The most unique Airbnbs in New York State range from treehouses and cabins to lake houses and luxury rentals. There are so many amazing accommodations in NY to choose from, but which are the best? Just wait until you see these New York vacation rentals on Airbnb and VRBO!
Who doesn’t love New York? From the multicultural hub of NYC to the mountains of Upstate New York, there’s no state quite like it. Beyond the iconic skyline of Manhattan lies rolling hills, serene lakes, and charming towns just waiting to be discovered.
As such, it’s no surprise that New York is also home to some of the most unique and extravagant Airbnbs and vacation rentals. You’ll find so many unique Airbnbs in New York City, the Catskills, the Adirondacks, and Long Island, that you’ll never want to leave!
From rustic cabins nestled in the heart of the Adirondacks to luxurious lofts overlooking the Hudson River, New York State’s Airbnb offerings are as diverse and enchanting as its landscapes.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy rental in downtown NYC, a romantic escape in the Finger Lakes, or a luxurious accommodation in the Hamptons, this article has got you covered. Here are the 20 most unique Airbnbs in New York for all types of travelers (and budgets)!

The Coolest Airbnbs in New York State: Top Vacation Rentals in New York in 2025
Here are the best Airbnbs in New York by category, taking into account different amenities, trip types, and budgets. The subsequent sections will cover each listing in more detail.
- Best-Value Airbnb in New York: Luxury A-Frame Cabin in NY
- Best Luxury Rental New York: Glass House with Pool in New York
- Top Romantic Airbnb in New York: Cozy Cub Cabin
- Best NY Airbnb for Large Groups: Casablanca on Cherry Island
- Best Cheap Airbnb New York: Finger Lakes Bungalow
- Coolest Treehouse Airbnb in New York: One of a Kind Treehouse
- Top Airbnb New York with Pool: Westover Castle
- Best Beach House Rental New York: Castle Cottage on Lake George
- Most Unique Airbnb in New York State: Geo Dome Rental in NY
20 Best Airbnbs in New York
If beach houses, treehouses, romantic cottages, and luxury rentals all sound good to you, get excited! Below are some of the most unique stays in New York:
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1. Tiny A-Frame Home
- 📍 Location: Germantown
- 💵 Price Per Night: $311/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 3 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Artist-designed A-Frame cabin, shared bathhouse, sauna & cold plunge
- 🌟 Perfect For: Couples 💕, small families 👨👩👧, nature lovers 🌿, glamping enthusiasts ✨
Tucked into the rolling hills of a former apple orchard, Gatherwild Ranch offers a boutique farm stay in the heart of the Hudson Valley. This artist-designed A-Frame cabin is small but thoughtfully crafted—perfect for a cozy escape with room for up to three guests.
Lounge by your private fire pit under the stars, or sip morning coffee in the Adirondack chairs. Fresh linens, a shared bathhouse with luxe toiletries, and access to a cedar sauna and cold plunge bring a touch of wellness to your stay.
Roam 15 acres of farmland, say hello to goats and chickens, and pick your own veggies from the garden. Borrow a cruiser bike and roll into Germantown’s local shops and farmers’ markets, or join a workshop on the ranch itself.
Whether you’re here to unplug, reconnect with nature, or just breathe a little deeper, Gatherwild Ranch makes everyday moments feel special.
2. Cozy Peaceful Cabin
- 📍 Location: Dover Plains
- 💵 Price Per Night: $1,138/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 10 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Saltwater heated pool, chef’s kitchen, wraparound porch, fire pit
- 🌟 Perfect For: Family gatherings 👨👩👧👦, special celebrations 🎉, peace & quiet seekers 🌿
Slow down and soak up the quiet at this peaceful Hudson Valley getaway. Set on four private acres, this spacious log cabin invites you to unwind with a heated saltwater pool, fire pit, and wraparound porch made for lazy mornings and evening cocktails.
Inside, there’s space for everyone—five bedrooms, three full baths, and a chef’s kitchen built for family-style meals or special occasions. Gather around the large dining table, curl up in the living room, or log onto fast Wi-Fi (only if you must).
Out back, grill on the deck, sip coffee on the porch, or spend afternoons floating in the pool while the kids play on the lawn.
