Alabama is home to many unique places that offer an unforgettable overnight stay. One in particular is a shipping container Airbnb that goes by the name of "The Nest." For information about this shipping container Airbnb, take a look below.
Please note, The Nest is no longer available for rent.
The Nest is a unique shipping container Airbnb that's located in Cherokee County, Alabama.
When it comes time to eat, there's no need to leave. After all, while staying here, you'll have your very own kitchenette complete with a mini fridge, coffee maker, and more.
If you're planning to visit the Little River Canyon area and looking for a unique place to stay, consider The Nest. In addition to it being secluded, it also has an amazing fire pit area. You're going to love it!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
For a relaxing getaway, nothing beats an overnight stay in a charming Alabama cabin, especially one with a hot tub. Several rental cabins are located throughout Yellowhammer State, but some of the best ones are situated atop Lookout Mountain in Fort Payne and Mentone. Some of the best cabins in Alabama that are guaranteed to provide nothing but rest and relaxation are listed below!
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Affordable Cabins in Alabama
A cozy cabin getaway without breaking the bank? Absolutely! Here in Alabama, there are lots of affordable cabins that are sure to provide total R&R.
This cozy and A-frame cabin is the perfect "home base" for your adventures in Shelby, AL! With your own private dock on Waxahatchee Creek and the nearby Oak Mountain State Park, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had. Ozan Winery is about 40 minutes away for a fun day trip, too.
Located in the lovely Laurel Lakes area, this cabin is the epitome of "rustic charm," with warm wood details, a living room with a working fireplace, a cozy bunk room, and more. The best part? It's located right on the lake, and if you thought a waterfront cabin in Alabama was out of your budget, you'll be blown away by this affordable cabin in Alabama!
TreeTops in Mentone, Alabama is an excellent and affordable cabin rental option for a much-needed getaway. Priced at less than $100 per night, it offers exceptional value for money. With a bedroom featuring double beds and provided linens, it comfortably accommodates a small family or couples seeking a romantic retreat. The cabin's screened-in porch, two decks, hammocks, and fire pit offer additional opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment. Don't miss the chance to experience the tranquility and charm of TreeTops by making a reservation today.
Perched atop Lookout Mountain near the East Fork of the Little River, this charming tiny home Airbnb offers a cozy living area and a waterfront location on the river which makes it perfect for nature enthusiasts who will delight in the opportunity to engage in activities like kayaking, swimming, and fishing in the surrounding area!
Luxury Cabins in Alabama
If you think "cabin" and "luxury" don't go together, think again! The Yellowhammer State is home to some truly next-level cabins that are luxurious in every way.
Size: This 3400 sq. ft cabin can accommodate up to 18 guests in its four bedrooms and three full baths.
Price: $428/night
Amenities: Grand room with a 50" Roku smart TV, king-size bed in the master bedroom, outdoor living area with recreation and a fire pit, private location.
You'll be blown away by this beautifully designed three-story, graceful – yet - rustic luxury cabin in Mentone, Alabama. A walk-through of the cabin boggles the mind. The original owner (Tommy Milham) designed the cabin with a uniquely and expertly blended range of sawmilled hardwoods: wormy maple, poplar, chestnut, walnut, red oak, hard pine, cedar, and hickory. The cabin sits on a 3-acre lake that was built from the sale of a ring given to Tommy by Elvis Presley in 1976!
Legacy on the Lake certainly lives up to its name. This exquisite home is a dramatic blend of Arts and Crafts and rustic styles, constructed using stone and reclaimed wood from the historic Lahusage Hotel which formerly stood on this site. The 180-room Lahusage Hotel and the Lake Lahusage Dam were built in the 1920s during the heyday of the area's coal mining boom.
Amenities: Heat & air conditioning, full kitchen, wood-burning hot tub, fire pit, grill
Ratings: 5 / 5 stars
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Romantic Cabins in Alabama
Enjoy a special stay with your significant other at one of these romantic cabins in Alabama. With cozy amenities and swoon-worthy scenery, these romantic cabins in Alabama are worth seeking out for your next couples' getaway.
Does it get any more romantic than a cabin with its own private waterfall? It doesn't. This is the magic that awaits at the Cliff House Cabin in Mentone. Easily the most romantic cabin in Alabama, it’s best known for its incredible view of DeSoto Falls and spectacular surrounding colors during the fall season.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom cabin is great for a weekend getaway. While here, you'll enjoy its beautiful surrounding scenery, especially as you're relaxing in the hot tub at this mountain cabin in Alabama!
This 'intimate piece of paradise' as the host calls it, is absolutely beautiful. The cabin was handcrafted with love by the host family to include cozy features like heated floors, a front porch bathtub, and heated towel racks for a little extra pampering. The property is embedded in the woods by a small creek so the ambiance is fantastic for a couples getaway. If you are looking for one of the best cabin Airbnbs in Alabama for a weekend with your honey bunch, this is a darling spot.
Enjoy phenomenal views from this gorgeous couple's cabin near the beautiful Walls of Jericho along the Alabama-Tennessee border. If you are looking for cabin getaways in Alabama that will knock you off your feet with easy access to the Bear Hollow Mountain Wildlife Management Area, this is it. One look at the photos and we are pretty sure you'll be excited to pick your weekend before it is all booked up. Romance is definitely in the air at this charming mountain cabin.
Secluded Cabins in Alabama
Looking to get away from it all? These secluded cabins in Alabama offer just that, and while they are remote, these accommodations are anything but "roughing it."
If you enjoy fishing, you'll most certainly want to book an overnight stay at this charming cabin, which has its very own pond. Offering two bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms, this 1,800 sq. ft. cabin is the perfect family vacation spot. Guests love the variety of amenities offered, especially the hot tub that has a great view of the pond. Visit this cozy cabin's listing on Vrbo for more information, including how to book your stay.
13. Creekhouse Cabin in the Alabama Mountains, Bryant
Looking to unwind in Alabama nature? This remote cabin is located in the heart of the mountains of Northern Alabama, and it the private property has its own secluded creek for fishing!
Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, heat & air conditioning, full kitchen, washer & dryer, hot tub, fire pit, pet-friendly
Ratings: 10 / 10 stars
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Cabins in Alabama with Hot Tub
On the hunt for cabins in Alabama with a hot tub? This isn't a rarity; rather, you'll find cozy cabins all over Alabama that, in addition to features like wood-burning fireplaces and fire pits, also offer a hot tub for guests to enjoy.
Al's Nest is a rustic little rental located on 22 picture-perfect, private acres on a plot of land that joins the Desoto State Park Management Area. This one-bedroom cabin is meant for a solo stay or couple's retreat, and with the floor-to-ceiling windows, wood-burning fireplace, and screened-in deck with a hot tub, we can't imagine a more romantic getaway in Alabama!
16. Secluded Cabin near DeSoto State Park, Fort Payne
This secluded cabin, which offers two bedrooms and one bathroom, is a great place to consider staying if you've been wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. You'll love being greeted by the horses each day. The cabin's hot tub is also a wonderful place to relax after exploring nearby DeSoto State Park and other local attractions.
This cozy cabin, which includes two bedrooms and one bathroom, is located only a short distance from Little River Canyon. It offers a variety of amenities, including a hot tub that's surrounded by a beautiful lush forest.
Note: The exact location of each cabin will be given after booking.
What do you think about our featured best cabins in Alabama? Could you see yourself booking a getaway at one of these charming and cozy cabins? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments section.
