Peek inside: Abandoned Texas bank converted into cozy Airbnb

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Airbnb

Bank airbnb

Calling all architecture enthusiasts, history buffs and unique Airbnb aficionados. Cross an item off your bucket list when you stay the night at this bank-turned-Airbnb in Bartlett, Texas.

The luxe Airbnb got its start as The Bartlett National Bank, which opened in 1904. The business closed on a federally observed bank holiday in 1931 during the Great Depression and did not reopen again until the mid 1990s, when it operated for three years before closing again. Over the years, the building fell into disrepair.

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The bank building has served as the set for several Hollywood productions, including “The Newton Boys,” a 1998 film starring Matthew McConaughey.

Airbnb host Jennifer purchased the abandoned bank, renovated it and opened it up to the public for short-term rentals on Airbnb.

The unique rental has three bedrooms, five beds, two baths and accommodates up to seven guests.

“The Bartlett National Bank now boasts 2 bedrooms in the old banker office space, a kitchen in what was the old teller station with the teller walls still in tact,” the listing reads. “The Bank Managers office is now your study and contains letters originally written in that very office in the early 1920′s. The old bank vaults serve as a pantry and wine cellar. The soaring ceilings are ornate and showcase the true beauty of this historic building.”

On the vacation rental’s Airbnb page, dozens of comments from former guests praise the Insta-worthy accommodations.

“What an amazing step back in time,” wrote Amy, who stayed in April 2021. “It is like a time capsule from the turn-of-the-century. So many details that Jennifer has woven into the stay. My husband said ‘it is like staying in a museum!’”

Another lodger noted that the Airbnb offered plenty of space.

“It was so neat to see all the history,” wrote Christi, who stayed in June 2021. “Great, comfortable, quiet, lots of room, full beautiful kitchen with big pantry with extras for your stay. Would definitely be perfect for a decent sized family get together! We are a family of 3 and brought my parents along and still had plenty of room for others to join for a dinner or private family gathering.”

One happy camper complimented the Airbnb’s gracious host, Jennifer.

“Jennifer was easy to communicate with and ensured that we had an enjoyable time at her place,” wrote Jordan, who stayed in April 2020. “I highly recommend staying here!”

On Airbnb, Jennifer boasts the title “Superhost,” a designation reserved for Airbnb hosts considered a cut above the rest. Superhosts tote a rating of 4.8 or higher, a record of zero cancellations, and a response rate of at least a 90 percent.

The bank-turned-Airbnb currently rents for $159/night on average. For more information, visit airbnb.com.

Now, enough with the words. Why blab on and on about these incredible accommodations when we can let these photos talk the talk for us? Scroll through the slideshow above to take a peek inside this stunning space.

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About the Author:

Briana Zamora-Nipper joined the KPRC 2 digital team in 2019. When she’s not hard at work in the KPRC 2 newsroom, you can find Bri drinking away her hard earned wages at JuiceLand, running around Hermann Park, listening to crime podcasts or ransacking the magazine stand at Barnes & Noble.