With diverse cities and plenty of incredible hotels to choose from, it can be hard to pick where to stay in the US. That is why we are sharing the most unique hotels in the US, chosen by travel experts and bloggers.
When travelling, most of us plan our trips around the destination; looking at places with awesome attractions and exciting things to do. We look for tasty food and a culture that differs from our own. However, we also love to explore unique, creative destinations around the world; whether it is a unique attraction or unique hotels in the world, we make a point to visit these on our travels. Which is exactly why we reached out to these travel experts to share their favourite, unique hotels in America.
MOST UNIQUE HOTELS IN THE US
The Venetian - Las Vegas
One of the most unique hotels in the United States is The Venetian Resort Las Vegas. This is a luxury hotel that you can find on the Las Vegas Strip. It is very large and has 36 stories and about 7000 rooms and suites. What makes the hotel special is how it looks. The whole resort looks like the city of Venice in Italy. You can see this in the architecture and the facilities. For example, there is a canal that looks exactly like Venice. You can even ride a gondola here, which is amazing!
Also, you find here some of the most Instagrammable places in Las Vegas. The hotel rooms are amazing and are wonderful to stay in; it is arguable one of the best hotels in Vegas. The rooms are very large. In fact, they are about twice the size of an average room in the city. Furthermore, each room has a lot of facilities, including a Roman tub. Other facilities of the hotel are its pools and the entertainment you can find at the hotel.
Dymphe from Dymabroad
Great Wolf Lodge - Massachusetts
One of the most unique hotels stays in the US our family has enjoyed has been at the Great Wolf Lodge in Massachusetts. A family resort with an indoor waterpark and epic family entertainment, Great Wolf Lodge has multiple regional locations throughout the United States. It is fantastic for families with something for everyone, from babies to teens.
From indoor water parks to interactive games, an arcade, and a host of indoor entertainment like bowling alleys, climbing structures, and family-friendly dining, it is an all-inclusive destination well worth a visit. A woodland-themed resort with its primary mascot being a wolf, of course, one of its unique features is its special-themed rooms kids will adore.
Our family stayed in the Wolf Den suite, which includes a little log-cabin-style “wolf den” that feels like you are sleeping in the woods, but in a cozy bunk bed. Think of a kid’s clubhouse inside a hotel room. Our kids absolutely loved it! Other themed suites include KidCabin Suites, Grizzly Wolf Suites, and the Bear Cub Suites.
Price points vary depending on if the thematic suites are bigger in size, Queen or King beds. But our Wolf Den Suite costs $500 per night, however, Great Wolf Lodge offers a variety of discount packages travellers should check out before booking.
It was a wonderful family weekend together at a great family-friendly resort our kids won’t soon forget!
Keri from Bon Voyage with kids
Hotel McCoy - Tuscon, Arizona
This 1960’s mid-century modern art hotel has unique features around every corner. From the impressive shaped entrance to a unique local street art gallery in the yard, and tasteful decorations in the rooms.
Every single room in the hotel is custom designed by and decorated with local Tucson artwork. If you are into an exclusive work by a particular artist, you may find a room named after them at Hotel McCoy.
The charming hotel offers a variety of rooms to accommodate all guests from solo travelers to the entire family. Each room is equipped with a retro fridge, Smart Roku HDTV, fast internet, and of course air conditioning to cool off from the desert heat.
Additional Hotel amenities include a saltwater pool, fire pit, variety of yard games, mini gym, Club Bar in the lobby, and a Barrio Books (onsite Bookstore).
Ready to stay in a retro mixed with contemporary style hotel in the middle of the State of Arizona?
Book a room at Hotel McCoy from around $100 to $130 a night with a healthy complimentary breakfast included.
Rachel and Dana from Traveling found love
The Biltmore Hotel - Coral Gables, Florida
The Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables is within an easy driving distance to the city of Miami, Florida, or about forty-five minutes from Miami Beach. The Biltmore was originally built in 1926. The tower at the very top of the Hotel is inspired by the Giralda, the medieval tower of the cathedral of Seville. The magnificent property also served as a hospital during World War II.
Foley House Inn - Savannah, Georgia
Overlooking Chippewa Square, the beautiful Foley House Inn is one of the most charming bed and breakfasts in Savannah… with one either interesting quirk or fatal flaw, depending on your taste.
In 1987, a skeleton was discovered in the wall of Foley House Inn, believed to be a boarder from the late 1800s.
Based on that story, it’s no surprise that the Foley House Inn is considered to be one of the most haunted places in Savannah, even popping up on some of the city’s ghost tours!
Ghosts aside, though, the inn’s beautiful rooms, delicious included breakfast, and afternoon refreshments such as homemade cake, make this a cozy and unique hotel.
