Idaho family buy abandoned train car for $3K and spend $150K renovating it to turn it into one-of-a-kind Airbnb
- An Idaho family bought a $3,000 abandoned train car
- They spent $150,000 restoring it into a unique Airbnb
- The result is a one-of-a-kind blend of history and luxury
Published on Dec 17, 2024 at 2:59 PM (UTC+4)
by Daksh Chaudhary
Last updated on Dec 17, 2024 at 2:59 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Amelia Jean Hershman-Jones
What’s the most strange yet fascinating kind of Airbnb you’ve ever seen? Chances are, an abandoned train turned into a cozy stay was far from your imagination, right?
But an Idaho family actually worked on this project, creating a one-of-a-kind Airbnb for their customers.
They bought the 100-year-old train car for just $3,000, spent $150,000 renovating it, and now it’s an exceptional place to stay.
With a cozy interior and vintage charm, it’s no wonder guests are eager to book a night here.
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Abandoned train turned into a beautiful Airbnb
While today this abandoned train turned into a venue gets all the attention, moving the 61-foot train car was no easy task.
It took the family two years just to find movers willing to take on the challenge, and the move alone cost $110,000.
The amazing story of its creation from the start was covered on YouTube by CNBC Make It.
Once relocated, the family worked tirelessly, completing the restoration in just six months.
They did most of the work themselves, preserving the train car’s original windows and hand-sanded wood to keep its authentic charm alive.
Some Airbnb stays are truly a work of art and imagination, just like this one or the one based on the real-life Up house hanging from a crane.
Similarly, one property offered the view of watching SpaceX rocket launches.
Inside, the train car has everything a guest could need.
It features a sitting area, a kitchen, and a cozy bedroom. The bedroom, once a mailroom, now holds a king-size bed, filled with natural light from its windows.
Outside, guests can enjoy a mirrored sauna, a hot tub, and even a campfire under the stars.
Luxurious and affordable stay
The family didn’t stop at making it functional – they also added a touch of history by giving the space a vintage feel.
At $325–$350 a night, this Airbnb is both luxurious and affordable. It generates about $90,000 a year in revenue, with a 65% profit margin.
Truly a unique and successful business in its own right!
