7 spectacular stateside tiny house rentals that are big on character
My first experience staying in a tiny house rental for vacation was in 2017, at one of the outposts of Postcard Cabins, formerly known as Getaway. As we drove up to the site at Mount Adams, Washington, I had no idea what to expect. Would the space be comfortable enough for my husband and me? How would we cook and where would we eat? Was there storage for our luggage? By the end of our weekend, I was smitten with the idea of finding more tiny homes for rent.
Tiny house rentals offer a minimalist blueprint, which maximizes space and functionality in a compact setting. Because the focus is on simple living, they're typically eco-conscious with the intention of reducing their impact on the environment. They're also more cost-effective and affordable compared to larger vacation home rentals.
Oftentimes, tiny house rentals are set in rural environments where visitors can enjoy being surrounded by nature. The idea is to spend the majority of your time outside; you're apt to find outdoor enhancements, such as hammocks, patios, and fire pits.
Advertisement
Most tiny homes for rent include a sleeping area, bathroom, and kitchenette. They also often have smartly designed storage for your weekender bags and other belongings. Whimstay, a booking platform, is an excellent resource for finding tiny homes for rent. You can choose from a mirror tiny home in Texas or an A-frame cabin with a hot tub in Idaho, and many more. Here are seven of our favorite micro getaway cabins. Tenzen Springs + Cabins, Stevenson, Washington
Tenzen is a spectacular option for tiny house rentals in Washington – Photo courtesy of Kimberly Stevenson Photography
Tenzen Springs + Cabins spans 100 pastoral acres, situated atop geothermal hot springs. The property merges traditional Japanese onsen, or hot springs, with Scandinavian spa culture. Each cabin measures a total of 850 square feet, including both indoor and outdoor space.
Guests get access to a private geothermal soaking tub and an indoor steam sauna shower. A large outdoor deck is the perfect setting for spending some quiet time immersed in nature. Additional cabin amenities include a kitchenette, a sitting area, and luxe spa robes. You may even see a herd of elk, grazing in the meadow in the mornings.
Advertisement
Ofland Escalante, Escalante, Utah
Ofland Escalante's tiny homes for rent have floor-to-ceiling views of the natural surroundings – Photo courtesy of Kim + Nash Finley
Ofland Escalante, located within the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, means "of the land." Spread across 22 acres, the boutique property has 32 accommodations ranging from micro cabins to vintage Airstreams and campsites. The cabins feature floor-to-ceiling glass walls, surrounding you with spectacular views of the landscape. Deluxe cabins have private bathrooms in addition to outdoor showers and a cozy sitting area.
The retro resort also features a pool and hot tub, as well as movie nights at its drive-in movie theater. Another plus: Bryce Canyon National Park is only 45 minutes away by car. Two Capes Lookout, Cloverdale, Oregon
Mirror cabins offer panoramic views at Two Capes Lookout – Photo courtesy of Karolina Pora / Two Capes Lookout
Two Capes Lookout features 15 geodesic domes and four mirror cabins across 58 acres. Straddling Cape Kiwanda and Cape Lookout, it offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Surrounded by a Sitka spruce forest, the tiny homes for rent showcase reflective floor-to-ceiling windows on three sides, offering panoramic views. They also boast heated floors, a luxurious bathroom, and an outdoor patio, where you can sip coffee in the mornings as you watch the sunrise.
The geodesic domes are nicely spaced out, each furnished with a comfortable bed, desk, and workspace. Guests staying in the domes have access to a communal bathhouse. The beach is a short 10-minute walk away, and numerous hiking trails are within driving distance.
Advertisement
Postcard Cabins, multiple locations
Postcard Cabins offers tiny house rentals across the U.S. – Photo courtesy of Postcard Cabins
Postcard Cabins has 29 locations across the U.S., all within a two-hour drive of major cities. It's a great way for city-dwellers to escape the hustle and bustle for some time out in nature. The well-designed tiny homes for rent feature a comfy sleeping nook, bathroom, and small kitchenette. And great news: You won't have to sacrifice creature comforts, such as air-conditioning and heat.
