The Inspired Abode

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11 Well-Designed Airbnb & Vacation Rentals in the United States

It’s safe to say vacation rentals have taken the world by storm over the past few years, and rightly so! They’re perfect for group trips and they also allow guests to feel more “at home” than staying at a standard hotel. While we’ve certainly heard some horror stories, there are some Airbnb and vacation rentals that have hosts committed to making their homes the ultimate getaway for guests. From providing “city guides” to offering a bottle of wine or Champagne upon check in, many hosts go above and beyond to ensure a wonderful stay – much like staying in a well-known hotel. Another perk of hotel and resort stays is the décor – which is why we love when we see vacation rentals that are just as chic (or more so!) than their hotel counterparts.

There are definitely more than 11 well-designed Airbnb and vacation rentals in the United States, but we’re sharing some of our favorites below that are also extremely reasonable in price – especially when you take into account splitting the fee with multiple couples, friends, etc. Some hosts have rules about hosting loud parties at their homes, so keep that in mind when selecting, but these Airbnb and vacation rentals would make for perfect stays for a couple’s weekend getaway, bachelor or bachelorette party, or even a place to call home when visiting a specific city for a festival, Spring Training, conference, or other location-specific event. Click the links to learn more about each of these properties & start planning your next vacation or staycation now!


Austin, Texas:
HOTELette Austin - from $249/night

HOTELette is a collection of one-of-a-kind vacation homes (see the other two locations on this list as well!) dreamed up by founder and creative director Allison Crawford. As an interior designer, Allison incorporates local influences and vintage finds for each property. This 3 bed, 2 bath home offers both privacy and is in close proximity to town so guests can enjoy all the tasty tacos, live music, and hot spots Austin has to offer.


Dallas, Texas:
HOTELette Dallas - from $149/night

Nestled in the Bishop Arts District of Dallas, this 3 bed, 2 bath home is close to trendy boutiques, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, theaters, and art galleries that are open late and offer a fun place to explore with your loved ones or best gal pals. It features a vibe that’s a combo of vintage & modern with high-end furnishings, unique pieces & more. It’s also just a quick Uber or walk to the heart of Dallas!


Heber City, Utah:
A-Frame Haus - from $239/night

You've probably seen this cozy cabin all over Instagram – or even in McGee & Co.'s catalogue. The 3 bed, 2 bath home has gorgeous views and a great open kitchen and living area that's perfect for entertaining. It provides a super-peaceful environment for a true getaway, but it’s also close to the downtown restaurants, so you can choose to head to the store & make a tasty meal yourself or visit some of the locals’ favorite eateries.


Los Angeles, California:
Mid-Century Craftsman Beach Oasis - from $500/night

Located in Venice Beach, this 3 bed, 2.5 bath custom architectural home features that light & bright California-cool look we love. Warm woods and leather furnishings contrast with bright white bedding and drapery will provide an instant calming sensation, and the backyard is perfect for an alfresco dinner party. Just steps from all the shops, restaurants, and galleries on Abbott Kinney, it's also nearby to everything Santa Monica has to offer as well as paddle boarding and sailing in Marina Del Rey.


Nashville, Tennessee:
HOTELette Nashville - from $199/night

We absolutely love Nashville, and this 4 bed, 2 bath East Nashville home is on our must-stay list. Another HOTELette property designed by Allison Crawford, it's close to top restaurants and incredible live entertainment. “Music City” has become a hot spot for bachelorette parties & this property would be perfect for getting together with your girls & relaxing on the porch with a cup of spiked sweet tea before heading out for a night on the town!


New Orleans, Louisiana:
Garden District Shotgun House - from $102/night

Located in the charming Garden District of New Orleans, this 2 bed, 2 bath home is filled with character and cozy touches to make you feel at home. Whether you’re coming to the city to celebrate Mardi Gras or just want to taste those delicious Café du Monde beignets, this well-styled Airbnb is a great option for a girl’s getaway or a couple’s trip filled with strolling, eating, drinking, and being immersed in the city’s unique history.


Pinetop, Arizona:
Modern A-frame - from $138/night

Can you tell we love A-frame cabins? One of our favorite interior designers, Kristen Forgione of The LifeStyled Company, is bringing her “organic desert living” vibe to the mountains. Her 3 bed, 2 bath home on a cul-de-sac within the Pinetop Lakes Country Club sleeps 10 and is both family & pet-friendly – perfect for a snowy escape or a getaway among the pines any time of year in Northern Arizona.


Phoenix, Arizona:
Relax in an Elegant and Bohemian Phoenix Bungalow - from $101/night

If you're heading to Phoenix, check to see if this super cute 2 bed, 2 bath home is available on Airbnb! Located in the Coronado Historic District, this space is eclectic, light & bright. We love the airy woods, monochromatic furnishings, and unique artwork! Let us know if you need any restaurant recommendations (it's located in our home town!). Arizona also has excellent traffic, so you’ll be close to downtown Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and more!


Cardiff by the Sea, California:
Stylish Cardiff Park House with Ocean & Sunset Views - from $295/night

Located in Encinitas near San Diego, Cardiff by the Sea is a beach community with a laid-back vibe. This 2 bed, 2 bath property has been designed as a tranquil, modern oasis that's even been featured in San Diego Home & Garden Magazine. Enjoy the Southern California weather on the entry patio as well as the beautiful balcony complete with an alfresco fire pit, and wake up to greenery and the smell of the ocean on your beach vacation.


Mill Valley, California:
Serene Gem in the Redwoods - from $550/night

Located in Marin County about 14 miles north of San Francisco via the Golden Gate Bridge, this cozy home surrounded by trees is the ideal getaway any time of year. We love the rustic-chic vibe of the 4 bed, 2 bath home complete with a gorgeous deck, sun-drenched music room, and outdoor dining area. It’s a serene beauty that is the absolute perfect place to sip a glass of wine & will welcome you home for however long you stay.


Scottsdale, Arizona:
Walk to Old Town from a Home with a Heated Pool - from $349/night

This beautiful 5 bed, 3 bath home in Scottsdale is an entertainer's paradise – ideal for bachelorette parties, groups visiting for Spring Training, or a golf getaway for the guys. We love the open floor plan, large heated pool, beautiful patio complete with a sound system, and a modern kitchen to cook breakfast in on a Sunday morning. It’s also close to all of our favorite Scottsdale restaurants (including where we used to work in Old Town Scottsdale!).


Which of these would you love to stay in for your next US vacation? Let us know in the comments! Also, if you have any favorite Airbnbs, please share their links as well!

For more inspiration, view home ideas here, and view our travel guides to Nashville, Cabo San Lucas, and Lake Como!