Sometimes the most authentic way to explore a region is by visiting like a local. While hotels are convenient and often an ideal choice, fellow tourists can make it harder to experience the true vibe of a place. That’s where home rentals come in.
Vacation home rentals have been around for quite some time, but with the advent of Airbnb, they’ve become mainstream and easier to book and access than before, changing the accommodations game. Where once only hostels or hotels were available, there are now rooms, apartments and entire houses for rent.
These types of accommodations are perfect for family gatherings and a more private experience for vacationers.
Since being founded in 2008, Airbnb has hosted over 60 million guests in over 34,000 cities across 190 countries. The company currently has two million listings, which range from a single room in a shared home—an easy way for individuals to cash in on a spare space—to entire houses which seem to have been bought and designed with the sole purpose of renting them to travelers. In a survey the company conducted, 91 percent of their guests claimed to want to travel like a local, with 79 percent saying they wanted to explore a specific neighborhood.
The Main Line is no exception to these accommodations—there are dozens of listings across the many towns and communities. Whether family is coming in from out of town for a special occasion, like graduation or a wedding, or you just want to be a tourist in your own city, these are some of the coolest vacation house rentals in the area.
—Lisa Dukart
This six-bedroom Bryn Mawr home defines luxury. It’s the exact experience and feel one would expect from the Main Line. The home, which rents in its entirety, is over 9,000 square feet and can sleep up to 10 guests and has a price tag to match. Conveniently located in a quiet neighborhood, it is situated near several area universities—including Bryn Mawr College, Rosemont College and Villanova University—making it the perfect place to host extended family coming in to celebrate graduations. It is also just five minutes from a train station, giving it easy access to the city and surrounding suburbs. With a largely white interior and plush accents, a billiards and bar room, a gym and a pool, guests can enjoy a highly stylized home to unwind in after a day of exploring.
Rooms: 6
Full Baths: 6
Minimum Nights: 1
Price: $2,050
This three-bedroom West Chester home is just minutes to all that downtown has to offer. With a funky, modern aesthetic, it’s a great space for a small family to gather to explore the area or celebrate graduation at nearby West Chester University. It sits on a circa-1900s street and even has an outdoor zen garden. Beautiful, wide-plank wood flooring and earthy accents make it an ideal retreat.
Rooms: 2
Full Baths: 2
Minimum Nights: 2
Price: $227
Anyone looking to explore the Brandywine Valley would be hard pressed to find a better location than this house. This one-bedroom home is perfect for parents or in-laws visiting from out of town, or the perfect escape for somebody looking to get back in touch with all of her local roots. Tucked down a tree-lined drive, the home is a combination of modern comfort and rustic appeal. Outside, there is a patio area and pool with views of foliage. Wood beams and lofted ceilings lend a cozy atmosphere, perfect for returning to after a day exploring nearby Brandywine Battlefield, Longwood Gardens, Winterthur and more.
Rooms: 1
Full Baths: 1
Minimum Nights: 1
Price: $154
Those looking to be closer to the city will love this Manayunk abode. This outrageously gorgeous and colorful four-bedroom home is a recently-renovated church, which embraces its beginnings. With arched doorways and two outdoor patios, plus a stained-glass installation, this home is the perfect oasis just on the edge of the city. Manayunk offers a great restaurant scene and easy access to the city, making it perfect for exploring with friends and family. The renovated house has even been featured on PBS’s This Old House.
Rooms: 4
Full Baths: 2
Minimum Nights: 1
Price: $430
Though somewhat small—it’s just 1,500 square feet—this stone barn, converted into a guesthouse, is a sweet retreat. Located in Malvern, the first floor includes living space and entertainment, including a billiards table, while the lofted upstairs provides cozy sleeping quarters. It might have just one room, but it can sleep up to four. The elegant stone patio and exterior have seating, as well as a pool, all of which overlook an elegant, lush green yard, striking a perfect balance between rustic and modern. It’s perfect for an artists’ retreat, a friends’ weekend or for visiting Immaculata University.
Rooms: 1
Full Baths: 1
Minimum Nights: 1
Price: $500
A sophisticated and pretty home awaits visitors, complete with four bedrooms, accommodating up to 10 guests. Located on a horse farm, this property will give visitors a unique look at the Chester County country lifestyle, perfect for visiting the area or celebrating milestones. The house is equidistant to area destinations like West Chester, Chadds Ford and Kennett Square. It boasts a private gym, vaulted ceilings and elegant furnishings, with a price tag to match.
Rooms: 4
Full Baths: 4
Minimum Nights: 1
Price: $1550
This modern townhouse has room for six guests and is located in a quiet neighborhood, but it’s not too far from the bustle. With a beautiful, modern kitchen, guests can stay in or visit one of the many restaurants or BYOBs in Newtown Square. The townhouse is located near Ridley Creek State Park, making it ideal for those who want to get out and explore the natural elements of the region. It’s also close to Cheyney University and Delaware County Community College for out-of-town visitors.
Rooms: 3
Full Baths: 2
Minimum Nights: 1
Price: $395
Those looking for a luxurious hideaway in Malvern will adore this one bedroom apartment at the Royal Worthington. Enjoying all of the amenities of the hotel, guests can take advantage of a gym, pool and breakfast, all in an elegant, contemporary environment. The apartment also has a small patio and is located in the heart of the Main Line.
Rooms: 1
Full Baths: 1
Minimum Nights: 1
Price: $499
Those looking to splurge and get comfortable in a chic, Instagram-worthy home will love this recently constructed West Chester house. With five bedrooms and room for up to 16 guests, it’s perfect for a family reunion or exploring the region. A gourmet kitchen and elegant accents give it a sophisticated finish, while its surrounding property gives it a Chester County rustic vibe.
Rooms: 5
Full Baths: 3
Minimum Nights: 1
Price: $2000
This pre-American Revolution house has received some serious upgrades since being built in 1735. The owners of the historic home claim that it once housed George Washington. With a picturesque yard, this smaller house is worth a stay for history buffs. It has one bedroom and is located in the heart of the Main Line. The inside has been beautifully updated, though exposed wood beams and a brick fireplace hint at its past. It’s also very conveniently located near Immaculata University for out-of-town visitors. Better yet, it’s reasonably priced.
Rooms: 1
Full Baths: 1
Minimum Nights: 1
Price: $250
Photo courtesy of HomeAway
Though not an Airbnb property, this beautiful and perfectly-located colonial is definitely worth a look. It has three bedrooms and sleeps up to six guests. Its location—and interior design—make it ideal. Situated on Villanova University’s campus, it’s the perfect location for family reunions or for graduation gatherings. It’s also convenient to Rosemont College and Bryn Mawr College and is situated in the center of the Main Line. The interior has a beautiful, bold aesthetic and the outside is equally curated with a pretty patio.
Rooms: 3
Full Baths: 2
Minimum Nights: 2
Price: $1,333