The outdoor area features a picnic table and a fire pit. Bunk cabins include an additional sleeping area and are ideal for families traveling with children. Saltwater Farm, Friday Harbor, Washington
Saltwater Farm's tiny house rentals are surrounded by nature – Photo courtesy of Bradley Radlab
Nestled on 162 acres on San Juan Island, each tiny home for rent on Saltwater Farm was hand-built, using a majority of wood salvaged from trees on the property. Owners Andrew and Merriss Waters focus on sustainability and eco-conscious initiatives, such as incorporating solar power and implementing water conservation measures on their property.
Solar panels power the event barn and the inn, while water comes from the island's groundwater reservoir. I highly recommend booking Stag's Leap cabin, which is pet-friendly and features a private cedar hot tub on the back deck.
Advertisement
Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins, Asheville, North Carolina
Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins offers comfortable A-frame tiny house rentals – Photo courtesy of Colby Rabon
Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins is named for the French Broad River that runs alongside the campground. It's one of the few rivers in the world that flows from south to north, which is considered the 'wrong way."
Set in an urban environment in Asheville, the 16 tiny A-frame cabins come with mini fridges and microwaves. Deluxe cabins have large decks and spacious sitting areas. The River Lodge serves as a gathering space for relaxation, and it also houses Canteen, a grab-and-go market. Lopez Farm Cottages, Lopez Island, Washington
Lopez Farm Cottages offers cozy accommodations – Photo courtesy of Lopez Farm Cottages
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Los Angeles Times
6 hours ago
- Los Angeles Times
Can a star Venice chef make lightning strike twice with his izakaya dream project?
If you were dining out in Venice late last decade, you knew this place — in the thick of Abbot Kinney Boulevard's luxury-cool retail density. MTN (pronounced 'Mountain') closed five years ago and, with a few pivotal modifications, has now returned as RVR (yes, pronounced 'River'). Being at RVR doesn't feel like experiencing déjà vu so much as streaming the surprise new season of a show we all thought had been canceled forever. Its second life turns out to be shockingly good, thanks especially to the kitchen's brilliance with vegetables. We knew MTN as an experimental izakaya that opened in 2017, dripping in hipness. It was the passion project of Travis Lett, the culinary architect behind Gjelina and hybrid food-hall Gjusta whose obsessions with relentless seasonality, global flavor combinations and a brand of casual, photogenic perfection gave Millennials an up-to-date definition of California cuisine. MTN's interpretation of Japanese cuisine closed a circle for Lett, a blond with surfer-model good looks who grew up in New Jersey. His father had spent time in Japan during his military career, and his parents had embraced the macrobiotic diet philosophy that surged through the United States in the 1970s. Scene-wise, MTN was apace with that top-of-the-world L.A. era: a magnet for the setters and chasers of trends, servers who threw attitude in the melee and could get away with it, the music from a turntable often inaudible in the deafening clamor. The cooking could pierce the noise. I remember teetering on a window seat, absorbed in Japanese sweet potatoes glossed with miso butter and covered with snipped scallions and bonito flakes swaying in the heat. Clam broth for one ramen variation arrived so sea-sweet it could fool you into thinking ocean water was quaffable. Two years into the restaurant's run, Lett separated from his Gjelina Group business partners, and MTN closed early into the pandemic. Gjelina and Gjusta carry on of course, still beacons your friends just off a plane want to race first for their California vibe check. But then last spring, the big announcement: Lett, with different investors, had reclaimed the MTN space for a second coming of his izakaya. RVR opened in October, recalibrated for a new decade. From across the street the building looks the same: Asymmetric, modernist exterior walls with a finish that resembles grainy wood. In another incarnation it could house a niche textile museum. Inside, the restaurant's walls have been lightened. A retractable roof has been replaced with panels that let in soft, filtered sunshine; the dining room fades to candlelight-dim when night falls. The tone of the hospitality is notably warmer. Overall, the whole operation comes off as more grounded, and ultimately more appealing. MTN walked so RVR could run. To eat in Los Angeles is