There’s a weird dichotomy that I find while traveling: the thrilling feeling of exploring a totally new place, bursting at the seams with wanderlust, and the mundane hotel I stay in, which I could easily find five minutes from my house. That’s why it’s so fun when I find truly unique getaways, especially in my own state. It improves the overall travel experience so much!
Average hotels cramping your style? Here are the most unique places to stay in Texas so your trip’s memorable moments don’t end when you get back to your hotel room.
You can check out the map below to get an idea of where all these places are around the state, but please note, some Airbnb listings and other places don’t have public addresses, so not every place on the list is on the map!
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The Most Unique Places to Stay in Central Texas
The Retreat on the Hill in Cottonwood Shores, TX
Located right near Marble Falls, The Retreat on the Hill, formerly known as Hozhoni on the Hill, has one of the coolest glamping options around – their Stardome Suite! This clear dome is 101 feet over Horseshoe Bay on a huge private deck with incredible views of the sunset and is perfect for a little stargazing. They also offer other glamping options such as tipis, luxury safari tents, and a shipping container suite – so they really have a bit of everything! Their newest offering is their two Cliff Houses, which offer some of the best sunset views on property. Also, as a special offer to my readers, you can get 10% off any booking (Stardome Suite included) with code READYSETJETSET on their website!
FlopHouze Shipping Container Hotel in Round Top, TX
FlopHouze’s various “houzes” offer a rustic western feel inside industrial shipping containers situated in a tiny country town with a population of — wait for it — 90. Anywhere from two to eight guests can comfortably sleep in this eclectic fleet of luxury skipping containers, and there is even a larger “Farmhouze” and “Beachhouze” for larger groups.
If lack of activities is deterring you from making the trip to Round Top, never fear. The Original Round Top Antiques Show, acclaimed as one of the best and largest antique shows in the nation, is held twice a year in Round Top, once in October and once in April. Arts and entertainment venues, tasty southern restaurants, and small business shopping (especially antique shops galore) are also located downtown, just five miles from FlopHouze. In fact, I named Round Top as one of my best day trips from Austin!
The Yurtopian in Wimberley, TX
The Yurtopian (formerly known as Yurtopia Wimberley) allows guests to sleep among breathtaking views of Texas Hill Country in authentic, hand-painted Mongolian yurts. Made of hand-stripped Siberian pine wood and held together by camel hide, you’ll definitely win the award for the most unique lodging experience amongst your friends.
Whether you choose Hilltop (one to two people maximum on their own private deck) or Riverbluff yurts (six people maximum where you get 3 yurts and a hangout area, seated on the Blanco River with river swimming access), all offer sunset viewing, an outdoor kitchen, barbeque grill, and hot tubs for some of the best glamping in the Texas Hill Country.
SEE ALSO: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Jacob’s Well Near Wimberley, TX
The Antlers Inn in Kingsland, TX
Ever wanted to spend the night in a train car like the Boxcar Children? I can’t be the only one who grew up with those books! Well, they’re no longer just for commuting, as guests at the Antlers Inn on Lake LBJ can stay the night in train cars.
At The Antlers Inn, the cars are refurbished and include some original furniture from when they were working. The old-timey feel doesn’t stop there – the Inn’s restaurant, the Grand Central Cafe and Club Car Bar, is located in a Victorian-era house (the original Texas Chainsaw Massacre House from the movie!) near Kingsland’s original railroad tracks. Traditional cabins are also available for those less enthused by rail travel. Live your best Polar Express life!
Cypress Valley Treehouses in Spicewood, TX
The treehouses at Cypress Valley almost beg guests to relive the good old days of childhood. However, these might be slightly more luxurious (and safe, I hope) than the ones you built with your best friend all those years ago. Nestled in Cypress trees, the houses’ creekside wooden decks are perfect for firefly-watching and watching the sunrise with coffee. From ziplining to swinging over the lake, playing this much is enough to wake up anyone’s childlike imagination. And while in the area, you can swim at the nearby Krause Springs!
