11 Treehouses You Can Actually Stay In
Each year, millions of Americans pack their bags, some heading off in search of adventure and discovery, others to find some much-needed peace and relaxation. For those looking to avoid the crowds and get back to basics, perhaps a less traditional lodging option is a better idea, especially one that playfully reinterprets the treehouse of your childhood, resulting in a whimsical — and slightly nostalgic — take on luxury accommodations. With eco-friendly construction and unique design elements, hotel owners have branched out and created fully functional, and sometimes quite posh, escapes in the sky. If you're ready to go out on a limb (pun intended), grab a friend with a sense of adventure — and, preferably, not a fear of heights — and get ready to literally elevate your next vacation!
1. Secluded Intown Treehouse
Location: Atlanta, GA
Price: From $375 per night
Where to book: Airbnb.com
With more than 230 guest reviews and an average rating of five stars — seriously — it's no surprise this treehouse was Airbnb's 2016 most wished-for listing worldwide. Located just outside Atlanta, the host estimates a drive from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) will take between 16 and 55 minutes, depending on the traffic.
The treehouse is split into three separate spaces — a living room, bedroom and deck. The bedroom has one rolling double bed that can be positioned inside the room or pushed onto a small deck that overlooks a nearby stream. Such tranquil and picturesque settings make this the perfect getaway for couples.
The simplicity of it all is what guests seem to enjoy the most. Despite its close proximity to downtown Atlanta, the property is quiet, secluded and relaxing. It's important to note that this treehouse is intended only for one or two guests. Any other requests must be made prior to booking and are rarely approved; the house is known and remembered for its tranquil aura, an impression the owners would like to maintain.
2. Treehouse Point
Location: Issaquah, WA, about 30 minutes from Seattle
Price: From $290–$390 per night, depending on the unit
Where to book: TreehousePoint.com
Treehouse Point is a collection of six different treehouses, each with a slightly different flavor. The largest, Upper Pond, features a double bed along with two twin bunks, while the remaining five cabins have just one double bed. Because of the cozy, quiet and romantic nature of the property, guests younger than 13, as well as dogs and other pets, are not permitted.
For guests requiring a private bathroom, Treehouse Point may not be for you. While only one of the treehouse units has a flush toilet and sink, all guests have access to three full-size shared bathrooms, which, of course, can be locked for privacy.
While the units themselves are quite small and only feature a couple of chairs and a small table, guests are encouraged to use the on-site lodge, which offers complimentary Wi-Fi, games, afternoon tea and snacks.
3. Secluded Upscale Treehouse
Location: Blue Ridge, GA
Price: From $210 per night
Where to book: VRBO.com
This 750-square-foot cabin is suspended over massive decks that feature panoramic views of the surrounding Blue Ridge forest. With enough sleeping room for up to six people, this treehouse is more suited for families or small groups.
Despite its large size, this house offers privacy via a second-floor loft containing a swinging bed, small seating area and flat screen TV.
This treehouse packs all the essentials, including a full kitchen with a convection microwave, refrigerator, dual electric burners and a coffee bar. The icing on the cake is the six-person hot tub with panoramic views of the forest.
4. Post Ranch Inn — Treehouse
Location: Big Sur, CA
Price: From $925 per night
Where to book: PostRanchInn.com
The Post Ranch Inn is an ultramodern, upscale retreat with properties nestled into the beautiful California coastline. The property does not charge a resort fee and includes a daily breakfast buffet, complimentary mini-bar with snacks and nonalcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi, valet parking and access to infinity and swimming pools.
The interior of this treehouse is almost as fantastic as the views outside it. With hotel-style amenities — including nightly turndown service, a wood-burning fireplace, organic linens, bathrobes and an indoor spa tub — guests will feel happily pampered.
It is important to note that because of recent landslides near Highway 1, the best way to access the property is by helicopter — the Escape Through the Skies package is available for guests staying two nights and includes round-trip transportation for $250 per person, while guests staying three or more nights will have their helicopter fees waived completely.
5. Rustic and Romantic Treehouse in Sonoma Wine Country
Location: Petaluma, CA
Price: From $208 per night
Where to book: GlampingHub.com
While guests of this treehouse will have to be in decent shape in order to brave its three-level staircase, the panoramic views of the California countryside make it all worth the effort. The house is split into two levels, with a small living room situated beneath a queen-size loft. After a long day of wine tasting, guests can enjoy a spacious deck, which is perfect for relaxing while watching the sunset.