Some rooms overlook the square, and historic furniture, carefully chosen decor and creaking floorboards all add to Foley House Inn’s atmosphere.
While staying, be sure to dart across beautiful Chippewa Square (where Forrest Gump’s bench scenes were filmed!) to grab a drink at Gallery Espresso, one of the best coffee shops in Savannah.
Prices vary depending on the season, but you can sometimes find deals around $100/night to stay in this gorgeous hotel!
Kate from Our Escape Clause
Gaylord Palms and Convention Center - Orlando, Florida
The Gaylord is known for hosting amazing events. There is a huge ship located in the atrium. During certain times of the year there are pirate and princess shows. During Spring, you can eat breakfast with the Easter bunny, decorate cookies and even go on a scavenger hunt. Summer and Fall also have amazing activities. At Christmas time the Gaylord has ice skating,ice sculptures, and so much more!
Hotel Max - Seattle, Washington
Located just minutes away from the popular Pike Place Market in the Denny Triangle of downtown Seattle, Hotel Max is a cool artsy hotel for art and music lovers.
It is within walking distance from Convention center, Capitol Hill and the best restaurants.
Each floor of this 163-room hotel showcases the work of iconic local photographers and all the guest rooms have original paintings. The décor is eclectic and there are great views from higher floors.
The hotel hallways are decorated by huge black-n-white photos – large enough to cover each guest room door. The fifth floor – the ‘sub pop’ floor is named after the local sub pop records, best known for Nirvana group. A life-sized photo of Kurt Cobain, sub pop musician is right in front of 5th floor elevator. The rooms in this floor have old classic record players with a selection of discs. The lobby is spacious and features original artworks in huge sizes.
In-room amenities include the usual goodies – coffeemakers, Wi-Fi, iPod docks, flat-screen TVs and safes.
Hotel Max is reasonably priced – low-season room rates from $149 and summer rates around $249/night.
Miller’s Guild – a boutique steakhouse off the lobby – serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, weekend brunch and happy hour bar menu.
Hotel Max with art and amenities is worth checking out!
Jan from Leisurely Drives
Treebones Resort - Big Sur, California
Treebones is one of the most unique places in California if what you’re looking for is a really quirky stay. Set in Big Sur, this glamping-style hotel consists mostly of fun yurts, all of which come equipped with cozy beds and private decks paired with killer views. The main lodge, which is the heart of the property, consists of two restaurants (including the Sushi Bar), a heated pool, and a tub.
All of the rooms and yurts and sprawled over the property, which means you get a ton of privacy. Aside from their funky yurts, what makes Treebones such a unique place to stay are their peculiar camps. One of them is the Twig Hut, which is well.. made out of twigs and looks like a bird’s nest! This intricate room was designed and hand-woven by Jayson Fann, a local Big Sur artist. Another of their unique accommodations is the Human Nest, which is another unusual wood-art created by the same artist and provides THE best view of the ocean down below.
Prices to stay at either start at $195 and do note you’ll have to bring your own sleeping bags and pillows.
Beckham Creek Cave - Buffalo River Valley, Arkansas
Beckham Creek Cave, located in the Buffalo River valley and nestled within the Ozark Mountains of Northwest Arkansas, is an exclusive luxury lodge. This retreat has been transformed, within a secluded living cave, into a tranquil and elegant space.
Encompassing an area of over 280-acres, it offers 4 bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, a gourmet kitchen, a game room, a fire pit, grill and a patio area. The surrounding area is great for caving with a complex cave system of underground water systems, lakes, and caverns. Other activities worth exploring include rock climbing, horse riding, fishing, and hiking. A highlight is the walk path to an overlook point called “Eye of the needle,” to witness the rising sun. Beckham Creek Cave makes for a great option for a weekend getaway for anyone looking for a memorable experience and should not be missed.
Rates are $1600 per night with a 2-night minimum stay over weekends and holidays.
Rai from A Rai of Light
Ace Hotel - Portland, Oregon
Located in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, the Ace Hotel in Portland, Oregon is one of the most unique hotels in the US. Nestled in the heart of downtown, this hipster boutique hotel is within walking distance of anything in the city. The famous Powell’s City of Books is 2 blocks away, and the hotel lies amongst the hottest spots to eat in Portland. Bicycles are available to explore the city free of charge.
The hotel itself boasts 4 stories, with the first floor dedicated to its unique restaurant options. Perfect for dinner is The Clyde Common featuring locally sourced and produced menu items. Across the lobby is the local coffee favourite Stumptown Cafe, and downstairs is Pepe Le Moko, offering unique and classic cocktails.
