10 Best Vacation Rentals in Dallas of 2024

Dallas gets an average of 22.5 million people visiting every year, whether they want to check out the Dallas World Trade Center, catch a show at the local performing arts center, swing by the JFK Memorial, or stroll through Old East Dallas. And of course, there’s always fun to be had munching on BBQ and catching a Dallas Cowboys game!

Now, while many people who head to Dallas stay at hotels, vacation homes might just be a better pick. With a house rental, you get all the comforts of home such as a full kitchen and roomy bathroom. Plus, they’re sometimes a bit cheaper than hotels.

From rentals in prime Dallas locations to accommodations on the luxury side — read this guide to find where the best places to stay are.

Top 10 Best Vacation Rentals in Dallas of 2024

1. Sunset House – Luxury Pool and Hot Tub Retreat (Best Overall)
2. Opulence, Uptown Dallas (Best City Accommodation)
3. Corporate Suites Butler Brothers (Best for Business Trips)
4. Abode Dallas (Best Home Away From Home)
5. Dallas Farmers Market Area (Best Rustic Vacation Rental)
6. Cityplace bnb (Best Airbnb Style in Dallas)
7. The City Escape (Best with Free Attraction Tickets)
8. Lovely Dallas Flat Near Downtown (Best Affordable Vacation Rental)
9. Dallas Luxury Modern House by Dallas Love Airport (Best Premium Vacation Rental)
10. Love for Dallas: Close to Deep Ellum & AAC! (Best for Art Enthusiasts)

10 Best Vacation Rentals in Dallas

Our picks for the top vacation rentals in Dallas are based on the location, available facilities and amenities, interior and decor, and the overall size. We’ve put together a list that will help you find the perfect Dallas vacation rental.

1. Best Overall – Sunset House – Luxury Pool and Hot Tub Retreat

Located in the heart of Sunset Avenue, Dallas, Sunset House is a luxury retreat with a breathtaking outdoor pool. This vacation rental features spacious air-conditioned rooms with a private balcony and a fast WiFi connection. Guests also enjoy having their private pool, a lush garden, and complimentary private parking. 

What makes Sunset House famous among tourists is its ideal location. It’s near the Sixth Floor Museum, Dallas Zoo, and the famous Dallas Holocaust Museum. 

Big families can also fit in this vacation rental, with three bedrooms, a kitchenette with an oven and a dishwasher, a flat-screen TV, and 2 bathrooms with luxurious toiletries and towels. The bed linens also exude elegance. 

Better yet, this is one of Dallas’s pet friendly vacation rentals, ideal for families who want to bring their fur babies along as well. It’s the perfect vacation rental for big groups who want a luxurious stay without being spread out among various hotel rooms.

2. Best City Accommodation – Opulence, Uptown Dallas

Another one of our recommended vacation rentals is Opulence in Uptown Dallas. This is an apartment rental that comes with free WiFi, a rooftop pool, and private parking spaces for its guests.

It also has one of the best city views right from the private balcony. Nearby tourist attractions include the American Airlines Center, Dallas World Aquarium, Dallas Holocaust Museum, and Sixth Floor Museum. 

Opulence has a single bedroom with a private bathroom, clean bed linen and towels, a dining area, flat-screened TV with free streaming services, and a fully-equipped kitchen. All rooms are non-smoking. The outdoor pool also has sun loungers for guests who desire to sunbathe at the poolside. 

Plus, it’s got a BBQ zone if you want to have a cook out with the family. If you’re after vacation home deals that come with extra creature comforts, this is a great choice.

3. Best for Business Trips – Corporate Suites Butler Brothers

Business trips are also frequent in Dallas, one of Texas’s busiest cities. And if you happen to be looking for accommodation to fit your busy life, head to Corporate Suites by Butler Brothers. Aside from its ideal location, at this apartment rental you get to enjoy an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a smoke-free apartment building. There’s also a business center for your work needs. 

Corporate Suites also offer free valet parking services and a stable WiFi connection in public areas. All apartments feature kitchens with refrigerators, a stovetop, a microwave, and an oven. You can also catch up with missed shows with the apartment’s LED TV, which has digital channels and streaming services. 

