some of North America’s most remarkable places to stay, each with its own story to tell and experience to offer. Ready to start planning your next one-of-a-kind adventure?
Imagine yourself high among the redwoods, where the futuristic, eco-friendly Pinecone, built by O2 Treehouse, offers a cosy escape like no other. Glass floors let you stargaze right from your bed, and nearly panoramic windows immerse you in the towering trees. While you’re here, venture out to the stunning Redwood Regional Park or the quirky streets of nearby Berkeley. Your forest adventure awaits!
Location: Oakland, California
Highlight: Built sustainably, this eco-friendly treehouse among the redwoods offers a unique mix of cosiness and futurism with hexagonal designs and glass floors for stargazing.
Experience: Enjoy a truly immersive forest experience; fall asleep under the stars with a nearly panoramic view of the towering trees.
Local Attractions: Just a short drive from San Francisco, you can explore Redwood Regional Park, or take a trip to the eclectic town of Berkeley.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures, allowing you to soak in the greenery and wildlife.
Picture yourself aboard the iconic Queen Mary, a historic ocean liner where 1930s glamour and elegance come to life. This ship-turned-hotel is steeped in stories, and you may even encounter one of its famed ghostly visitors! Take a guided tour or simply soak in the Art Deco charm before exploring Long Beach’s vibrant waterfront and the nearby Aquarium of the Pacific. A night aboard the Queen Mary is anything but ordinary.
Location: Long Beach, California
Highlight: This iconic ocean liner turned hotel lets you experience the 1930s grandeur and glamour of luxury travel.
Experience: Known for its ghostly legends, a night here may come with paranormal sightings. Even if ghosts aren’t your thing, the ship’s history, elegant wood-panelled rooms, and classic ocean liner decor make it an unforgettable experience.
Local Attractions: Just minutes from Long Beach Aquarium and the waterfront, or take a day trip to Catalina Island.
Best Time to Visit: Autumn, when the ship hosts annual Halloween haunted tours, or the winter holidays for themed decorations.
Hidden in the hills near Lake George, Highlands Castle invites you to live out your fairytale dreams. This breathtaking stone castle offers grand Gothic architecture, panoramic views, and opulent rooms fit for a king. Perfect for couples and nature lovers alike, Highlands Castle combines luxurious privacy with a storybook setting, where guests can enjoy cosy evenings on the terrace, scenic hikes around Lake George, and nearby historic sites. A stay at Highlands Castle promises unforgettable memories in a realm fit for royalty.
Location: Bolton Landing, New York
Highlight: Overlooking Lake George, this castle is fit for a royal getaway, with grand rooms, stone terraces, and a tranquil location.
Experience: You’ll feel like royalty here, with lake views, private turrets, and Gothic architecture. Highlands Castle is ideal for those looking to enjoy a romantic retreat or an escape into nature.
Local Attractions: Lake George offers watersports, hiking trails, and charming local shops. Nearby Fort Ticonderoga is a must-visit for history buffs.
Best Time to Visit: Fall, when the foliage is spectacular, or winter for a cosy castle stay amid snow-dusted trees.
All aboard at the Train Station Inn! Step back in time for a nostalgic journey at this unique hotel where your rooms are found in restored railways cars. These old titans of industry have been refurbished into charming interiors, with antique furnishings and charming details. Nestled within the quaint village of Tatamagouche, the Train Station Inn fits perfectly with the village’s local artisans and nearby breweries. This hotel is the perfect stop for those seeking old world charm with a touch of whimsy.
Location: Tatamagouche, Nova Scotia
Highlight: Vintage train cars converted into cosy guest rooms make this inn a nostalgic escape for train enthusiasts.
Experience: Each train car is outfitted with a unique theme, from dining cars to cabooses, offering charm and novelty. It’s like stepping into a bygone era, but with modern amenities.
Local Attractions: Enjoy the village of Tatamagouche, known for its craft breweries and local artisans, or take a coastal drive to spot whales.
Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall for pleasant weather and local events, like the annual Tatamagouche Oktoberfest.
Off the northeast coast of Newfoundland, Fogo Island Inn sits as a relaxing retreat away from the howling maritime winds. Each room at the Inn blends outport tradition with contemporary comforts to provide a rejuvenating stay, blending the rugged Atlantic coast with modern amenities. Within your room, you can watch the waves crash against the rocks, dine upon local produce, and unwind amongst some of the toughest terrain known to mankind.
