Fall break is fast approaching, kicking off for KCS + UT students on Monday, Oct. 5. No plans yet? There’s still time to book a nearby vacation rental to feel like you’re worlds away from reality without the long-distance travel.

Good news: The heavy lifting is already done — we scoured Airbnb for some of the region’s most memorable stays.

🌱 Best for architecture aficionados: K-Town’s Hobbit House

Part home, part architectural curiosity, this earth-sheltered dome is built directly into a hillside and topped with a blanket of grass. Spend all day relishing in its unusual design, or take short 10-minute walks to Fort Loudoun Lake to rinse and repeat.

🌊 Best for tranquility: Luxe Cottage on a Private Island

A luxurious, beige-painted cottage sits on a private island with an American flag hanging from the front porch. — The entire gated island is yours to explore. | Photo via Airbnb

For a true escape from the hustle and bustle, book this picturesque cottage that sits on one of just three private islands on TVA lakes. Spend the afternoon by the water, swing from the hammock, then gather around the fire pit as the sun goes down.

🏰 Best for adventurous kids: Castle Cabin

“Hey kids, we’re staying in a castle this weekend.” And just like that, you’re parent of the year. Just five minutes from downtown Knoxville, this handcrafted castle sits on a 10-acre farm and feels plucked from a storybook, with a canopy bed, cozy reading nook, and tower room to explore.

🌳 Best for couples: The Wren’s Nest Treehouse

A cozy patio with greenery, two chairs, twinkling lights overhead, and forested woods in the background. — Drop the kiddos off at their grandparents’ and disappear into the woods. | Photo via Airbnb

Tucked among 2.5 acres of forest, this cozy treehouse is made for slow mornings on the porch swing, quiet cups of coffee, and evenings curled up beside the fireplace.

⛵️ Best for lake lovers: The Black Dog Houseboat

Skip the lake house and stay on the lake instead. Up to four guests can settle into this 60-ft houseboat on the Tennessee River, where the rooftop deck offers front-row seats to sunsets sparkling on the water.

🌄 Best for mountain views: Boujee Bear Glamping Dome

This geodesic dome puts you right on the edge of the Smokies. Warm your toes on heated bathroom floors, fire up the grill on the deck, then soak in the hot tub beneath a sky full of stars. Count constellations until you fall asleep, and wake up to the sun rising over the Smoky Mountains.

⭐️ Best for stargazing: Lost Galaxy Outpost Planetarium

Modern concrete and weathered steel building entrance framed by trees, with rooftop windows, garden path, satellite dish, and sunny blue sky. — When you’re ready to leave your interstellar headquarters, Dollywood is just a short drive away. | Photo via Airbnb

For the grown-up who never outgrew “Star Wars,” this immersive stay takes sleeping under the stars literally. A full-size planetarium covers the ceiling, while its closets are stocked with costumes, lightsabers, and helmets.