When you’re ready to explore, take a scenic hike to Dover Plains Stone Church, admire the views at Bull’s Bridge, or sip wine at Millbrook Vineyards. From milestone celebrations to restful weekends, this home is the ultimate upstate retreat.
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3. Outlier Inn
- 📍 Location: Woodridge
- 💵 Price Per Night: $287/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 16 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Geodesic dome glamping, farm animals, outdoor kitchen & showers
- 🌟 Perfect For: Groups 👥, retreat seekers 🧘, nature lovers 🌲, creatives 🎨
Leave the city behind and discover Outlier Inn, a 12-acre farm retreat in New York’s Southern Catskills, just 90 miles from NYC. Sleep under the stars in a geodesic dome, surrounded by alpacas, goats, and free-roaming chickens—this is glamping with a creative twist.
Inside the dome, you’ll find wood floors, a cozy full bed, and screened windows to let in the fresh mountain air. Outside, unwind with double hot showers, a clawfoot tub, and an outdoor kitchen built for communal cooking.
Spend your days exploring the greenhouse, biking to local markets, or relaxing by the pond. There’s even a recording studio and fiber farm where alpaca wool is hand-spun into winter wear.
Perfect for creative retreats, team off-sites, or anyone craving a quiet, nature-filled reset.
4. The Catskill A-Frame
- 📍 Location: Hancock
- 💵 Price Per Night: $460/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 7 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Mid-century A-frame cabin, forest & stream backyard, retro fireplace
- 🌟 Perfect For: Couples 💕, small families 👨👩👧, nature lovers 🌿, quiet retreats 🛋️
A slice of mid-century charm meets Catskills tranquility at The Catskill A-Frame, a restored 1964 cabin just steps from Silver Lake. Set on a peaceful quarter-acre, this retro hideaway is made for slowing down.
On the main floor, you’ll find an open living space with a vintage fireplace, a fully equipped kitchen, and laundry. Upstairs, the queen bedroom has its half bath, while the third floor holds two more guest rooms—one with twin beds and a balcony that overlooks the lake.
Spend mornings on the front porch with coffee, afternoons on the two-tier deck by the stream, and evenings gathered around the fire pit. Grill out, dine al fresco, and let the dogs roam—this home is pet-friendly, too.
Whether it’s a cozy weekend for two or a small family gathering, this lakeside A-frame offers a quiet escape from city life.
5. The Mission House Sanctuary
- 📍 Location: Hopewell Junction
- 💵 Price Per Night: $1,276/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 10 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Designer-built villa, chef’s kitchen, private terraces, hot tub
- 🌟 Perfect For: Design lovers 🎨, families 👨👩👧👦, quiet escapes 🌲, nature seekers 🌿
Nestled on four private acres in the Hudson Valley, The Mission House Sanctuary is a handcrafted villa where thoughtful design meets natural beauty. Just over an hour from Manhattan, it’s the kind of place where you can truly exhale.
The living space is open and airy, framed by 9-foot windows and soaring reclaimed beams that let the outdoors flow in. The primary suite overlooks a tranquil pond and offers radiant heated floors, while the guest suite comes with its private entrance and lounge.
Soak in the outdoor hot tub, sip coffee on the terrace, or hit nearby trails. Cold Spring’s shops and farmers’ markets are close by, along with the Appalachian Trail and local orchards.
This is a place to gather, recharge, and enjoy the quiet beauty of thoughtful design.
- Read More: 500 Bucket List Ideas in 2025
6. Pachinko Cabi
- 📍 Location: Hudson
- 💵 Price Per Night: $103/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 2 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Off-grid tiny cabin, hand-plastered walls, wood-burning stove
- 🌟 Perfect For: Couples 💕, nature lovers 🌿, digital detox seekers 🔌, quiet retreats 🛋️
Looking to unplug? Pachinko Cabin is your off-grid hideaway—an architect-designed tiny home perched on 20 private acres with sweeping Catskill Mountain views. Just 15 minutes from Hudson, it’s close to town but feels worlds away.
Inside, hand-plastered walls and clerestory windows fill the space with soft light. The main floor has a cozy bay window seat, a wood-burning stove, and vintage tile details. Upstairs in the loft, you’ll find a snug full bed and custom cabinetry.