There’s also washing machines so that if you’ll be staying in Dallas Texas for a long period of time, you don’t have to worry about repeating your clothes.

When you’ve got down time from your business duties, you can also check out nearby attractions like the Dallas Reunion Tower Observation Deck and the Dallas World Aquarium. 

4. Best Home Away From Home – Abode Dallas

With its location in the city center, Abode Dallas will make you feel like you are living at home in its welcoming apartments and suites. The onsite parking is convenient, allowing you to leave your cars and visit the Dallas City Hall and Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center – all just a few steps away. 

Abode Dallas features a 2-bedroom rental with hypo-allergenic bedding, a sitting area, air conditioning, and a free WiFi connection. The flat-screen TV also features streaming services, and the private bathroom has a rainfall shower head and complimentary towels, toiletries, and shampoo. 

Abode Dallas also has a kitchen with a refrigerator, oven, microwave, coffee maker, and electric kettle. The closet is also spacious, ideal if you’re thinking of staying for several days.  Some other popular amenities include the rainfall shower and laundry facilities. There’s also free parking so that you can leave your car in the building while you’re out exploring for the day.

And of course, it’s close to several restaurants and must see attractions, such as the Old Dallas Central Library and Perot Museum of Nature and Science. Plus, there’s an indoor play area so that if you’re traveling with little ones, the entire family can have some fun.

5. Best Rustic Vacation Rental – Dallas Farmers Market Area

One of the most rustic vacation rentals is one in the Dallas Farmers Market Area, located in central Dallas, within walking distance from the Dallas Holocaust Museum and John Fitzgerald Kennedy Memorial. This vacation rental offers air-conditioned rooms, free WiFi, and amenities like a coffee machine and oven. Guests also get free private parking. 

The spacious apartment features a private bathroom, one massive bedroom, and clean bed linen and towels. There’s also a living room with a TV for streaming. 

Other nearby attractions include the Dallas World Aquarium, AT&T Performing Arts Center, and the Sixth Floor Museum. Having these popular sites so close make it a great spot for your next vacation.

6. Best Airbnb Style in Dallas – Cityplace bnb

If you’re looking for an Airbnb-style vacation rental, check out Cityplace Bnb in Dallas. This aparthotel offers self-parking services, free WiFi in public spaces, and laundry facilities. You also get a kitchen with an oven, a microwave, and a refrigerator in every apartment you rent. 

Tourists rave about the rental’s comfortable memory foam bed, premium bedding, and spacious sitting area. This is also one of Dallas’s pet friendly homes, so if you’re traveling with dogs, cats, and other critters, you can bring them along without worrying about hiking up the average nightly price of your holiday.

Popular nearby attractions include Dallas World Aquarium, American Airlines Center, and Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center. 

7. Best with Free Attraction Tickets – The City Escape

The City Escape is also a favorite vacation rental in Dallas because it grants you free tickets to the famous and world-class Dallas Arboretum. Guests can enjoy a private pool, complimentary parking space, and free WiFi in all areas. 

The one-bedroom apartment rooms are all equipped with air-condition, a living room with flat-screen TV, a kitchen with an oven and a dishwasher, and a private bathroom with a working hair dryer. You may also use the complimentary towels and bed linen. And if you want an additional privacy, all apartment rooms have private entrances. 

Nearby attractions to the City Escape include the Sixth Floor Museum,Dallas Holocaust Museum, and Dallas Love Field Airport. 

8. Best Affordable Vacation Rental – Lovely Dallas Flat Near Downtown

The Lovely Dallas Flat Near Downtown offers a blend of convenience and comfort for guests looking to explore Dallas. Situated within easy reach of the city’s key attractions, this accommodation is near the Dallas World Aquarium, Sixth Floor Museum, and the John Fitzgerald Kennedy Memorial. 

The flat itself is designed for comfort, featuring air-conditioning, private parking on site, and complimentary WiFi. With its strategic location, the Lovely Dallas Flat combines essential living amenities with the ease of access to Dallas’s vibrant cultural and historical sites.

