19 AWESOME Airbnbs in the Midwest: Treehouses, Cabins + Lake Houses

Jon Miksis Jon Miksis clock Updated August 19, 2025 tourism Midwest Travel
by Jon Miksis
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The best Airbnbs in the Midwest range from treehouses and cabins rentals on lakes to luxury vacation rentals in cities. From group trips and family reunions to romantic retreats tucked in nature, there’s truly something for everyone in this neck of the woods. Just wait until you see these Midwest vacation rentals on Airbnb and VRBO.

Also known as the American Heartland, the Midwest is one of the coolest regions in the US. The American Midwest is filled with charming towns, sprawling cities, serene lakes, and vast prairies. It’s comprised of 12 states, each offering some amazing Midwest vacation rentals. If you’re looking for a beautiful Midwestern getaway this fall or winter, you’re in luck. This article covers the top lodging in the Midwest, encompassing Airbnbs, VRBOs, and cabins for rent in the Midwest.

From rustic barn conversions in the rolling countryside to chic urban lofts offering panoramic city views, the Midwest offers a diverse range of Airbnb experiences that cater to every traveler’s whimsy. Here, we’ve ranked the best Airbnbs in the Midwest, which include the following states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. Without further ado, let’s explore the Midwest!

The coolest Airbnbs in the Midwest for families, friends, and work outings.

The Coolest Airbnbs in the Midwest: Top Vacation Rentals in 2025

Here are the best Airbnbs in the Midwest by category, taking into account different amenities, trip types, and budgets. The subsequent sections will cover each listing in more detail.

19 Best Airbnbs in the Midwest

If cabins, treehouses, romantic cottages, and luxury rentals all sound good to you, get excited! Whether you’re yearning for a lakeside retreat in Minnesota, a historic stay in a century-old Missouri mansion, or a trendy escape in the heart of Chicago, there’s an Airbnb with your name on it. Below are some of the most unique stays in the Midwest:

1. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Schwartz House

  • 📍 Location: Two Rivers, WI
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $988/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 8 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Historic Frank Lloyd Wright design, riverfront views, private dock
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Architecture lovers 🏛️, history buffs 📜, nature watchers 🌿, families & small groups 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
Futuristic designs in a historic dream home
Credit: Airbnb
Elegant interior living space
Credit: Airbnb

Welcome to Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic LIFE Magazine Dream House nestled on the East Twin River, just a mile from Lake Michigan. This historic four-bedroom, four-bath home offers a unique blend of architectural brilliance and natural beauty for an unforgettable stay.

Original Wright details create a timeless atmosphere throughout the home. Relax by the cozy fireplace, explore the library filled with vintage novels, or cook in the fully equipped kitchen.

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Step outside to enjoy riverfront views from the private dock, watch wildlife, or unwind around the outdoor fire pit. Two Rivers is a charming small town with fresh fish markets, museums, and pristine beaches nearby.

Experience the magic of living in a Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece — a truly special retreat for architecture enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

2. At The Edge Of Solitude

  • 📍 Location: Custer, SD
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $440/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 6 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Cliff-edge hot tub, panoramic canyon views, rustic lodge-pole pine cabin
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Stargazers ✨, nature lovers 🌲, hikers 🚶‍♂️, small groups & couples 💑
South Dakota's Most Historic Canyon, With Protected Views
 Credit: VRBO
This is one of my favorite Midwest cabins
Credit: VRBO

Discover At The Edge Of Solitude — a breathtaking lodge perched high atop historic Red Canyon in the Black Hills. At over 4,000 feet elevation, this unique retreat offers stunning views of red limestone cliffs, dense Ponderosa pine forests, and star-filled night skies.

The cabin combines rustic lodge-pole pine style with modern comforts, including two cozy slate fireplaces and a fully equipped kitchen. With two bedrooms and a loft, there’s plenty of space to sleep up to six guests.

Step out to the spacious deck and soak in the outdoor hot tub that seems to float above the canyon’s edge — perfect for stargazing or relaxing after hiking.

Close by, explore Custer State Park, Jewel Cave National Monument, scenic Wildlife Loop Road, and charming Black Hills towns. Adventure or peaceful solitude — this cabin offers the best of both worlds.