Wander the private trails, gather around the fire pit, or cook a meal on the wood stove or Weber grill. Nearby, you can hike, fish, kayak, or visit Olana State Historic Site for panoramic views of the Hudson River.
Perfect for digital detoxers, couples, and anyone craving quiet, this is tiny house living at its most peaceful.
7. Cozy Charming Apartment
- 📍 Location: Suffern
- 💵 Price Per Night: $145/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 4 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Secluded stone garage apartment, stainless steel kitchen, private outdoor grill & firepit
- 🌟 Perfect For: Couples 💑, small families 👨👩👧👦, nature lovers 🌲, hikers 🚶♂️
Welcome to your cozy corner of Suffern—this newly renovated apartment is set in a 100-year-old stone garage, tucked away just steps from the Harriman State Park trails. It’s a quiet, convenient base for both nature lovers and city explorers.
Downstairs, there’s a bright kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Upstairs, a queen bed, twin mattresses, and a cozy lounge make it easy to relax.
Fire up the grill, gather around the private fire pit, or head out to explore. Harriman’s trails are right outside your door, while Rockland County spots like the courthouse and community college are just minutes away. New York City is only an hour’s drive for an easy day trip.
Hike, explore, or kick back—this charming apartment is the perfect home base.
8. The Lake House
- 📍 Location: Cazenovia, NY
- 💵 Price Per Night: Around $568/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 12 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Mid-century design, private dock, kayaks & paddleboards
- 🌟 Perfect For: Multi-generational trips 👨👩👧👦, lake lovers 🛶, vintage home fans 🪵
I couldn’t write about the best Airbnbs in upstate New York without including this lakeside gem. This mid-century modern home has that classic summer-camp-meets-vintage-vacation vibe, with five bedrooms, three baths, and room for up to 12 guests.
Set right on Cazenovia Lake, the property has a private dock, two decks, kayaks, canoes, and a paddleboat ready for your crew.
Inside, you’ll find original 1940s touches, a cozy whitewashed fireplace, and a layout designed for slow mornings, big dinners, and quality time. It’s not fancy, but it’s warm, timeless, and packed with charm.
Bring water shoes and settle in for lake days, then head into town for wood-fired pizza at The Lincklaen House or a stroll through Lakeland Park. I also love hiking Chittenango Falls State Park, it’s only 15 minutes away and has a killer waterfall trail.
9. Elegant Cozy Home
- 📍 Location: Buffalo
- 💵 Price Per Night: $238/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 4 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Historic 1897 train station, private pool & hot tub, designer smart home
- 🌟 Perfect For: History buffs 🏛️, architecture lovers 🧱, city explorers 🌆
Sleep in a piece of history at this restored 1897 train station, now a designer smart home in Buffalo’s Central Park neighborhood. The home blends 19th-century architecture with sleek modern comfort.
Inside, you’ll find soaring ceilings, heated floors, stainless appliances, and a theater-style great room with room for four. Two bedrooms and two full baths keep things spacious yet cozy.
Outside, relax by the private heated pool and hot tub, just minutes from downtown. Walk to Delaware Park, Hertel Avenue’s dining scene, or Frank Lloyd Wright’s Darwin Martin House.
Featured on HGTV’s You Live in What, this unique retreat has even hosted Hollywood guests. It’s a stay you won’t forget.
- Read More: 12 Best Things to Do in Buffalo, New York
10. Minka
- 📍 Location: King Ferry
- 💵 Price Per Night: $233.night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 3 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Lakefront patio, EV charger, waterfall trail, fully accessible design
- 🌟 Perfect For: Couples 💕, solo travelers 🌿, wine lovers 🍷
Minka is a peaceful lakeside hideaway on the shore of Cayuga Lake—perfect for couples or solo travelers looking to unplug.
The bright, open space features a full kitchen, a cozy full-size bed, and a pull-out daybed for a third guest.
Step onto your private stone patio for morning coffee or sunset wine. Take the stone steps to the lake for a paddle in the kayaks, or explore a nearby waterfall trail just outside your door.
Venture to the Finger Lakes Wine Trail, with Bright Leaf and Treleaven wineries just minutes away. Ithaca and Aurora are close, too, with plenty of dining and farmers’ markets to round out your stay.
