We review some of the best tiny house vacation rentals where you can "try before you buy" tiny home living in the Southern United States.
Tiny homes are all the rage, and why not?
They’re cute, practical, zen, affordable and oh-so-sustainably-chic.
But…can you really see yourself living in one or adding one to your rural land as a granny pod, income property, or Airbnb-type retreat?
Luckily you can now try out Tiny Home living before you buy, thanks to an array of international Tiny Home retreats and rentals.
Here are our top picks for Tiny Home Vacation Rentals in the Southern United States:
1. Rent a Luxurious Victorian-Style Tiny Home Cottage in Canyon Lake, Texas
Located between San Antonio and Austin is the beautiful vacation community of Canyon Lake. Just minutes from the lake, the Guadalupe river and the best Hill Country attractions, you will find “The Tiny Texas House.”
Featured on USA Today, this artist-inspired Victorian cottage was custom built with reclaimed materials from the time period including stained glass windows, antique doors and trim. (See photo above and additional photos below).
It also features a king-size loft bed, induction cooker, fully equipped tiny kitchen, satellite TV and an outdoor patio area with a hot tub, ample seating, gardens and a grill.
2. Relax New Orleans Style at the Tiny “Shotgun Cottage”
Ideally situated in a quiet neighborhood within walking distance of Magazine Street and a short drive from the French Quarter, this 400 square foot "Charming Shotgun Cottage Uptown" boasts a full kitchen (with full stove and oven), Jacuzzi tub, twin beds and a private backyard.
Guests describe it as "charming," "like a doll house," "spotless and safe" and it has a 5-star rating on Airbnb.
3. Experience a “Tiny” Piece of History in Savannah, GA
Just a half mile from the riverfront in Savannah’s sought-after historic district you will find “Cottage 537”.
Originally part of a historic railroad worker’s cottage triplex (but not near any active trains), this adorable 300 square foot tiny home studio has a shared yard space and access to a path and gate leading to walkable Jones Street.
The totally private interior boasts a “homey vintage theme” and includes a first-level comfy queen size bed, a 4-burner stove with oven, fridge, microwave, washer and dryer, television, heating and air conditioning, and even a record player.
Described as “tiny perfection” and “within walking distance of everything,” this is a perfect choice for a couple—or couple of friends—to relax and soak up Savannah’s history and hospitality.
There is a 2-night minimum stay, no more than 2 people (exceptions made for couples with infants but call ahead to ask) and no pets.
4. Experience a Tiny Home Expert’s Rental in Sweet Home Alabama
What better way to experience a true Tiny Home than by staying in one built by a Tiny Home expert?
This 456 square foot “Tiny House Lodge” is owned and operated by the senior consultant to The Tiny House Roadshow. Located in Northport, AL, near the University of Alabama, it’s 100% 5-star rated with 3 beds (great for families), a full kitchen, washer and dryer, 24 hour check-in available and, unlike most tiny homes, it’s all on one level so you won’t have to climb into bed (literally).
5. “A True Definition of Southern Charm” in Charleston, South Carolina
The Cedar House Rules is an adorable tiny house rental built next to a towering cedar tree in beautiful Charleston, SC.
Rated 5-stars by 38 guests, this newly built tiny home was designed to feel both spacious and functional. It has a loft bed and futon, a full-size range, a rain-down shower and a slew of outdoor amenities including cruiser bicycles, a hammock, beach chairs, rocking chairs and a fenced yard.
10 minutes to downtown Charleston, 15 minutes to Folley Beach, and families are welcome.
6. Experience a True Tiny House Village Retreat in Flat Rock, North Carolina
Village of the Wildflowers, one of the largest tiny home communities in the Southeast, is located about 30 minutes from Asheville, NC.
The community consists of full-time and part-time residents plus vacationers so you get a real feel for what tiny house living is like. It’s an ideal choice for those hoping to “try before they buy” a tiny home.
As of this writing, they have 14 tiny home vacation rental properties between 395 and 400 square feet, starting at $179 per night for 1 sleeping area and $199 per night for two sleeping areas.
All 14 homes have been thoughtfully designed to include a bedroom on the main floor.
You can rent a beautifully-designed tiny cabin for a three-night minimum, and enjoy the resort-style amenities including a swimming pool, club house, ponds and pet-friendly accommodations.
Plus, if you decide to purchase one of their Tiny Homes, they will apply the cost of your stay toward your purchase.
Every tiny house in Village of the Wildflowers has its own personality.
7. A Tiny Off-Grid Tree House in Helen, GA
This little gem-of-a-grown-up-tree-house is located about an hour north of Atlanta, and 20 feet off the ground, in the Alpine-style town of Helen, GA.
Owned and operated by Nacochee Adventures, it is completely and totally off-grid. Meaning, this tiny treehouse is more of an upscale camping experience than an ultra-modern vacation home.
The house has no electricity or running water, and you have to hike in or use a golf cart to access it. It has 1 bedroom, 3 beds and a big deck to enjoy the trees. They are also building two additional tree houses that will be available to rent in October 2016.
PLUS you have the option to enjoy zipline tours, ATV tours and rentals, and a whole lot more outdoor adventure.
It’s a great choice for those wishing to get away from ALL life’s modern distractions…without resorting to a tent (and it’s 5-star rated).
8. Music City’s Tiny House: Nashville, Tennessee
Just a quick bike or Uber ride from downtown Nashville, you’ll find “Music City’s Tiny House.”
Featured on FYI, Discovery Channel and ABC Nashville News, this 5-star rated house measures in at just over 200 square feet with 2 queen size loft beds, a full size fridge, full oven/stove, a high-tech composting toilet and a nice outdoor space with a patio, fire pit and fenced yard.
They’re pet-friendly (but not kid-friendly) and if you make arrangements, the owners are happy to talk with you and share their experiences about Tiny House living/hosting.
Are you ready to set up your own tiny house in the country? View available rural properties throughout the South from Florida to Texas on our parent company's website, RaydientPlaces.com.
All photos courtesy of the respective Tiny Home Vacation Rentals' owners.
