Discover 18 Jaw-Dropping Unique Places to Stay in Florida

Introduction

Florida, the Sunshine State, is renowned for its pristine beaches, thrilling theme parks, and vibrant nightlife. But beyond the typical tourist hotspots lies a world of extraordinary accommodations that can transform your vacation into an unforgettable adventure. If you’re looking for unique places to stay in Florida, you’re in for a treat. From treehouses nestled in lush forests to underwater lodgings with views of marine life, Florida offers an array of unconventional and exciting lodging options. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore some of the most unique places to stay in Florida, ensuring your next trip is anything but ordinary.

Treehouse Retreats: Sleep Among the Canopy

Treehouse at Danville

Nestled in the heart of central Florida, the Treehouse at Danville offers a magical escape from the ordinary. This unique place to stay in Florida is perched 15 feet above the ground, providing guests with a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding oak forest. The treehouse features modern amenities such as air conditioning, a kitchenette, and Wi-Fi, all while maintaining a rustic charm that connects you with nature.

Cypress Valley Canopy Tours

For those seeking adventure along with their unique accommodations, Cypress Valley Canopy Tours in North Florida offers treehouse lodgings combined with thrilling zipline experiences. After a day of soaring through the treetops, retire to your elevated abode for a night of stargazing and serenity.

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Underwater Wonders: Sleeping with the Fishes

Jules’ Undersea Lodge

One of the most unique places to stay in Florida is undoubtedly Jules’ Undersea Lodge in Key Largo. This former research laboratory turned hotel is the world’s only underwater hotel where guests must scuba dive to reach their rooms. Located 21 feet beneath the surface of a lagoon, the lodge offers panoramic views of marine life through large windows. It’s a truly immersive experience that combines luxury with underwater adventure.

The Neptune Suite at Atlantis, The Palm

While technically not in Florida, this underwater suite deserves an honorable mention for those willing to travel a bit further. Located in Dubai, The Neptune Suite offers floor-to-ceiling views of the Ambassador Lagoon aquarium, home to over 65,000 marine animals. It’s a luxurious way to experience life under the sea without getting wet.

Glamping Galore: Luxury Meets the Great Outdoors

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo

For a taste of the Wild West in Florida, look no further than Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo. This unique place to stay in Florida offers luxurious glamping tents complete with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and even a personal concierge. Enjoy activities like horseback riding, airboat rides, and weekly rodeos for a true cowboy experience.

Fancy Camps in the Florida Keys

Experience the beauty of the Florida Keys without sacrificing comfort at Fancy Camps. These glamping sites offer fully furnished bell tents with queen-sized beds, air conditioning, and outdoor seating areas. Wake up to the sound of waves and enjoy stunning sunsets from your beachfront accommodation.

Historic Havens: Step Back in Time

The Don CeSar

Known as the “Pink Palace,” The Don CeSar in St. Pete Beach is one of the most iconic and unique places to stay in Florida. This historic hotel, built in 1928, offers a blend of luxury and old-world charm. With its Mediterranean and Moorish architecture, The Don CeSar transports guests to a bygone era while providing modern amenities and breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico.

Hemingway House Rentals

Literary enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the world of Ernest Hemingway by staying in one of the vacation rentals near his former home in Key West. These charming cottages capture the essence of Old Florida and offer a unique glimpse into the life of one of America’s most celebrated authors.

Eco-Friendly Escapes: Sustainable Stays

The Turtle Hospital Apartments

For a unique place to stay in Florida that combines accommodation with conservation, consider The Turtle Hospital Apartments in Marathon. These apartments are located above the world-renowned Turtle Hospital, where guests can observe and learn about sea turtle rehabilitation. A portion of your stay goes towards supporting the hospital’s mission.

Habana Eco Lodge

Located in the heart of the Everglades, Habana Eco Lodge offers an off-grid experience without sacrificing comfort. Solar-powered cabins provide a sustainable retreat where guests can immerse themselves in nature, observe wildlife, and learn about eco-friendly living practices.