- Read More: 20 Magical Airbnbs in the Finger Lakes
- Read Next: 63 Most Unique Places to Visit in the US
11. Casablanca on Cherry Island
- 📍 Location: Alexandria Bay
- 💵 Price Per Night: $5,913/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 16 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Historic island estate, waterfront swimming area, century-old charm
- 🌟 Perfect For: Large groups 🎉, history buffs 🕰️, nature lovers 🌿, boating enthusiasts 🚤
Step into the past at Casablanca on Cherry Island, a historic estate with over 125 years of charm. Set in the heart of the Thousand Islands, this grand home offers a rare mix of old-world elegance and modern waterfront fun.
Original woodwork and period details create a sense of timelessness throughout the home. With 9 bedrooms and 8 baths, there’s room for up to 16 guests to spread out and relax.
Spend the day on the private dock, swim in protected waters, or boat out to explore the St. Lawrence River. Back on land, stroll through Alexandria Bay’s shops and restaurants or discover the nearby national park.
This is island life at its finest—perfect for family gatherings, boating adventures, or anyone who loves a bit of history with their vacation.
- Read Next: 33 Amazing Airbnb Mansions in the US
12. The Scenic Orchard
- 📍 Location: Barneveld
- 💵 Price Per Night: $498/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 2 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Private hot tub, panoramic Adirondack views, luxury shipping container home
- 🌟 Perfect For: Couples 💕, nature lovers 🌲, relaxation seekers 🧘♀️
The Scenic Orchard is a modern tiny home with a view, set on 100 private acres in the Adirondack Foothills. From the front porch, the valley stretches for miles.
Inside, you’ll find sleek design and cozy comfort: a queen bed positioned for sunrise views, a rain shower, a jacuzzi, and a Nespresso for morning coffee.
Outdoors, soak in the hot tub, relax by the fire pit, or sway in the hammock. Though it feels remote, shops and restaurants are just 15–20 minutes away.
Perfect for a romantic weekend or a quiet nature reset, this stay is all about space to breathe.
13. Bali House Sanctuary
- 📍 Location: Tillson
- 💵 Price Per Night: $702/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 10 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Private pond with hot tub, handcrafted Balinese woodwork, spacious decks
- 🌟 Perfect For: Nature lovers 🌿, relaxation seekers 🛁, remote workers 💻, families & groups 👨👩👧👦
Let the outside world fade away at Bali House Sanctuary, where handcrafted Balinese woodwork and organic materials create a calming, restorative space. This peaceful retreat sits on a private pond surrounded by nature.
With four cozy bedrooms, three full baths, and a fully equipped kitchen, there’s plenty of room to gather, cook, and unwind. The great room opens onto spacious decks, perfect for soaking in the hot tub or swaying in the hammock.
Nearby, explore local hiking and biking trails or pop into New Paltz and Rosendale for cafés, shops, and small-town charm. Whether it’s a family getaway, a quiet weekend, or a creative work session, Bali House Sanctuary is made for slowing down.
14. Antler Ridge Estates
- 📍 Location: Windham
- 💵 Price Per Night: $1,109/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 14 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Hot tub, panoramic mountain views, game room, putting green
- 🌟 Perfect For: Ski trips ⛷️, family gatherings 👨👩👧👦, nature lovers 🌲
Antler Ridge Estates is a luxury log cabin made for mountain getaways—just six minutes from Windham Mountain. This private escape offers comfort and entertainment in every season.
The great room features vaulted log-beam ceilings, a stone fireplace, and panoramic windows. A chef’s kitchen with granite counters and a center island invites group meals and cozy nights in.
Outside, unwind in the hot tub, gather by the fire pit, or test your swing on the private putting green. There’s even a swing set for kids and mountain views from nearly every angle.
Spend your days skiing, hiking, or sipping wine at local vineyards—then come home to relax by the fire. For families or friends, Antler Ridge Estates is the perfect Catskills base.
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15. Ridgewood Rooftop
- 📍 Location: Ridgewood
- 💵 Price Per Night: $400/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 5 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Duplex loft, 2 private outdoor spaces, keyless entry
- 🌟 Perfect For: Groups 👥, city explorers 🏙️, business travelers 💼
Discover Ridgewood Rooftop, a modern, spacious duplex loft nestled in the vibrant heart of Queens. Just a 5-minute walk from the M & L Trains, it offers easy access to Manhattan while providing a peaceful urban retreat.