to know the ways both classicists and individualists claim the word 'izakaya.' Show up to RVR itching to parse the traditionalism of its dishes and you're probably not going to have a great time. It's Venice. It's Lett. Small plates of chicken thigh karaage drizzled with chile honey, shrimp dumplings beautifully rounded in the gold-ingot wonton fold, roasted black cod and grilled kanpachi collar start at $15 to $20 and go from there. A meal adds up quickly. The value is in how the ingredients sing. This is where centering the region's finest produce comes into play. Lett brought in Ian Robinson as RVR's partner and executive chef. Robinson previously ran a Toronto restaurant called Skippa that specialized in regional dishes of Kyushu island in southern Japan. They're joined by chefs who previously worked with Lett for years, including Cean Hayashi Geronimo and, as of June, chef de cuisine Pedro Aquino, who co-led the Gjelina Group's short-lived Oaxacan restaurant Valle in the same space after MTN closed. The team's cohesion is important: There's some ur-Gjelina alchemy at work here in the plant realms. Even early in RVR's run the crew was teasing the Technicolor out of winter: They'd layer, for example, ripe, honeyed Fuyu persimmons in pinwheel patterns under rounds of lilac-purple daikon, their earthy-sweet differences further contrasted by crunchy furikake and torn shreds of dark-green shiso. Now, in the holy season of summer? Floral apricots step in for the usual cucumber in a take on sunomono, stung with tosazu (vinegar-based dressing smoky with katsuobushi) and aromatic accents of pickled Fresno chiles, ginger and crushed Marcona almonds. Tiny tomatoes rupture on the tongue, sharpened with myoga and blood-red sweet potato vinegar from the Kyoto prefecture and needing nothing else than salt and peppery olive oil. Costata Romanesco zucchini lands on the grill, its signature ribbing still visible under char and hacked on the diagonal; rubbed with a blend of spices that nod to Japanese curry; smeared with playful, mysteriously citrusy curry leaf aioli; and covered in a punchy furikake made with of crushed pine nuts, shallots and nori. For all the Southern California mythologizing around seasonality, few menus in Los Angeles cast produce in feature roles year-round. With technical command and on-their-feet imagination, the RVR chefs are pulling off the city's most inspired plant-centered cooking. Vegetables comprise the menu's largest and most compelling section, but there's plenty more that entices. Hand rolls like kanpachi wrapped with avocado, slivered cucumber, spicy-green yuzu kosho and shiso, or rock cod in tempura slicked with tartar sauce and piqued with daikon radish sprouts, delight with their very Californian cleverness. I keep coming back for duck meatball tsukune, at once fluffy and dense and served with head-clearing hot mustard; smoky-sweet Monterey bay squid, matched with a revolving mix of herbs and acidic punctuations that always coalesce; and pan-fried pork and cabbage gyoza crowned with a crackling, lacy dumpling 'skirt.' Among several ramen options, right now I'm favoring the springy noodles with Dungeness crab and corn. The viscous broth gently builds flavors, prominently echoing the two lead elements. However the idea of an izakaya may be translated, the drinking component is crucial. Among cocktails: fresh-fruit shochu highballs, plum-accented negronis and freezer martinis. Suntory premium malt runs on draught. Six styles of sake number among options by the glass, as do plenty of hot or iced Japanese teas and a fun, smooth cherry-vanilla soda made by the bar staff. More than not, though, I'm drinking off-dry Rieslings or rich, slightly oxidized whites from more obscure corners of France because wine director Maggie Glasheen is in the house. She's one of those enthusiasts who, if you show interest, gathers several bottles of wine in her arms and brings them tableside to discuss. Each sound like a mini-adventure, and Glasheen always swings back around to make sure you're happy with the one you chose. Nearly 10 months in for RVR, prime-time dinner reservations remain maddeningly competitive. A few months ago, the restaurant began serving weekend brunch as well. Before word spread, one could stroll in at 12:30 p.m. on a Sunday and savor a silky rolled omelet and one large, chewy-crisp black sesame pancake alongside the moment's sugar snap peas glossed with sour-sweet ume. Now brunch too is catching on, so it's safer to book a week or so out, particularly if you want to request a place on the breezy rooftop patio that launched when the weather warmed. It could — no, it should — be the new first-stop meal your vibe-seeking friends demand as soon as they're out of LAX.