3. Quiet Lakefront Cottage 

  • 📍 Location: Innsbrook, MO
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $361/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 8 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Private beach & boat dock, golf cart included, large deck with lake views
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Families 🏞️, outdoor enthusiasts 🚣, lake lovers 🌅
A secluded a-frame cabin rental in Missouri
Credit: VRBO
Log cabin decor inside this Midwest VRBO
Credit: VRBO

Experience this peaceful lakefront retreat in the heart of Innsbrook Resort. This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath cottage offers spacious living with vaulted ceilings and a cozy wood-burning stove, ideal for relaxing after a day on the water.

Inside, enjoy a fully equipped kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite counters, plus a large dining area and comfortable living space with DirecTV and surround sound.

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The expansive private deck is perfect for morning coffee or evening sunsets, complete with lounge chairs, a dining table, and a Weber gas grill — all overlooking the tranquil lake.

In the area, you’ll find the Aspen Lake Boat Ramp for lake access, Cedar Lake Cellars winery offering local tastings, and Big Joel’s Safari Petting Zoo, perfect for family fun. Whether you’re here to unwind or explore, this lakefront cottage has everything you need.

4. Stoney Ridge Lighthouse

  • 📍 Location: Burtrum, MN
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $300/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 12 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Seven-level timber-frame lighthouse, 50-ft-high crow’s nest, private Rock Lake access
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, outdoor lovers 🌲, peace seekers 🌅
Driving into the Enchanting Lighthouse
Credit: VRBO
Luxury cabins in the Midwest don't get any better than this
Credit: VRBO

Step into Stoney Ridge Lighthouse – a one-of-a-kind timber-frame retreat on 50 private acres in central Minnesota. Perfect for families or groups, this seven-level lighthouse rises over 50 feet high, offering treetop views from the crow’s nest and a stay you won’t forget.

Crafted from warm wood throughout, the interior features a full kitchen, a spacious dining area, and cozy nooks across multiple levels. With three bedrooms and three bathrooms, there’s plenty of space to relax and unwind.

You’ll have private access to Rock Lake, just 500 feet from the cabin. Kayaks, a paddle boat, a canoe, and a swimming raft are ready for summer fun, while trails and a lakeside fire pit offer year-round enjoyment.

Nearby, explore Big Birch Lake, hike Eagle Mountain, or visit Sauk Centre for dining, shops, and Sinclair Lewis sites. This retreat offers peace and adventure in every season.

5. Cozy Elegant Home

  • 📍 Location: Carbondale, IL
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $662/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 8 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Wraparound screened porch, 4 ensuite bedrooms, heated floors
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Family gatherings 🏡, holiday escapes 🎆, cozy countryside retreats 🔥
Interior design
Credit: Vrbo
Exterior design of the house
Credit: Vrbo

Escape to this cozy lodge—a private Southern Illinois retreat just minutes from Carbondale, surrounded by peaceful woods and upscale comforts. Ideal for families or groups, this spacious getaway combines rustic charm with modern amenities.

Inside, the vaulted great room offers wall-to-wall windows, a stone fireplace, and ample space for dining and games. Enjoy a full kitchen, poker and pool tables, and heated tile floors.

Venture outdoors to your hot tub, outdoor kitchen, fire pit, and screened wraparound porch for lazy afternoons or evening cookouts under the stars.

Close by, explore Giant City State Park, local wineries, or take a quick drive to downtown Carbondale and Southern Illinois University. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or just unwinding in nature, this lodge has everything you need for a memorable stay.

6. Corn Crib Cottage

  • 📍 Location: Crab Orchard, NE
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $168/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 2 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Historic corn crib conversion, private lakefront balcony, pet friendly
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Couples 🧑‍🤝‍🧑, nature lovers 🌿, peaceful retreats
Unique Airbnb rental in the Midwest
Credit: VRBO
Enjoy and relax by the water at this Airbnb rental in Midwest
Credit: VRBO

Settle into Corn Crib Cottage, a converted corn crib set on a vineyard estate overlooking a private 34-acre lake. Perfect for couples, this cozy retreat blends rustic charm with peaceful lake views from your balcony.

The cottage includes a comfortable queen bedroom, a full bathroom, and a well-equipped kitchen ideal for preparing relaxed meals.

Wander the vineyard grounds, fish in the lake, or unwind by the water’s edge. The estate is pet-friendly, with shaded outdoor areas where your dog can roam comfortably.

Venture out to explore Rockford Lake State Recreation Area, Tecumseh City Park, and local flavor at Roca Berry Farms. For relaxation or adventure, Corn Crib Cottage offers a memorable getaway in a serene setting.