Treehouse rentals include the Yoki, Lofthaven, Juniper, and Willow treehouses, which each can sleep two guests, and The Nest, which can hold four to six guests. Or, if you prefer to be on the ground, the Ranch House overlooks the creek ravine and can host up to 15 guests.
SEE ALSO: The Ultimate Guide to Krause Springs in Spicewood, TX
Hotel Emma in San Antonio, TX
Once a 19th-century brewhouse, Hotel Emma is a riverfront hotel that prides itself on being a social and cultural hub complete with a bar and club room, leveled-up Southern comfort food at their restaurants, and a plethora of nearby museums to mosey through. The decor distinguishes between past and present, and the attention to detail is almost unbelievable. Most importantly, they greet you at check-in with a complimentary La Babia margarita. Viva San Antonio!
The Cell Block in Clifton, TX
“Book your night in jail,” their website tells guests. If you’re looking for some alone time, escape to The Cell Block in historic downtown Clifton between Austin and Dallas for true solitary confinement. Formerly the office of the Clifton city jail watchman, the jail housed rowdy drunks back in the 1900s. This “cell” has been upgraded since then, sporting a rooftop deck, full bathroom, and queen-sized bed. And in the spirit of its history, The Cell Block teamed up with a local winery to produce an exclusive label served to guests!
Rancho Pillow in Round Top, TX
Rancho Pillow combines art and whimsy with a southeast Texas ranch out in Round Top. This unique 20-acre compound is full of colorful fun for all ages, with outdoor activities like kickball and frisbee golf, a treehouse, heated saltwater wading pool, and camping under the stars. Each housing option is eclectic and different from the next, including the Surf Shack modeled after a Mexican beachside bungalow, the 18th century, a three-story Dutch barn, the self-explanatory Red House, and more.
SEE ALSO: The Best Day Trips from Austin
The Bloomhouse in Austin, TX
Welcome to the most unique house in Austin – The Bloomhouse, an unusual architectural marvel built in the 1970s. Located in the hills of West Austin, this seashell-like home was built to represent the “symbiotic interaction of man and nature.”
According to their website, it “mimics the flow of the air, the curve of the wind, and the gentle rise and fall of nature’s melody.” I truly couldn’t describe it better myself! The house features one bedroom, a living room, a bathroom including indoor and outdoor showers, a large patio space, and a small 2nd-floor nook including an upper balcony. Staying here is like falling down the rabbit hole to Wonderland!
SEE ALSO: The Quick Guide to Austin, TX
The Hobbit’s Nest Treehouse in Paige, TX
This hidden gem is located close to Bastrop in Paige, TX, a bit East of Austin. This rustic treehouse is decorated with many little elements of Lord of the Rings decor, making it feel like you’re at home in The Shire. Bonus: this glamping property is also dog-friendly! One of the best parts of staying here at The Hobbit’s Nest is listening to the “frog chorus” of the lily pond while relaxing on the upper deck or below in the hammocks.
This is a more off-grid experience, so be prepared for no wifi. I recommend planning to cook your own food on their grill (there’s a small fridge in the room, too). You can book your stay at The Hobbit’s Nest treehouse here!
The Driskill in Austin, TX
This historic hotel is in the heart of downtown Austin, overlooking the famous 6th Street. The Driskill was built in 1886, but today it’s part of the Unbound Collection by Hyatt portfolio of hotels. The Driskill, though, is particularly famous for being haunted. Room 525 is known as the haunted bride suite, as two different brides have met their ends in that room.
A few other hauntings are rumored at The Driskill, so if you’re interested in learning about their haunted history, I recommend taking an Austin ghost tour that passes through the hotel.
Lucky Arrow Retreat in Dripping Springs, TX
Lucky Arrow Retreat is a luxury glamping option outside Austin in Dripping Springs. These are some of the cutest yurts to stay in all of Texas. If you have a group, you’d probably be more interested in their Courtyard Cabins, Breezeway Cabins, and Porch Houses, which can fit up to 4 guests and have their own bathroom (versus the yurts, which use a communal bathroom). They also offer pet-friendly options for an additional fee!
