🌟 Staycations You Won’t Believe Exist in the U.S.

Forget cookie-cutter hotels—America is full of unexpected, one-of-a-kind stays that feel like a passport-free trip to another world. From overwater bungalows in Washington to floating hideaways in Florida, these spots prove you don’t need to leave the country to have a “bucket list” experience.

Before we move on, did you know that we have an incredible travel app with more than 200 Destinations and 25,000 Activities on it? It’s free to download and nearly all of the features are free to use as well. Explore More & Travel Better with Tripio! Get the app today!… now back to our article.​

🛶 Ross Lake Resort — Washington

Photo by Wikimedia

Hidden in the North Cascades, Ross Lake Resort is home to rustic overwater cabins and floating docks that make you feel like you’ve stumbled onto a Pacific Northwest version of the Maldives. Step straight from your cabin into a kayak or paddleboard, hike into alpine forests, or just relax with panoramic views of Mount Ross and turquoise waters. It’s adventure and serenity rolled into one.

🌴 Ombi Floating Bungalows — Florida

Photo by Wikimedia

On the clear, spring-fed waters of Homosassa, the Ombi Floating Bungalows let you sleep right on the water. With tropical-chic interiors, private decks, and paddleboards at your doorstep, it’s like a Caribbean escape tucked into Florida’s Nature Coast. Manatees and dolphins are often spotted nearby, adding to the magic of this hidden retreat.

🔥 The Geodome at Pagosa Springs — Colorado

Photo by Wikimedia

In Colorado’s Pagosa Springs, you’ll find geothermal dome stays that pair futuristic stargazing bubbles with access to natural hot springs. By day, soak in the healing waters, and by night, stretch out beneath a canopy of stars from your transparent dome. It’s a mix of wellness retreat and space-age fantasy.

❄️ Borealis Basecamp — Alaska

Photo by Wikimedia

For a once-in-a-lifetime winter stay, Borealis Basecamp near Fairbanks offers transparent-roofed igloo domes where you can watch the Northern Lights dance across the sky right from your bed. Each dome comes with cozy interiors, modern comforts, and floor-to-ceiling views of Alaska’s snowy wilderness. It’s an unforgettable Arctic adventure without leaving the U.S.

🌵 Kokopelli’s Cave Bed & Breakfast — New Mexico

Photo by Wikimedia

Carved 70 feet into sandstone cliffs near Farmington, Kokopelli’s Cave B&B is a luxury cave suite with cozy stone-carved rooms, a jacuzzi, and sweeping desert views. It’s cool in summer, warm in winter, and gives you the surreal sense of living in a secret underground world.

🏰 The Kentucky Castle — Kentucky

Photo by Wikimedia

On 55 acres of rolling countryside, The Kentucky Castle offers a regal escape with turrets, grand dining halls, farm-to-table dining, and even spa services. It’s as close as you’ll get to staying in a European castle without leaving U.S. soil.

🦒 Safari West — California

Photo by Wikimedia

Nestled in Sonoma County’s wine country, Safari West is often called the “Sonoma Serengeti.” Guests can overnight in luxury safari-style tents imported from Botswana, complete with hardwood floors and private bathrooms, while waking up to the sounds of giraffes, zebras, and antelopes roaming just outside. By day, guided jeep tours bring you up close to over 900 animals, from cheetahs to wildebeest. It’s the closest you can get to an African safari without leaving the U.S.—blending wilderness adventure with boutique glamping charm.

✨ Why These Staycations Are Special

These aren’t just accommodations—they’re experiences. Whether it’s drifting on a floating bungalow, soaking in a hot-spring dome, or sipping cocktails in a bar made of ice, these hidden gems prove you don’t have to fly overseas to feel worlds away.

Check out: Discovering Europe Without A Passport

and Shoulder-Season “Coolcation” hacks for Fall 2025

-Gemma Winchester, Tripio Guru

Download the free Tripio app on iOS and Android!