14 Airbnbs that deliver a bucket list experience and prove you don't need to leave the US for a once-in-a-lifetime trip
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- As demand in summer travel heats up, many are eager to finally check off bucket list destinations.
- International travel is still in limbo, but there’s no shortage of incredible places here in the US.
- From a tree house in Hawaii to a condo overlooking Times Square, you’ll never forget these Airbnbs.
As travel continues to tick up around the US thanks to millions of Americans being fully vaccinated, the time finally feels right to check some of those long-awaited places off your list — or at least to start planning for a bucket list vacation.
According to TripAdvisor’s Summer Travel Index, 67% of Americans are planning to travel this summer between the months of June and August. In January, Airbnb released data on their most wish-listed properties that showed people were eager to book unique and wow-factor stays. And it should come as no surprise that a survey by Airbnb revealed people were feeling more hopeful about exploring new travel bucket list destinations.
Popular Reviews
From the Grand Canyon to Times Square, we’ve looked for standout Airbnbs in must-visit destinations across the US to help you make the most of your next trip.
We chose the best bucket list Airbnbs based on the following criteria:
- Each property is a standalone listing that isn’t shared with owners or other guests.
- From the most wish-listed cabin in Alaska to an “invisible house” in the heart of Joshua Tree, California, we chose listings that are as unique in spirit as the iconic locales in which they’re located.
- All are highly-rated listings with a minimum rating of 4.75 and excellent recent reviews. All homes are also listed by Airbnb Superhosts.
- Every listing participates in Airbnb’s Enhanced Clean program, ensuring the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
- While each stay offers excellent amenities and decor, there’s a little something for everybody on this list, whether you seek a rustic cabin with awe-inspiring views to unplug or a luxurious suite in Vegas.
- Listings range from $95 to $2,900 to suit a wide range of bucket list budgets, though we kept affordability in mind and most listings come in under $500 per night.
Browse all of the bucket list Airbnbs below, or jump to a specific section here:
- The best bucket list Airbnbs in the US
- FAQs: Bucket list US vacations
- More unique Airbnbs in the US
Here are the best bucket list Airbnbs in the US, sorted by price from low to high.
Cabin where you can see the northern lights in Alaska
Book this northern lights Alaska Airbnb
Typical starting price: $95
Location: Fairbanks, Alaska
Sleeps: 4 guests/1 bedroom
Rating: 4.97
This cozy cabin in Fairbanks, Alaska is not only one of the most wish-listed Airbnbs in the state, but its remote location at the edge of the woods makes it an ideal spot for lucky guests visiting in the winter to catch a glimpse of the northern lights.
Keep in mind that this spot is what’s known as dry-cabin living, which means there’s no running water (except for the kitchen sink) and no indoor bathroom. Instead, a small outdoor, RV-type shower is available, as well as an outhouse just a few steps from the main home. However, past guests here found the unplugged and rustic feel of the cabin to be a draw.
Inside, you’ll find a fully stocked kitchen that has everything you need to prepare meals, as well as a main living area with a couch/futon that can be pulled out for extra sleeping space. Upstairs is a spacious bedroom with a comfy Queen bed decked out in red and plaid linens, plus a small sofa. The home has appropriate cabin motifs throughout, including pine tree wall decor, vintage maps, and even a moose cutout on the outhouse.
A deck off the upstairs bedroom with two simple chairs gives guests a front-row seat to wildlife wandering by. A path also leads down to a firepit just right for roasting s’mores and warming on cold nights.
Beach view bungalow right near the Golden Gate Bridge
Book this California beach view Airbnb
Typical starting price: $195
Location: Stinson Beach, California
Sleeps: 2 guests/studio
Rating: 4.98
This relaxing and dreamy bungalow is set on a lush hillside in the quiet seaside town of Stinson Beach in Northern California and features gorgeous ocean views.
Check a few items off your bucket list with this spot as your home base. Drive down south across San Francisco’s legendary Gold Gate Bridge, take that once-in-a-lifetime ferry ride over to Alcatraz Island, or stay local and explore the beautiful trails and parks that abound in Northern California.
From the moment you walk into this sumptuous Airbnb Plus bungalow, you’ll be transported to another world thanks in part to the Asian-inspired design, complete with a tranquil outdoor shower and Japanese-style soaking tub. Indulge in treetop ocean views from the comfort of your Queen-sized bed, and watch the sunset from the privacy of the large wooden deck.
This cozy studio was inspired by the Superhosts’ travels around the world and is especially ideal for couples looking for a romantic bucket list or honeymoon getaway.