Serana in Paige, TX
If you’re looking for an adults-only glamping retreat near Austin (and by adults, we mean 21+), definitely check out Serana. Their 120 sq ft Kampina cottages are some of the cutest little cabins in all of Texas, or you can opt for a larger canvas glamping tent or the 288 sq ft Field Cabin. With an outdoor gym, 700 sq ft yoga deck, and a saltwater pool, Serana has everything you need for a retreat into nature.
Talula Mesa in Marble Falls, TX
These A-frame cabins have a glass front so you can take in the views of Lake Travis and the Texas Hill Country! The property has three large cabins and a mini one called the Mini Aztec. They all share a communal outdoor shower and bathrooms, so this stay is a little more rustic than some other glamping spots. You also shouldn’t plan on wifi or having a phone signal – enjoy going off-grid while at Talula Mesa! You can explore the nearby Turkey Bend Recreational Area just down the street or head into Marble Falls or Lago Vista for meals. And yes, the cabins are air-conditioned! They also have a cowboy pool so you can cool off.
Blue Hills Ranch in McGregor, TX
Only about 30 minutes from Waco, Blue Hills Ranch is the perfect family-friendly getaway. I stayed in one of their pirate-themed cabins called The Kraken. The level of theming is amazing, basically Disney quality, including a Kraken in 3D on the shower walls! The cabin had a king bed, a pull-out couch, and a loft with two twin beds, making it ideal for families with kids.
While you’re at the ranch, you can also take the family out to do a safari tour around the 150 acres of roaming animals (you can often spot them from the balcony of the cabin as well), or book one of their animal feedings. There are also animal-themed cabins, an RV resort, and a wedding venue on the property. One of the coolest experiences they now offer is dining with their giraffes.
The Houseboat on Lake Travis in Austin, TX
Whether you’re looking to rent it for day use or an overnight stay, this houseboat on Lake Travis is the perfect Central Texas lake getaway. The houseboat-yacht is anchored in a gorgeous little cove on the lake (which also helps protect it from the high winds that are sometimes out there). On arrival, they pick you up from Mansfield Dam Park and ferry you over to the houseboat for your stay.
Even if you don’t want to splurge on an overnight booking, they also rent out the boat for day parties and the like, so it can be perfect for a small group trying to have a fun day on the lake or hosting a small event. Inside, there are two bedrooms and two bathrooms. While technically, it can host up to 12 guests with air mattresses and the like, I’d say it’d be most comfortable for 4-6 guests for an overnight stay. You can book your own stay here at their site NaturaReserve.
Collective Retreats in Wimberley, TX
If you’re looking for the quintessential luxury safari tent glamping experience, then you should definitely check out Collective Retreats in Wimberley, TX. While it’s not the cheapest glamping option in this guide, it is a proper high-end retreat, including an on-site farm-to-table restaurant (a breakfast basket is included and delivered to your tent each morning, but other meals cost extra) and activities you can book (also for an additional fee) like yoga, horseback riding around the ranch, an in-tent massage, live sound meditation sessions, and more. So, if you want to make the most of your weekend escape into the Texas Hill Country, Collective Retreats might be the spot for you.
The Wander Inn in Round Top, TX
Another Round Top favorite of mine, The Wander Inn is run by the lovely Junk Gypsy ladies of HGTV fame. This place is peak boho style and a great choice if you’re coming to town for their biannual Round Top Antiques Fair. They offer four options – the Star House, Crown House, the Gypsy Farmhouse, and Thelma’s Garage.
My favorite is the Star House if you’re looking for one room (four rooms inside that share a common area), but if you’ve got a small group needing multiple beds, rent out the Gypsy Farmhouse. It was originally a 1952 Sears Kit House, and it’s pretty dang adorable!
Thelma’s Garage is their newest addition, paying tribute to the film Thelma & Louise. The walls are covered in giant murals from the movie (hello, shirtless Brad Pitt), and the best feature by far is the two vintage soaking tubs. With 576 sq ft of space, this spot is perfect for a girls getaway weekend.
