World’s Last Blockbuster Store Becomes An Airbnb

(Photo: AirBnb)

Bella Breakdown

Located in Bend, Oregon, the world’s last Blockbuster video store has officially re-presented itself in a new light: a one-of-a-kind Airbnb. This rental has everything a movie lover could possibly want: a sofa bed, free snacks, a VCR, and a big TV to watch movies on.

Sandi Harding, the store manager, has been running the storefront since 2004 when Blockbuster still existed and operated with laminated rental cards and late fees. When Alaska shuttered the chain, the Oregon location became America’s last Blockbuster in 2018, according to Time. Australia ended its chain in 2019.

Despite the pandemic, Harding tried to remain open, operating under social distancing. In an interview with Vice, the general manager said, “We’re still making plans and pushing forward, and we’re the last one for a reason.”

The residents of Deschutes County and visiting tourists are to thank for keeping the last Blockbuster alive. The limited overnight experience will provide families with a fun time in a throwback ‘90s environment.

The location ended up as a listing on Airbnb after celebrating its 10th year. “[W]e were hoping to celebrate that this year, but with Covid throwing a wrench into everybody’s plans, we were really excited to be able to pull this off,” Harding said.

The rental allows up to four people, and all guests must adhere to CDC and local authority Covid-19 protocols and guidelines. The space is available for three individual, one-night reservations on September 18, 19, and 20; bookings will begin on August 17.

The price for one nostalgic movie night is quite impressive: Harding says, “It’s only $4 for the night, a penny more than what you would spend for a new release.”

Guests will be free to watch movies from a pre-selected lineup of ’90s titles or anything else they find in the store.