Quirky Quarters: Offbeat Accommodations

The Beer Can House

For beer enthusiasts looking for unique places to stay in Florida, The Beer Can House in Ingleside is a must-visit. This one-of-a-kind vacation rental is adorned with thousands of beer cans, creating a whimsical and Instagram-worthy backdrop for your Florida getaway.

The Victorian Lady

Step into a real-life dollhouse at The Victorian Lady in St. Augustine. This meticulously decorated bed and breakfast features ornate Victorian-era furnishings, antiques, and decor that transport guests to the 19th century. It’s a unique place to stay in Florida for history buffs and romance seekers alike.

Floating Fantasies: Houseboat Holidays

Houseboat Rentals in the Florida Keys

Experience the freedom of life on the water by renting a houseboat in the Florida Keys. These floating accommodations allow you to explore multiple islands, drop anchor in secluded coves, and wake up to different breathtaking views each day. It’s a unique way to experience the laid-back lifestyle of the Keys.

The Boathouse Floating Hotel

Located in Fort Lauderdale, The Boathouse Floating Hotel offers a stationary houseboat experience with all the comforts of a luxury hotel. Enjoy waterfront views, private decks, and the gentle rocking of the waves in this unique place to stay in Florida.

Artistic Abodes: Creativity-Inspired Lodgings

Salvador Dalí Suite at The Epicurean Hotel

Art lovers seeking unique places to stay in Florida will be delighted by the Salvador Dalí Suite at The Epicurean Hotel in Tampa. This surrealist-inspired room features reproductions of Dalí’s works and whimsical decor that pays homage to the famous artist’s style.

Art Ovation Hotel

Immerse yourself in creativity at the Art Ovation Hotel in Sarasota. This unique hotel celebrates the arts with rotating exhibitions, in-room easels and sketchpads, and even musical instruments available for guest use. It’s a haven for artists and art enthusiasts alike.

Castle Accommodations: Royal Retreats in the Sunshine State

Solomon’s Castle

Live out your fairy tale fantasies at Solomon’s Castle in Ona, Florida. This unique place to stay in Florida is a real castle built by artist Howard Solomon using repurposed materials. Guests can stay in the boat-in-the-moat suite, a 60-foot replica of a 16th-century Portuguese galleon.

Castle Otttis

While not an overnight accommodation, Castle Otttis in St. Augustine deserves mention for its unique architecture and spiritual significance. This hand-built castle, inspired by an Irish castle of 1,000 years ago, is open for tours and provides a fascinating glimpse into medieval architecture in the heart of Florida.

Tiny House Adventures: Compact Comfort

Tiny House Siesta

Experience the tiny house movement at Tiny House Siesta in Sarasota. These colorful, compact homes offer all the amenities you need in a charming, efficient package. It’s a unique place to stay in Florida that proves good things come in small packages.

Orlando Lakefront Tiny House Community

For a longer-term unique stay in Florida, consider renting a tiny house at the Orlando Lakefront Tiny House Community. This neighborhood of miniature homes offers lakefront views and a tight-knit community atmosphere, perfect for those looking to downsize their vacation footprint.

Farm Stays: Rural Retreats

Blueberry Hill Farm

Get a taste of farm life at Blueberry Hill Farm in Clermont. This working blueberry farm offers cozy cottages where guests can experience rural living, pick fresh blueberries (in season), and enjoy the tranquility of the countryside. It’s a unique place to stay in Florida that’s perfect for families and nature lovers.

Serenity Sheep Farm

For an even more hands-on farm experience, Serenity Sheep Farm in Umatilla offers guests the chance to stay on a working sheep farm. Help with farm chores, cuddle with lambs, and learn about sustainable farming practices in this unique Florida accommodation.

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Lighthouse Living: Beacon of Unique Stays

Jules’ Lighthouse

While not an actual functioning lighthouse, Jules’ Lighthouse in Anna Maria Island offers a lighthouse-inspired vacation rental that’s truly one of the most unique places to stay in Florida. This spiral-shaped home provides panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico and a one-of-a-kind architectural experience.