Inside, enjoy two elegant bedrooms with plush beds and 1.5 spa-inspired bathrooms. The fully equipped kitchen invites home-cooked meals, while the living room boasts a 50″ 4K Smart TV and high-speed WiFi.
Step out to your private balcony or rooftop terrace to enjoy city views or unwind. Enjoy keyless entry, central A/C, heating, and smart touches like a Bluetooth bathroom speaker for added comfort.
Nearby, explore local eateries, coffee shops, bars, parks, and grocery stores that make Ridgewood a charming and dynamic neighborhood with a small-town feel and easy access to city life.
16. Mountain View Retreat
- 📍 Location: Cold Spring
- 💵 Price Per Night: $725/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 12 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Mountain views, 8-person hot tub, large deck, portable fire pit
- 🌟 Perfect For: Groups 👨👩👧👦, nature lovers 🌲, mountain explorers 🥾
Mountain View Retreat is a peaceful chalet tucked into the Hudson Valley mountains, just 15 minutes from Cold Spring and Beacon.
The home features a wood-burning fireplace, a fully equipped kitchen, and flexible sleeping spaces including a master suite, guest rooms, and extra beds for larger groups.
Outdoors, soak in the private 8-person hot tub, take in the panoramic views from the deck, or stargaze by the portable fire pit.
Spend the day hiking local trails, exploring Cold Spring’s shops and cafés, or simply relaxing with mountain views all around. This is your go-to base for both adventure and downtime.
- Read Next: 20 Best Wellness Retreats in 2025
17. One of a Kind Treehouse
- 📍 Location: Belfast
- 💵 Price Per Night: $171/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 4 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Elevated treehouse 12 ft off the ground, solar-powered, private balcony
- 🌟 Perfect For: Couples 💑, nature lovers 🌿, adventure seekers 🛶
Perched 12 feet in the air along the Genesee River, this One of a Kind Treehouse is exactly that—a rustic retreat surrounded by woods and wildlife.
Inside, you’ll find a cozy living area with a stove and kitchen counter, a custom bunk room, and a loft with a private balcony for coffee or stargazing. The barnwood bathroom adds a playful touch with its fish sink and outdoor shower.
Spend your day paddling the river, grilling by the fire pit, or exploring the nearby trail. Wildlife is part of the experience—expect to spot deer, turkeys, and maybe even a fox.
Nearby, hike the Genesee Valley Greenway, visit Letchworth State Park, or hit the slopes at Swain. It’s a true off-the-grid escape for nature lovers.
18. The Tiny ~ Not So Tiny Bungalow
- 📍 Location: Lake Placid
- 💵 Price Per Night: $186/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 3 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Eco-friendly design, radiant concrete floors, pet-friendly
- 🌟 Perfect For: Couples 💑, solo adventurers 🚶♀️, eco-conscious travelers 🌱, High Peaks hikers 🥾
The Tiny ~ Not So Tiny Bungalow is a bright eco-cottage tucked between Lake Placid and Saranac Lake—small in footprint, big on comfort.
Expect radiant concrete floors, plenty of natural light, and a fully equipped kitchen. The queen bedroom and twin loft both feature organic mattresses, with peaceful forest views all around.
Enjoy a private yard designed for pollinators, a fire pit for late-night chats, and easy access to nearby hiking and skiing. Despite the woodland setting, you’re just minutes from local restaurants, shops, and Adirondack adventures.
Whether you’re hitting High Peaks Trails, skiing Whiteface, or simply unplugging, this modern cabin is the perfect base.
19. 1890’s Log Cabin
- 📍 Location: Wallkill
- 💵 Price Per Night: $1,011/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 12 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: 150-ft private waterfall, 230-acre reserve, Julia Child’s stove
- 🌟 Perfect For: Nature lovers 🌲, history buffs 📖, retreats & reunions 👨👩👧👦
This 1890s Log Cabin isn’t just a home—it’s part of Hudson Valley history. Set on a 230-acre private reserve, it comes with its 150-foot waterfall, forest trails, and sweeping mountain views.
Original chestnut beams and vintage touches fill the cabin with historic charm. Five bedrooms, multiple fireplaces, and Julia Child’s very own stove invite cozy nights and memorable meals.
