22 Most Unique Places to Stay

The Best Swoon-Worthy Retreats in Texas

All the travelers and wanderers out there know that while the most important part of visiting a new place is experiencing new people and cultures, the place you choose to rest your head can make or break the trip. These six (I mean 22) most unique places to stay across the state will almost have you wanting to stay indoors.

Words by Abby L. Johnson

1. Basecamp Terlingua
Experience Big Bend like never before from a luxurious bubble. These orb-shaped dwellings come with a transparent ceiling so guests can enjoy panoramic views of the Chihuahuan Desert and soak up the stars from a king-sized bed. These cozy accommodations come with hot tub access, electricity, and running water— all in the middle of the desert. Book this oasis in advance; availability is limited.
Terlingua| basecampterlingua.com

2. Havenwald Cabins
This haven in the woods is born from fairytales! Havenwald is a collection of cottage-style tiny homes located on a 6-acre property in Dripping Springs. This whimsical Hill Country getaway offers views of the Texas sky only available away from the city and plenty of wide open spaces. Perfect for a family getaway, multiple dwellings are available so friends and extended family can to tag along.
Dripping Springs | Airbnb: “Dripping Springs’ Magical, Storybook Cottage”

3. The Antler’s Inn- Caboose
This inn features an array of options for travelers, though their most unique offerings are their caboose accommodations where travelers can stay inside a decommissioned train car. The train may not be going anywhere but imagining all the places one might visit by rail will keep the dreamer’s minds occupied. It’s a short drive to Kingsland, where Antler’s Inn, a Victorian-style home and Texas Historic Landmark, sits near the shores of Lake LBJ.
Kingsland | theantlers.com

4. Hobbit’s Nest Treehouse
There’s no need to go overseas to find a hovel fit for a hobbit. Just a short drive east, Paige, Texas, has a home for those looking for a Tolkien-inspired journey. Though this Hobbit’s Nest is located high up in the trees and not in the Shire, visitors will surely be charmed by this treehouse tucked away in the Lost Pines Forest. Though the accommodations appear as though they came from some long-ago time, Hobbit’s Nest is fully equipped with electricity, running water, and modern appliances so guests can relax in comfort.
Paige | Hipcamp: “Hobbit’s Nest Treehouse in the Shire at Lost Pines”

5. Camp Coyoacan Yurts
Visit the Gulf of Mexico and relax in the simplicity of the yurt. Camp Coyoacan offers up traditionally inspired yurts in the heart of Port Aransas. After enjoying a long day at the beach, adventurous solo travelers or families will enjoy resting inside the unique structure. Surrounded by diverse wildlife, Camp Coyoacan offers an intimate glimpse into the coastal landscape. While the yurt may feel like an isolated retreat, those craving the Port A nightlife will find that it’s not too far away.
Port Aransas | campcoyoacan.com

6. A Historic Bank
Head an hour northwest and rent the Bartlett National Bank for the whole family. This historic bank has been lovingly restored and reimagined as a livable space. Cook dinner next to the teller station, pulling ingredients from the bank-vault-turned-pantry. The integrity of the structure remains, bringing a 1920s feel to every corner of this unique stay.
Bartlett | vrbo: “Sleep in a Historic Bank” 

7. Udoscape
For serious stargazers, Udoscape offers beautifully furnished, futuristic sleeping pods with clear overhead domes for the perfect view of the night sky. Dreaming under the stars has never been quite this cozy. These eco-glamping tents, nestled on a hillside, are perfectly suited for couples looking for a retreat. This adult only experience brings visitors closer to nature in elevated style with their own private bathroom and hot tub.
Lago Vista | Airbnb: “Unique Eco-Glamping in TX Hill country”

8. Barons Creekside 
History buffs may have wondered what it felt like to traverse the wild west in a covered wagon. While those days have passed, Barons Wagon allows visitors to experience a little bit of wagon life. This historical replica is stationary, but this glimpse into the past is transportive. Complete with a fire pit, coffee maker, ice chest, electric blankets, and a private shower just steps away, no creature comforts are overlooked. And just minutes away from Fredericksburg, there’s plenty to do for a weekend escape. 
Fredericksburg | Airbnb: “The Barons WAGON @ Barons CreekSide”

9. Cypress Valley Canopy
For an ‘elevated’ experience, cozy up in the treetops at Cypress Valley. For the daredevils, enjoy ziplining between these sky-high dwellings located in the canopy of old-growth cypress trees. With the creek running feet below and the sky within arm’s reach, it’s almost as if guests are suspended between two worlds.
Spicewood | cypressvalley.com

10. Red Wood Tree Haus
This two-bedroom treehouse is perfect for larger families or a couple’s retreat! With room for up to 8 guests, everyone can experience this water-filled getaway. At one of the four houses, visitors can enjoy a large pool complete with a swim-up bar (BYOB!) located just outside the Haus. A few minutes’ walk away from the Guadalupe River and just miles away from Schlitterbahn, Red Wood Tree Haus is the perfect place to cool off for the summer!  New Braunfels | Airbnb: “Redwood Tree Haus – Cloud Lane”