The Keeper’s Quarters at the St. Augustine Lighthouse

For a more authentic lighthouse experience, consider staying at The Keeper’s Quarters at the St. Augustine Lighthouse. While you can’t stay in the lighthouse itself, these nearby accommodations offer a glimpse into the life of a lighthouse keeper and stunning views of the historic structure.

Retro Revivals: Blast from the Past

The Sunset Inn

Step back in time at The Sunset Inn in St. Petersburg. This retro motel has been lovingly restored to capture the essence of 1950s Florida, complete with vintage furnishings and bold, mid-century colors. It’s a unique place to stay in Florida for those who appreciate nostalgia and kitsch.

The Vagabond Hotel

Another gem for retro enthusiasts is The Vagabond Hotel in Miami. This restored 1953 motel embraces its mid-century roots with period-appropriate decor, a classic courtyard pool, and a hip, modern vibe that pays homage to Miami’s golden age.

Seasonal Spectacles: Time-Limited Unique Stays

ICE! at Gaylord Palms Resort

When winter arrives in Florida, something magical happens at the Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee. From November to January, the resort transforms into a winter wonderland with its ICE! attraction. While this isn’t a year-round accommodation option, staying here during the holiday season offers an extraordinary experience that’s truly one of the most unique places to stay in Florida.

Imagine walking through a 9-degree Fahrenheit environment filled with two million pounds of hand-carved ice sculptures, all centered around a different theme each year. From favorite holiday movies to classic fairy tales, the ice sculptures bring stories to life in vibrant colors. The resort also features an alpine snow tubing hill, ice skating rink, and festive shows, creating a complete winter experience in the heart of sunny Florida.

Guests staying at the resort during this time can enjoy exclusive early access to the ICE! attraction, making it feel like you have your own private frozen kingdom. The rooms themselves are luxurious and comfortable, providing a warm retreat after your icy adventures. It’s a surreal experience to go from the freezing temperatures of ICE! to the balmy Florida weather just outside the resort’s doors.

LEGOLAND Beach Retreat

For families with young children (and the young at heart), the LEGOLAND Beach Retreat in Winter Haven offers a playful and unique accommodation experience during peak seasons. This village-style resort features colorful bungalows designed to look like they’re constructed entirely of LEGO bricks.

Each cove-like area of the resort is built around its own outdoor play area, allowing children to make new friends and enjoy LEGO activities just steps from their rooms. The bungalows themselves are whimsically decorated with LEGO models and artworks, creating an immersive experience for LEGO fans.

One of the highlights of staying at the LEGOLAND Beach Retreat is the giant swimming pool shaped like a LEGO brick. In the evenings, families can gather around the fire pit for storytelling and s’mores, adding to the unique vacation experience.

While the LEGOLAND Beach Retreat is open year-round, it’s particularly popular during school holidays and summer months, making it one of the most sought-after unique places to stay in Florida for families.

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Island Escapes: Remote and Exclusive Getaways

Little Palm Island Resort & Spa

For those seeking the ultimate in luxury, seclusion, and unique places to stay in Florida, Little Palm Island Resort & Spa in the Florida Keys is a dream come true. This adults-only resort is situated on a private island accessible only by boat or seaplane, offering an exclusive tropical paradise experience.

Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a signature rum punch before being whisked away to one of the 30 thatched-roof bungalow suites. These suites exude rustic elegance, with British West Indies-inspired decor, private sundecks, outdoor showers, and in many cases, ocean views.

What makes Little Palm Island truly unique is its commitment to disconnection and relaxation. You won’t find televisions or phones in the rooms, and there’s no Wi-Fi in public areas. Instead, guests are encouraged to enjoy the natural beauty of the island, indulge in spa treatments, or participate in water activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

The dining experience at Little Palm Island is equally exceptional. The resort’s restaurant offers panoramic views of the ocean and a menu that changes daily based on the freshest local ingredients available. For a truly memorable experience, guests can arrange a private dinner on the beach under the stars.