Spend your time lounging on the multi-level decks, hiking down to the waterfall, or gathering by the fire pit with the sound of rushing water all around.
Nearby adventures include Gertrude’s Nose, kayaking on Tillson Lake, and exploring the Gunks or New Paltz. For family reunions or quiet nature escapes, this one-of-a-kind retreat offers space, history, and total seclusion.
- Read More: 9 BEST Places to Visit in Colorado in the Winter
- Read Next: 25 Benefits of Cold Water Immersion
20. Cozy Lakefront House
- 📍 Location: Bolton
- 💵 Price Per Night: $1,229/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 12 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: U-shaped private dock, geothermal A/C & heat, lakeside deck
- 🌟 Perfect For: Boaters 🚤, families 👨👩👧👦, lake lovers 🌊
Built during Prohibition as an ice house, this rare lakefront retreat sits directly above Lake George with sweeping water views and private dock access.
Lakeside lounging starts in the cozy family room, with space for group meals in the kitchen and five bedrooms to make everyone feel at home. The master suite adds a private balcony for sunrise coffee.
Step outside to your U-shaped dock, perfect for swimming, boating, or simply floating the day away. Grill on the deck, watch the sunset, or enjoy lakeside stargazing.
Walk to Bolton Landing for dining and shopping, tee off at Sagamore Golf Club, or hit Gore Mountain for skiing just 40 minutes away. Whether it’s boating in summer or cozy fireside evenings in winter, this home is built for all-season getaways.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about unique Airbnbs in New York State
Looking to dive deeper into how to find an Airbnb in New York? Here are some popular questions you should know about.
What types of unique Airbnbs will you find in Upstate New York?
Upstate New York, with its diverse landscapes and rich history, offers a plethora of unique Airbnb experiences that cater to all tastes and preferences. Here are some of the distinctive types of Airbnbs you can find in this enchanting region:
- Rustic Cabins: Nestled in the heart of the Adirondacks or the Catskills, these cabins provide a cozy retreat, often complete with wood-burning stoves, panoramic mountain views, and direct access to hiking trails.
- Converted Barns: Experience the charm of staying in a renovated barn, where rustic architecture meets modern amenities. These spaces often boast high ceilings, open floor plans, and a touch of rural nostalgia.
- Lakefront Cottages: Situated along the shores of the Finger Lakes or Lake George, these cottages offer serene views, private docks, and a plethora of water activities, from kayaking to fishing.
- Historic Mansions: Step back in time by staying in grand estates or historic homes, often adorned with antiques, intricate woodwork, and stories of the past.
- Treehouses: Elevate your travel experience, quite literally, by staying in a treehouse. Surrounded by nature, these unique accommodations offer a bird’s-eye view of the forest and a sense of whimsy.
- Geodesic Domes: For a futuristic yet nature-immersed experience, these dome-shaped structures provide a unique blend of architecture and the outdoors, often with large windows or skylights to stargaze.
- Converted Train Cars: Relive the golden age of rail travel by staying in a refurbished train car or caboose, often situated in scenic locations with a touch of nostalgia.
Is Airbnb in New York State cheaper than hotels?
The cost of staying in an Airbnb versus a hotel in New York State can vary widely based on several factors. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand the differences:
- Location: In popular tourist areas like New York City, Niagara Falls, or the Hamptons, hotel prices can be quite high, especially during peak seasons. In such areas, you might find that renting an Airbnb, especially if you’re traveling with a group and can split costs, might be more cost-effective. Conversely, in more remote or less touristy areas, local inns or bed-and-breakfast establishments might offer competitive rates compared to Airbnbs.
- Duration of Stay: For extended stays, Airbnb often provides better value as many hosts offer discounts for weekly or monthly bookings. Hotels typically charge per night and might not offer the same level of discounts for longer stays.
- Amenities: Hotels usually come with a range of amenities like daily housekeeping, room service, fitness centers, and concierge services. If you value these services, the higher cost might be justified. On the other hand, Airbnbs often offer home-like comforts such as kitchens, which can save you money on dining out.
- Type of Accommodation: The diversity of Airbnb listings means you can find everything from a shared room in an apartment to an entire luxury home. A shared room or private room in an Airbnb might be much cheaper than a hotel room, while a full luxury home or unique property (like a treehouse or historic mansion) might be comparably priced or even more expensive than upscale hotels.
