The historic indie rock landmark “American Football House” was offered for rent on Airbnb after the band saved it from developers in May 2023.
The 131-year-old house at 704 W. High St in Urbana, Illinois, became famous when American Football decided to use a photo of the top floor by local artist Chris Strong as the artwork for their 1999 eponymous debut album. Interestingly, none of the band members lived there, but several of their acquaintances did.
Get American Football tickets here
When the group learned that the house was at risk of being sold and demolished by developers, they joined forces with Strong, her label Polyvinyl Records, Atiba Jefferson and Open House Contemporary to preserve the house’s legacy.
As an Airbnb rental, the home offers three bedrooms and two bathrooms—plus the chance to experience a piece of emo history that “has hosted decades of house parties and punk shows all over the property—from a (now-vanished) backyard halfpipe to the low-ceilinged basement and everything in between,” the description reads.
He continued: “By preserving the more than 130-year-old house and opening it to artists, creative retreats, events and overnight stays, we hope that this indelible place will continue to inspire others for years to come – right here in the community that shaped its unique legacy.”
Book your stay here and check out some photos below.
American Football are celebrating the 25th anniversary of their 1999 debut with a special vinyl remaster and a covers album featuring reinterpretations by Manchester Orchestra, Blondshell, Iron & Wine and Ethel Cain. They’re also playing the album in its entirety on tour. See the full schedule below and get tickets here.
American Football tour dates 2024:
09/11 – Nottingham, UK @ Rock City #
09/12 – Glasgow, UK @ Barrowland Ballroom #
13.09. – Bristol, UK @ SWX #
14.09. – London, UK @ Roundhouse #
09/27 – Chicago, IL @ Thalia Hall %
09/28 – Chicago, IL @ Thalia Hall ^
10/11 – Las Vegas, NV @ Best Friends Forever Fest
10/12 – Los Angeles, CA @ El Rey Theater ~
10/13 – Los Angeles, CA @ El Rey Theater *
10/24 – Washington, DC @ Howard Theater!
10/25 – Washington, DC @ Howard Theater +
10/26 – New York, NY @ Warsaw #
10/27 – New York, NY @ Warsaw $
16.11. – Mexico City, Mexico @ Corona Capital Festival
# = with Hello Mary
% = with BNNY
^ = with Wishy
~ = with Yvette Young
* = with MAGS
! = with sweet pill
+ = with Aunt Katrina
$ = with IAN SWEET
