The 20 best Airbnb cabins near Chicago

Neighborhood: Miller Beach (40 minute drive from Chicago).

Aptly named the Dream Retreat, this dog-friendly beachside cabin is only 40 minutes from Chicago and can accommodate a whopping 19 guests. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding woodland or take a stroll to the beach, literally, a beachball throw away from the Airbnb. If you can't be bothered to leave the property and explore, this Airbnb has plenty for you to enjoy. From a gourmet kitchen for you to play chef, to multi-level outdoor decks with a seven-person hot tub and volleyball court, you'll be spoilt for choice. 

Sleeps: 19 guests.

Perks: Gourmet kitchen, seven-person hot tub, volleyball court, steps from the beach.

Price: From $782 a night.

Time Out tip: If you're ready to put your legs to the test, this unit is only a stone’s throw away from Indiana Dunes National Park.

Neighborhood: Jacksonville, IL.

This cabin is downright charming. Situated on a seven-acre hobby farm just south of Jacksonville, it's a fully restored historic log cabin with all the modern amenities you could need for a rural getaway. Made of reclaimed materials from over 10 different local barns, houses, and structures this house is sustainable and cute as a button – not to mention fitting into the local area an absolute dream! While it looks pared back from the exterior, inside you'll find a refrigerator, dishwasher, stove with an oven, microwave, and coffee maker. Speaking of which, we'd recommend taking your morning cup of joe straight to the front porch with the morning paper – it doesn't get more rustic than that. Your furry companions are also welcome, but there's a small fee for cleaning the place afterwards because you know, allergies and stuff. It's a small price to pay for bringing your furry pal along. 

Sleeps: 8 guests.

Perks: Restored historic log cabin, built from reclaimed materials, front porch.

Price: From $161 a night.

Time Out tip: Bring the dog. The host only charges a tiny cleaning fee to let your four-legged friends live their best farm life.

Neighborhood: Cable, WI.

You may or may not be familiar with the Danish concept of hygge, which describes a certain kind of cozy lifestyle that the Danes (and their Scandinavian brethren) embody. This petite cabin – with its warm wood floors, narrow hallways, and glittering string lights – brings that cozy spirit to northern Wisconsin, making for a perfect weekend escape from the city. Brew yourself a cup of pour-over coffee in the cabin's pristine white kitchen, hit the wooded trails during the day, and come back in the evening to relax in front of the outdoor firepit with s'mores and hot chocolate. Pretty dreamy, right? It sleeps six but makes for a spacious place if you're a couple, too. The Namakagon is very nearby, as is the quaint town of Cable. It's pronounced hue-ga, by the way.

Sleeps: 6 guests.

Perks: Outdoor firepit, wooded trails, pour-over coffee kitchen.

Price: From $194 a night.

Time Out tip: Be warned – cell service is spotty out here. Download your driving playlists before you hit the highway, turn off your work notifications, and disappear for a weekend.

Neighborhood: Indiana Dunes area.

The hosts named this little beaut of a cabin ‘Huusli’ after their favorite hotel in Switzerland. The name means ‘little house’ in Swiss-German and gives you some idea of the adorable, snuggly European feels they’ve got going on here. The property was originally built in 1951, but was totally remodelled in 2020. It’s now a super sweet home that’s perfect for two (although it can sleep four) and it blends Gingerbread House charms with an altogether cooler, contemporary sensibility.

Sleeps: 4 guests.

Perks: Fully remodeled 1951 cabin, close to multiple beaches.

Price: From $382 a night.

Time Out tip: Don't bother cooking every night. You’re just a short drive from The Goblin and the Grocer, a local Beverly Shores staple where you can grab a killer cheese board and a bottle of wine to take back to the cabin.

Neighborhood: Richmond, IL

When you come to an area of the world with skies like this then you’re going to be thinking about one thing: views. Which is where the glass cabin (the name says it all) comes in. This vintage cabin is a unique combo of classic rual charm with some slightly more quirky art and furnishings. We love that great big open living space filled with light, light and more light.

Sleeps: 6 guests

Perks: Floor to ceiling light-filled living space, walkable small town nearby.

Price: From $322 a night. 

Time Out tip: Richmond is a goldmine for antiquing. Spend an afternoon digging through the massive multi-vendor stalls at Oldies and Goodies or hunting for yard art at Magpie Market on Main Street, then head back to see how your vintage finds look next to the cabin's own quirky decor. 

Neighborhood: Lakeside, MI.

If your idea of the perfect cottage comes from a childhood storybook, then chances are high that you’ll love this place. From its blue-and-white exterior, surrounded by flourishing hostas and fir trees, to the forestry wallpaper in the bedroom, this place delivers just the right amount of fairytale charm without becoming twee. It’s been kitted out with a slight beach theme (think blues, whites and driftwood) and would make a great base for a small family vacation (younger children will love the adorable playhouse in the garden). When not spending time on your private beach (yes, you heard that correctly), pick up goodies from the local farm shops and breweries.