Lake Austin Spa Resort in Austin, TX
As one of the top spa resorts in the country (Conde Nast, for example, recently rated them as the #3 spa resort in the United States), Lake Austin Spa Resort deserves a spot on this list. This hotel is a destination! While it’s expensive, it is all-inclusive for your meals and most activities, like guided hikes, lakeside cardio, paddle boarding, a daily scenic boat cruise, aquafitness, and so much more. The whole property is beautiful, from the pool barn to the gardens and waterfront dining.
What’s not included are your spa services. Even if you don’t want to splurge on a full wellness retreat here, you can still book the spa as a day guest. So, it might be worth saving up for an epic spa day here in Austin!
The Kendall in Boerne, TX
The Kendall in Boerne has several unique options, like historic cabins and schoolhouse rooms. But my favorite of them is the St. John’s Suite, a former Lutheran chapel converted into a “heavenly suite,” as they call it. From the front steps of the chapel all the way to the claw tub in the bathroom, the St. John’s Suite is a beautiful and unique getaway option not too far from San Antonio.
Spoon Mountain Glamping in Wimberley, TX
Each canvas safari tent at Spoon Mountain Glamping is on an elevated wraparound deck, which really “elevates” the experience, so to speak. My favorite part of each tent is having an outdoor soaker tub and a large indoor shower. And their Kingfisher tent is wheelchair accessible, which is quite rare for glamping spots! So, if you’re looking for ADA-accessible glamping in the Texas Hill Country, Spoon Mountain Glamping might be the perfect spot for you!
Onera in Fredericksburg, TX
Onera has a big mix of funky cabins and treehouses to choose from and is close to all the action in Fredericksburg (hello, wineries!). The most unique of the cabins have to be The Monarch, a large treehouse complete with a hand-carved rock tub and an indoor lofted hammock/netting area, as well as The Spyglass, an elevated, cylindrical cabin with a cedar soaking tub and one of the most private nature views on property.
If you’re into geodesic domes, there’s the Lantana Dome. I also want to note that they have an ADA-accessible option, Live Oak Lodge, a shipping container home. Live Oak Lodge also has its own plunge pool and cedar soaking tub, which are ADA-compliant!
La Fortuna in Dripping Springs, TX
Formerly known as OESTE, La Fortuna by Lodgewell is an 11-acre glamping retreat that has nine Sioux-style Native American tipis you can stay in out in Dripping Springs. They also have an A-frame cabin. There is a communal hangout space with a pool and a bathhouse for everyone staying in the tipis. Each tipi has amenities like a private outdoor fire pit, a mini fridge, outlets, portable A/C (unless noted), a 20-inch fan, and more. If you’re looking for your glamping to be slightly off-grid, this is a great spot to consider.
The Most Unique Places to Stay in West Texas
El Cosmico in Marfa, TX
The OG of Marfa glamping, El Cosmico, offers a fleet of restored vintage trailers that are absolutely Instagrammable. Ranging from small to extra large, guests can choose their adventure. Each comes equipped with a dry goods minibar, shower supplies, and an AC/heater. Yurts, tepees, safari tents, and even self-camping are also available.
Located in the desert of Southwest Texas, this outdoor glamping experience sits near western wonders like Big Bend State Park, Chinati Hot Springs, and the Davis Mountains. Communal areas like a hammock grove and outdoor kitchen encourage mingling and time under the stars. In fact, Marfa is famous for being a Dark Sky Preserve! This is why it’s probably also worth your time to visit the nearby McDonald Observatory during your visit. Or, you can stay in and rent one of El Cosmico’s Dutch Tubs and enjoy the stars with a soak.
Last but not least, Marfa itself resonates perfectly with the quirky vibes of El Cosmico. Can’t-miss attractions include The Chinati Foundation, Prada Marfa (actually a drive outside of town over to Valentine, TX), seeing the Marfa Lights (UFOs, anyone?), and the Judd Foundation. Truly, Marfa is known to be an artsy town. If you want to ensure attractions will be open, I recommend visiting on a weekend, as many restaurants and museums aren’t open during the weekdays.
The Summit at Big Bend
The Summit at Big Bend is one of my top picks for cool glamping spots near Big Bend National Park. Choose from stargazing domes and casitas, or splurge on their luxury cave suites – truly one of the most unique places to stay in Texas.