7. Two-Story Treetop Cabin

  • 📍 Location: Crosslake, MN
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $229/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 6 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Fireplace, elevated porch with forest views, gym, air conditioning
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Families 🏡, nature lovers 🌲, relaxation seekers 🔥
This two-story home is among the best cabin rentals in the Midwest
Credit: VRBO
Rustic log cabin-style decor
Credit: VRBO

Discover this cozy retreat in the trees — a beautifully crafted two-story cabin tucked in the woods of Crosslake. Ideal for families or small groups, this modern hideaway combines cabin comfort with peaceful forest views.

The open-concept layout features a great room with a fireplace, a fully equipped kitchen, and air conditioning for added comfort. Upstairs, two bedrooms — including a loft with queen beds — comfortably sleep up to six guests.

You’ll be close to the Crosslake Community Center for events, the Cross Lake Recreation Area for hiking and swimming, and Crosslake Town Square for dining and shopping. This woodland cabin is the perfect base for an unforgettable up-north getaway.

8. The Captain’s Quarters

  • 📍 Location: Nauvoo, IL
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $170/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 6 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Nautical-themed treehouse, vaulted ceilings, wrap-around deck
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Couples 💑, small families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, nature lovers 🌿, pet-friendly stays 🐾
Rustic charm and modern Treehouse in the Midwest
Credit: VRBO
Sleep like a Captain to this Cozy Bedroom
Credit: VRBO

Welcome to Ten Acre Treehouse, “Captain’s Quarters” — a whimsical off-the-grid escape nestled in the forests of Nauvoo. This 400 sq ft, two-story hideaway features a nautical theme, a vaulted 13-foot entry, and a cozy window seat for reading or stargazing.

Upstairs, a queen bedroom offers 360-degree forest views, while the wraparound deck with a gas grill invites you to unwind in the treetops.

Outdoors, refresh with the private hot water shower or enjoy the quirky charm of the year-round composting toilet. Note: water may be shut off from December to March due to winter conditions.

Explore Historic Nauvoo to step into local history, tour the Joseph Smith Historic Site, or spend the day hiking and fishing at Nauvoo State Park. This treehouse offers a peaceful and truly one-of-a-kind escape into nature.

9. Cozy Lake Front Log Cabin

  • 📍 Location: West Branch, MI
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $184/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 4 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Lakefront deck with Weber charcoal grill, fully equipped kitchen, pet-friendly
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Couples 💑, small families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, fishing enthusiasts 🎣, and outdoor lovers 🌲
A budget-friendly cabin for rent in the Midwest
Credit: VRBO
This home is among the best cabins for rent in Midwest
Credit: VRBO

Retreat to this affordable log cabin at Clear Lake Resort in Northern Michigan. This cozy 500 sq ft cabin offers peaceful views of Clear Lake from a spacious deck — perfect for relaxing or dining outdoors.

The interior includes a double futon, twin bunk bed, linens, kitchen essentials, a microwave, high-speed internet, and satellite TV.

Step out to enjoy the pristine, spring-fed waters of Clear Lake, an all-sports lake with a sandy shoreline ideal for swimming, boating, and fishing. You can cast a line from the 400 feet of docks or rent a boat to reel in Walleye, Smallmouth Bass, and Perch.

Just a short walk away, you’ll find Clear Lake Bar and the Clear Lake Party Store for ice cream, drinks, and local goods. Whether you’re after outdoor adventure or a laid-back lakeside escape, this cabin is your perfect Northern Michigan getaway.

10. Romantic Treehouse Getaway

  • 📍 Location: Millersburg, OH
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $371/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 2 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Two-person jetted tub, cherry hardwood floors, wrap-around balcony
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Couples 💕, nature lovers 🌲, romantic escapes ✨
This Airbnb treehouse in Ohio is among the coolest in the country
Credit: VRBO
One of the most unique stays in the Midwest
Credit: VRBO

Experience a one-of-a-kind stay 22 feet up in the Whispering Pines Treehouse, where rustic charm meets luxury. Highlights include an Amish-crafted king bed, a cozy stone fireplace, and a private jetted tub with a waterfall fill.

Warm cherry hardwood floors and handcrafted furnishings set the tone, along with a fully equipped kitchenette featuring a 2-burner stove, microwave, and coffee maker. Curl up by the fire or unwind with your favorite show on the large-screen TV.