Spacious apartments have separate bedrooms, a private bathroom, and a kitchen with a dishwasher and dining area. The living room is also massive and comes with a flat-screen TV. 

9. Best Premium Vacation Rental – Dallas Luxury Modern House by Dallas Love Airport

The Dallas Luxury Modern House by Dallas Love Airport is a premium accommodation that stands out for its modern design and extensive amenities, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a luxurious stay in Dallas. This property boasts four bedrooms and three bathrooms, providing ample space for guests, alongside three living rooms equipped with TVs and cable channels, offering various entertainment options. 

A fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven caters to guests’ culinary needs, whether for a short stay or an extended visit. Additional conveniences such as towels, bed linen, and a hairdryer enhance the comfort of the stay. 

Reviewers have consistently lauded the cleanliness, the tranquil location, and the attentiveness of the host, underlining the property’s commitment to ensuring a pleasant and hassle-free experience for its guests. Its proximity to Dallas Love Airport adds to its convenience, making it an attractive option for travelers.

10. Best for Art Enthusiasts – Love for Dallas: Close to Deep Ellum & AAC! 

The Love for Dallas: Close to Deep Ellum & AAC! rental offers a unique experience for visitors seeking to explore Dallas’s vibrant arts scene and sports events. This property is conveniently located from the Dallas World Aquarium, Sixth Floor Museum, and the John Fitzgerald Kennedy Memorial, making it a great starting point for tourists. 

Designed with comfort and convenience in mind, the air-conditioned accommodation includes essential amenities such as private parking on site and complimentary WiFi. Its location, close to Deep Ellum and the American Airlines Center, makes it particularly appealing for those looking to dive into Dallas’s music, arts, and sports scenes

The apartment had two bedrooms, a kitchen area with an oven and a dishwasher, a living room with a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom. You can also use the washing machine for laundry, and beds are covered with luxurious bedding. 

What to Look For When Choosing A Vacation Rental in Dallas

Choosing the right vacation rental in Dallas involves considering several key factors to ensure your stay is comfortable and convenient. Here are five essential points to guide you in making an informed decision:

Location and Accessibility

The location of your vacation rental significantly influences your overall experience. Look for properties in neighborhoods that align with your trip’s purpose, whether you’re in town for leisure, business, or a bit of both. 

For instance, a rental in areas close to Deep Ellum or the Bishop Arts District might be ideal if you’re interested in Dallas’s vibrant arts scene and nightlife. On the other hand, staying near the Dallas Convention Center or in the Downtown area could offer more convenience if you’re attending a conference or event.

Consider the rental’s proximity to public transportation, major attractions, and essential services like grocery stores and restaurants to ensure ease of travel and access to amenities.

Amenities and Facilities

Amenities can make or break your vacation rental experience. Before booking, carefully review the list of amenities to ensure the rental meets all your needs. Essential amenities include Wi-Fi, parking, a fully equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, and air conditioning—crucial for Dallas’s warmer months. 

If you’re traveling with family or looking for relaxation, amenities like a swimming pool, backyard, or entertainment systems can add extra enjoyment to your stay. For those planning longer stays, consider rentals offering cleaning services or fitness centers to maintain your comfort and routine.

Property Type and Size

The type and size of the property should match your group’s needs and preferences. Dallas offers a wide range of vacation rental options, from cozy apartments perfect for couples or solo travelers to spacious houses suitable for families or large groups. 

Assess the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, living space, and outdoor areas to ensure everyone in your party will have adequate space and privacy. For a unique experience, explore alternative accommodations like historic homes or luxury condos to add a special touch to your visit.

Reviews and Ratings

Past guests’ reviews and ratings are invaluable for getting an honest assessment of a vacation rental. They can provide insights into the cleanliness, comfort, owner responsiveness, and any issues with the property or neighborhood that might not be apparent from the listing alone. 