Carved into the side of the Tres Cuevas Mountain, their cave suites include a plush king-size bed, private bathroom and shower, mini fridge, heat and AC, and wifi. The views from here are pretty unmatched.
Rondavous Land Yacht in Terlingua, TX
Coming in as one of the cheapest places in this guide (not much over $100 a night), Rondavous Land Yacht by Tin Valley Retro Rentals is about as wacky as West Texas gets. This is where you go to get truly off-grid. For one, this campsite is clothing optional! So far, it’s the only nudist-friendly place on this list. But don’t expect amenities like wifi or a cell connection out here – instead, enjoy the immense stargazing and having a section of the desert all to yourself. Please read through the listing thoroughly before booking this one, as I mean it when I say it’s off-grid!
Basecamp Terlingua in Terlingua, TX
Glinda the Good Witch must’ve touched down in Terlingua recently because guests at Basecamp Terlingua are sleeping in huge bubbles. With a queen-size bed and seating area inside, guests can overlook the Chihuahuan desert during the day and look up at night to stargaze in dark sky country.
Fun fact: Basecamp Terlingua was the first inflatable bubble hotel in the United States! You can choose either one of the original one-room bubbles, the two-room bubbles, the deluxe two-room bubbles with hot tubs, or the two-room bubble plus pool.
There’s also their new Bubble Terlingua: a 10-bubble complex with an 80′ community pool. Each bubble has a bedroom with a queen-size bed, a living room with a pull-out sofa, a full private bathroom with shower, air-conditioning, heat, WiFi, a coffee/tea station, a mini-fridge, and parking. The outdoor area for each one includes a private hot tub, BBQ propane grill, an outdoor table, and a seating area around a fire pit. Best of all, Bubble Terlingua is located approximately 2 miles from the entrance to Big Bend National Park.
Please note, though – the popular bubbles often book out several months in advance, so reserve your bubble early!
Even if you’re not able to snag a bubble, Basecamp still has some other cool options to choose from if you’re in the area to visit Big Bend National Park. There are campsites, Lotus Tents, and Tipis, and last but not least, their luxury Casitas. Their newest addition to their Casitas is Rafiki Ridge, which has unobstructed Chisos Mountain views from your own private pool!
Indian Lodge in Fort Davis, TX
Stay inside Davis Mountains State Park at the historic Indian Lodge, a white adobe hotel built in the 1930s. No need to trek back to a hotel miles away after you’ve already had a full day outdoors! The adobe walls and West Texas wooden decor create a rustic feel. For those looking to escape today’s Zoom-centric world and immerse themselves in nature, the park has plenty of hike and bike trails, an outdoor pool with a mountain view, and Ranger programs on birding, geocaching, and stargazing.
Don’t miss out on visiting the nearby McDonald Observatory during your stay for some stargazing or one of their Star Parties!
Eve’s Garden Bed & Breakfast in Marathon, TX
Located near the north gateway to Big Bend National Park, Eve’s Garden B&B is a colorful oasis made of papercrete. Papercrete is made of a mixture of recycled paper, sand, clay, and Portland cement, giving the building concrete-like strength without the heavy weight of concrete. All the rooms are painted in vibrant, high Mexican contemporary color treatments, and another key feature is the indoor courtyard garden that you can enjoy as a guest. If you want to relax and enjoy some colorful architecture, this is the place for you!
The Most Unique Places to Stay in North Texas
The Hobbit House in McKinney, TX
This adorable Airbnb is perfect for any fan of Lord of the Rings! Have a movie marathon here, or maybe pick up one of the books from their shelf. Some of the best features include the circular bed, wooden bathtub, and circular door, as well as all the themed decor, of course. The Hobbit House is only about 30 minutes from Dallas in McKinney, so it’s an easy getaway for Tolkien fanatics! Book your own stay here on VRBO.
Skybox Cabins in Glen Rose, TX
Skybox Cabins offers some of the quirkiest cabins and treehouses in Texas. The most popular is probably The Nest (which I stayed in), followed by The Hive and The Birdhouse. The cabins are also less than a mile away from Dinosaur Valley State Park, so there’s plenty to explore in the Glen Rose area. The Nest is particularly unique because of its porch area with an actual “bird’s nest” deck to climb up into. The Hive is a fun A-frame treehouse with a net integrated into its 15-foot-high deck. And if you’re looking for something more rustic, there’s also The Glamp, a little communal area of bell tents.