Step onto the wraparound balcony, settle into a rocking chair, and take in peaceful treetop views. After a day of exploring, enjoy access to the shared indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, and fitness center at The Berlin Resort.

Nearby, browse the Holmes County Flea Market, tour Schrock’s Amish Farm & Village, or learn more at the Amish and Mennonite Heritage Center. From cultural discoveries to peaceful downtime, Whispering Pines offers a truly memorable escape.

11. Cozy Pines Treehouse

  • 📍 Location: Columbus, IN
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $328/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 8 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Hot tub, basketball hoop, treehouse, game room
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, nature lovers 🌳, game enthusiasts 🎲, relaxation seekers 🛁
This cozy cabin with a hot tub is among the most romantic Airbnbs in the Midwest
Credit: VRBO
Comfy and cozy living room area
Credit: VRBO

Come enjoy Cozy Pines Treehouse — a secluded log cabin nestled in the peaceful woods of Brown County. This charming retreat blends rustic comfort with modern amenities for a memorable getaway.

Inside, a fully equipped kitchen, cozy living room with gas fireplace, and 60” Roku TV create a warm atmosphere to unwind. The main floor master bedroom features a king bed and a reading nook.

Venture outside to a spacious deck with a brand-new Nordic hot tub, basketball hoop, and fire pit. Kids will love their private treehouse hideaway tucked behind the cabin.

Close by, explore Brown County State Park for hiking and nature, visit local shops and dining in Nashville, or enjoy live music at the Brown County Music Center. From adventure to relaxation, Cozy Pines Treehouse provides the perfect home base for your next unforgettable escape.

12. Fernside

  • 📍 Location: Indian River, MI
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $461/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 4 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Riverfront cabin, wall of windows, fire pit, tubes for floating
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Couples ❤️, small families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, nature lovers 🌿, peaceful getaways 🌊
A-frame luxury cabin rental in the Midwest
Credit: Airbnb
Rustic furniture and fixtures inside the Midwest vacation rental
Credit: Airbnb

Settle into Fernside, a beloved A-Frame retreat nestled on the serene Sturgeon River in Indian River. This charming cabin invites you to unwind with the soothing sounds of flowing water and immerse yourself in nature’s tranquility.

The open floor plan is bright and airy, with large windows that showcase stunning river views. The cozy living area, adorned with thoughtful decor, flows seamlessly into a fully equipped kitchen.

Enjoy peaceful mornings on the deck watching ducks or cozy evenings by the fire pit beneath starry skies. When adventure calls, dive into the river or float downstream on a tube.

Nearby, explore Indian River’s charming downtown for local shops and dining. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate easy access to hiking trails, kayaking, and fishing spots. Fernside is your perfect retreat to unplug, relax, and create lasting memories by the river.

13. The La Porte Lodge

  • 📍 Location: La Porte, IN
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $891/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 18 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Private heated pool, 6 acres, dog-friendly, trampoline, game room
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Large families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, reunions 🎉, Notre Dame weekends 🏈, Lake Michigan escapes 🏖️
A large and spacious home for rent in Indiana.
Credit: VRBO
Wraparound deck with views of the heated outdoor pool
Credit: VRBO

Experience The La Porte Lodge, a family home tucked away on 6 private acres just 13 miles from Lake Michigan. Perfect for large families or groups, this peaceful getaway offers room to spread out, unwind, and enjoy the best of Northern Indiana.

The open layout features vaulted ceilings, a cozy fireplace, and a full kitchen. With spacious living areas and a basement game room, the home sleeps up to 18 guests across seven bedrooms.

Wander outside to a private backyard oasis, complete with a heated 20×40 seasonal pool, wraparound deck, gas grill, fire pit, trampoline, and playground. There’s even a dog run and dog bath, so furry friends can join the fun.

In the area, explore Indiana Dunes National Park, shop at Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets, or head to Notre Dame for game day. Whether you’re grilling out, swimming, or stargazing by the fire, The La Porte Lodge is your base for a memorable group getaway.

14. Family-Friendly Getaway

  • 📍 Location: Downers Grove, IL
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $331/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 10 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Vaulted ceilings, fenced yard, pet-friendly, walk to downtown DG
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Chicago explorers 🚆, families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, pet lovers 🐾
Cozy Living area
Credit: Vrbo
Private kitchen
Credit: Vrbo

Start your stay at this family-friendly retreat, just 30 minutes from Downtown Chicago. With cozy interiors, a fenced yard, and walkable access to shops and the Metra, this suburban escape offers city convenience with quiet charm.