Look for rentals with high ratings and read through reviews to gauge the consistency of guests’ experiences. Pay special attention to comments about the factors most important to you, such as security, noise levels, and the condition of amenities.

Price and Value

Finally, consider the rental’s price and the value it offers. Dallas has a broad spectrum of vacation rental prices influenced by location, size, amenities, and booking season. Set a budget that reflects your priorities, such as location convenience versus luxury amenities, and compare properties within that range. 

Look out for additional fees like cleaning charges, service fees, or deposits, which can affect the total cost of your stay. Early booking and staying flexible with your travel dates can also help you secure the best deals and avoid peak prices during major events or holidays.

FAQs

What areas in Dallas are best for vacation rentals?

Popular areas for vacation rentals in Dallas include Uptown for its vibrant nightlife and dining, Deep Ellum for arts and music enthusiasts, Bishop Arts District for a bohemian vibe, and Downtown for those seeking proximity to major attractions and business centers. 

Are vacation rentals in Dallas family-friendly?

Many vacation rentals in Dallas are designed to accommodate families, offering amenities such as multiple bedrooms, kitchens, laundry facilities, and sometimes even a pool or backyard. Look for properties that list family-friendly amenities and review past guests’ comments to ensure the accommodation suits your family’s needs.

How much does renting a vacation home in Dallas typically cost?

The cost of renting a vacation home in Dallas can vary widely based on location, size, and amenities. Budget options may start from around $100 per night, while luxury accommodations can cost several hundred dollars per night. Prices can also fluctuate based on seasonality and local events, so it’s wise to book early and watch for deals.

What amenities are commonly found in Dallas vacation rentals?

Common amenities in Dallas vacation rentals include Wi-Fi, air conditioning, fully equipped kitchens, and parking. Higher-end rentals also offer swimming pools, outdoor entertainment areas, smart home features, and access to fitness centers. Always check the listing details for a comprehensive list of amenities.

Find a Home Away from Home in Dallas

Dallas offers a diverse array of vacation rentals to suit any traveler’s needs, from modern apartments in the heart of Downtown to cozy homes in the cultural hubs of Deep Ellum and Bishop Arts District. When choosing the best vacation rental, consider location, amenities, property type, and guest reviews to ensure your accommodation enhances your Dallas experience. 

With options ranging from budget-friendly apartments to luxurious houses, Dallas caters to short visits and extended stays. Whether you’re in town for business, pleasure, or a mix of both, Dallas’s vacation rentals offer the perfect home away from home.

You might think Arizona is a place of desert landscapes beneath unending sunshine—and you wouldn’t be wrong. Arizona is squarely in the US’s Sun Belt, making it one of the warmest and sunniest locations in the US.

Arizona is also home to one of the world’s seven wonders, the Grand Canyon, along with dozens of other nationally treasured landmarks, monuments, and forests. You can also find green golf courses around Scottsdale or even skiing slopes just outside Flagstaff.

Regardless of whether you’re heading to Phoenix, Sedona, or Tucson, you need access to a fantastic vacation rental that lets you explore on your own schedule. If you’re looking for a shortcut, you can discover some of the best vacation rentals in Arizona on this list. I’ve finalized my favorite picks in the state, from time capsules in the Sonoran Desert to A-Frames near the Grand Canyon.

Top 10 Best Arizona Vacation Rentals

1. Furnished Lake Home (Best for Large Groups (and Fishing!))
2. Time Capsule in the Sonoran Desert (Coolest Desert Vacation Rental)
3. Magnificent Sedona Red Rock Views (Best Red Rock Views)
4. The Lindemann House (Best Historical Stay)
5. The Overlook (Best Couples Getaway)
6. Serenity Peaks (Best Lux Rental)
7. Wild Treehouse Paradise (Best Treehouse in Arizona)
8. The Invisible Home (Coolest Architectural Project)
9. Private A-Frame Cabin – #bigdeckenergy (Coziest Cabin Vibe)
10. Cabin Nestled in Tucson Mountains (Best Wild West Feel)

Best Arizona Vacation Rentals

1. Best for Large Groups (and Fishing!) – Furnished Lake Home

Features:

• Bedrooms, bathrooms: Five bedrooms, three bathrooms
• Sleeps: Ten
• Best amenities: Heated outdoor pool, outdoor furniture, outdoor grill, super-fast internet, massage chair, gazebo, and free catch-and-release fishing from the backyard
• Price range: Affordable
• Location: Glendale (near Phoenix)

Who says relaxing on the water can’t be done in Arizona? This rental is located inside Arrowhead Ranch, which is surrounded by man-made lakes. The backyard includes the property’s private heated pool, structured like an infinity pool before the calm waters beyond it.