The Air Castle at Highpoint Treehouses in Ladonia, TX
There’s not much to do near Ladonia, TX, but the Air Castle is a destination in of itself. The best way to describe this place is like a vertical shipping container/treehouse combo. With the full kitchen, multiple bedrooms, and so, so many decks built into the treehouse, it’s no wonder most guests use the stay as a retreat and don’t leave the property during their visit. If you’re into animal watching, they have lots of feeders set up near the windows so you can enjoy the birds and squirrels from up close (they even have a lot of them named). And one of the best parts is, they also have a hot tub on a screened-in porch! It doesn’t get much better than this for a treehouse-style stay.
The Most Unique Places to Stay in the Texas Panhandle
The Goodnight Cabin at Palo Duro Canyon State Park
The Goodnight Cabin is for the tired hikers after a long day of exploring. The breathtaking landscape of Palo Duro Canyon is unmatched, especially at sunset, and the cozy interior of the cabin is quintessentially Texan. An outdoor grill and picnic table provide prime real estate for dinner with a view, but AC and comfortable beds are waiting inside for guests who aren’t quite ready to fully rough it with a tent yet. Staying the night in a canyon is definitely more interesting than repeating the same old turndown service, continental breakfast hotel! This is like the Texas version of sleeping on the edge of the Grand Canyon.
The Santa Fe Caboose at Woodrow House Bed and Breakfast in Lubbock, TX
Stay in an authentic Santa Fe railroad caboose that’s been converted into a hotel room at this quaint B&B in Lubbock, TX. The caboose can hold up to 4 guests and has amenities like a kitchenette, a private bathroom and shower, TV, air conditioning and more. Basically, it’s the ultimate stay for any railroad enthusiast. And of course, since it’s a B&B, you do get a real breakfast included!
The Most Unique Places to Stay in East Texas
The Shipwreck Cabin in Uncertain, TX
Part of Caddo Shores Cabins (formerly Hodgepodge Cottages), The Shipwreck Cabin is a former boat (like, a real boat that went on the water) that’s been completely renovated into a fully functioning cabin. At only $165/night, this wacky cabin is a bargain! Bonus, you’re walking distance to Caddo Lake, and Caddo Shores Cabins has a few canoes that you can borrow for free to go out on the water (which is great if you want to paddle out for sunrise especially). One of my favorite details of the cabin is the captain’s loft, which is perfect for a kid to stay in. It even still has the ship’s wheel and the equipment from when it was a real boat!
The Historic Jefferson Hotel in Jefferson, TX
This might be the weirdest little hotel in Texas (at least in East Texas). The Historic Jefferson Hotel has been standing for over 170 years, and the current owners have themed many of the rooms with their personal antique collection. There’s a creepy doll room (which I featured on TikTok), a room filled with mirrors, a train-themed room, a “speakeasy” style room where you enter through a secret passage on the first floor up to the second floor, a model train exhibit room, and so much more. And of course, they have a Haunted Bridge Suite, Room 19, where supposedly (and they do have an old newspaper article to prove it), an abandoned bridge hung herself and it is said she still haunts the hotel. Would you stay in a haunted hotel?
The Most Unique Places to Stay in South Texas
Presidio La Bahia in Goliad, TX
The 18th-century Spanish colonial mission of Presidio La Bahia offers guests immersion in its rich history; staying in The Quarters is about the closest guests will ever get to time travel. The thick stone walls make you feel like you’re really in a fort, and Our Lady of Loreto Chapel (part of the complex) is one of the oldest churches in America and still offers Mass every Sunday at 5 p.m.
Their website says, “With the exception of visitors from the spirit world, you’ll have the place all to yourself.“ Fun, right?
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a high-maintenance guest, staying in Texas doesn’t have to be boring. Any of these unconventional spots will push you out of your comfort zone and create memories of quirky fun with your fellow travelers.
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