Soaring ceilings, an electric fireplace, and an open-concept kitchen and dining area create a warm, inviting space for gathering. With three bedrooms, two baths, and extra sleeping areas, there’s room for the whole group.

Outside, enjoy the spacious yard, a relaxing porch, and a quiet, walkable neighborhood. Dogs are welcome too, making this spot perfect for your entire crew.

Just a short drive away, visit the Morton Arboretum, Oakbrook Center, or hop on the train for a day in Downtown Chicago. No matter if you’re catching a show, exploring the city, or relaxing with friends and family, this stay has you covered.

15. New Modern Home

  • 📍 Location: Elmhurst, IL
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $474/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 10 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Newly renovated, fenced yard, patio seating, kid- and pet-friendly
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, business travelers 💼, city explorers 🚉
Master bedroom
Credit: Vrbo
Clean private kitchen
Credit: Vrbo

Retreat to this modern, cozy home just outside Chicago. Nestled in a quiet, tree-lined neighborhood, it offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for work or play.

Inside, an open layout features a full kitchen, smart TVs, and two living areas. With three bedrooms, two baths, laundry, plus kid- and pet-friendly touches, it’s ideal for families and groups.

Step outside to a private fenced yard with patio seating—perfect for relaxing or playing. Modern finishes and extra sleeping options add to the home’s style and functionality.

Just minutes away, catch a show at the Rosemont Theatre, attend events at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, or cheer on your team at Allstate Arena. Be it business or vacation, this spot makes it easy to enjoy it all.

16. The Castle of Palmyra

  • 📍 Location: Palmyra, IL
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $1,423/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 21 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: 40-acre private estate, observatory, elevator, 4-story lookout tower
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Large families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, retreats ✨, private events 🎉
A Tranquility Castle in the Heart of Palmyra, IL for large group
Credit: VRBO
Spacious and Cozy Bedroom
Credit: VRBO

Step into The Castle of Palmyra — a majestic 40-acre forested estate featuring a private stocked lake with a sandy beach and a pontoon boat for fishing or relaxing. This luxurious castle offers nearly 9,000 sq ft of elegant living space across four floors.

The interior boasts five bedrooms with private baths, five fireplaces, an elevator spanning three floors, a professional kitchen, plus a game room, movie room, and spacious living areas perfect for entertaining.

The grounds feature expansive decks with stunning lake views, outdoor grills, and a hot tub for unwinding. Enjoy hiking trails, rock hunting, and stargazing from your private observatory with a refractor telescope.

Nearby, tee off at the Terry Park 9-hole golf course or explore Palmyra’s charming local attractions. The Castle of Palmyra blends adventure and luxury for an unforgettable stay, perfect for fishing, hiking, or relaxing.

17. Snowkitty Yurt

  • 📍 Location: South Lawrence, SD
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $180/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 6 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Off-grid yurt, front deck in the pines, stunning mountain & valley views
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Outdoor lovers 🌲, stargazers ✨, hikers 🚶‍♂️, nature seekers 🏞️
An authentic yurt tucked in the wilderness
Credit: Airbnb
Beautiful and spacious interior of the yurt accommodation
Credit: Airbnb

Escape to the Snowkitty Yurt — a unique off-grid retreat tucked in mature pines at mile 100 of the Mickelson Trail. Unplug with a wood stove, no electricity or running water, and sunsets from your private deck.

This single-room yurt offers peaceful views and cozy beds surrounded by nature. For essentials, spring water and a public outhouse are just 2 miles away at the Englewood Trailhead.

Park along the driveway or nearby switchbacks, then hop straight onto miles of hiking and biking trails. Simple, quiet, and surrounded by wilderness — this stay isn’t about luxury, but about a truly memorable escape.

18. The Mississippi River Houseboat

  • 📍 Location: East Dubuque, IL
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $499/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 10 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Stationary 70 ft houseboat, rooftop hot tub & bar, marina access
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Nature lovers 🌿, groups & families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, water enthusiasts 🚤
Unique boat rental on the Mississippi River
Credit: Airbnb
One of the coolest Midwest Airbnbs is found in Illinois.
Credit: Airbnb

Discover the Mississippi River Houseboat — a spacious, stationary floating home docked at Millennium Marina with beautiful river views. This unique retreat blends cozy comfort with waterfront living.