The top 3 floors highlight what makes the Ace Hotel truly unique, the rooms. From a mix of superior suites with wrap-around vintage couches and clawfoot tubs to shared bunk bedrooms, each room is distinctive. Bespoke local art and murals, and in-room turntables create a true Portland vibe. The rooms are also pet-friendly and come with free wifi, hypoallergenic mattresses, locally made bathrobes, and a curated minibar.
Prices at the Ace Hotel in Portland start at $157 USD per night.
Haley from Haley Blackall
Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows - Scottsdale, Arizona
Scottsdale, Arizona is known for its luxury hotels and lavish resorts. The Andaz Resort & Bungalows is definitely one of the best in the city – its bungalow-style rooms and unique amenities make this hotel one of the most unique hotels in the United States.
The Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows is housed on 23-acres in the Sonoran Desert. The property feels secluded, but it’s less than 10 minutes down the road from Old Town Scottsdale. There are 185 bungalows around the property. Each bungalow as well as the common areas around the resort are decked out in mid-century modern decor, giving the resort a retro vibe.
There is no shortage of amenities at the Andaz Scottsdale. The unique experience of the hotel begins at check-in, where you’ll be greeted with a local beer to begin your stay. Grab dinner and drinks at the on-site restaurant, or hop on one of the free walking tours of all the resort’s Instagrammable spots. If you’re heading out to a nearby restaurant or attraction, request a ride in the resort’s complimentary Tesla. With three pools on-site along with a full-service spa, you’ll easily be able to beat the desert heat with a relaxing pool or spa day.
Sydney in A World In Reach
The Madonna Inn - San Luis Obispo, California
One of the most unique hotels in the United States is the Madonna Inn, located in San Luis Obispo, California. The Madonna Inn originally opened with 12 rooms in 1958. It now offers 110 unique guest rooms. Each room has a different theme and no two are the same. The way the rooms are decorated makes this hotel so unique! Rooms range from king economy rooms to luxury suites. Rooms start at $125 and get more expensive depending on the room type and dates you choose.
There is plenty to keep visitors entertained at the Madonna Inn. The pool is a fabulous place to relax for a few hours. On the property are also outdoor patio areas, a spa, fitness room, tennis/basketball courts, a wine cellar, and a secret garden.Food wise, the Madonna Inn is famous for its bakery. There are also two on site restaurants which have amazing food and several bars you can grab some unique cocktails.
A trip to the Madonna Inn is a fun and unique experience. It is a perfect stop to add on a California trip.
Francesca from Home Room Travel
The Georgian Hotel - Santa Monica, California
The Georgian Hotel in Santa Monica, California is one of the most beautiful and unique hotels in America. It’s an art-deco style hotel that transports you back to the 20s. Being painted turquoise, it definitely stands out against the other hotels on the street.
Staying at The Georgian, you’ll want to take advantage of their outdoor veranda. It’s perfect to enjoy the California sun for brunch or cocktails.
The prices varies depending on your room and package. It’s definitely one of the pricier hotels I’ve stayed at, but it’s worth it! They offer regular hotel rooms and larger suites, both with options for an ocean view and parking. The suites offer more than enough space for a family with a pull out sofa and option for a rollaway bed. You can also get a room with an ocean view!
You can’t get a better location for your stay in Santa Monica. The Georgian Hotel is on Ocean Avenue in the heart of all the action. It’s around the corner from The Third Street Promenade with what seems like unlimited shopping and restaurant options. And it’s across the street from the beach, within walking distance to the Santa Monica Pier.
Meghan from Afternoon Tea Reads
Joshua Tree Acres - Joshua Tree National Park, California
If you are looking for a place to disconnect, and a unique hotel to stay in the USA, Joshua Tree Acres is the perfect place.
Hidden close to one of the most beautiful deserts in the world, you will find a beautiful, newly renovated 1959 Airstream. A minimal, modern space inspired by the surrounding desert. On the property, you will find restrooms, kitchens, a pool, hot tub, solar shower, outdoor table & clawfoot tubs, everything you need to fully enjoy your well-needed break.
Joshua tree park is only a 20 minutes drive from the property, make sure to hike Barker Dam and enjoy the sunset in the park!
Reservations can be made online, for a minimum of two nights, with a cost of $167 a night.
Stephanie from Bey of Travel
The Wigwam Motel - San Bernadino, California
Along Route 66 is the next unique hotel, The Wigwam. Built in 1949, this quirky hotel is a reminder of the great American road trip days. You can see the wigwams from miles away but don’t be fooled thinking this is just a tent; the rooms inside are well decorated, clean and spacious.
