You Can Stay In A Kansas Airbnb That's A Converted Boxcar

Right outside of Hutchison, Kansas, you can find an antique boxcar that has been transformed into an Airbnb. For only $83 a night, you can experience the unique opportunity to sleep in it. With space for up to five guests, the boxcar includes a double, single, and sofa bed. However, with the limited beds and one bathroom, the hosts ask that the guest limit is respected as it's hard to fit more people into the boxcar.

The Santa Fe Boxcar is well-loved by those who get the chance to stay there, as is evident by its 4.95 stars and around 300 reviews. Some of the reviewers say, "Loved our quick stay in the box car. Our toddler loved sleeping in a train and all the train toys available to play with!" and "We've stayed at many Airbnbs' all over the world and have to say this one is very special and unique."

Step back in time with modern amenities

Built in 1941, the hosts believe the train car was used on the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway, also known as the ATSF Railway (via Airbnb). According to American Rails, this railway was initially used to help people settle in Kansas but later was used to transport things like wheat and cattle. In 2020 Amy remodeled this old boxcar into a unique Airbnb experience.

The original wood lining inside the walls is still intact, bringing warmth to the space. Although the square footage is small, the host made it cozy, inviting, and comfortable with a loft where you will find two beds and a bathroom on the other. Even though there is not a full kitchen or an oven, the hosts provide a toaster oven, a hot plate, and a microwave for guests to make snacks or meals. Additionally, there is a charcoal grill and a table and chairs to cook and enjoy a meal outside. The outside space features a firepit to sit around at night and tetherball and cornhole to play while you wait for the BBQ to finish. You'll have to bring your own firewood and charcoal; just be sure the wood is local (via Don't Move Firewood).

The whole boxcar is for the guests and has a private entrance. Although the boxcar is on the edge of the host's farm, and you can see their house from the Airbnb, you'll have access to a private yard.

What can you do around the train car?

The Santa Fe Boxcar is 10 minutes outside South Hutchison, 30 minutes from Wichita, and only 5 minutes south of a small town called Yoder. Previous guests have stayed in the boxcar while they were in town for concerts, while others came to experience everything Hutchison, Kansas, has to offer.

What is there to do around the area? One of the most popular attractions is the Cosmosphere, where you and the kids can discover the history and future of space exploration. To fuel up before you go learn about space, you can try the family-style German American food at Carolyns Essenhaus.

Or descend 650 feet under Kansas soil to experience the unique opportunity the Strataca Salt Museum offers. They have fantastic tours where you can learn everything about the history and methods of mining for salt. However, if you're too claustrophobic for underground mines, check out the Hutchinson Zoo with activities like a dinosaur dig, a mini farm where you can pet the animals, and a fantastic bison experience you won't want to miss.