Disclaimer: This post was created after multiple hosted stays at the following vacation rentals. I’m grateful to the convention and visitors’ bureaus and Cozy in KC for the recommended accommodations.
Updated August 2025
Why stay overnight in a standard hotel when you can reserve an entire home or a room in a mansion?
Each of my short-term stays in Airbnb and VRBO rentals in Kansas, Missouri, and Iowa was incredible for its amenities and proximity to local attractions.
Relax in privacy. Enjoy a meal with the comforts of home. Sit on the patio. Experience the destination on your terms.
St. Joseph, Missouri
Shakespeare Chateau Inn Bed & Breakfast
Why stay overnight at a hotel when you can enjoy timeless elegance at Shakespeare Chateau Inn Bed & Breakfast (809 Hall Street)? The 1885 home in Millionaires Row, a National Register Historic District, is a five-minute drive from downtown.
The multi-bedroom estate’s architecture and meticulously restored interior is breathtaking.
I stayed in the Verona Suite, a spacious room with a king bed that includes a bathroom with jacuzzi tub and a walk-in dressing room. The in-suite amenities, including high-speed Wi-Fi and a flatscreen television with streaming movie channels made for a comfortable stay.
The plush accommodations surpassed anything I could have imagined. It was as if I was a posh member of royalty staying in a castle.
Reserve a suite at Shakespeare Chateau Inn and Gardens to enjoy views atop a bluff over St. Joseph and the Missouri River.
Things to Do in the Area: St. Joseph, Missouri- Making the Most of an Overnight Stay
Pittsburg, Kansas
Miner’s Loft
Have you ever walked into a vacation rental and loved the design so much you wished it was your home? That’s how I felt at Miner’s Loft, which is located within walking distance of eateries, shopping, and a live music venues. It’s modern-Southwest-meets-country interior design was tastefully done.
Built in 1910, the renovated loft space beautifully showcases the historic building’s architecture, from its brick-exposed walls to the original wood floors. The 1,600 square foot, two-bedroom, one bath loft sleeps four guests.
You’ll appreciate the private parking with front door or back door self-entry keypad access. Once inside, it feels like home with amenities such as a washer and dryer, full kitchen, streaming television channels, Bluetooth compatible speakers, and high-speed WiFi.
The bathroom, designed with his and her sinks, is spacious and includes in-shower products. Plush body-size towels and a motion detector for the overhead light are added touches you don’t always find in a vacation rental.
Pro Tip: Shop the loft owner’s store, Miners + Monroe, for an array of men’s clothing, accessories, and grooming products. As a loft guest, I saved 40 percent on my total purchase.
To reserve Miner’s Loft-Downtown Pittsburg, visit the Airbnb listing.
Things to Do in the Area: The Ultimate Trip to Pittsburg, Kansas
Emporia, Kansas
Gufler Mansion Bed & Breakfast
Tucked away in a neighborhood within walking distance from campus sits Gufler Mansion Bed & Breakfast (612 W. 12th Ave.). The turn of the century 10,000 square foot home includes 12 bedrooms and is large enough to host events. It’s quite a sight.
The tall white columns, brick architecture, and sheer size capture the attention of passersby. I was the first guest to check in on the day of my overnight stay, so I was able to peek inside each of the themed bedrooms and tour the home’s main level.
My accommodations in the German Room included private access to a newly remodeled bathroom with modern amenities. The queen bed was comfortable, and the room’s antique vanity and large closet provided ample space to store personal items.
To reserve a room at Gufler Mansion Bed & Breakfast for a single night or overnight stay, visit the website for details.
Things to Do in the Area: Extraordinary Places Worth Exploring in Emporia, Kansas
Linsborg, Kansas
Dröm Sött Sweet Dreams Inn
I immersed myself in Swedish culture in Lindsborg, Kansas, which included staying overnight at Dröm Sött Sweet Dreams Inn (112 W. Lincoln Street). From the moment I entered the lobby until I departed, I was delighted with the experience.
They prioritize guest comfort (I slept like a baby for the first time in weeks), and the inn is impeccably designed with a nod to a Norwegian aesthetic.
In the evening, I lounged in the Wine Shelter, sipping a complimentary glass of white wine. At breakfast, I sat at a sun-drenched table savoring a Swedish platter, which included vegetables, farmers’ cheese, and pickled herring.
Do yourself a favor and reserve a room at the inn, which is in walking distance of shopping of dining. And the Swedish cuisine? It’s is remarkable.
Things to Do in the Area: The Best Way to Spend a Day In Lindsborg
Chanute, Kansas
Merles Nest
Have you ever stayed at a vacation rental that you raved about afterwards?
Located downtown and upstairs from Merle Norman Cosmetics, Merles Nest is a stunning vacation rental in a renovated historic building. The second-story spacious retreat consists of two bedrooms, a full bathroom, dining room, and a living room with pull-out sofa.
The vacation rental is ideal for adult couples or a family who wants to unwind in comfortable accommodations. The owner felt inspired to bring life back to an old building, and she did an remarkable job maintaining its historic character while adding modern day amenities.
