A mid-century mod treehouse rental is the most ‘wishlisted’ Airbnb in Illinois
An octagon treehouse in Galena is the “most wishlisted” Airbnb listing in Illinois, according to a recent report from the vacation home rental company.
Airbnb’s April 9 report “Unveiling the most wishlisted listings across the US” named the unique treehouse rental Illinois’ most “wishlisted” spot, and its listing says it’s in the top 5% of Airbnb listings based on ratings, reviews and reliability.
“From an earthhouse tucked beside a spring-fed creek to a home designed by a renowned architect and a hilltop treehouse overlooking a lavender farm, the region’s most wishlisted Airbnbs reflect a deep appreciation for design, character, and full immersion in a standout space,” Airbnb’s description of the most wishlisted Midwest rentals reads.
The Galena home is described as a “guest favorite,” with a 4.99-star rating from 213 reviews. The rental sleeps up to four guests, with a king-sized bed in one bedroom, and a queen-sized bed in another.
The two-bedroom, two-bathroom rental features a small kitchen as well as a private hot tub and fire pit. The “octagon tiny house” was built in 1969, according to the listing, and boasts a mid-century modern style.
Games, books and magazines are available in the home, along with a smart TV for streaming. A washer and dryer are located within the home, and guests have access to the entire home, except for small locked owners’ closet, the listing says.
Public transportation and rideshare options are not easily available, hosts advise, but free parking is offered onsite.
Visiting Illinois’ most ‘wishlisted’ Airbnb
The listing notes the treehouse rental offers bathroom essentials such as hot water, shower gel, shampoo and conditioner, and the kitchen provides dishes and silverware, as well as pots and pans, oil and salt and pepper.
Well-behaved dogs are allowed to stay, with a $65 pet fee, but cats are not permitted.
Offsite community amenities are available, including indoor and outdoor pools, outdoor tennis courts and a game room, the listing says.
The listing does include some notes about accessibility — there’s a 100-yard walk down a sloped, paved path from the parking area to the home, as well as seven or eight steps before you reach the home’s entrance.
Items such as towels, bedsheets, soap and toilet paper are provided for your stay, and there is central heating and air conditioning, according to the listing.
“In our 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home you can enjoy the views of nature all around, with floor to ceiling windows,” the Airbnb’s listing reads.
The treehouse Airbnb rental is located in Galena, which has been lauded in several publications for its “charming downtown” and for being one of the most beautiful small towns in the nation.
Do you have a question about travel or recreation in Illinois for the News-Democrat? We’d like to hear from you. Fill out our Metro-east Matters form below.
This story was originally published May 5, 2026 at 10:16 AM.