Inside, you’ll find a master bedroom with a full bed and TV, a bunkhouse with another full bed, and a basement bedroom with two full beds. The kitchen comes fully equipped for easy meals, and linens and towels are provided.

Up top, relax on the expansive rooftop deck featuring a hot tub, bar, and outdoor seating. You’re just steps from the marina, with kayak rentals nearby and local dining within walking distance.

Venture out to explore Chestnut Mountain and Sundown Mountain, or take a short drive to the charming towns of Dubuque and Galena. Whether you’re after adventure or a quiet escape, this houseboat offers a one-of-a-kind Mississippi River stay.

19. Park House

  • 📍 Location: Brookfield, IL
  • 💵 Price Per Night: $475/night
  • 🛏️ Sleeps: 7 guests
  • 🔥 Unique Features: Huge fenced yard, pergola, fire pit, arcade game room
  • 🌟 Perfect For: Families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, groups 🧳, zoo visits 🦁, backyard BBQ lovers 🍔
Living area
Credit: Vrbo
Enjoy dining outdoors
Credit: Vrbo

The Park House is a freshly remodeled retreat on a spacious double lot, just five minutes from Brookfield Zoo. Designed for families and small groups, it pairs cozy charm with plenty of space to spread out and unwind.

Step into a bright, open layout with smart TVs, two full baths, and three comfy bedrooms — including a game-packed basement suite. With a full kitchen, foosball table, and laundry, it’s easy to settle in and relax.

Out back, the private yard is set up for fun and relaxation, with a pergola, fire pit, hammock, and grill ready for your next cookout. There’s more than enough space for kids to play while the adults kick back under the string lights.

When you’re ready to explore, head to Brookfield Zoo, challenge your crew at Galloping Ghost Arcade, or catch live entertainment at SeatGeek Stadium. From laid-back evenings at home to full days out and about, The Park House makes every moment count.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about unique stays in Midwest

Looking to dive deeper into how to find an Airbnb in Midwest? Here are some popular questions you should know about.

Which Midwest areas have the most beautiful Airbnb or VRBO?

When it comes to beautiful Airbnbs or VRBOs, several areas in the Midwest stand out. Here are some of the top areas in the Midwest with unique rentals:

  1. Door County, Wisconsin: Nestled between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, Door County offers picturesque coastal towns, cherry orchards, and scenic state parks. The area boasts charming lakefront cottages and rustic cabins.
  2. Traverse City, Michigan: Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, Traverse City is famous for its vineyards, cherry orchards, and beautiful beaches. You can find luxurious lakefront homes and cozy woodland retreats.
  3. The Ozarks, Missouri: This mountainous region offers stunning lake views, especially around Lake of the Ozarks and Table Rock Lake. Expect to find beautiful lake houses and cabins nestled in the woods.
  4. Brown County, Indiana: Especially beautiful in the fall, Brown County is known for its rolling hills and artistic community. Cozy cabins and woodland cottages are popular here.
  5. Hocking Hills, Ohio: A region with stunning state parks, waterfalls, and caves. The area offers a range of cabins, many with hot tubs and scenic views.

Is Airbnb in the Midwest affordable?

The affordability of Airbnb listings in the Midwest varies based on several factors. This includes the specific location, type of property, amenities offered, and the time of year. However, in general, the Midwest tends to offer more affordable Airbnb options compared to coastal cities or popular tourist destinations in the U.S. Here are some points to consider:

  1. Rural vs. Urban: Rural areas and smaller towns in the Midwest often have more budget-friendly Airbnb listings compared to larger cities. For instance, a cabin in the woods or a cottage in a small town might be more affordable than a downtown apartment in cities like Chicago or Minneapolis.
  2. Seasonality: Prices can fluctuate based on the season. For example, lakefront properties in Michigan or Wisconsin might see higher prices in the summer due to demand. Similarly, areas known for fall foliage, like parts of Indiana or Ohio, might see a spike in prices during the autumn months.
  3. Type of Property: The Midwest offers a wide range of Airbnb properties, from shared rooms to entire homes. Naturally, renting a private room will be more affordable than renting an entire house. Additionally, basic accommodations will generally be cheaper than luxury listings or properties with special amenities like hot tubs or private pools.
  4. Duration of Stay: Some hosts offer discounts for longer stays, so it might be more cost-effective to book a week-long trip compared to several shorter stays.
  5. Popularity of the Destination: Tourist hotspots or areas known for specific events (like Door County in Wisconsin during cherry season or towns hosting major festivals) might have higher prices due to increased demand.