- Season: During peak tourist seasons or major events, hotel prices can surge. Airbnb prices might also increase, but you might still find some hidden gems or deals, especially if you book well in advance.
Is New York a good place for Airbnb?
New York, both the state and especially New York City, has been a popular destination for Airbnb guests due to its diverse attractions, cultural significance, and global appeal. Here’s a breakdown of why New York can be considered a good place for Airbnb:
- Diverse Offerings: New York State offers a wide range of experiences, from the urban allure of New York City to the natural beauty of the Adirondacks, Catskills, and Finger Lakes. This diversity means there’s a demand for a variety of accommodations, from chic city apartments to rustic mountain cabins.
- Tourist Appeal: New York City is one of the world’s top tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors annually. Landmarks like Times Square, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and Broadway shows are significant draws. Beyond the city, attractions like Niagara Falls, wineries, ski resorts, and hiking trails attract many visitors.
- Business Hub: NYC is a global business hub, hosting numerous conferences, conventions, and business meetings. This creates demand for short-term rentals.
- Cultural & Academic Institutions: With its myriad museums, theaters, universities, and cultural festivals, there’s always an influx of visitors looking for convenient and homely accommodations.
- Flexibility & Variety: Airbnb offers flexibility that traditional hotels might not, such as the option to rent a shared room, a private room, or an entire place. This caters to a broader range of budgets and preferences.
Is New York an expensive vacation destination?
New York, particularly New York City, is often considered one of the more expensive vacation destinations in the United States. Here’s what contributes to its reputation as a pricier destination:
- Accommodation: Hotels in New York City, especially in popular areas like Manhattan, can be costly. While there are budget options and outer borough accommodations available, prime locations generally come with a higher price tag.
- Dining: NYC boasts a vast array of dining options, from high-end restaurants to food trucks. While you can find affordable eats, especially in ethnic neighborhoods or local delis, dining in trendier or upscale establishments can quickly add up.
- Attractions: Many of the city’s iconic attractions have entrance fees. Venues like the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, Broadway shows, and certain museums can be pricey. However, there are also free attractions and events, such as Central Park, the Staten Island Ferry, and many street festivals.
- Transportation: While the subway system is relatively affordable and efficient, frequent use of taxis or rideshares can increase costs. Parking in the city is also notoriously expensive if you’re considering renting a car.
- Shopping: NYC is a shopping mecca, with everything from luxury boutiques on Fifth Avenue to unique finds in Brooklyn’s flea markets. Depending on your shopping habits, this can significantly impact your budget.
- Tours and Experiences: Guided tours, cruises, and special experiences, like helicopter rides over Manhattan, add to the vacation cost.
- Seasonality: Prices for accommodation and some activities can surge during peak tourist seasons, holidays, and special events.

Coolest Airbnbs in New York: Treehouses, Cabins, Tiny Houses, and More!
Rent a house for vacation in New York and you’ll be amazed by the experience! Whether you’re a solo adventurer seeking solitude, a couple looking for a romantic getaway, or a family eager to explore, there’s a best Airbnb in New York with your name on it. So, let go of the familiar and embark on a journey through New York State, where every corner holds a promise of adventure. Ready to discover yours?
Have you stayed in any unique Airbnbs or vacation rentals in NY? Let me know in the comments, as I’m always looking to add to this list of the best Airbnbs in New York!
If you’re looking for more unique destinations in the northeast USA, check out these destinations:
– Unique Stays in the Finger Lakes
– Best Hotels For New Year’s Eve Times Square
– Most Beautiful Rentals in the White Mountains
– Coolest Airbnb Stays in Massachusetts
– Unique Accommodations in Vermont
– Top Vacation Rentals in Rhode Island
– Most Unique Airbnbs to Rent in the Berkshires
Need help planning your trip? Check out these helpful links:
- ✈️ Find cheap flights – I save $10k per year on flights thanks to this tool
- 🏨 Book accommodations – My favorite platform for boutique hotels and budget stays
- 🚗 Compare rental car prices – Great rates from trusted companies
- 🎟️ Discover affordable tours and day trips – Skip the line and explore more