Sleeps: 4 guests.

Perks: Private beach access, garden playhouse, nearby farm shops and breweries 

Price: From $355 a night.

Time Out tip: Lake Michigan sunsets hit differently out here. Walk down the road to the Lakeside Inn and claim one of the rocking chairs on their front porch, order a drink and enjoy the view.

Neighborhood: Michigan City, IN.

Located less than 90 minutes outside Chicago, this stylish home is a perfect pied-à-terre for city folk who want just a little bit of nature (and a lovely bit of design) all in one. The modern-leaning home is gorgeous, and the neural, satisfying decor ensures it is an ideal spot for anyone who just needs to relax. The two-bedroom, two-bathroom, two-story house includes a fireplace, a screened-in porch and an open deck, evoking a traditional log cabin vibe with rugged wooden tables and decor. The kitchen has all the facilities you'll need to enjoy yourself. It’s just a short drive from the Lake Michigan shore and other Harbor Country attractions too, so you can get some exploration in.

Sleeps: 4 guests.

Perks: Fireplace, screened-in porch, open deck, access to meadows and marked trails.

Price: From $394 a night. 

Time Out tip: Take a walk into the central prairie to find the hidden labyrinth. It’s a silent, meditative stone path, which is perfect for clearing your head after sitting in 90 minutes of standard I-94 traffic to get here.

Neighborhood: Tryon Farm, Michigan City area.

Part of a sustainable farm community, the House of Zen is well named. It’s a great modern update on the quintessential woodland cabin, with high wood ceilings, roaring fireplace and sheepskin blankets. A streamlined approach to decoration keeps things feeling abit more contemporary and there’s lots of opportunities to get back to a slower pace of life wandering around the immediate farm area and the wider countryside.

Sleeps: 2 guests..

Perks: High wood ceilings, roaring fireplace, sheepskin blankets, sustainable farm community.

Price: From $256 a night.

Time Out tip: Bring a good flashlight if you are arriving after dark. The community here is intentionally unlit to preserve the starlight views, so finding your way from the gravel parking lot to the front door can be a real adventure in the pitch black.

Neighborhood: Gurney, WI.

This area is known to house one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Wisconsin, and that's saying something, as a lot of water falls in these ends. Experience the most of all Potato River Falls has to offer from your very own (very pretty) log cabin, found just a mile from the falls themselves. If seclusion and full nature immersion are what you're after, you'll find them here: the home is situated on 136 private acres. That's a lot of space to have to yourself. You'll do well to walk around it in a day. Should you decide on a long day of hiking and exploring, sink into the hot tub or relax by the fire with a cold beer chatting to your close ones (it sleeps six) knowing there's no one else around you. There are good fishing spots here too, should you fancy catching dinner. 

Sleeps: 6 guests.

Perks: 136 private acres, hot tub, fireplace, fishing spots, a mile from Potato River Falls.

Price: From $643 a night.

Time Out tip: Pack some serious stamina for your hike to Potato River Falls. While it’s only a mile away, conquering the steep trail requires climbing over 300 rustic wooden steps. You’ll definitely want to have the cabin's hot tub bubbling and ready for your return. 

Neighborhood: Sturgeon Bay, WI

Into the whole cabin thing but not being-in-the-middle-of-nowhere idea? Well, this abode in the heart of Sturgeon Bay is actually giving you the best of both worlds. This pad sleeps two people – it’s a one-bedroom, one-bathroom with a cozy 400 square feet of space. Guests have access to a shared courtyard and a barbecue area. This flawlessly decorated spot will make you feel like you’re living inside a Pinterest board. Is it an apartment or an urban cabin? We'll let you decide. Either way, we think you'll agree it is a wonderful place to stay, and a base from which to explore the city of Sturgeon Bay and Wisconsin at large. 

Sleeps: 2 guests 

Perks: Shared courtyard, BBQ area, walkable to shopping and the Door County Maritime Museum

Price: From $154 a night. 

Time Out tip: Don't just look at the water from the shore. Take a 15-minute drive out to Cave Point County Park to see the limestone cliffs. If you are there in the summer, rent a kayak from the Door Country Adventure Center to paddle right inside the underwater caves. 

Combine being away from ‘it all’ with a luxury soak ‘n’ scrub in your very own spa. This home is the creation of two hosts who used their own extensive experience travelling the globe and staying in other people’s homes to create what they consider to be the perfect living environment back Stateside. We certainly think it’s a bit special too, with a sauna, hot tub, yoga studio and beautiful surrounding prairie land to enjoy. There’s also the option of upgrading to include the services of a local chef specializing in farm-to-table delights.