Location: Newfoundland, Canada
Highlight: This architectural marvel offers jaw-dropping views of the North Atlantic and a cosy refuge from the rugged wilderness outside.
Experience: The inn’s clean, modern lines juxtapose beautifully with the untamed coastal environment. Participate in locally-led experiences, from traditional boat building to foraging.
Local Attractions: Explore Fogo Island’s hiking trails, fishing spots, and artist residency programs, which bring international artists to the island’s studios.
Best Time to Visit: Winter, when you might catch a glimpse of icebergs and the Northern Lights, or summer for outdoor activities and festivals.
Jump on back to the 1950s at The Vintages Trailer Resort. Nestle in Oregon’s wine country, this resort offers a collection of restored trailers ready to welcome you. Each trailer features unique furnishings straight from the 50s. After relaxing in your trailer, hop on a bicycle and explore the vineyards and nearby wineries. Visit during grape harvest season, and you’ll find yourself at the heart of a winemaking tradition in the Willamette Valley. It’s nostalgia, Oregon-style.
Location: Dayton, Oregon
Highlight: This retro resort features a collection of restored vintage trailers, each with a fun, retro theme, set in Oregon’s scenic wine country.
Experience: Guests can unwind in their stylish trailers, complete with colourful decor and vintage details. Rent a bicycle and ride through the vineyard-lined country roads for an authentic 1950s experience.
Local Attractions: Willamette Valley is home to some of the best wineries in Oregon. Try a few tastings, or spend a day hiking at Silver Falls State Park.
Best Time to Visit: Autumn for the grape harvest, or late spring for blooming vineyards and warm weather.
Embrace the rugged charm of Crystal Peak Lookout, a fire lookout tower that offers breathtaking mountain views and a true back-to-nature experience. Here, you can enjoy a cosy night by the wood stove, and by day, explore miles of wilderness trails right from your door. The tower’s panoramic views of the Selkirk Mountains provide an unforgettable backdrop for morning coffee or stargazing sessions in the crisp mountain air.
Location: Fernwood, Idaho
Highlight: A former fire lookout tower with panoramic views of the Selkirk Mountains, perfect for wilderness lovers.
Experience: Cosy up by the wood stove, hike the nearby trails, or stargaze from the tower’s panoramic windows.
Local Attractions: Explore rugged mountain trails, wildlife viewing areas, and nearby lakefronts.
Best Time to Visit: Summer for hiking and winter for a cosy mountain escape.
Imagine life on the frontier with a stay in a Conestoga Wagon at Sandy Valley Ranch. These rustic yet comfortable wagons offer a throwback to the Old West, complete with campfires and starry nights in the Nevada desert. Spend your days horseback riding or learning to lasso, and by night, gather around the fire for a true cowboy experience. It’s glamping with a wild side!
Location: Sandy Valley, Nevada
Highlight: Rustic Conestoga Wagons bring you back to the Old West, set under the starry Nevada desert sky.
Experience: Ride horseback, learn to lasso, and enjoy campfires, all part of the authentic cowboy experience.
Local Attractions: The scenic Mojave Desert, ranch activities, and trails for hiking or horseback riding.
Best Time to Visit: Fall and spring for pleasant desert weather and clear starry nights.
Perched high in the pines of northern Minnesota, Air Castle Treehouse invites you to escape into the heart of nature. Step onto the private deck for sweeping forest views, or set out to explore nearby trails and the rugged beauty of Lake Superior’s shores. Inside, the treehouse offers a simple, inviting space designed for relaxation, with cosy nooks perfect for unwinding. For those looking to combine solitude with a bit of adventure, Air Castle Treehouse offers a retreat where the wilderness is yours to enjoy.
Location: Duluth, Minnesota
Highlight: This rustic treehouse blends forest seclusion with mediaeval-inspired design, set near Lake Superior.
Experience: Take in magical forest views, relax in cosy nooks, and explore trails around the private forest.
Local Attractions: Explore Lake Superior’s rugged shores, nearby trails, and Duluth’s charming arts scene.
Best Time to Visit: Summer for forest hikes and winter for a snowy wonderland.
