Introduction
Why stay in a beige rectangular room when you can sleep inside a giant beagle, a cliffside cave, or a treehouse suspended 30 feet in the air?
The “Unique Stays” movement has taken over the USA. Travelers are no longer just looking for a bed; they are looking for a story. These properties are destinations in themselves, offering experiences you can’t find anywhere else on the planet.
In this guide, we have rounded up the 10 most unique and weirdest hotels in the USA. From underwater lodges in Florida to potato-shaped hotels in Idaho, get ready for the weirdest night of your life.
Want traditional luxury instead? Check out our list of Best Luxury City Hotels in USA
1. Dog Bark Park Inn – Cottonwood, Idaho
Yes, you sleep inside the belly of a giant 30-foot tall wooden Beagle dog named “Sweet Willy.”
- The Vibe: It is quirky, charming, and filled with dog-themed carvings made by the owners.
- The Breakfast: They serve a famous “Prairie’s Best” granola. It is a must-visit for dog lovers.
- Taking a road trip here? See our guide to Best Dog-Friendly Road Trip Hotels
2. Kokopelli’s Cave – Farmington, New Mexico
This is not a damp hole in the ground; it is a luxury home carved into a vertical sandstone cliff face.
- The Access: You have to hike down a sloping path and climb a ladder to get in.
- The View: From 300 feet above the La Plata River valley, the sunsets are unmatched.
3. Treehouse Point – Issaquah, Washington
Located just 30 minutes from Seattle, this feels like an Ewok village from Star Wars.
- The Experience: You stay in authentic treehouses connected by suspension bridges. The sound of the river below makes it incredibly peaceful.
- Looking for romance? This is a top pick in our Best Romantic Getaways in USA
4. Jules’ Undersea Lodge – Key Largo, Florida
The only underwater hotel in the USA.
- The Catch: You have to scuba dive 21 feet down to reach your room.
- The View: You can order pizza for dinner, and a diver will deliver it to your window while fish swim by. It is truly a bucket-list experience.
5. The Madonna Inn – San Luis Obispo, California
This hotel is famous for its kitschy, over-the-top themed rooms.
- Famous Rooms: The “Caveman Room” is made entirely of rock with a waterfall shower. The “Love Nest” is pink from floor to ceiling. It is weird, wonderful, and very pink.
6. Beckham Creek Cave Lodge – Parthenon, Arkansas
If you want to feel like a billionaire Bond villain, stay here. It is a massive 6,000 sq. ft. luxury mansion built inside a natural cavern.
- The Design: Natural rock walls are blended with modern furniture and 75-inch TVs.
7. AutoCamp – Various Locations (Joshua Tree, Catskills, Yosemite)
“Glamping” (Glamorous Camping) at its finest. You stay in custom-designed Airstream trailers.
- Why It’s Cool: You get the nature experience of camping but with a spa-inspired bathroom and a memory foam mattress.
- Visiting a park? Check out our Best National Park Hotels in USA
Insider Booking Tip: The “Waitlist” Game
Unique stays usually have very few rooms (sometimes just one, like the Dog Bark Park).
- The Strategy: They sell out 6-12 months in advance. Follow their Instagram pages. They often post “Last Minute Cancellation” alerts on their Stories. If you see one, book it instantly.
Need more booking hacks? Read our Hotel Booking Tips & Hacks
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Are these places safe?
Yes. Even though they look wild (like caves or treehouses), they pass strict building codes and safety inspections.
2. Do they have WiFi?
Most do, but some (like Kokopelli’s Cave) might have spotty signals due to the thick rock walls. Check the amenities list if you need to work remotely.
3. Can I bring kids?
It depends. Dog Bark Park loves kids. However, Treehouse Point is adults-only (13+) for safety reasons due to the ladders and height. Always check the age policy.
