Looking for a weekend getaway that feels like a movie set… but it’s only a short drive from Columbus? Same. These one-of-a-kind Airbnbs bring the drama in the best way. Caves. Domes. A mirror cabin that literally disappears into the woods. Pack snacks. And a swimsuit. And maybe your sense of wonder.
Escape Reality… At Least for a Weekend
1) SubTerra: A Luxe Underground Spa in Hocking Hills
If Batman retired to Ohio, he would live here. SubTerra is an underground retreat carved to look like Hocking Hills sandstone with wall-to-wall glass and all the wellness toys. We’re talking infrared sauna, cold plunge, hot tub, and a massage chair that will make you forget your own name. Kitchen flex includes a Wolf range and SubZero fridge. The vibes are cozy, classy, yet secretive.
Why it’s crazy: It’s literally sunk into the earth. Spa day meets secret lair.
Perfect for: Couples who want to hike Old Man’s Cave by day and pretend they’re in a design magazine by night.
Know before you go: Heat and cold therapy isn’t for everyone. Read health notes and discuss with a doctor before using.
2) The Game-Barn Compound in Laurelville
Traveling with a squad? This place sleeps up to 15 and comes with a climate-controlled game barn the size of a small rec center. Pool. Ping pong. Air hockey. Skee-Ball. Arcade cabinets. Shuffleboard. Basketball arcade. A hot tub with waterfall lighting. Plus five outdoor hang zones and sunset views. It’s basically a family reunion waiting to happen.
Why it’s crazy: A full arcade barn in the woods. Your inner 10-year-old will lose it.
Perfect for: Big families, friendcations, bachelor or bachelorette trips that want fun without going downtown.
Know before you go: Bring towels for the hot tub and charcoal if you’re grilling.
3) Stargazer Glamping Dome on the Mohican River
A clear-topped dome with direct river access, a private hot tub, a projector for movie nights, and Starlink Wi-Fi. The interior is cozy-cute with a queen bed facing the forest and a loft for extra sleepyheads. Outside you’ve got a pellet grill, firepit, and a furnished patio that says “we’re not leaving.”
Why it’s crazy: It’s camping… but make it luxury bubble.
Perfect for: Couples or small families who want nature without roughing it.
Know before you go: Short walk from parking to the dome. Cell service can be spotty.
4) Fauna Mirror Cabin in Hocking Hills
Blink and you’ll miss it. This tiny modern stunner is wrapped in mirrored panels, so it melts into the trees. Inside it’s floor-to-ceiling windows, heated floors, a private sauna and hot tub, and a private hiking trail on 17 acres. Minimalist. Magical. Maximum romance.
Why it’s crazy: The cabin reflects the forest, so it looks invisible. Nature’s coolest optical illusion.
Perfect for: Anniversary trips, proposal energy, or a solo reset with luxe vibes.
Know before you go: Wi-Fi is generally reliable, but you’re still in the woods. Enjoy the quiet.
5) The Cave House at Dunlap Hollow
Yes, a real cave. Built into a natural recess cave, this 1,500-square-foot home has two king bedrooms, a gorgeous kitchen, a pool table, and private hiking. It books up fast because… it’s a cave you can sleep in. Kids and adults go full jaw-drop when they walk in.
Why it’s crazy: It’s Ohio’s most famous cave stay and one of Airbnb’s most buzzed about rentals.
Perfect for: Families or friend groups who want a once-in-a-lifetime stay.
Know before you go: Dates can be limited. Plan ahead.
6) Barn, Stable, and Lodge at Dogwood Ridge & Farms
A true embodiment of rustic, the properties at Dogwood Ridge & Farms are perfect for nature and animal lovers who want to experience the simpler side of life. Located on 180 acres of private land, this escape will have you dreading your return to everyday life. Plus, you can visit their miniature donkeys and cows as a part of your getaway.
Why it’s crazy: Rustic luxury via transformed barns and animal stables
Perfect for: Medium-sized groups (the Barn sleeps 10) or those who value true privacy
Know before you go: Bring hiking boots. This property has private trails that go on for miles and miles!
Booking Tips So You Don’t Cry Later
- Check the map for drive time. Most of these are 1 to 2 hours from Columbus.
- Read house rules for hot tubs, saunas, pets, and party policies. Hosts are strict for a reason.
- Price watch: Rates swing by season and day of week. Midweek = better deals.
- Pack smart: Towels for hot tubs, sturdy shoes for trails, and backup snacks so you don’t have to leave your cozy cocoon.
Where to Stay
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