SACtoday City Guide Play Banner

The most unique places to stay in Sacramento

Whether you’re looking for luxury or shabby-chic, Sacramento area is full of special places to stay that break away from the norms.

A rounded vintage wooden doorway in an old brick house with thatch-style roofing

All building materials for the this charming storybook home were reused and recycled, including wood from old ships.

Photo via Vrbo

Table of Contents

We all need a staycation or a trip to a different city from time to time. Whether you’re a Sacramentan feeling a little cooped up or a visitor looking for a special experience in the City of Trees, picking the perfect home away from home is crucial.

We went looking for unique lodgings around town that showcase that Sacramento spirit. So choose your ideal digs, pack your bags, and get ready for a memorable getaway.

A white chicken coop is surrounded by ducks, chickens + trees.

The chicken coop at the eclectic cottage holds 15+ birds, including some friendly turkeys who may want to say hi.

Photo via Airbnb

Cozy cottages

Eclectic cottage | El Dorado
This 1,200-sqft cottage is a re-purposed blacksmith shop that was built in 1839 and updated with new appliances for the comforts of today. Enjoy two acres of land, from which you have access to a hot tub, outdoor patio with a grill + the company of free range chickens, ducks, and turkeys.

Country guesthouse | Meadow Vista
Surrounded by foliage and trees, this picturesque setting is perfect for a calming retreat from the daily grind. Cozy up for a day inside with complimentary coffee and tea, or get out and explore the local waterways + hiking trails.

Good vibes bungalow | Auburn
Stay in your own secret garden of forest and ivy, with pathways meandering throughout. This midcentury modern bungalow comes with a spa nestled in the trees + proximity to Old Town Auburn.

A wooden hot tub sits on a patio overlooking a valley of mountains.

An on-site hot tub of the mountain retreat + spa overlooks the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Photo via Airbnb

Rooms with a view

Mountain retreat + spa | Grass Valley
Enjoy panoramic views of the Bear River Canyon and Sierra Nevada Mountains at this abode that’s perched atop Mt. Olive. Spend the day hiking along the river, or enjoy the scenery from a private hot tub.

The Citizen Hotel | Downtown Sacramento
This hotel features 1900s architecture from George Selland + great views of the surrounding downtown area. Explore downtown with local cuisine and culture at your fingertips, or don’t and order room service from bed. We won’t judge.

Hilltop estate | El Dorado
Situated on 10 acres of rolling hills and wildlife, this lodging spot is isolated enough for a relaxing getaway. If you’re looking to get out and about, there are restaurants, hikes + wineries just a short drive away.

A vibrant rug sits on top of vintage tiled flooring and is surrounded by eclectic art and exposed brick walls.

Vintage art and accents are featured throughout the charming storybook home.

Photo via Vrbo

Hideaways with history

Vizcaya Mansion | Sacramento
Built in 1889, this bed + breakfast features a Victorian tower and columned entrance, complete with Victorian-esque furnishings on the inside. It’s really in the details with this one — from the crown moldings inside to the surrounding landscaped gardens.

Charming storybook home | Sacramento
Built in 1944, this home is reminiscent of Hobbit homes in the Shire — minus an international flight to New Zealand. Green architect Carr Jones utilized reused and recycled materials to construct this cozy stay with fireplaces, radiant heated floors + an outdoor courtyard and pool.

Delta King Hotel | Sacramento
Stay in a historic, permanently moored riverboat on the Sacramento River. Delta King has it all — the Pilothouse Restaurant, Delta Bar and Grill + walkable access to Old Town and Downtown Sacramento.

The custom-painted guesthouse features a picturesque breakfast nook with panoramic views.

Photo via Airbnb

Artistic sanctuaries

Custom-painted guesthouse | Fair Oaks
Luxury meets nature in this guesthouse. Artist-designed and painted walls compliment the breakfast nook that’s tucked into a 180-degree round bay window — and let’s not forget the private patio featuring a fountain + shade from grape trellises overhead.

Blue Lead Lodge | Placerville
You’re going to want to have a movie queue ready before you stay at this remodeled cabin. In the heart of Apple Hill, you are surrounded by vineyards, golf courses + apple orchards — but the tree-encompassed outdoor theater takes the cake.

Casa de Frida | West Sacramento
Inspired by Frida Kahlo, this Victorian home includes wall art, a spacious backyard + an upper level deck. Stop by shops and bars in West Sacramento’s historic Washington Township area, or cross the Tower Bridge to check out Old Sac + Downtown.

A riverboat painted as an alligator features a fully furnished patio with area heaters.

The River Gator features marina and river views + a perfect lounge space on the deck.

Photo via Airbnb

Retreats on the water

The River Gator | Sacramento
Make a great escape to this hidden gem on the Sacramento River — it won’t bite. The houseboat includes an upper deck and two patios, and the host offers rentable jet skis + fishing poles to seal the deal.

Waterfront home | Isleton
Located on the Georgiana Slough, the slow and quiet river sets the scene for this peaceful river house. Bring some binoculars to scope out the local wildlife, including otters, beavers, herons, sea lions + owls.

Remodeled riverfront estate | Lotus
Only 300 ft from the South Fork American River, this lodging sits on four acres of oak trees + private pathways. Enjoy indoor activities by the stone fireplace, or take a dip in the refreshing waters that are just an easy stroll away.

Check out our other Guides
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or the next Tiger Woods, these 16 golf courses in Sacramento are sure to make for a good round.
From geometric gems to majestic masterpieces, here are some of Sacramento’s best and brightest murals in town.
Check out these 12 yoga studios around the City of Trees and find your zen.
Prepare for fall weather in Sacramento, CA with these seasonal temperature and precipitation outlooks.
Prepare for spring weather in Sacramento with these seasonal temperature and precipitation outlooks.
We’re here to make your flying process plane and simple.
Got a hot new fling? Hoping to spice things up with your longtime partner? We’re here to help plan your next date in the City of Trees.
Dig into Sacramento’s must-try pizza shops including Uncle Vito’s, OneSpeed, and more.
Check out our list of books written by authors who have called the Sacramento area home.
Tell us you’re from Sac without telling us you’re from Sac.
SACtoday phone
Good news for Sacramento.
Get the best local news & events sent to your inbox, for free.