Picture yourself descending into the heart of the New Mexico desert, where Kokopelli’s Cave, carved right into a sandstone cliff, offers a cosy and rugged escape. Inside, you’ll find modern comforts like a waterfall shower and full kitchen, all set against natural stone walls with windows looking out over expansive desert vistas. As the sun sets, watch the sky shift to vibrant hues before an unforgettable stargazing experience over the high desert. With breathtaking views and ultimate seclusion, Kokopelli’s Cave promises a stay like no other.
Location: Farmington, New Mexico
Highlight: A unique subterranean stay carved into a sandstone cliff with expansive desert views.
Experience: Enjoy modern comforts in a rugged setting, complete with a waterfall shower, living room, and sunset views over the high desert.
Local Attractions: Explore New Mexico’s high desert, including scenic trails, ancient petroglyphs, and nearby Navajo Lake.
Best Time to Visit: Spring or fall, when temperatures are milder and ideal for outdoor exploration.
Step back in time to East Brother Light Station, a 19th-century lighthouse perched on a tiny island in San Francisco Bay, offering a unique maritime escape. Accessible only by boat, this lighthouse inn welcomes you with cosy rooms, vintage decor, and panoramic coastal views. Spend your days watching the bay’s sparkling waters, enjoying meals in the lantern room, and soaking in the lighthouse’s history. Whether you’re a lighthouse enthusiast or simply craving solitude by the sea, East Brother Light Station is the perfect seaside retreat.
Location: Richmond, California
Highlight: Historic 19th-century lighthouse located on a tiny island in San Francisco Bay.
Experience: Accessible by boat only, this lighthouse offers cosy rooms with vintage decor, bay views, and a unique maritime experience.
Local Attractions: Take in the San Francisco Bay’s coastal scenery, visit Point Richmond, or enjoy boating and wildlife viewing in the area.
Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall for the clearest skies and best views of the bay.
Disappear into the desert with a stay at the Invisible House, where mirrored walls reflect the rugged beauty of Joshua Tree. You’ll be surrounded by stunning landscapes, making this stay feel like a mirage. With floor-to-ceiling windows and minimalist interiors, it’s an ideal spot for unwinding and stargazing. During the day, explore the nearby national park or the local art scene in Joshua Tree’s bohemian community.
Location: Joshua Tree, California
Highlight: The mirrored exterior reflects the desert landscape, making it almost disappear, creating an otherworldly effect and breathtaking views.
Experience: With minimalist interiors and floor-to-ceiling windows, this stay is all about immersing yourself in the stillness and vastness of the desert. Relax by the pool, or enjoy stargazing from the rooftop.
Local Attractions: You’re just minutes away from Joshua Tree National Park, known for its surreal rock formations and iconic Joshua trees. There’s also a lively arts scene in nearby Palm Springs.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for milder temperatures, when you can enjoy the desert blooms or the famous clear night skies.
Step aboard history at the Wisconsin Maritime Museum’s Sub BnB, where you can stay overnight on the USS Cobia, a World War II submarine. Anchored in Manitowoc, this unique experience offers an authentic glimpse into the life of a submariner. From cosy bunks to a guided tour of the vessel, each moment immerses you in maritime history. Enjoy modern comforts in a historic setting, making this stay both fascinating and comfortable.
Location: Manitowoc, Wisconsin
Highlight: Overnight stay on the USS Cobia, a fully restored WWII submarine.
Experience: Explore the submarine’s inner workings, choose from over 65 bunks, and enjoy private access to all areas of this historic vessel. Each stay includes a guided tour and a light breakfast.
Local Attractions: Discover the Wisconsin Maritime Museum’s exhibits, stroll along Lake Michigan’s scenic shores, or explore Manitowoc’s charming downtown.
Best Time to Visit: Available year-round; visit in the fall for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
Experience the glamour of 1960s air travel at the TWA Hotel, located in the restored TWA Flight Center at New York’s JFK Airport. This mid-century marvel immerses guests in the stylish, jet-setting atmosphere of another era, with authentic retro decor, cocktails served at a sunken lounge, and views of JFK’s runways. The hotel is both a journey into history and a luxurious stay, perfect for aviation enthusiasts and design lovers alike.
Location: JFK Airport, New York City, New York
Highlight: Stay in a fully restored 1960s TWA terminal, complete with period furnishings and views of active airport runways.