Dry Tortugas National Park Camping

On the other end of the luxury spectrum, but no less unique, is the camping experience at Dry Tortugas National Park. Located about 70 miles west of Key West, this remote national park is only accessible by boat or seaplane, making it one of the most isolated and unique places to stay in Florida.

Camping here is a true adventure. The campground is located on Garden Key, adjacent to the historic Fort Jefferson, a massive 19th-century fortress. There are only 10 campsites available, and they’re offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers must bring everything they need, including fresh water, as there are no services available on the island.

What makes this camping experience so extraordinary is the pristine natural environment. The night sky here is one of the darkest in Florida, offering spectacular stargazing opportunities. During the day, campers can explore Fort Jefferson, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, or simply relax on the white sandy beaches.

The isolation and beauty of Dry Tortugas make it feel like you’re staying on your own private island. It’s an unparalleled opportunity to disconnect from the modern world and connect with nature in one of Florida’s most unique locations.

Tech-Forward Accommodations: Futuristic Stays

YOTEL Miami

For those who love cutting-edge technology and modern design, YOTEL Miami offers one of the most unique places to stay in Florida. This futuristic hotel brings a slice of sci-fi to the Sunshine State with its innovative approach to hospitality.

From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice that YOTEL is different. Instead of a traditional check-in desk, guests use self-service kiosks for a quick and efficient process. Need help with your luggage? Meet YO2D2, the hotel’s robot concierge that can assist with luggage storage and delivery.

The rooms, or ‘cabins’ as YOTEL calls them, are compact but cleverly designed to maximize space. The signature feature is the SmartBed, which electronically adjusts from a flat bed to a couch at the touch of a button, creating more living space during the day. Each cabin is equipped with mood lighting, smart TVs, and super-fast Wi-Fi.

The tech features extend beyond the rooms. The hotel’s restaurant uses robotic arms to mix cocktails, and there’s a co-working space with state-of-the-art facilities for business travelers. Even the gym is high-tech, with virtual fitness classes available on-demand.

YOTEL Miami’s rooftop pool and bar offer stunning views of the city skyline, providing a perfect blend of futuristic comfort and classic Miami vibes. It’s an ideal choice for tech enthusiasts and forward-thinking travelers looking for unique places to stay in Florida.

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Wellness Retreats: Unique Health-Focused Stays

Carillon Miami Wellness Resort

For those seeking a health-focused getaway, the Carillon Miami Wellness Resort offers one of the most comprehensive and unique places to stay in Florida. This beachfront resort takes wellness to the next level, providing not just accommodation but a complete health and wellness experience.

The resort boasts one of the largest spas in Florida, spanning 70,000 square feet. But it’s not just the size that’s impressive; it’s the range of treatments and facilities available. Guests can experience a thermal hydrotherapy circuit, including a crystal steam room, experiential rain showers, a foot spa, and an igloo. The spa also features a salt float bath, where guests can experience weightlessness in a saturated salt solution.

The wellness offerings extend beyond the spa. The resort has a two-story indoor rock climbing wall, multiple fitness studios offering over 200 classes per week, and a medical wellness center providing services from acupuncture to nutrition counseling.

Accommodations at Carillon are spacious apartment-style suites, each with a full kitchen and a private balcony overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The resort’s restaurants focus on clean, nutritious eating without sacrificing flavor, with many ingredients sourced from local organic farms.

What makes Carillon truly unique is its comprehensive approach to wellness. Guests can create personalized wellness plans with the help of expert staff, addressing everything from fitness and nutrition to sleep health and stress management. It’s not just a place to stay; it’s a place to transform your health and well-being.

Movie-Themed Accommodations: Cinematic Experiences

Ever After Estate

For film buffs and fantasy lovers, the Ever After Estate near Orlando offers one of the most unique places to stay in Florida. This massive 62-acre estate features multiple houses and rooms, each decorated in a different movie or pop culture theme.

