Concrete walls built to withstand nuclear blasts now shelter adventure-seeking travelers instead of intercontinental ballistic missiles. Decommissioned Cold War missile silos across the Midwest and Southwest have transformed from instruments of mutually assured destruction into some of America’s most unusual overnight experiences.
These underground time capsules, originally constructed in the late 1950s and early 1960s to house Atlas F and Titan ICBMs, preserve authentic military architecture while adding modern creature comforts. You can now sleep where launch crews once maintained nuclear readiness during humanity’s tensest standoff.
From Nuclear Defense to Novelty Lodging
Three converted sites offer distinct approaches to Cold War hospitality.
The conversion trend centers around three main properties scattered across rural America. Atlas Ad Astra Adventure Resort in Wilson, Kansas occupies a 1959 Atlas F site active until 1965, featuring a renovated two-floor Launch Control Center available through Airbnb for around $300 per night.
The 52-foot diameter, 176-foot deep silo dominates the property, with camping options starting at $38 nightly. Titan Ranch in Vilonia, Arkansas transforms a decommissioned Titan missile site into luxury lodging.
Owner GT Hill converted the former launch control center into multi-level accommodations complete with full kitchen, stocked fridge, and projector theater, while keeping the actual silo sealed for historical preservation.
Key Details:
- Atlas Ad Astra (Kansas): $300/night Airbnb in Launch Control Center, $38 camping, guided tours available
- Titan Ranch (Arkansas): Luxury amenities including projector theater, full kitchen, spiral staircase access
- Site 4 (New Mexico): Near Roswell, features 100-ft tunnel entrance, military-themed decor with emergency rations display
- Original purpose: Nuclear missile storage during 1950s-60s Cold War tensions
- Preserved elements: Blast doors, curved corridors, riveted steel, floating floors designed for blast resistance
These properties distinguish themselves from museum tours by offering actual overnight stays. Owners preserve original military elements—curved corridors, massive blast doors, spiral staircases—while adding beds, climate control, and WiFi.
The experience appeals to history enthusiasts and travelers seeking isolation in settings that once represented the height of Cold War paranoia. The authentic military atmosphere extends to details like emergency rations displays and concrete cylinder designs that housed America’s nuclear deterrent.
For travelers tired of generic hotels, sleeping in spaces engineered to survive nuclear war offers a sobering yet fascinating connection to recent history.
The Appeal: These underground retreats combine historical immersion with modern comfort, attracting those seeking stories as compelling as their accommodations.