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps four guests.
The mood? Steam, soak, sweat and shower.
Location perks? You’ll be surrounded by beautiful farmland, fruit farms and breweries.
Budget range? More expensive but, hey, you’ve got your own whole spa to enjoy.

For an immersive-yet-comfortable forest getaway, head to this cozy, craftsman-style home. Located in the woods overlooking the Pere Marquette River, the cabin is your launching-off point for walking, kayaking, fishing, and relaxing. There's no TV or Wi-Fi (which is part of its charm). For activities, Russ and Jade will provide fishing poles and a two-person kayak. The great outdoors awaits! Go catch some dinner, maybe even cook it on a fire pit. That's living, people. 

Rooms? Two beds. Sleeps four guests. 
The mood? Ambient and cosy. 
Location perks? This quiet and secluded rural town is a short distance from Traverse City and the Grand Rapids.  
Budget range? A moderately priced stay great for a small family. 

Abandon the city with friends or family and head to this intimate lakefront cabin in Door County. With a classic Midwest lake retreat vibe, this house sleeps 10 guests total – although there are only two bedrooms and two bathrooms, so prepare to get to know each other reeaaaally well, if you don’t already. The cabin is situated directly on Green Bay and includes its own private beach and boat launch, which is... well, do you have a private beach normally? Facing west, the house’s position should give you some breathtaking sunset photo opportunities too. Not to mention golden hour, oh boy the 'gram will be looking fierce. 

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps eight guests.
The mood? Serene and modern lakehouse stay.
Location perks? Excellent local amenities for dining, shopping and entertainment.
Budget range? An upmarket family-friendly vacation home. 

Whether it's warm and summery or autumnal and misty, get away to this lovely A-frame cottage Airbnb for a weekend on the quiet shores of the Chain O Lakes. Located in Fox Lake, the retro-looking cottage comes with access to a boat slip, perfect for exploring the lake's sparkling water. Spend some time poking around the backyard during berry season, too. You might just find a handful of blackberries or raspberries among the bramble. 

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps four guests. Pet friendly.  
The mood? Cosy-lux lakeside retreat. 
Location perks? Close by Pistakee Lake. 
Budget range? This unique family vacation comes at a decent price. 

A historic retreat, Buffalo House log cabin was built in 1932 and the owners have retained the trad vibe with taxidermy, old school hunting memorabilia, patchwork quilts ad antique furniture. The place has a cosy, old world feel and as well as charmingly decorated interiors, there’s a library full of books, a beuatifu garden where deer roam up to the windows and a games cupboard full of puzzles. Pets are welcome, and there’s a pretty beach nearby too. 

Rooms? Four bedrooms. Sleeps up to eight guests.  
The mood? Old school charm.  
Location perks? In the beachside forest village of Michiana, close to easy walks on the shores of Lake Michigan. One hour’s drive from Chicago. 
Budget range? Mid-range. 
Time Out tip: In the winter make the most of the huge stone fireplaces and the outdoor fire pit. 

Named ‘The Pines’ for good reason, this handsome cabin is completely surrounded by dense evergreen forest, from the outside it looks like a traditional idyl with timber porches and vauted ceilings. Inside, however, its a modern dream with a spacious kitchen, high ceilinged living areas with huge windows that flood the rooms with natural light and roomy bedrooms with balconies. 

Rooms? Three bedrooms. Sleeps up to six guests.  
The mood? Modern and remote.  
Location perks? Under a mile and a half from the beach and a short drive to New Buffalo and Three Oaks for restaurants, outdoor activities, breweries and wineries.
Budget range? Affordable for the size. 
Time Out tip: Union Pier is in the snowbelt, so if you want Christmas card scenes in winter, you’re in luck. 

Wake up to serene fields and beautiful sunrises each day at this quaint little cottage tucked away on a 20-acre farm in New Buffalo. Snug enough for two, this tiny home has a real rustic vibe to it. Furnished throughout with vintage decor pieces, linens, and lots of cool knickknacks to make it feel homey. Along with being just 10 minutes from Lake Michigan, you can warm up around the fire pit, or take the nearby trail to the South branch of Galien River. 

Rooms? Studio. Sleeps two.
The mood? Quaint 'n' cozy.
Location perks? 10 minutes from Lake Michigan. 
Budget range? Moderate. 

How cool is this one? We love a tiny home that effortlessly blends into its surroundings. Just because it's secluded doesn't mean it can't show off, right? Boasting a sleek, wood facade on the outside while being all bright and airy indoors, this beautiful cabin home offers the perfect blend of nature and contemporary design for a vay-cay you truly won't forget. Along with two bedrooms, there's a full kitchen, living room, dining space, and two full bathrooms - the ideal choice for some time with the fam.

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps four.
The mood? Sleek wooded retreat.
Location perks? Surrounded by over 200 acres of woodland, nearby wineries, restaurants, and a beach.
Budget range? Not too shabby for such a well-manicured home.