Sleep in a Historic Jail When You Book a Stay at This Small-Town Airbnb in Minnesota

Most folks would balk at the notion of spending a night in jail—I know I would!—but there's a small-town Airbnb in Minnesota that lets you do just that... and then release yourself on your own recognizance when you're ready. So, when you feel up to spending a night or two in the slammer, just make a reservation at the Historic Wykoff Jail Haus, and make your way to the charming community of Wykoff, on the edge of southeastern Minnesota's Bluff Country.

The town of Wykoff, Minnesota, is located 15 minutes or so west of Preston in the Bluff Country of southeastern Minnesota.

The town owns a historic, 19th-century jail that, in recent years, it's operated as a vacation rental. And this is one jail you're going to want to spend a night in. The Historic Wykoff Jail Haus can accommodate up to four guests but is probably most comfortable for a couple.

The interior space includes a small dinette, with room for you and your favorite cellmate to enjoy your chow time. A kitchenette area offers a microwave, small refrigerator, and coffee maker. You won't whip up any gourmet meals here, but you're way ahead of the folks who had to spend the night here in the 1800s.

In the cell... er, sleeping quarters, you'll find three beds—one queen and an up-down bunk bed.

The decor is distinctly "jail," but you will have access to your own full bath with a shower that you don't have to share (unless you want to). My favorite touch, though, is the fire pit, where you can enjoy a little camaraderie outside the confines of the cellblock and while away the time as you watch this community go about its evening business. It's also a fine place to enjoy a mugful of your favorite beverage and an outdoor meal.

While you're in town, be sure to take some time to explore Ed's Museum, a former general store left to the town of Wykoff, MN when its proprietor—Ed—passed away. It's a quirky collection of the downright wacky alongside the simple and mundane. If you're looking for a great spot for dinner in the area, head over to the Branding Iron Supper Club in nearby Preston—you'll be glad you did.

The Historic Wykoff Jail Haus is a perfect basecamp for exploring this corner of Minnesota's Bluff Country, as well. The neighboring town of Fountain, the "Sinkhole Capital of the U.S.," is just a few minutes east of Wykoff. Travel 15 minutes south of town, and you'll find yourself exploring Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park.

To learn more about the Historic Wykoff Jail Haus and to book your stay, visit the property's Airbnb listing. Have you visited Wykoff and stayed in this small-town Airbnb in Minnesota? Be sure to share some of your favorite quirky and unique vacation rentals in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.