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Old Home Away from Home
Architecture aficionados have discovered that there’s no better way to get up close and personal with an assortment of home styles—or multiple iterations of their favorites—than to stay at Airbnbs while traveling. What’s more, the vacation rental platform affords old-home owners, many of whom have personally (and painstakingly) renovated their digs, the opportunity to let their pride and their passion shine. Whether you adore Queen Annes, go crazy for Craftsman, or have a soft spot for saltboxes, Airbnbs lets you live in your every dream home, one three-day weekend at a time.
Plantation Home in New Orleans, Louisiana
Built in the 1880s, The Mazant retains historic details like cypress doors and plaster ceiling medallions. The newly renovated eight-bedroom home is located near the famous Bywater arts district in New Orleans, which gives travelers easy access to shops, restaurants, and other attractions. From $2,686 per night on Airbnb.
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Restored Cottage in Beaufort, South Carolina
Located in central Beaufort, this 1889 cottage has been beautifully restored as well as updated with all modern conveniences. After relaxing on the quaint front porch, visitors can explore America’s past in the nearby historic district, which bears the imprints of Spanish, English, French, and Gullah cultures. From $185 per night on
Airbnb.
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Elfreth's Alley Hideaway in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
What’s the name of our nation’s oldest residential street? That would be Elfreth’s Alley, a National Historic Landmark where you can transport yourself to colonial-era Philadelphia for just the cost of a night’s rent. This three-story brick townhouse is outfitted with attractive furnishings and has flooring that dates back to the 1700s, but still has all of today’s amenities. From $232 per night on
Airbnb
.
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Renovated Civil War Hospital in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
Get up close and personal with the history of Gettysburg, the site of the bloodiest battle of the Civil War, by staying in a shared home that served as a field hospital in the aftermath of the conflict. Just a short drive from the battlefield, it’s the perfect spot to learn about this pivotal engagement and appreciate the humanity behind the history. When you’re done exploring the area, relax in the home’s big backyard, or take a drive to nearby Baltimore or Washington D.C., if you crave a little city excitement. From $108 per night on
Airbnb
.
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French Quarter Mansion in New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is once again inviting tourists to visit its iconic neighborhoods and partake of its many epicurean specialties. Why not go all out and stay in this luxury Creole cottage, located within walking distance of the French Quarter? Return to this absolutely gorgeous Airbnb after a day of strolling the colorful historic streets and indulging in beignets, jambalaya, and muffalettas. There you can relax in the salt-water pool or spa, sip a Sazerac or Hurricane, and enjoy the authentic ambiance of this 200-year-old home. From $599 per night on
Airbnb.
Historic DC Firehouse 4
Anyone who, as a kid, dreamed of sliding down a firehouse pole—which is probably pretty much everyone—can fulfill that dream at long last by staying in this converted fire station with a storied past. First established in 1885, this property would go on to house D.C.’s first all-black fire company in 1940. A few decades on, it became a harpsichord factory. (Didn’t see that one coming, did you?) Today, it’s an absolutely stunning Airbnb with authentic architectural charm, sleek, chic furnishings, and capacity for up to 14 guests. From $829 per night on Airbnb.
19th-Century Carriage House in Abingdon, Virginia
Old-world European charm characterizes this carriage house in Abingdon, Virginia, but it’s also strongly rooted in American history. Daniel Boone once camped on the property near the spring-fed pond, one of two fresh water sources for the area. Contemporary style meets remarkable historical details, such as the hand-hewn beams and shakes, period windows, and original cast-iron fence surrounding the widow’s walk. Children and the young-at-heart will be enchanted by the backyard fairy garden and tiny greenhouse. From $275 per night at Airbnb.
Southern Kitchen House in Charleston, South Carolina
Indulge your antebellum time-travel fantasies with a stay at a gorgeous Southern kitchen house. Located in Charleston’s historic “South of Broad” neighborhood, the 2-bedroom, 2-bath Rutledge Kitchen House was built in 1830. In 2016, it underwent an award-winning restoration. Spend your morning sipping lemonade on the patio, then explore the many museums, shops, cafes, and restaurants that are within easy walking distance. From $499 on Airbnb.