Catch-and-release fishing is free of charge, which you can do straight from the dock. Relaxing water adventures aside, this rental has a fantastic interior design and a few unexpected perks like a pool table and a massage chair. This vacation rental is also in a great location. You’ll be close to both nature trails and downtown Phoenix, offering the best of both worlds.

Why I Love It

• Unparalleled convenience for fishing enthusiasts
• Nice bang for your buck (if you fill every bedroom)
• Large and functional home that can comfortably host ten

What Could Be Improved

• There’s no fence around the pool (non-swimmers beware)

2. Coolest Desert Vacation Rental – Time Capsule in the Sonoran Desert

Features:

• Bedrooms, bathrooms: Studio, one bathroom
• Sleeps: Two
• Best amenities: Situated on 12 acres, funky Space-Age design, eco-friendly features (gray water usage, natural water harvesting), rugged desert views, and near Saguaro National Park
• Price range: Affordable
• Location: Sonoran Desert (outside Tucson)

Tucson’s Time Capsule is located on a plot of land lovingly known around the city as ‘The Island’. Situated amid a desert sanctuary and sculpture park, you might imagine a quaint little mid-century cabin—but you’re in store for something far more amazing.

This is a bespoke and eco-friendly project with a strong artistic angle. The interior is a wildly bright exploration of 70s design… which an interesting mashup with the quiet and peaceful views of the Sonoran Desert outside. It’s a desert stay that you won’t find elsewhere in Arizona. (This tiny guesthouse is situated alongside another AirBnB you might be interested in, called the Groovy Glamper.)

Why I Love It

• The interior design is next-level kitschy (think: Austin Powers-grade vibe)
• Eco-friendly living is always a plus for me
• Immersion in the Sonoran Desert

What Could Be Improved

• The capsule contains a bare-bones kitchenette
• Being eco-friendly requires a bit of extra care and work, which might not be for everyone

3. Best Red Rock Views – Magnificent Sedona Red Rock Views

Features:

• Bedrooms, bathrooms: Three bedrooms, two bathrooms
• Sleeps: Five
• Best amenities: Perfect place for red rock views, spacious outdoor deck, and eco-friendly toiletries
• Price range: Pricey
• Location: Sedona

If you’re heading to Sedona, then exploring the red rock landscape and diving into spiritual health are probably on your radar. At this central Sedona location, you’ll be treated to unspoiled views of the former. There’s also massive patio out back so that you can enjoy the views outside.

This vacation rental is perfect for those in need of some natural serenity. Though the views are great from the patio, the interior also lets you enjoy the outdoors from inside this beautiful home. Along with comfortable bedding, the Italian leather couches are highly rated by guests. On top of that, the area’s wonderful red rocks are visible from most rooms, letting you lounge as you take in the sunrises and sunsets.

Why I Love It

• The views are unparalleled
• It’s within walking distance of downtown Sedona

What Could Be Improved

• There’s no view from the third bedroom
• Fine leather couches might be a liability for clumsy friends

4. Best Historical Stay – The Lindemann House

Features:

• Bedrooms, bathrooms: Two bedrooms, two bathrooms
• Sleeps: Four
• Best amenities: Restored 1890s home, central downtown location, and pet-friendly
• Price range: Affordable
• Location: Flagstaff

Many vacation homes on this are remote—but in Flagstaff, you can stay smack in the middle of a quaint downtown area. Enter the super-cute Lindemann House. It’s located right alongside another popular vacation rental (the Agnes House), both of which were saved from demolition by a local couple a few years ago.