NOTE: This is an upstairs loft space, so guests must be comfortable carrying their bags up nearly 30 steps to the second floor. Shoes must be taken off and kept in the hallway prior to entry.
Reserve Merles Nest, a highly-rated Guest Favorite Airbnb property.
Things to Do in the Area: Chanute, Kansas
Garden City, Kansas
Sunnyland Bed & Breakfast
Sunnyland Bed and Breakfast (501 N. 5th Street #5633) is a highly-rated vacation rental with Victorian charm providing guests a complimentary breakfast.
Upon arrival, I walked the downstairs parlor and adjacent dining room, admiring the owner’s meticulous restoration of turn-of-the-century woodwork.
A gorgeous tiled fireplace is an anchor in the sitting room amongst period furnishings.
The dining room’s tablescape was beautifully set with an artful arrangement of seasonal plates, flatware, and decorations. The owner prides herself on updating the table decorations often.
Original stained glass windows drew my eye to an ascending staircase, where private guest rooms awaited – each one named after a Bible verse. My queen bedroom, including a twin bed and private bathroom, was painted lavender and decorated with Victorian decorative touches, including handkerchiefs and florals.
After a restful night’s sleep, I joined other guests in the dining room for breakfast. The meal started with juice and coffee before a Monte Cristo-style croissant breakfast sandwich served with homemade jam was served.
Overall, my overnight stay at Sunnyland Bed and Breakfast was a delightful experience and one I’d recommend to travelers who seek unique accommodations and personable service. I enjoyed getting to know the owners, who live on-site, and socializing with other guests during the meal.
Things to Do in the Area: Garden City, Kansas
Winterset, Iowa
Covered Bridge House
Our stay at Covered Bridge House changed my life. It made me slow down and remember that delightful moments can be as simple as enjoying a sunset and listening to cicadas buzz on a summer evening.
A restored 1908 country home turned Airbnb, the three-bedroom, two-bath home is incredibly well-maintained and modernized to accommodate couples or families seeking a weekend of solitude.
A short drive from dining, shopping, and museums in Winterset, it was perfect for us. We watched the movie The Bridges Over Madison County at night while drinking champagne in a room surrounded by antiques and framed artwork.
The creak of the original wood floors. The sunset view from the porch. I loved our stay, as will you.
Things to Do in the Area: The Heart of Iowa – Discover Charming Madison County
Kansas City, Missouri
Charlotte Retreat
One look at the Charlotte Retreat (4131 Charlotte St.), and I knew it was perfect for a weekend getaway. We were pleased with the comfortable furnishing and ample seating. We thought the home had enough space for a couple to leisurely watch TV from the living room when not taking advantage of the entire kitchen to prepare a meal.
A blanket and velvety pillows gave the living room space a homey feel, which was delightful.
The kitchen had all the utensils needed to prepare a basic meal, and the spice rack included essential seasonings. Although it lacked a dishwasher, it didn’t matter as we didn’t have many dishes to do because we ate our meals at area restaurants.
The bedroom included a pillowy-soft, queen-sized bed. Flanked by two reading lights and an end table, it was a great place to kick back and enjoy a book or admire nature from the sliding glass door view.
Although the house was sandwiched between two more significant properties, it feels secluded because of its deep front yard and leading walkway. The neighborhood is well-kept and safe. We never heard the sound of traffic or neighborhood activity.
Consider reserving the Charlotte Retreat for your upcoming Kansas City getaway.
Things to Do in the Area: Your Next Kansas City Weekend Getaway
Abilene, Kansas
Charming Spanish Colonial
When you picture an Airbnb, I bet you don’t imagine a home this picturesque and luxurious. My overnight stay at Charming Spanish Colonial in Historic Abilene on Naroma Court was such a delightful experience that I’ve already told multiple people about it. It was a 5-star stay, indeed.
It’s easy to see why the home is listed as a Guest Favorite on the vacation rental website. One of only a few historic homes on a cul-de-sac, the two-story house is part of a duplex located only four blocks from downtown.
The full kitchen was equipped with anything I needed to cook a meal, plus the coffee station included several options of ground Starbucks coffee and tea. Because my itinerary included in-town restaurants, I used the spacious dining room table to plug in the laptop and get some work done.
I can’t offer enough high praise for this Airbnb. Its original owner, C. L. Brown, would be proud of the owner’s touches on an already beautifully crafted home. If you’re interested in renting it for an overnight or extended stay, visit its Airbnb listing.
Things to Do in the Area: Why Abilene, Kansas Should Be Your Next Antique Shopping Destination
Sylvan Grove, Kansas
Emilie’s Heritage House
We reserved Emilie’s Heritage House, a 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in the heart of town. The home, built in 1912, is thoughtfully restored and decorated with antiques.
After a day of exploring, we sat in the one-time parlor, reading stories of the home’s first residents and the generations that followed. Then, a tour of each room containing family heirlooms completed the family’s story.
We were pleased with the home’s comfortable amenities, including high-speed WiFi, laundry facilities (robes provided!), a walk-in shower with toiletries, and a full kitchen (breakfast pastries and French press coffee, anyone?).
