6 Black-Owned Stays That Double As Creative Spaces

Around the world, Black-owned stays are redefining what travel can feel like. Some are transforming getaways into living works of art that celebrate culture, creativity, and connection, where guests serve as the final touches to their masterpieces.

What you will find in these spaces is not just a place to rest your head at night. You will be captivated by how each design and small detail reveals stories about the destination in itself.

Take the Ode Hotel in Toronto, for example. From the moment you step inside, you realize you’re not simply checking in. You’re crossing into an artful escape that tells the story of Toronto through the eyes of local artists. The walls are filled with bold colors and textures. Yet, there’s a quiet invitation to slow down and take in what many consider to be Toronto’s most vibrant neighborhood. 

Black hoteliers are infusing travel with imagination and identity. Whether nestled in a city’s creative corridor or hidden in nature, these Black-owned stays double as a creative sanctuary.

The Kruger Shalati – South Africa

Dubbed as the “Train on the Bridge,” the Kruger Shalati is not only one of the most distinctive stays in the world, but it’s also one of the most creative. The luxury train experience is permanently stationed on the historic Selati Bridge, which spans the Sabie River in South Africa’s Kruger National Park.

It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime creative property that blends vintage railway charm from past generations with modern design and comfort. Each carriage was transformed into a luxury suite with panoramic views that stretch across the savanna. A guest favorite is the impressive viewing deck, which features an overhanging pool.

There are two different accommodation options, but the 24 Carriage Suites are the crown jewel of the experience here. These suites are elevated high above the park. It’s not uncommon to spot the animals as you sit comfortably high up in your bed.

Finger Lakes Treehouses – Upstate New York

Tucked away in the quiet beauty of Upstate New York, the canvas of Finger Lakes Treehouses sits on 48 acres of nature.  It’s truly a living canvas where art, nature, and relaxation blend in perfect harmony.

This retreat of modern treehouses, romantic villas, or family-style escapes in curated Airstreams and luxury glamping tents is a celebration of creativity and calm. If you book your stay at the height of autumn, guests will be immersed in the colorful celebration known as fall foliage.

The owners crafted each unit with the intention of relaxation and rejuvenation. Using nature as the backdrop, each unit features a wood-fired hot tub.

Ode Hotel – Toronto

For those who have been lucky enough to stay at Ode Hotel, it’s clear on arrival: this is no ordinary stay. The hotel is truly a masterpiece. Located in Toronto’s Little Portugal neighborhood, Ode proudly stands as the city’s first and only Black-owned hotel. Every inch of the hotel reflects the family’s devotion to culture, creativity, and community.

The boutique hotel offers ten modern rooms for guests to choose from, each providing a unique visual and emotional experience. What sets Ode apart is its collaboration with local artists who brought each room to life as a living art gallery.

No two spaces are alike. The Black & Yellow room, for example, is an incredible design that feels like a hypnotic striped wonderland. Then, in the Green Room, it’s a hand-painted jungle that gives a “subterranean vibe.”

Ode delivers a stay that’s more than just a place to sleep. It’s an artful experience honoring Toronto’s diverse and creative spirit.

Tiny Urban Escapes – Indianapolis

On the outside, Tiny Urban Escapes appears to be a park of shipping containers.  However, it’s a one-of-a-kind experience that has transformed upcycled shipping containers into micro semi-glass private suites in Indianapolis.

This hidden oasis is one of the most unique and intimate boutique hotel stays in the United States. It offers guests the chance to unwind in a creatively designed space within one of America’s artful cities. One night in this luxurious space will change your views on shipping containers forever. There are four types of containers, with some suites nestled in greenery, and others that give an urban oasis vibe.

The Truck House – Kenya

Located one hour south of Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi, the Truck House is one of the most unique homes in the East African country. It’s a two-story home built on wheels. Don’t worry — The Truck House doesn’t move because it’s not a mobile or trailer home. The wheels are actually part of the foundation.

Inside is a loft-style space with stairs that climb to the second-floor bedroom. The highlight here is the colorful garden on the outside and the designated areas for a barbecue or bonfire under the stars. Guests can lie on the rooftop where there are fantastic views of Kyumbi Hill, sunrises, sunsets, or lie out to gaze at the stars.

The Urban Cowboy – Nashville

Like artists, cowboys are driven by freedom, which is a spirit that runs wild at the Urban Cowboy in Nashville. Tucked away in a historic Victorian mansion in the heart of Music City, this boutique hotel is one of the most creative spaces in the country.

Its interiors are a blend of upscale and rustic design, featuring a mix of industrial, cowboy, and Victorian influences. Another highlight here is the curated experience in the communal spaces. Inside the Parlor Wine Bar, for example, guests are invited to gather and converse over live music and storytelling.

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