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Frank Lloyd Wright House in Two Rivers, Wisconsin
Calling all architecture buffs! Still Bend, a 1938 Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, can be yours—temporarily, of course. Wright referred to this location as his “dream house,” a fitting description for this light-filled residence that features multiple fireplaces, the warm tones of wood and brick, and clerestory windows. From $679 per night at Airbnb.
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Whimsical Cabin in Big Bear Lake, California
The Hobbit House at Big Bear was built in 1928, but it will nevertheless transport you to the mid-1800s, when gold was discovered in these here parts. Its rustic charisma comes from its hewn-beam interior, stone fireplace, claw-foot tub, and traditional cabin kitchen. The hot tub offers après-ski appeal; while kids will be thrilled to discover the Hobbit House’s hidden stairways between rooms, and its secret passageway! From $237 per night at Airbnb.
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Historic Mansion in Minneapolis, Minnesota
Calling all brides (and grooms!) who have a flair for the dramatic: this 1903 castle could be the ideal setting for your intimate wedding. Take a look at its magnificent curved staircase; imagine joining your beloved before the impressive fireplace, as your friends and family fill the Great Room behind you. This romantic locale is replete with rich wood construction and detailing, while marble, stone, and charmingly faded carpets add just the right country-estate touches. With ample spaces for dressing and readying, several buffet-friendly serving areas, and untold opportunities for fantastic photos, the 3-bedroom castle will help make your wedding day unforgettable. From $2,000 per night on Airbnb.
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History Meets Beach in Falmouth, Massachusetts
Can’t decide between a trip steeped in history, or a beach vacation? Get the best of both worlds when you book this stunning Cape Cod property. Built in 1693, the Newcomb Tavern was a waypoint for Revolutionary War bigwigs and currently is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s situated on a pond, has a working gristmill, and is updated with all the modern amenities you could ask for, including a professional-grade gourmet kitchen. This Airbnb sleeps 14, with 5.5 bathrooms, making it perfect for an extended-family meetup. From $2,300 per night on Airbnb.
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Former Brewery in Galena, Illinois
This Airbnb is the ideal destination for beer lovers! Located in Galena, Illinois, home of our 18th president, Ulysses S. Grant, this renovated building served as the Illinois Brewery in the early 1800s. Inside the 2,400-square-foot residence, you’ll find original woodwork, two bedrooms, gas fireplaces, hot-water heated floors, and a completely modern kitchen. But perhaps best of all, a spacious cellar tavern, fully kitted out with a dry bar, shuffleboard table, gas fireplace, and plenty of seating to kick back and enjoy a cold one. From $184 on Airbnb.
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Habersham Mills in Demorest, Georgia
And now for something completely different—and utterly delightful. In the first half of the 19th century, a village sprang up in North Georgia to accommodate employees of the Habersham Iron Works. The foundry may have manufactured cannons and cannonballs for the Confederate Army; later, cotton and wool were both milled here. The village buildings have been professionally restored by a team of architects and turned into truly unique Airbnbs. Choose from one of six different accommodations: the Cabin, the Shed, the Barber Shop, the Artists’ Space, the Post Office (pictured here), and the Airstream Unit. Each space is outfitted in modern, minimalist decor, but still retains hints at their industrial past. From $165 per night on Airbnb.
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Orange Plantation House in Clermont, Florida
Dating back to 1905 but newly renovated, this orange plantation home combines comfort, charm, and convenience. Guests get easy access to the National Training Center, 8 miles away, and Disney is about a half-hour’s drive due east. Amenities include two stories of covered porch, handsome wood floors, inviting furniture, and plentiful space for the whole gang to spread out. And at under $200 for a 5-bedroom house that sleeps 13, it’s a steal—truly a “home away from home.” From $150 per night at Airbnb.