Imagine sleeping in a Harry Potter-themed room complete with a Hogwarts-style common room, or a Star Wars-inspired space that makes you feel like you’re aboard the Millennium Falcon. There’s a Pirates of the Caribbean room, a superhero suite, and even a tribute to classic arcade games.

But the themed experiences go beyond just the bedrooms. The estate features a ‘Neverland’ water park with multiple pools and water slides, a ‘Jurassic Park’ mini-golf course, and a ‘Field of Dreams’ baseball field. There’s also a ‘Monopoly’ game room, a ‘Drive-In’ movie theater, and numerous other themed entertainment spaces.

What makes the Ever After Estate truly unique is the level of detail in each themed area. From custom murals to authentic props and carefully chosen decor, every space is designed to fully immerse guests in their favorite films and stories.

The estate can accommodate large groups, making it perfect for family reunions, corporate retreats, or epic themed parties. It’s a place where both kids and adults can let their imaginations run wild and live out their cinematic fantasies.

Unconventional Transportation Lodgings: Planes, Trains, and Automobiles

The Highlander Train Car

For those who’ve ever dreamed of living the glamorous life of rail travel in the golden age of trains, The Highlander Train Car at the Highlands Trackside RV Resort in Lake Wales offers one of the most unique places to stay in Florida.

This beautifully restored 1950s train car has been converted into a luxurious vacation rental. The exterior maintains its vintage charm, while the interior has been updated with modern amenities without losing its mid-century appeal.

The Highlander features a full kitchen, a comfortable living area, and sleeping accommodations for up to six people. Large windows offer views of the surrounding landscape, just as they would have when the car was in service.

What makes this stay truly special is the attention to historical detail. The car is filled with railroad memorabilia and vintage decor, transporting guests back to the heyday of rail travel. Yet, modern comforts like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs ensure a comfortable stay.

The car’s location at an RV resort means guests also have access to community amenities like a swimming pool and clubhouse. It’s a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern convenience, offering a unique Florida stay for history buffs and train enthusiasts alike.

Auto Train Caboose

In Deland, Florida, train enthusiasts can take their love of rail even further by staying in a converted train caboose. This unique accommodation offers guests the chance to experience a piece of railroad history up close and personal.

The caboose has been lovingly restored and converted into a cozy living space. Despite its compact size, it includes a kitchenette, bathroom, and sleeping area. The highlight of the caboose is undoubtedly the cupola – the raised portion on top that once allowed train crew to observe the length of the train. Now, it offers guests panoramic views of the surrounding area.

The interior maintains many original features, including the conductor’s desk and some of the original signaling equipment. However, modern amenities such as air conditioning, a microwave, and a mini-fridge ensure a comfortable stay.

What makes this one of the most unique places to stay in Florida is its authentic railroad atmosphere combined with its unexpected location. The caboose sits in a tranquil setting, allowing guests to imagine the days when it traveled across the country while enjoying the peace and quiet of its stationary retirement.

Both The Highlander Train Car and the Auto Train Caboose offer more than just a place to sleep – they provide an immersive historical experience that transport guests back to the golden age of rail travel, making them truly unique places to stay in Florida.

Conclusion

Florida’s diverse landscape and rich history provide the perfect backdrop for an array of unique accommodations. From sleeping underwater to nesting in treehouses, from glamping under the stars to staying in historic landmarks, the Sunshine State offers no shortage of extraordinary places to rest your head. These unique places to stay in Florida not only provide comfort and shelter but also become an integral part of your vacation experience, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, an eco-warrior, or simply someone looking for something different, Florida has a unique accommodation to suit your tastes and preferences. By choosing one of these unconventional lodgings, you’re not just booking a place to sleep – you’re embarking on an adventure that begins the moment you check in.

So, the next time you’re planning a trip to Florida, think beyond the standard hotel room. Embrace the unusual, the quirky, and the extraordinary. After all, in a state known for its magic and wonder, why settle for ordinary when you can experience the truly unique? Your perfect, one-of-a-kind Florida stay awaits!