Surrounded by beautiful nature, this motel includes a pool and gift shop for all those Route 66 souvenirs you want to pick up too. There are plenty of restaurants, lakes, tourist attractions, shows and even ski resorts nearby. Regardless of who you are, this unique stay should make it to your USA bucket list.
Prices start at just $100 a night and vary depending on the time of year you visit.
Creative Travel Guide pick
Red Caboose Motel - Ronks, Pennsylvania
The Red Caboose Motel in Pennsylvania, USA offers standard rooms inside a retired locomotive. Inside the largest privately owned collection of cabooses, you will find a quirky hotel and restaurant as well as an interesting railroad museum.
Established in 1970, the hotel now has 38 cabooses, a baggage car and a mail car; all painted red to reflect the famous railroads. Rooms include private bathrooms, free wi-fi, microwave, refrigerator, climate control and flat screen cable television.
Double rooms cost $95 whilst family rooms start at $135.
Creative Travel Guide pick
Dog Bark Park Inn - Cottonwood, Idaho
Ever wanted to spend the night in a gigantic dog? Well, the Dog Bark Park Inn is perfect for you. The hotel is shaped like an oversize dog and the inside it a whole room.
The inn sleeps 4 and includes a queen bed and two twins in the loft space. Apart from various dog themed items, the room also has a coffee marker, refrigerator, microwave, full bath, breakfast table, free Wi-Fi and various books, games and puzzles.
Ever wanted to spend the night in a gigantic dog? Well, the Dog Bark Park Inn is perfect for you. The hotel is shaped like an oversize dog and the inside it a whole room.
The inn sleeps 4 and includes a queen bed and two twins in the loft space. Apart from various dog themed items, the room also has a coffee marker, refrigerator, microwave, full bath, breakfast table, free Wi-Fi and various books, games and puzzles.
There is a 2-night minimum stay and rooms cost $158 per night for two people, including breakfast. You can book the hotel directly on the Dog Bark Park website.
Creative Travel Guide pick
Sheldon Chalet - Denali National Park, Alaska
Tucked away in the snowy Denali National Park in Alaska, is the gorgeous Sheldon Chalet. This is a luxurious mountain chalet 6000 feet above sea level; so high up that you will need a helicopter to and from the chalet.
Not only is it a gorgeous place to stay in the US but it is one of the coolest places to stay in the USA; literally. You can explore the glaciers surrounding the chalet and take a guided tour through the national park; snowshoes, helmets, poles and harnesses required.
Because of its exclusivity, this hotel is one of the most expensive on the list; averaging around $2000 a night. This includes a helicopter ride to get to the hotel as well as food, drinks and activities.
Creative Travel Guide pick
Helpful resources
Travel essentials:
- We LOVE this camera for our travel photography.
- For a cheap, easy and compact camera, we use this to vlog and take photographs.
- We use this travel drone (but make sure to check drone laws in your chosen destination first).
- This is our favourite travel Insurance because it covers so many activities and travel situations that could arise on longer trips but also offers year coverage.
What to pack:
- No matter where we travel to, I always take these trusty hand sanitizer’s and a mini first aid kit.
- We love these toiletry bags (especially great for smaller bathrooms) and choose a laptop bag like this as our hand luggage.
- We keep our devices charged on long travel days with these lightweight battery packs and bring these worldwide travel adaptors on all our trips.
- I still struggle not to overpack so stick to using an expandable suitcase like these, over backpack and always take my trusty luggage scales to avoid being charged at the airport.
9 Comments
Thanks for sharing! All of these unique spots make Instagram photos really come to life for travel! (We have a wigwam hotel in Kentucky too!)
Wow! All these hotels are so dreamy. My favorite is Shelt0on Chalet.
I loooove staying at unusual places and I would totally love to check out some of them! Especially the chalet in Alaska and the Joshua Tree Acres are my favorites. 🙂
This is such an amazing and unique list. I have just been to Great Wold Lodge in PA and my kids loved every bit of the stay. Would love to visit so many out of them . Thanks for sharing.
What a great list! I’m always looking for unique places to stay no matter where I travel to. There are defenitely cities I haven’t been to yet!
So much travel inspo in a single post! And many of these hotels are actually quite affordable, which is great. My favourite is the Madonna Inn 🙂
I love to travel in the United States country. This post is wonderful about the most unique hotel in the USA.
[…] For premier glamping-style accommodation in funky yurts right on the Big Sur Coast (about 65 miles south of Monterey), Treebones Resort is one of the most unique hotels in the U.S. […]
[…] you if you’re a budget traveler! If you do want to shell out, Scottsdale is home to one of the most unique hotels in the United States, the Andaz Resort & Bungalows. Here, you can stay in a mid-century modern bungalow in the heart […]