Experience: Enjoy a rooftop infinity pool overlooking the runway, relax in iconic vintage lounges, and visit the on-site 1958 Constellation “Connie” aeroplane turned cocktail bar. Guest rooms feature soundproof windows, retro furnishings, and deluxe amenities for a comfortable stay.
Local Attractions: Explore New York City’s vibrant attractions just a short drive away, including Central Park, the Museum of Modern Art, and Times Square. Or stay on-site to soak up the unique ambiance and airport views.
Best Time to Visit: Open year-round; consider visiting in spring or early fall for milder weather if you plan to explore New York City during your stay.
Famous for its potatoes, it only makes sense that Idaho would have a hotel inside a giant one, right? The Big Idaho Potato Hotel offers a quirky and cosy retreat inside a 28-foot-long potato-shaped structure. This whimsical stay brings charm and comfort to the fields, with rustic-modern furnishings that offer a surprisingly spacious escape. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and Idaho’s iconic crop in the most unexpected way imaginable.
Location: Boise, Idaho
Highlight: A one-of-a-kind stay inside a giant, perfectly crafted “potato” complete with a spa-like bathroom and skylights for stargazing.
Experience: Relax in this uniquely designed space, featuring custom wood accents, a mini library, and vintage furnishings. Step outside to lounge in a cosy tub overlooking the open fields, and savour the fresh, rural air.
Local Attractions: Discover Boise’s vibrant downtown, visit local farms, or take a day trip to the scenic Boise River Greenbelt.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer, when the surrounding fields are lush and temperatures are ideal for outdoor relaxation.
Step into the nostalgia of mid-20th century Americana at the Wigwam Motel, a quirky Route 66 landmark where guests can stay in individual “wigwam” structures. This iconic roadside stop captures the charm of the highway’s heyday, offering a kitschy yet comfortable experience that harks back to a bygone era of travel. However, the design—while iconic—reflects outdated and culturally inaccurate representations of Native American heritage.
Location: Holbrook, Arizona
Highlight: A historic Route 66 motel with unique, teepee-shaped rooms, perfect for those seeking a taste of classic Americana.
Experience: Enjoy a nostalgic stay in one of the 15 cosy, cone-shaped rooms, each with retro decor and modern amenities. Relax under the stars with a view of the Arizona desert and relish the charm of a simpler time.
Local Attractions: Visit Petrified Forest National Park, explore the Painted Desert, or take a stroll through Holbrook’s historic downtown.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for mild temperatures that are perfect for exploring the desert surroundings.
Note: While the Wigwam Motel is a piece of Route 66 history, it’s important to acknowledge that the teepee design is not culturally accurate to the Indigenous peoples of the region. Visitors are encouraged to learn more about Native American cultures and explore respectful ways to engage with their rich heritage.
Transport yourself to the future—or at least a 1970s vision of it—at Area 55 Futuro, a UFO-shaped home nestled in the otherworldly desert landscape of Joshua Tree. This retro-futuristic structure, complete with a cosy interior and panoramic views, offers a playful yet tranquil retreat for sci-fi fans and stargazers alike.
Location: Joshua Tree, California
Highlight: A rare, UFO-shaped home that combines futuristic design with the natural beauty of the desert.
Experience: Relax in this minimalist yet quirky escape, complete with a round bed, board games, and a vintage record player. The outdoor space includes a fire pit and grill, perfect for late-night gatherings under the stars. It’s a getaway as surreal as the surrounding Joshua Tree landscape.
Local Attractions: Explore the iconic Joshua Tree National Park, enjoy the town’s eclectic art scene, or shop for one-of-a-kind vintage finds.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall, when the desert blooms and the temperatures are ideal for exploring the park and enjoying outdoor evenings.
Whether you’re dreaming of stargazing from a fire lookout, stepping back in time at a historic hotel, or staying somewhere truly one-of-a-kind, North America’s unique accommodations offer endless ways to elevate your travel experience. Each of these unforgettable stays blends comfort with novelty, promising a getaway that’s as memorable as it is immersive.
Feeling inspired to explore a unique destination? Contact Tides and Trails Travel Co. for more travel ideas, personalised recommendations, or help planning your next adventure. We’d love to help you find the perfect, extraordinary stay for your journey. Happy travels!
Comments