The treehouse does have running water, however full bathrooms, showers and battery-powered lighting can be found in the nearby barn. Every morning, breakfast is served free of charge in the main house for guests.
6. Treehouse Above San Francisco Bay
Location: Burlingame, CA
Price: From $275 per night
Where to book: Airbnb.com
Located only 11 minutes from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), this minimalist treehouse is perfect for up to two guests who are looking to get away from the bustling metropolis. The design is everything you'd imagine, with multiple limbs of the 150-year-old oak passing through the home's interior.
While the house does have electricity, it lacks a kitchen, but don't worry — the host explains that local restaurants are able to deliver food right to the base of the treehouse.
Each morning, a light continental breakfast is provided. Enjoy your meal while watching the stunning sunrise.
7. The Original Treehouse Cottages
Location: Eureka Springs, AS
Price: From $159 per night
Where to book: TreeHouseCottages.com
Established in 1990, the Original Treehouse Cottages were designed and hand-built by its owners. Currently, the property features seven different treehouse accommodations split between two locations.
Each of the treehouses sits 22 to 26 feet off the ground, providing beautiful views of the surrounding pine forests. While each one varies slightly in terms of amenities, each comes with a full kitchenette, fireplace and Jacuzzi tub — the gold standard in cozy luxury.
The Lofty Lookout Treehouse appears to be a favorite, with its double-size heart-shaped Jacuzzi, wood-carved king-size bed and wraparound deck that comes with a gas barbecue grill. We would never be so presumptuous as to tell you where to take a second honeymoon, but if the shoe fits...
8. Glamping Treehouse in Santa Cruz
Location: Monterey Bay, CA
Price: From $148 per night
Where to book: GlampingHub.com
For guests in search of a luxury-style treehouse with all the essentials, this property is ideal. Equipped with all the basic necessities for cooking, as well as a full bathroom and shower, there isn't much reason to leave this intelligently designed, eco-friendly retreat.
After a long day of exploring, guests can soak in the private hot tub, located on the deck.
The best feature of the property is Grey, the house's outdoor cat, who makes a spectacle out of chasing mice around the place.
9. The Hummingbird
Location: Monteagle, TN
Price: From $105 per night
Where to book: VRBO.com
Located 45 minutes from Chattanooga, this charming gem is nestled deep in the lush Tennessee forest. Described by guests as quaint, secluded and relaxing, this treehouse is best suited for low-maintenance couples.
The interior of the home is designed in a rustic and whimsical theme. A foldout futon, which sleeps two, is perfect for curling up by the stone fireplace.
Only steps from the front entrance are a hot tub, outdoor fireplace and grill. Because of the small size of the nearest town, Monteagle, it's advisable to stock up on groceries and essentials prior to your arrival.
10. Dreamy Tropical Treehouse
Location: Fern Forest, Big Island of Hawaii
Price: From $200 per night
Where to book: Airbnb.com
This treehouse has an especially tropical flavor and is located just 10 miles from Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii. Nestled in lush jungle, the two-story treehouse is complete with a wraparound lanai, hanging bed and large sliding glass doors.
The property uses multiple sustainable design elements, including a system that collects natural rainwater, locally sourced materials and a red cinder pathway. The interior design makes use of natural lighting and white linens to create a "cloudlike aura" that guests claim is deeply rejuvenating.
This tropical escape is completely off the grid and generates its own solar electricity. It should be noted that due to its remote location, guests should expect to encounter insects and hear natural noises of Hawaiian wildlife throughout the night. Sleep easy though, as there are no snakes in Hawaii.
11. Free Spirit Spheres
Location: British Columbia, Canada
Price: From $175–$314 CAD (~$141–$353)
Where to book: FreeSpiritSpheres.com
While the last property isn't in the US, the unique spherical design of these suspended sleepers was too unique to keep off the list. The property is extremely remote and will require a nearly four-hour drive — and a ferry ride — from the nearest major city, Vancouver, in British Columbia.
Free Spirit Spheres has three units named Eve, Eryn and Melody, which are priced based on occupancy and the number of nights you stay.
Which of these treehouses just made your travel bucket list? Tell us about your favorites, below.
Featured image by Adam Crowley.