The houses date back to the 1890s when they were likely built by a storied Flagstaff businessman, Edgar Whipple. History aside, both homes have been extensively renovated and then carefully reappointed. At the Lindemann house, you’ll notice odes to the past with the claw-foot tub and inlaid wardrobes, along with modern touches like the glass shower and Keurig coffee maker.

Why I Love It

• Historical properties don’t always have top-tier renovations like this one
• It’s located a short walk from downtown restaurants, bars, and more
• It’s owned by a local couple who care about their city’s cultural heritage

What Could Be Improved

• There’s no stovetop range

5. Best Couples Getaway – The Overlook

Features:

• Bedrooms, bathrooms: Studio, one bathroom
• Sleeps: Two
• Best amenities: Historical property, mountain view, shared hot tub, shared outdoor pool, shared fire pit, private covered patio, and close to hiking/biking trails
• Price range: Affordable
• Location: Mesa (near Phoenix)

Speaking of history, this vacation rental is yet another peek into Arizona’s past. ‘The Overlook‘ is one of a series of cabins located on 1.6 acres of property alongside the owner’s main house, both of which were built back in the 1950s. That makes The Overlook one of the oldest houses built in Maricopa County.

The studio is quaint and, though it isn’t ultra-lux, feels like a cozy dream. Coupled with the stunning mountain views and the ample outdoor space, you’ll feel transported into a relaxing desert oasis. Though it’s not a remote couple’s getaway, it has all the essentials you and your partner will want to drop off the map. 

Why I Love It

• The mountain views are a treat, especially at sunset
• The outdoor area is very well maintained by the property manager
• The hosts are noted for being exceptionally helpful and kind

What Could Be Improved

• The property has low handrails, so it might be precarious for those with mobility issues
• You’re a bit farther removed from nearby cities

6. Best Lux Rental – Serenity Peaks

Features:

• Bedrooms, bathrooms: Three bedrooms, three bathrooms
• Sleeps: Six
• Best amenities: Heated outdoor pool, private backyard, native vegetation landscaping, stainless steel kitchen appliances, gas fireplaces, and smart LED TVs
• Price range: Pricey
• Location: Scottsdale

This property is under professional management by Rosen Vacations, offering a curate and lux vibe. Set in a lush section of the Sonoran Desert, this escape has a vast and heated pool that lets you enjoy the outdoors. (Plus built-in poolside speakers.)

But you’ll also have plenty of reasons to venture out. Serenity Peaks is located near premier golfing, hiking, and dining options, including the Four Seasons. Outdoor adventurers can also target activities like white water rafting at Salt River Canyon. Think of Serenity Peaks as a truly awesome launching pad for all of your Phoenix-adjacent plans.

Why I Love It

• It balances ultra-lux features with natural Sonoran flora
• The pool area is worth spending hours at, especially with a built-in speakers and outdoor grill

What Could Be Improved

• As far as I can tell, the word ‘spa’ is used to describe an inset jacuzzi tub—not an actual spa
• The interior design is a bit dated

7. Best Treehouse in Arizona – Wild Treehouse Paradise

Features:

• Bedrooms, bathrooms: One bedroom, one (shared) bathroom
• Sleeps: Two
• Best amenities: Unique construction, seasonal shared pool, shared trampoline, hiking trails, guided bicycle rides available, yoga classes, paddleboarding, and spa treatments
• Price range: Pricey
• Location: North of Prescott

A treehouse in Arizona? With a fantastic bohemian vibe? It’s not a dream—it’s Prescott’s Wild Treehouse Paradise. This treehouse (which is actually built on an abutting cliffside and surrounded by trees) is one of six rental homes in the Heaven on Earth Retreat in the Gorgeous Granite Dells.

The stunning natural décor and emphasis on nature should clue you into the hippie vibes at this remote location. I’ll you decide whether that’s a plus or minus—but there’s no denying the number of activities offered make this a very well-balanced remote stay.

