Inside 5 of the World's Most Unusually Shaped Hotels

March 12, 2024 by Akylina Printziou

Photo:  The Guitar Hotel at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

Have you ever dreamt of spending the night in a building that breaks the mold of traditional architecture? Imagine sleeping in a structure so unique that it becomes a pivotal part of your travel experience, not just a place to lay your head. Let's dip our toes in the world of hotels with unusual shapes, where design defies expectation and turns your stay into an unforgettable journey.

In this blog post, we'll explore five extraordinary hotels from around the globe, each boasting a design that is as remarkable as its services. Instead of standard vacation stays, these architectural masterpieces promise to immerse you in a world of fantasy and innovation. From a hotel shaped like a giant crocodile to one mirroring the grandiosity of an ancient pyramid, we have gathered some of the most uniquely shaped hotels! Join us on a voyage to discover the most unusual and visually striking accommodations that redefine the boundaries of hospitality and design – let's uncover these architectural marvels together!

InterContinental Shanghai Harbour City, an IHG Hotel


Nestled in the heart of Dishui Lake's tranquil South Island, the InterContinental Shanghai Harbour City, an IHG Hotel stands as a testament to architectural innovation and serenity combined. Uniquely designed, this exceptional lake resort, curated by the renowned InterContinental Hotel Group, unfolds like a blossoming flower on the water's edge. Each of the hotel's 281 luxurious rooms is ingeniously integrated into one of five elegant "petals", offering guests multi-dimensional, panoramic views that span from the glistening lake to the vibrant Lin-gang New Town. The design is not just an aesthetic marvel, but a place where modern design meets natural beauty, providing a peaceful escape from the bustling world outside.

Not just a visual spectacle, the InterContinental Shanghai Harbour City, an IHG Hotel serves as one of the premier business hotels in China, balancing its unique aesthetic appeal with extensive amenities tailored for professional needs. Beyond its striking shape, the hotel offers a realm of exceptional amenities including specialty restaurants that blend global and local flavors, and a staggering 9,000 square metres (~96,900 square feet) of versatile event spaces, ideal for everything from grand business conferences to intimate weddings. Set against the backdrop of lush greenery and adjacent to top attractions like the Shanghai Astronomy Museum and Haichang Ocean Park, this hotel transcends the ordinary, offering an unparalleled experience for both leisure and business travelers seeking respite and inspiration.

View all unusual hotels in China

Mercure Kakadu Crocodile


Immersed in the vast wilderness of Australia's largest national park, the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile is nothing short of an extraordinary retreat. Architecturally designed to mirror the form of a gigantic crocodile, this distinctive hotel stands as a tribute to the local indigenous culture and the raw, natural beauty of Kakadu National Park. The hotel's unusual shape is not just a visual spectacle; it integrates seamlessly with the region's rugged landscape, offering guests an authentic base from which to explore the ancient rock art at Ubirr, the cascading waterfalls of Jim Jim and Twin Falls, and more. Entering the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile means stepping into a realm where the wild heart of Australia is matched by the comfort and uniqueness of its accommodation.

As a beacon of environmental responsibility, the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile holds its place as one of the eco-friendly hotels in Australia. Within its crocodile-inspired structure, guests discover a spacious outdoor pool—a tranquil haven for relaxation after adventurous days in the park. The hotel also features the Escarpment restaurant and bar, where guests can indulge in traditional bush tucker and exquisite gourmet meals. This distinctive hotel not only offers a perfect launching pad for exploring Kakadu National Park's significant natural wonders but also ensures a peaceful retreat that harmonizes with the environment. Here, every stay is an opportunity to immerse oneself in the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Kakadu, all while enjoying the comforts and unique ambiance of one of the most unusual hotels in the world.

View all unusual hotels in Australia

The Guitar Hotel at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino


Emerging from the vibrant heart of South Florida, The Guitar Hotel at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is a true monument to the spirit of music. Designed to resemble back-to-back guitars, this architectural gem reaches an impressive 137 meters (450 feet) into the sky, becoming a beacon of creativity and innovation. The building, complete with guitar faces and brightly lit strings, showcases an engineering feat adorned with floor-to-ceiling glass panes that capture the radiant South Florida sun. The Guitar Hotel at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is a testament to design and imagination, transforming the South Florida skyline into a canvas of artistic expression.

As one of the casino hotels in Florida, The Guitar Hotel at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino elevates the entertainment experience to a new level. Guests can immerse themselves in a spectacular daily light show, where LED lights built into all sides of the hotel change color and intensity, choreographed to different songs. This dazzling production, complemented by six high-powered beams of light projecting at least 6,000 meters (20,000 feet) into the sky, mimics the strings of an imaginary guitar neck, creating an unforgettable visual symphony. Beyond the visual spectacle, the hotel offers luxury guestrooms, suites, and a range of amenities designed to indulge every sense. Whether you're here for the high-stakes excitement of the casino or the tranquil luxury of the guest suites, The Guitar Hotel at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino promises an experience as unique and memorable as its extraordinary design.