Los Angeles Times
7 hours ago
- Los Angeles Times
Three Escapes to Get That Fall Foliage Fix
We've all seen the pictures – that first hint of autumn color, and suddenly your social media is flooded with jealousy-inducing images of New England and upstate New York. For Southern Californians who are sick of endless summer, those first goldenrod and umber tones can make anyone want to get away. And, while those East Coast destinations are lovely, the savvy traveler is already planning right now to be ahead of the curve. Instead of regular ol' Massachusetts or Vermont, they're looking for a seasonal pop of color without the crowded roads and predictable itineraries. What those travel savants are recommending are utterly gorgeous destinations that are all about sophisticated leaf-peeping and a whole lot more. These trips are for the person who wants to be discovering beauty in real time and having an amazing escape, not just watching it unfold on a feed after everyone else has already been there. Here are the three foliage-filled escapes that will give you the color rush you've been looking for. A quintessential fall trip doesn't have to be a cross-country drive to and through the Northeast. One can have an autumn escape in the West as well exploring the majestic landscapes of Wyoming. This is that unforgettable fall foliage painted upon a uniquely rugged, dramatic and Western landscape. The experience here is all about the stunning contrast: Golden hues of aspen trees pop like fire against the jagged backdrop of snow-dusted Teton mountain peaks. The real beauty of this destination is that it marries exhilarating outdoor activity with a deeply luxurious base. You can spend your days on a scenic drive along the Snake River, where the yellows and golds are so brilliant they practically glow, or take a peaceful hike to a secluded spot. For those iconic and photo-worthy views, make sure to visit Oxbow Bend and Schwabacher's Landing, especially in the early morning light when the reflections in the water are simply perfect. The wildlife viewing in the fall is also a major draw, offering the chance to see elk and bison against a vibrant backdrop. After a day of exploring, the town of Jackson Hole provides a wonderful place to rest one's head. Think cozy-yet-luxe lodges with fireplaces, world-class restaurants serving sophisticated cuisine, and quiet bars where you can enjoy a perfectly crafted cocktail. This is an escape that feels both active and calming, a journey that reconnects you with nature in a way that is utterly grand. If your idea of fall perfection is a blend of natural beauty and profound cultural depth, then Kyoto is your answer. Japan's koyo, or 'fall color,' season is as celebrated as its springtime cherry blossoms, and Kyoto is the absolute epicenter of it all. This isn't about big and sweeping vistas – it's about the exquisite detail of a single leaf falling upon a moss garden, all set in contrast to a setting sun illuminating a golden-toned hillside of Japanese maples. And Kyoto is a feast for all the senses, not just sight! The sophisticated traveler can experience this by embracing its renowned hospitality and culinary scene. Imagine a serene walk through a Zen garden, followed by an elegant kaiseki dinner, a traditional multi-course meal that is an art form in itself. Those colors can be seen throughtout the city, but for truly special views, seek out temples like Eikando, known for its night illumination, or Tofuku-ji with its famous bridge offering a stunning vista to view the color. This trip is an adventure in culture, food and Japanese history. You can book a private tea ceremony, view a geisha performance and top it all off with a stay at a top-tier hotel like the Ritz-Carlton Kyoto or Aman Kyoto, where every detail is meticulously considered. Want a fall straight out of a storybook, head into the heart of Germany. The Bavarian Alps come alive in a magical way, with historic castles and charming alpine villages set against a backdrop of golden and auburn forests. It's a journey that feels both deeply romantic and incredibly cozy. The visual highlight is, of course, the legendary Neuschwanstein Castle, which looks even more starkly dramatic and beautiful when surrounded by a sea of colorful trees. While the castle is a must-see, there's real magic in the region at large: for example, simply taking a scenic drive winding through the countryside – each turn reveals a new and picture-perfect view. For a unique fall foliage viewpoint, take to the water: a boat ride on Lake Königssee offers breathtaking reflections of the trees, with a snootful of cool alpine air. The lodging in this region perfectly complements the fairytale vibe. We're not talking about rustic, roughing-it accommodations. The discerning traveler can find high-end-yet-localish inns or luxurious resorts like Schloss Elmau and Das Kranzbach. Both offer gourmet dining, serene spa services and postcard-style uninterrupted views of the Alps. This is an escape that blends historic grandeur and refined culture with the comfort and charm of a true alpine retreat. These trips provide a compelling alternative to the classic East Coast fall (though don't let us stop you from going there, it's also beautiful too!) Taking an escape this fall can provide just the right kind of trip away to escape that forever summer feeling. So, get ahead of the crowds and make everyone jealous with those first fall photos on your social media feed.