(Note: This vacation rental is only available from April 15 to November 15.) 

Why I Love It

• Half the walls are made of boulders, which I haven’t seen elsewhere
• The number of activities gives this place a summer camp feel (you can even rent an on-site trampoline!)

What Could Be Improved

• No 5G availability (could be a plus for those looking to drop off the map)
• It’s rustic, meaning you’ll need to leave the treehouse to get to the shared bathroom

8. Coolest Architectural Project – The Invisible Home

Features:

• Bedrooms, bathrooms: One bedroom, one bathroom
• Sleeps: Two
• Best amenities: Highly unique design, off-grid setup (solar power), fire pit (bring your own wood), telescope, and board games
• Price range: Lux
• Location: Williams (near the Grand Canyon)

This tiny home has mirrored walls that make it disappear into the landscape. Given the highly remote location and off-grid setup, this vacation rental is for those who want to disappear into nature—literally. That being said, you should be prepared for the trade-offs.

Running water isn’t available from December into February due to freezing temperatures, while the solar panels aren’t equipped for heavy-duty electronics like hair dryers. You’ll also be using an outhouse. In exchange, you’ll have some of the most unspoiled night sky views, along with a serene sense of privacy during the days.

Why I Love It

• It’s close to the Grand Canyon, unlike many other locations on this list
• The number of board games gives you plenty to do

What Could Improve

• Hosts recommend paying for a shower at the local Love’s Gas Station when water isn’t available (at this price point, that seems a little audacious)
• Drivers should have four-wheel driving in case roads are precarious

9. Coziest Cabin Vibe – Private A-Frame Cabin (#bigdeckenergy)

Features:

• Bedrooms, bathrooms: Three bedrooms, two bathrooms
• Sleeps: Six
• Best amenities: 600-square-foot deck (hence the hashtag), high-quality outdoor furniture, modern renovations, hot tub, and surrounded by forest
• Price range: Pricey
• Location: Kachina Village (near Flagstaff)

Guests have raved about almost every element of this private A-Frame cabin that dates back to 1972. As mentioned in the amenities, it’s newly renovated and decorated. From the showers to the linens to the hot tub, you’ll feel right at home—and possibly have trouble leaving behind these lux features.

It’s also worth pointing out that this A-Frame is nestled in the woods beneath towering pine trees. This offers a more unique experience in Arizona’s high-altitude ponderosa forests. In winter, you can enjoy outdoor sports nearby. In summer, you can hike around trails and even access the Grand Canyon.

Why I Love It

• This cabin offers a remote feel in the forested hills
• The interior design is clean and modern
• The deck is truly stunning and fit for lounging

What Could Improve

• There seem to be multiple mentions of extensive cleaning—which could incur higher fees for guests
• More difficult to reach during snowy periods

10. Best Wild West Feel – Cabin Nestled in Tucson Mountains

Features:

• Bedrooms, bathrooms: Studio, one bathroom
• Sleeps: Two
• Best amenities: Shared outdoor pool, biking and hiking trails, woodburning fireplace, smart TV, and real log furniture
• Price range: Pricey
• Location: Outside Tucson

You can end your search for that cowboy feel with this 100-year-old renovated cottage. Once you step inside, you’ll feel like you’re back in the frontier days of the Wild West. (Seriously, I can smell the wooden furniture wafting off my screen.)

As you might expect, you’ll be immersed in nature at this vacation rental. Wildlife spottings are common here, from bunnies to coyotes to wild boars, aka javelinas. Don’t worry—your hosts are more than ready to help you remove any unwanted critters. You’ll share the vast property (3.3 acres) and outdoor pool with the main house, but you can expect total privacy beyond that.

Why I Love It

• I have never seen a wooden cabin with this unique frontier design
• There’s an emphasis on nature, quiet nights, and hiking trails

What Could Improve

• Not everyone is open to encountering wildlife

Best Arizona Vacation Rentals Guide

Arizona is a big state with a diverse range of activities, cities, and pastimes. Whether you’re planning on digging into history or pointing your telescope at the night sky, you might need a few pointers.