Stargazing desert dome near the Grand Canyon
Book this Grand Canyon dome Airbnb
Typical starting price: $219
Location: Williams, Arizona
Sleeps: 4 guests/studio
Rating: 4.98
Everyone should experience the Grand Canyon at least once in their lifetime and this stargazing desert dome located at Grand Canyon Junction is a stay you’re sure to never forget.
This uniquely designed geodome is an elevated glamping experience ideal for stargazing. The interior includes one King bed, an optional twin air mattress, gray armchairs, nightstands, and a pellet stove for staying warm. While there’s no bathroom inside the dome, private bathrooms and showers just for guest use are located right nearby, and solar-powered outlets allow guests to charge phones and laptops if you don’t want to be totally off the grid.
Head out early and start your canyon adventure by day. The legendary Grand Canyon Train departs from the train station just a few minutes away and will take you right to the South Rim. After a long day of exploring and when temps start to drop, cozy up dome-side by your private firepit. The large skylight makes it easy to enjoy the night sky right from bed.
A Magic Kingdom-themed house close to Disney World
Book this Disney-themed Airbnb
Typical starting price: $170
Location: Davenport, Florida
Sleeps: 8 guests/4 bedrooms
Rating: 4.97
Disney fans will be delighted by this magical Disney-fied home in Davenport, Florida. Within a fifteen-minute drive to nearby theme parks, this four-bed home truly captures the Disney spirit and has plenty of room to bring the whole family.
Take your pick from the master bedroom, otherwise known as the Haunted Mansion Suite thanks to grinning ghouls, the Wonderland Suite, or the Neverland Room, where children who never want to grow up can sleep in bunk beds surrounded by leafy wall paintings and catch a glimpse of Peter’s shadow peeking out from behind the curtains. Of course, classic Magic Kingdom fans will especially love the Cinderella Suite, fit for royalty with its antique clock, wrought-iron bedframe, and fireplace.
Naturally, Disney Plus and Disney Hulu are both included in your stay here. There’s also a private pool with water views in addition to the community basketball, tennis, and volleyball courts.
Bourbon Street mansion in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter
Book this New Orleans French Quarter Airbnb
Typical starting price: $256
Neighborhood: New Orleans, Louisiana
Sleeps: 6 guests/1 bedroom
Rating: 4.75
The birthplace of jazz and the home of Mardi Gras and legendary beignets at Cafe du Monde, it’s no wonder New Orleans is consistently one of the most popular US cities for travelers.
Built in 1820 and converted into a luxury apartment, this mansion directly overlooking Bourbon Street right in the heart of the French Quarter is every bit as cozy as it is chock full of character. Some of the design details include dramatic 14-foot ceilings, original 200-year-old hardwood floors, two fireplaces, and exposed brick. Crystal chandeliers, billowing white drapes, marble countertops, and provided bathrobes add a touch of luxury.
The balcony, which overlooks the intersection of Bourbon and Dumaine, is a great place to sip the complimentary champagne and coffee provided by the host while enjoying some people watching from the small table and chairs.
Corner suite overlooking the Las Vegas Strip
Book this Las Vegas Strip Airbnb
Typical starting price: $223
Neighborhood: Las Vegas, Nevada
Sleeps: 4 guests/1 bedroom
Rating: 4.93
Las Vegas has long been a bucket list destination for travelers the world over, and if you’re looking to do Sin City in style, this one-bedroom suite in Palm Palace is just the ticket.
Overlooking the Las Vegas Strip and surrounding mountain range, this modern 1200-square foot unit offers floor-to-ceiling windows, a state-of-the-art kitchen, a living room complete with a gas fireplace, and two balconies.
Even the bathroom setup here is dreamy, with a gorgeous marble walk-in shower, glass vanity, and a deep soaking tub with views of the city. Guests also have access to the on-site pool and gym as an added bonus.
Luxury glamping dome in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains
Book this North Carolina glamping dome Airbnb
Typical starting price: $259
Location: Hendersonville, North Carolina
Sleeps: 2 guests/studio
Rating: 4.95
Nature meets modern luxury in this peaceful glamping dome in Hendersonville, North Carolina. Designed with couples in mind, this glampsite allows guests to get away and enjoy complete privacy ensconced in nature.
Quite a step up from your usual camping experience, this romantic getaway includes heat and A/C, as well as a full bathroom just off the main room, a memory foam mattress with luxury bedding, and a kitchenette. A propane grill and private outdoor hot tub and firepit add to the allure.
Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, this home is nice and secluded but is still only a thirty-minute drive from downtown Asheville for those who want to explore the city’s fabulous restaurants or the iconic Biltmore Estate. After a day of hiking nearby Chimney Rock, come back and enjoy the serene setting of the pond and stream just below your dome.
Skyrise studio overlooking Times Square
Book this New York City Times Square Airbnb
Typical starting price: $282
Location: New York City, New York
Sleeps: 3 guests/1 bedroom
Rating: 4.90
For a truly memorable New York City moment, consider this high-rise studio with views of Times Square.
With so much to see and do when visiting the Big Apple, this modern studio alcove with floor-to-ceiling windows puts you right in the heart of the action. You’ll be within walking distance to the Theater District, Times Square, Hell’s Kitchen, and Hudson Yards, not to mention seemingly endless incredible restaurants.
The decor is modern and simple, but still has a touch of whimsy via details like pufferfish wallpaper, a floating platform bed frame, and a dining bar up against the windows so you can enjoy your meals with the best view in town.
Dreamy bamboo tree house in Hawaii
Book this Hawaii treehouse Airbnb
Typical starting price: $300
Location: Fern Forest, Hawaii
Sleeps: 2 guests/1 bedroom
Rating: 4.84
Hawaii is a top bucket list destination for many travelers, but you can take your vacation to the next with this stunning and unique stay.
Follow the red volcanic sand trail through the jungle where you’ll find this ethereal and secluded bamboo tree house, set 15 feet up in the air on stilts. At ground level, you’ll find a hanging hammock bed suspended beneath the floor of the bungalow’s living quarters. Continue through the trapdoor and you’ll find a beautiful wrap-around lanai that offers 360-degree views of the lush jungle.
Two sliding glass doors grant you access to the open-concept bedroom complete with hanging rattan lamps, a woven headboard, and leafy yellow wallpaper. The bathroom is equally swoon-worthy and features floor-to-ceiling windows that open completely for an indoor-outdoor effect.
Secluded log cabin with views of Mount Rushmore
Book this Mount Rushmore Airbnb
Typical starting price: $457
Neighborhood: Keystone, South Dakota
Sleeps: 10 guests/3 bedrooms
Rating: 5.0
There’s no shortage of sights to be seen in South Dakota’s Black Hills, from Crazy Horse Memorial to the bison found in Custer State Park. But perhaps the most famous sight in the area is Mount Rushmore.
This rustic cabin retreat’s back deck features direct views of the famed carved faces, making it a rare gem. Surrounded by wide-open space and numerous hiking trails, this secluded Airbnb is within easy proximity to the state’s top attractions and allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Black Hills.
Inside, the two-level home has a true cabin feel thanks to all-wood interiors, ornately carved dining chairs, and details like lampstands made from antlers. There’s plenty of space for a family or large group to spread out here, and rocking chairs on the porch make for an idyllic spot to take in that iconic view.
Floating tiki suite in Key West
Book this floating Key West Airbnb
Typical starting price: $513
Location: Key West, Florida
Sleeps: 2 guests/studio
Rating: 4.87
Key West is a perennial favorite amongst US travelers who flood the city’s famous Duval Street and flock to reach the Southernmost Point Buoy. And it doesn’t get much more once-in-a-lifetime than sleeping in a floating home. Designed to be a glamping experience on the water, this tropical Key West suite is accessible only via boat or water shuttle.
Floor-to-ceiling French doors can be opened on all sides to let in the ocean breeze, and you can hang out and take in the water views from the chairs situated on the deck or the hammock. Of course, getting out on the water is the real draw here, and the host provides stand-up paddleboards, snorkel gear, and kayaks.
Inside the hut, Brazilian hardwood flooring complements the thatched-tiki styling. Soaring vaulted ceilings give the living space some volume while also serving as the core component to the self-ventilating design, ensuring you stay plenty cool even on hot Florida days. While there is a bathroom, there’s no true kitchen here, so guests will need to pack their own supplies and plan to use the provided cooler.
A-frame next to the Hollywood sign
Book this LA Hollywood sign Airbnb
Typical starting price: $627
Neighborhood: Los Angeles, California
Sleeps: 8 guests/4 bedrooms
Rating: 4.82
If being the closest house to the Hollywood sign didn’t make this stay cool enough already, it’s also a vintage A-frame built in 1963 that was once owned by the band The Association.