Time Business News
a day ago
- Time Business News
Guided Anime and Pop Culture Tours in Japan: Perfect for Teen Travellers
Japan's influence on global pop culture is undeniable. From the colourful worlds of anime and manga to iconic video games and fashion trends, Japan remains a dream destination for fans worldwide. For teenagers, deeply immersed in these fandoms, visiting Japan isn't only about sightseeing; it's about stepping into the stories and characters they love. Guided tours focused on anime and pop culture make this experience safer, more structured, and super engaging. This article discusses why these tours are ideal for teen travellers, highlights top destinations, and explains what special experiences are included. You'll find tips on how these tours balance fun with safety, making them a perfect choice for a memorable Japan family holiday or even luxury tours tailored for younger adventurers. Travelling in a foreign country can be exciting but also overwhelming for teens. Guided tours take away much of the stress. They provide a clear itinerary, professional guides who speak multiple languages, and a group setting that feels safe and social. With a structured plan, young travellers are less likely to get lost or overwhelmed. Guides are enthusiastic fans themselves, so they can share insider tips and stories that make the experience more authentic. For teens, it's not only about ticking off sights, it's about connecting with their interests in a way that feels natural and fun. Japan is packed with places that feel like stepping into the pages of a manga or the scenes of an anime. Here are some must-visit spots: Themed cafes allow you to dine with your favourite characters, countless stores selling rare manga and collectables, and gaming centres where you can try the latest Japanese arcade games. Ikebukuro's Sunshine City Home to the Pokémon Centre and JUMP World, this area is perfect for fans of Pokémon, One Piece, and other popular series. The Pokémon Centre offers exclusive merchandise, and JUMP World features attractions based on manga from Shonen Jump. It's colourful and lively, with plenty of photo opportunities. Kyoto's International Manga Museum For those interested in manga history and art, this museum is a treasure. It offers hands-on activities like manga drawing workshops and a vast library of manga from around the world. It's a more relaxed and educational experience that deepens understanding of manga's cultural roots. Osaka's Nipponbashi (Den-Den Town) Often called Osaka's version of Akihabara, this district is packed with anime shops, cosplay stores, and themed cafes. It's slightly less crowded but equally vibrant, perfect for exploring at a comfortable pace. Beyond sightseeing, guided tours feature unique activities that bring pop culture to life: Voice Acting Workshops : Learn how Japanese voice actors bring characters to life. : Learn how Japanese voice actors bring characters to life. Cosplay Experiences : Dress up as your favourite characters and take professional photos. : Dress up as your favourite characters and take professional photos. Anime Studio Visits: Some tours include behind-the-scenes tours of animation studios, offering a rare glimpse into how your favourite shows are made. Some tours include behind-the-scenes tours of animation studios, offering a rare glimpse into how your favourite shows are made. Themed Attractions: Tickets to iconic spots like the Ghibli Museum or Universal Studios Japan add extra magic to the trip. These experiences are designed to be fun and memorable, giving teens a chance to actively participate rather than observe. Tour operators tailor these experiences for young travellers. Activities are curated to suit different age groups, with plenty of downtime to relax or explore independently. Multilingual guides ensure clear communication, and schedules are balanced to avoid fatigue. Support for dietary restrictions and mobility needs is standard. Many tours include accommodations that meet safety standards, with chaperones or group leaders overseeing the itinerary. Teens can learn about Japanese art, storytelling traditions, and the history behind their favourite pop culture phenomena. Some tours even include basic Japanese language lessons, which can be a fun way to practice new phrases in real-life settings. Understanding the cultural context enhances appreciation and gives teens a richer experience. Tour groups include experienced chaperones or guides who keep an eye on everyone. Emergency contacts are provided upfront, and accommodations are carefully selected for comfort and security. Rules ensure well-being, like designated meeting points and guidelines for behaviour. Parents can feel reassured knowing their teens are in a supervised environment that encourages independence but also prioritises safety. Most guided pop culture tours last around 5 to 7 days, striking a good balance between immersion and fatigue. Small groups, usually 10 to 15 participants, ensure personalised attention and a more relaxed pace, which is important for teenagers. This length allows teens to explore multiple districts, participate in special activities, and still have free time to relax or explore. Guided anime and pop culture tours in Japan offer teens a unique, safe, and immersive way to explore the country's vibrant creative scene. These tours combine fun activities, cultural insights, and guidance, making them an excellent entry point into international travel. Whether it's a Japanese family holiday or part of a tailored Japan luxury tour, they're perfect for young fans eager to see their favourite worlds come alive. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