What are some amenities you’ll find in the most unique Airbnbs in the Midwest?

The Midwest boasts a diverse range of Airbnb properties, from urban lofts to rustic cabins. And many of these unique accommodations come with equally distinctive amenities. Here are some amenities you might find in the most unique Airbnbs in the Midwest:

  1. Outdoor Hot Tubs & Saunas: Especially in wooded or lakeside properties, many hosts offer outdoor hot tubs or saunas, providing a relaxing experience amidst nature.
  2. Private Lakes or Ponds: Some properties, particularly in rural areas, might come with their own private lake or pond, perfect for fishing, swimming, or paddleboarding.
  3. Converted Spaces: The Midwest has its share of creatively converted spaces, such as old barns, churches, or even train cars turned into living accommodations, often retaining original features.
  4. Fire Pits & Outdoor Kitchens: Given the natural beauty of the Midwest, many properties emphasize outdoor living with amenities like fire pits, BBQ grills, and fully equipped outdoor kitchens.
  5. Observatories & Stargazing Platforms: In areas with low light pollution, some properties might offer telescopes or special platforms for stargazing.
  6. Themed Decor: Some hosts go the extra mile to create a themed experience for their guests, from 1950s retro decor to cabins that feel straight out of a fairy tale.
  7. On-site Activities: Depending on the property’s size and location, hosts might offer on-site activities such as horseback riding, kayaking, hiking trails, or even yoga classes.

Best Places to Stay in the Midwest

Still unsure of where you’d like to stay in the Midwest? Here are my favorite cities, towns, and nature areas where I recommend visiting throughout the Midwest states:

– Top Cities and Towns: Branson, Chicago, Charlevoix, Clear Lake, Columbus, Kansas City, Indianapolis

– Best Cabins and Campgrounds: Hocking Hills (OH), Porcupine Mountains (MI), Door County (WI)

– Coolest State Parks and Recreational Areas: Ludington State Park (MI), Indiana Dunes (IN)

Best Airbnbs in the Midwest for all types of travelers
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Coolest Airbnbs in the Midwest: Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Ohio, Nebraska + More!

Have you ever stayed in a unique Airbnb or vacation rental in the Midwest region of the US? Let me know in the comments or on Insta, as I’m always excited to add onto this list of the best Airbnbs in the Midwest!

Looking for more outdoor adventure destinations? Check out these places:

Vermont Vacation Rental Air Bnbs

– Best Airbnbs in Jackson Hole Wyoming

– Unique Airbnbs in Colorado

Coolest Stays in the Berkshires

Best Airbnb Rentals in the White Mountains of NH

– The Most Unique Airbnbs in New England

Jon Miksis

About Jon Miksis

Award-winning Travel Writer • Founder of Global Viewpoint • 70+ countries visited • 10 Million+ readers

Since 2017, I’ve traveled 3–6 months a year, sharing detailed guides that have helped over 10 million readers travel smarter, deeper, and better. My work blends firsthand experiences — from U.S. road trips and cold-plunge cabins to Michelin-starred dining and business-class flights — with honest, independent reviews.

I’ve been hired by leading tourism boards in 7 countries across Europe, North America, and South America, as well as international travel brands. My travel tips and insights have been featured in Forbes, HuffPost, Yahoo Travel, and The Boston Globe. I’ve personally reviewed 500+ hotels, retreats, and flight experiences — and I never recommend a place I wouldn’t return to myself.

I also save $5–10K per year on airfare using flight tools and 10+ travel credit cards, and I’ve invested over $100K into personal development through transformational retreats and coaching since 2021.

When I’m not road-tripping across the Northeast or writing guides for Global Viewpoint, you’ll find me cold plunging in local lakes, sipping espresso in quiet cafes in Vienna, or chasing fall foliage across New England. I split my time between exploring the world and soaking up life in Boston, my lifelong home base. Some of my favorite places I keep going back to? Switzerland, Spain, Iceland, Italy, Greece, the Faroe Islands, Guatemala, California, Montana, Vermont, and coastal Maine in autumn.

See my latest adventures on Instagram and TikTok.

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