View all unusual hotels in the USA

Sheraton Huzhou Taihu Lake Hot Spring Resort & Spa


Discover the enchanting Sheraton Huzhou Taihu Lake Hot Spring Resort & Spa, where luxury meets innovation in the heart of China's scenic Zhejiang Province. This revolutionary hotel boasts a mesmerizing moon-shaped, 27-story structure that gracefully arcs over the tranquil waters of Tai Lake. More than just a place to stay, this architectural marvel serves as a gateway to the region's rich heritage, offering proximity to ancient water towns, stone bridges, and historic districts. The hotel's unique ring shape not only captivates visually but also harmonizes with the natural beauty of its surroundings, offering guests breathtaking water views and a serene escape from the everyday.

As one of the luxury hotels in China, the Sheraton Huzhou Taihu Lake Hot Spring Resort & Spa elevates the guest experience to unparalleled heights. Within its extraordinary circular design, visitors can indulge in premium amenities such as an on-site day spa, an infinity pool, and a private beach. The hotel also features a custom wedding island extending into Tai Lake, making it an idyllic setting for unforgettable moments. Whether you're sipping handcrafted cocktails at one of the waterfront restaurants, unwinding in elegant rooms with sleek marble bathrooms, or utilizing the state-of-the-art meeting facilities, every detail is crafted for excellence. Experience the fusion of opulent comfort and distinctive design at this unique hotel, where every stay is as spectacular as its surroundings.

View all unusual hotels in China

Luxor


Rising from the neon-lit panorama of the Las Vegas Strip, the Luxor Hotel stands as a beacon of ancient luxury amidst modern splendor. This iconic black pyramid, known for its distinctive shape and postmodernist 1990s architecture, captures the imagination with its dramatic design and an imposing 33.5-meter (110-foot) tall replica of the Great Sphinx of Giza guarding its entrance. Since its opening in October 1993, Luxor has not only been a prime example of innovative design but also a landmark that encapsulates the vibrant spirit of Las Vegas. Inside, guests are treated to the world's largest atrium, where light cascades down the pyramid's interior, illuminating a bustling casino floor that houses 2,000 slot machines and 87 table games.

Beyond its architectural marvels, Luxor is celebrated as one of the hotels with a spa in Las Vegas, offering a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation. The Luxor Sky Beam, the strongest beam of light in the world, projects from the pyramid's apex, creating a beacon visible from miles away and symbolizing the high-energy excitement that awaits within. This grand establishment provides not just world-class accommodations but also an array of premium amenities, including top-notch shopping, chic bars, and vibrant entertainment options. Whether you're seeking the thrill of the casino, the relaxation of the spa, or the culinary delights of signature restaurants, Luxor offers an unparalleled experience, making it a must-visit destination on the Las Vegas Strip.

View all unusual hotels in the USA

In this journey through some of the world's most unusually shaped hotels, we've uncovered that the essence of travel isn't just about destinations, but also about the experience of where you stay. From the architectural marvel of The Guitar Hotel in Florida to the ancient allure of the Luxor in Las Vegas, these accommodations provide a gateway to the extraordinary, making every aspect of your stay memorable. Each hotel we've explored serves as a testament to human creativity and an invitation to explore the unusual and spectacular. These destinations challenge the conventional, transform the skyline, and offer guests an unparalleled experience in comfort and style.

For those inspired to discover more about these architectural wonders or to explore other unique accommodations, Travelmyth offers the perfect platform. Dive into our extensive collection of over 5 million hotels across 60 different categories and find your perfect stay, your way. Whether you're dreaming of a serene retreat in an Eco-Friendly Hotel or seeking the thrill of a Casino Hotel, our advanced filters allow you to mix and match categories to find a hotel that fits your specific needs and preferences. Imagine combining the tranquility of a Beachfront Hotel with the charm of a Historic Hotel, or merging the luxury of a 5-Star Hotel with the adventure of a Ski-In Ski-Out Hotel. Visit Travelmyth to start your search and embark on your next extraordinary travel experience.

View all unusual hotels in the world

Don't forget to follow us on social media!
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok | LinkedIn | Pinterest




5,292,767

Hotels

60

Categories

48,974

Regions

200,232

Cities

× Home About Press Categories Blog Hotel Awards Travelmyth GPT Contact Terms & Conditions Privacy Policy Cookies Policy FAQ