The home sleeps six people. Each bedroom contained a Queen-sized bed with plenty of space to store one’s belongings. We slept peacefully thanks to blackout curtains and the home’s peaceful surroundings.
Families will appreciate the home’s spaciousness and proximity to the park across the street. It’s a safe, lovely neighborhood. Reserve the home for your stay.
Things to Do in the Area: Explore Ellsworth County, Lincoln County, and Surrounding Towns
Clay Center, Kansas
The Schoolhouse Inn
Imagine my delight when I learned I would stay overnight in a renovated one-room schoolhouse on the edge of town. As a past high school teacher, the chance to do so was something I never thought possible. But then again, Clay Center is the kind of town full of delightful surprises.
The interior was decorated in neutral tones. Restored hardwood floors creaked as I toured the accommodations. The open living room space easily included enough seating to accommodate several guests. Original chalkboards carved with the initials of rambunctious students flanked two sides of the room.
Two bedrooms with plush queen-sized beds with end tables and armoires welcomed me. Which one would I choose? The rooms were equally inviting. The full bathroom with a modern shower included the amenities of home plus a basket of toiletries.
Although The Schoolhouse Inn did not have a kitchen, I had access to a small refrigerator and freezer, Keurig coffeemaker, and microwave. The refrigerator was filled with bottled water and soda products. Complimentary drinks and snacks made the stay unexpectedly comfortable.
Reserve The Schoolhouse Inn for your next getaway.
Things to Do in the Area: Cool Places to Check Out in Clay Center
People often ask me if the Airbnb or VRBO experience is worth it. Yes. The overnight stays are seamless from the moment I enter the home until I sign the guest book.
Note: Unfortunately, these homes are not wheelchair accessible.
When you’re ready to hit the road, don’t forget to pack 5 Travel Items for a Comfortable Stay.
If you’re still unsure and would rather stay in a staffed hotel with character, consider also reading my blog post Kansas Hotels in Historic Buildings. Haunted rooms. Incredible architecture. Each hotel offers a unique experience made more memorable by its history.
As a first-time visitor, I was impressed by how the town has evolved since its days as the last stop for pioneers heading West. For a location considered the place to go in 1861, it’s maintained its visit-worthy status as a Midwest travel destination.
Entering into the Patee House Museum is like walking into Missouri’s version of the Smithsonian. The historic building’s enormity and contents are awe-inspiring.
I suspect you’ll find the U.S. provost marshall’s office, a wagonmaster’s blacksmith shop, and restored cars outside a 1920 replica service station fascinating. A self-guided tour of the first railway mail car and a ride on the Wild Thing Carousel is a must.
Not only is the three-room home historically accurate, but its glass cases house artifacts from Jesse’s grave recovered when they exhumed his body in the 1990s. DNA evidence proves with 99.7% accuracy that he was shot in the home.
Open Monday through Saturday from April through October; the Jesse James Home takes about 30 minutes to tour if you read the signage and ask questions of the museum’s host.
PRO TIP: Ask to see a replica skull that debunks the myth the gunshot that killed James exited his head, although a hole in the home’s wallpapered wall may prove otherwise.
PRO TIP: 
Wood floors creak under each step as you choose a seat at a student desk for the day’s lesson. An authentic pot-bellied stove, slate boards, and presidential portraits create a historically accurate setting.
Push button interactive stations play videos of his life story and CBS News broadcast clips, including Vietnam’s coverage during the war.
Various exhibits chronicle moments in Cronkite’s career history, including NASA’s landing on the moon, JFK’s assassination, and coverage of 16 Republican National Convention events. The “We Came In Peace” Saturn V Sculpture and Cronkite’s original newsroom desk make an impression.
The restaurant is decorated with draped beads on chandeliers and rope lights around interior columns. A taxidermy alligator on an upper shelf rests under neon signage.
The Blackened Salmon arrived heavily-seasoned for dinner, although slightly overcooked, so I requested a white cream sauce to drizzle on top of it. The signature Boudreaux Potatoes were cubed and boiled potatoes served in savory vegetable broth.
PRO TIP: Plan to save room for dessert. My only regret was not ordering dessert, which unfortunately did not include New Orleans-style beignets, but it did feature Bourbon Pecan Pie and Turtle Cheesecake.
A London Fog hot tea and layered pastry filled with Nutella curbed my cravings. Although the courtyard patio was inviting, I chose to sit inside while it rained outdoors. Chatting with employees about their love of the town’s art scene only confirmed my appreciation of St. Joseph.
PRO TIP: J
I selected a River Cream Ale, an approachable light beer from over 12 craft beers. It went down easy as I observed families gathering and couples arriving for date night entertainment.
Upon arrival, classical music played in the home’s foray, where a hand-carved wooden staircase led my eye upstairs to a row of stained glass windows. Opulent crystal chandeliers and tiled fireplace mantels adorned each room on the main floors. Period furniture, artwork, and a bust of Shakespeare completed the Queen Anne-style home’s interior.
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