11. Blue Skies Retro Resort
Hop back in time at Blue Skies Retro Resort. Guests shack up inside one of the five Shasta trailers, outfitted with mid-century décor and each situated on a mini astroturf lawn shaded by a mod mono-pitched roof. Located between Enchanted Rock and the Texas Wine Road, Blue Skies is ideal for those who want to get out and explore the sights and tastes of Texas under the big blue sky!
Willow City | blueskiesretroresort.com

12. Martindale Schoolhouse
School’s out for summer, but teacher’s pets can stay in the classroom year-round at Martindale Schoolhouse. This hidden gem, conveniently situated between San Marcos and Lockhart, is a decommissioned schoolhouse that has been renovated into a dreamy modern getaway. With its collection of carefully curated art and thoughtful redesign, a weekend at Martindale won’t feel like being cooped up in school.
Martindale | martindaleschoolhouse.com 

13. Bloomhouse
Bloomhouse is an experiment in architecture that mimics the organic shapes of nature, bringing everyone who enters closer to the natural world. While the shape of this structure may feel unfamiliar in the form of a home, the architects were inspired by the world around them. This extremely Insta-worthy house will tempt visitors to get creative with their next photoshoot.
West Austin | bloomhouse.live

14. Sky Box Cabins: The Nest
Who knows more about treetop dwelling than the birds? Sky Box Cabins has created the ultimate sky-high abode. Part treehouse and part nest, this unique cabin is located on 50 acres of secluded land. It’s the perfect place to perch while reading a book or just enjoying the views. When guests are ready to come back to earth, they are invited to explore nearby sights such as Dinosaur Valley State Park, downtown Glen Rose, and Fossil Rim. 
Glen Rose | skyboxcabins.com

15. FlopHouze
Stay in cozy quarters at this shipping container hotel. Each rectangular dwelling is made out of a shipping container furnished in such a way that makes the most of the small space. Enjoy the great outdoors sitting around the firepit, and don’t forget to bring the dog. Keep an eye open for the cows that wander onto the property, adding rustic farmhouse charm to this far-out experience.
Round Top | flophouze.com 

16. Settler’s Crossing
Settler’s Crossing is a picturesque 35-acre estate comprised of rolling hills and seven 18th and 19th century cabins full of history and charm. Encompassing several styles, the homes come from a variety of places as far as Indiana and Pennsylvania. Now relocated near charming Fredericksburg, tourists can journey through time without traveling outside of the state.
Fredericksburg | settlerscrossing.com

17. Casa Lejana
Just outside of San Antonio, Casa Lejana offers a quiet home away from home on a historic property with a history dating back to the 1930s. Each party will stay in a private casita situated alongside a Spanish-style courtyard. These peaceful, idyllic homes are perfect for those wanting the amenities of a hotel such as a pool, but with sprawling space and the comforts of casa. Enjoy San Antonio, then head to the casita to rest and recharge.
Helotes | Airbnb: “Casa Lejana | Casita” 

18. Talula Mesa
Wake up to the view of beautiful Lake Travis from the comfort of Talula Mesa’s innovative tent/cabin hybrids. Rustic furnishings disguise the cozy, yet modern amenities that await visitors. Slow down and relax around the fire pit or outdoor movie station. Enjoy lake views in a hammock or from their mini cowboy pool. Guests will love the camping feel and the comfortable air-conditioned cabin even more. This Marble Falls getaway is perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors but not the Texas heat.
North shore of Lake Travis | talulamesa.com 

19. Palo Duro Canyon State Park Cabins
Palo Duro Canyon is a Texas gem and the second largest canyon system in the country. Stay at the state park and enjoy the incredible views all week long. These affordable cabins are simple and perfectly suited for those who travel light and want to find adventure right outside their door. The stone exterior blends in with the natural landscape, creating rustic appeal and a sense of belonging to the land. The awe-inducing canyons will keep visitors captivated throughout their stay.
Canyon | tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/palo-duro-canyon

20. Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Resorts Collection
For a luxurious staycation in the heart of Austin, book a room at the reimagined Commodore Perry Estate. Whether visitors prefer to venture out and enjoy the city or stay on the grounds, families and individuals alike will enjoy staying at this gorgeous, thoughtfully decorated resort filled with modern fixtures and touches of historic style. The beautiful Greenhouse dining room is a highlight where guests can enjoy an elevated dinner surrounded by flora.
Central Austin | aubergeresorts.com

21. Serana
Serana offers serenity in the woods. This adults-only glamping site has Kampinas and upscale canvas tents for those looking to enjoy the forest in style. Whether glampers choose to stay in a Kampina (a cabin style dwelling) or a tent, they will enjoy electricity and central heating and cooling. Gather in the communal kitchen to cook a meal under the stars with other adventurers!
Paige | seranatx.com

22. Twisted Horns Ridge
Just an hour west of San Antonio in Hondo lies Twisted Horns Ridge, a secluded ranch getaway with a variety of unique cottages and tiny homes from which to choose. The Glass House offers incredible views of the Texas Hill Country and local wildlife at this little slice of paradise.
Hondo | twistedhornsridge.com