A sprawling, multi-level property perched at the top of the Hollywood Hills, the home features 30-foot ceilings, a stone fireplace, and bright decor from peace signs on the walls to colorful quilts on the beds. A private hot tub on the back patio provides a place to take a relaxing soak, and the lower level’s King-size bedroom features an outdoor shower and a second private patio with views. Music lovers will especially enjoy the vintage Audiophile sound system in the living room and the grand piano.
You can easily access 4,000 acres of incredible hiking and horseback riding right out the front door, including the hike to Hollywood sign if you want to get even closer.
Private island off of Hilton Head, South Carolina
Book this Hilton Head private island Airbnb
Typical starting price: $624
Location: Hilton Head, South Carolina
Sleeps: 6 guests/3 bedrooms
Rating: 4.93
If you have dreams of staying on a private island a la Kim Kardashian on her birthday, you don’t necessarily have to spend millions of dollars to do it. Instead, consider this spot on Old House Cay, just off the coast of Hilton Head, South Carolina.
Accessible only by boat, this secluded locale is part of a series of private islands that you’ll have all to yourself throughout your stay. Guests here come for the abundance of boating, fishing, and kayaking, but kicking back and relaxing on the soft sands is also an option.
As far as getting around goes, the owners are available to shuttle you and your friends or family back and forth from Hilton Head on their private boat.
Accommodations include a large, multi-story home with gorgeous wood floors, high ceilings, a modern kitchen, and a big blue dining table with room for the whole crew. All-wood walls give it a hint of a cabin feel, while bright pillows and quilts add pops of color.
One of the most popular summer destinations in the US, Hilton Head and the surrounding sea island’s of South Carolina are a bucket list spot in their own right, so you may also want to consider checking out some of the best Airbnbs in Hilton Head to pair with your private island getaway.
Invisible mirror house in Joshua Tree
Book this Joshua Tree invisible house Airbnb
Typical starting price: $2,700
Neighborhood: Joshua Tree, California
Sleeps: 8 guests/4 bedrooms
Rating: 4.89
Located on 90-private acres bordering Joshua Tree National Park and designed by American Psycho film producer Chris Hanley and architect Tomas Osinski, this “invisible” home blends in with the surrounding landscape thanks to its mirrored glass exterior.
Inside, the four-bed house offers minimalistic decor in gray tones and floor-to-ceiling windows in every room, truly making the desert views the star of the show. Each room offers an en-suite bath, and the master bedroom features a free-standing tub. A massive kitchen island and a long dining table make it easy to host group meals. But the true standout feature here is the 100-foot long indoor pool flanked by a projector just right for movie night.
Though this spot comes with a hefty price tag, the cost breaks down to just $337 per person if you have a full house and feels truly worth it for a stunning stay you won’t find anywhere else.
FAQs
What are the best bucket list vacations in the US?
All of the Airbnbs on this list are close to or right at many of the most popular vacation spots in the US, including the Grand Canyon, New York City, LA, Disney World, Alaska, Hawaii, and more. What makes a vacation worthy of your bucket list will, of course, depend on your personal interests. If you seek time outdoors exploring some of America’s most beautiful landscapes, consider a glamping vacation or a visit to a national park.
On the other hand, if you’re ready for an urban getaway, consider iconic spots like New Orleans or LA. Of course, who you plan to travel with also plays a key factor. Families may want to consider spots like Disney World, while couples may be more interested in romantic vacation rentals.
How can I find unique Airbnbs?
Airbnb allows you to search specifically for unique accommodations in any area from castles to domes. After putting your other criteria such as location and dates of your stay, click into “More filters” and scroll down until you see a section for “Unique stays.” Here you can check specific types of accommodations you’re interested in for the most relevant results.
You can also browse unique stays across the US here.
Are Airbnbs safe?
Experts say vacation rentals like Airbnbs are very safe. In fact, they offer a higher level of safety compared to hotels since interactions with others are minimized. Additionally, Airbnb has enforced a strict new Enhanced Clean Policy.
What is Airbnb’s cancellation policy?
Airbnb cancellation policies vary from host to host and are set individually. If you’re unsure of your upcoming travel plans, be sure to read up carefully on the policy of specific homes you’re looking at booking or reach out to the host. You can read a full breakdown of different Airbnb cancellation policy options here.
More unique Airbnbs in the US
- The most unique Airbnb in every state
- The coolest Airbnbs in the US
- The best treehouse rentals in the US
- The best Airstream trailer rentals in the US
- The best Airbnb houseboats in the US
Axel Springer, Insider Inc.’s parent company, is an investor in Airbnb.
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