Building an Itinerary

The sheer range of things to do in Arizona can make building an itinerary difficult. But there’s no need to try to cover the entire state with a single trip. Before you book lodging or car rentals, think about what you actually want to see; traversing the state in a car can take up to seven hours.

To limit your travel time, focus on a certain area. Flagstaff and Prescott are closer to the Grand Canyon and tend to be cooler. Major cities like Phoenix and Tucson, by contrast, are part of the Sonoran Desert and tend to stay warm year-round. Regardless of your metrics, I recommend sticking to one pocket to be able to fully enjoy your trip.

Getting Around

To get the most out of your time in Arizona, you need to rent a car. A few different locations on this list recommend having four-wheel drive (The Invisible House and the Private A-Frame Cabin), both of which are more remote rentals. If you plan on getting off the beaten path, rent a car with four-wheel drive.

You also need to think about the summer heat when it comes to getting around. Some Arizonians actually keep oven mitts in their cars for the steering wheel during particularly hot days. If you’re traveling to Arizona during the hot summer months, you need to think about protecting your rental car.

Preparing for Nature in Arizona Vacation Rentals

Using oven mitts to steer the car… is Arizona really that hot? The highest-ever recording came from Lake Havasu back in 1992 when temperatures soared to 128 degrees Fahrenheit. So, the short answer is yes—Arizona really is that hot, which is something you need to think about.

Aside from preparing for inclement temperatures, it’s recommended to do a bit of research on local wildlife. Common sightings include great horned owls, wild boars, and coyotes, along with creepy-crawlies like snakes, tarantulas, and scorpions. Don’t worry—they aren’t likely to attack, but you should still be aware of your surroundings when hiking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top hiking trails in Arizona?

Hiking trails dot Arizona and are some of the most highly sought-after in the American Southwest. Grand Canyon National Park, unsurprisingly, is a hot spot for hikers. They tend to favor the South Kaibab Trail, Bright Angel Trail, and the nearby West Fork Trail.

Aside from these, other popular hiking trails include the Waterfall Trail in White Tank Mountain Regional Park, Camelback Mountain Summit Trail in Phoenix, and the Havasu Falls Trail in the Havasupai Reservation.

When is the best time to visit Arizona?

As outlined above, it’s probably best to avoid Arizona’s deadly summer heat. Phoenix and Tucson regularly surpass 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the hot summer months of June, July, and August. Try to plan your trip around those months.

Unsurprisingly, winter is the most common time for tourists to flock to the state. If you’ve found the perfect Arizona vacation rental, then check immediately for availability in autumn, winter, and spring. These are the busy months in the Sun Belt region.

What are some unique cultural experiences around AZ?

Arizona is home to dozens of unique cultural experiences. We outlined a few above, including the Wild West historical era and more modern pursuits like eco-friendly living. But there’s another activity that should be on your radar.

Arizona is home to 21 Native American communities and reservations, which provide a look into the modern life of Arizona’s first inhabitants. Many reservations offer guided tours that focus on culture, history, language, and the surrounding environment. The Navajo Nation is famously one of the US’s most established and complex sovereign nations where the Navajo tongue is regularly spoken.

As someone who has worked on Native American reservations (and for a Hualapai professional), my advice to fellow non-Natives taking tours on reservations is to listen more than you speak, avoid touching things, and try to use your chin or lips to point rather than your finger.

Conclusion

Arizona is a vast and diverse state with many hidden wonders. Whether you want to explore its natural landmarks while staying in a city center or find a rugged and remote camping spot, you’re in for a treat. Hopefully this list has helped you find the perfect Arizona vacation rental for your needs.

If you need a few more suggestions, then here’s my list of top choices based on the options above.

I recommend checking out the Time Capsule in Tucson for a quirky and environmentally-immersive experience. Or, if you’re sticking to city centers, then stay in the recently saved Lindemann House in Flagstaff. If you’re planning a larger gathering in the state, then focus on Kachina Village’s deck-centric A-Frame or Flagstaff’s ultra-lux ten-person rental.