Looking for a unique getaway? Here are some of the coolest nontraditional hotels in the Northeast that will make you feel right at home. From hot tubs and saunas to mesmerizing views and ultra-cozy vibes, these alternative stays turn every trip into an experience.
Lushna Cabins
Lake Placid, Big Indian and Windham, New York
Lushna cabins originated in Europe and are among the most eye-catching stays in the Northeast. Eastwind Hotels, a collection of family-owned boutique hotels, now offers three locations, in Lake Placid, Big Indian and Windham. Each site is thoughtfully designed with special details — think wood barrel saunas, borrowable snowshoes and cozy fireplaces and fire pits (s’mores included). My hygge-meter is off the charts.
Covered Wagon Glamping
Paradise, Pennsylvania
Step back into the 19th century (with modern comfort) at Summit Hill Retreat’s covered wagons. Nestled in the woods, the property features three pioneer-style wagons spread across 40 acres of Amish countryside. Each wagon offers something unique — one sits alongside a creek, another boasts sweeping valley views and one includes a private outdoor hot tub. All are fully outfitted with heating, a kitchenette and a full bathroom.
Cottages and Glamping Tents
Portsmouth, Rhode Island
Weathervane Cottages offers eight cozy cottages and four glamping tents on the west side of Aquidneck Island, with sunset views over Narragansett Bay. This private, charming retreat feels worlds away yet remains close to Newport and Boston-area attractions. It’s an ideal beach escape any time of year, perfect for a day on the famous Cliff Walk followed by wine at sunset.
Lakeside Cabins
Berkshires, Massachusetts
The Prospect Berkshires’ new year-round wellness resort offers cabins overlooking magical Lake Prospect. With a focus on relaxation and well-being, you may never want to leave — despite the area’s skiing, shopping and nearby attractions. The cabin views alone are reason enough to stay put, along with perks like lakeside saunas (followed by a cold plunge, if you dare), ice fishing, ice skating and swimming in the heated pool.
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Book NowCabin and Glamping Retreat
Woodstock, New Hampshire
Lumen Nature Retreat, in the White Mountains, offers Nordic cabins, romantic A-frame tents and spacious safari tents (only the cabins are available in the winter). Each stay feels like a bedroom tucked into the woods, surrounded by river and meadow views. A climate-controlled bathhouse with hot showers and toiletries is just a few-minutes’ walk from each site — so don’t forget a flashlight. The 20-acre property invites exploration, or you can stay put and enjoy the sauna and luxe amenities.
Treehouses and Hobbit Houses
Springvale, Maine
Two words: hobbit house. Step into J.R.R. Tolkien’s fantasy world at Littlefield Retreat’s Fern Hollow Hobbit House. Despite the name, this stay features an 11-foot ceiling, heated floors, and a fireplace for ultimate coziness. The property includes five bookable stays in total, two hobbit houses and three treehouses, each with a private hot tub, patio and dock on Littlefield Pond.
Mount Snow Yurt
Dover, Vermont
Listen closely … this is your sign to plan a #girlsTrip. Mount Snow Yurt is a one-of-a-kind stay in the Green Mountains, close to skiing and hiking trails. The massive custom-built yurt features a wraparound deck, a sunken seven-person hot tub, a firepit and a sauna. Inside, you’ll find a full kitchen, pool table, cozy wood-burning stove, board games and endless views.
Themed Cottages
Morris, Connecticut
Winvian is a AAA Five Diamond designated property featuring 18 uniquely themed cottages designed by 15 different architects. Highlights include the Woodlands Cottage, with indoor tree trunks and a waterfall, and the Maritime Cottage, which channels a romantic lighthouse feel with a sky mural on the vaulted ceiling. With so many distinctive designs, you’ll want to return again and again. Enjoy horseback riding and hiking at the nearby White Memorial Conservation Center.
Barns and Cottages
Cape May, New Jersey
Beach Plum Farm is a stunning 62-acre working farm in West Cape May offering luxurious barn and cottage stays. Its Amish-built barns are beautifully constructed, with handcrafted woodwork and scenic views, creating a peaceful, design-forward retreat just 2 miles from Cape May’s historic downtown. You may even be tempted to stay in and book an in-cottage spa treatment.
Rooftop Sauna and Hot Tub
Brooklyn, New York
The William Vale stands out for one major reason: Every one of its 183 rooms and suites includes a balcony. While this AAA Four Diamond designated property is the most traditional hotel on this list, its amenities are anything but. Head to the fourth floor terrace for a private spa experience, featuring a panoramic barrel sauna and cedar hot tub. Book a combined session and enjoy a complimentary hot toddy from Little Fino all-day bar and cafe.
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Which of these cozy hotels would you like to stay in? Tell us in the comments.
Featured image: Jeannette Zinno and her dog relax in a lushna at Eastwind Hotel.
Jeanette Zinno is a Brooklyn-based travel writer, entrepreneur and on-air TV expert with a passion for style-forward adventures. Her work has appeared in AAA Northeast, Travel + Leisure, Glamour, Lonely Planet, Good Housekeeping, Shape, Budget Travel and more, where she blends beauty and style tips with smart, accessible travel advice. She’s also a co-founder at Leland Eating & Drinking House in Prospect Heights and was featured on Food Network’s “Me or the Menu.” Off the road, you’ll find her playing tennis or volunteering at an animal rescue. Follow along on Instagram @jeanettezinno.
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