Omni Homestead Resort Guide

The Omni Homestead Resort, located in Hot Springs, Virginia, is a historic and luxurious getaway offering beautiful natural hot springs, relaxing spa treatments, and a variety of recreational activities. Here’s a comprehensive guide to make the most of your visit to this iconic destination:

1. Getting There

The Omni Homestead Resort is in Bath County, Virginia, within the scenic Allegheny Mountains. It’s about a four-hour drive from Washington, D.C., and two hours from Charlottesville, Virginia. For those traveling from farther away, the closest airports are Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport and Greenbrier Valley Airport.

2. Best Time to Visit

The resort is a year-round destination with something for every season:

Winter: Enjoy skiing, snow tubing, and ice skating.
Spring & Fall: Perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying the picturesque landscapes with blooming flowers or colorful foliage.
Summer: Ideal for outdoor activities like golf, swimming, and kayaking. The warmer months are perfect for enjoying the hot springs as well.

3. Resort Overview

Historic Charm: Founded in 1766, the Omni Homestead is one of America’s most historic resorts. Its charming colonial architecture and beautiful grounds make it feel like stepping back in time while offering modern luxuries.
Natural Hot Springs: The resort is known for its natural hot springs, with a history of attracting visitors seeking their therapeutic benefits. The Warm Springs pools and indoor Aquavana thermal suite offer relaxing experiences year-round.

4. Accommodations

The Omni Homestead offers various types of accommodations, each featuring classic Southern elegance:

Guest Rooms & Suites: Options range from cozy traditional rooms to spacious suites with separate living areas and mountain views.
Pet-Friendly Options: The resort offers pet-friendly rooms for guests traveling with their furry friends.

5. Spa & Wellness

The Spa at the Omni Homestead: The spa offers a wide variety of services, from massages to facials, including treatments that utilize the healing properties of the natural mineral waters.
Jefferson Pools: The natural hot springs, called the Jefferson Pools (currently undergoing renovation, so check their availability), are where guests can soak and relax. These pools have been drawing visitors since the 18th century.

6. Activities & Recreation

Golf: The resort features two historic courses—the Old Course and the Cascades Course—both with beautiful mountain views. The Cascades Course is particularly renowned and has hosted numerous championships.
Skiing & Snow Sports: During winter, the resort offers a family-friendly ski area with several slopes, snow tubing, and even ice skating. It’s a perfect option for guests who want to enjoy winter sports without the crowds.
Hiking & Horseback Riding: Explore the property’s extensive trail system through hiking or on horseback. Trails range from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
Shooting Club & Falconry: Guests can experience unique activities like clay shooting or falconry, a distinctive offering where you learn about birds of prey and watch demonstrations.
Water Park & Pool Complex: The outdoor pool area, with waterslides and a lazy river, is a hit with families, especially during summer.
Archery & Tennis: The resort offers lessons and opportunities for archery and tennis, with courts and instructors available for all skill levels.

7. Dining

The Omni Homestead offers several on-site dining options:

The Dining Room: A traditional and elegant setting featuring Southern-inspired dishes. On select evenings, live music and dancing provide a charming atmosphere for a memorable night out.
Jefferson’s Restaurant & Bar: A more casual yet refined spot, perfect for enjoying steaks, fresh seafood, and a range of seasonal dishes.
Woody’s: For a more relaxed setting, Woody’s serves brick-oven pizzas, burgers, and other casual fare. It’s a family favorite with a warm atmosphere.
Lobby Bar: Enjoy afternoon tea or relax with an evening cocktail at the bar, offering an excellent place to unwind before or after dinner.

8. Family Activities

Miniature Golf: The on-site mini-golf course is perfect for a casual family activity.
KidsClub: During summer and holidays, the KidsClub offers supervised activities for younger guests, providing an opportunity for kids to enjoy crafts, games, and outdoor fun while parents relax.
Horseback Riding & Carriage Rides: Kids and families can enjoy horseback riding or even carriage rides for a unique way to explore the resort.

9. Special Events & Experiences

Historical Tours: The Homestead offers tours that provide insight into its rich history, including the famous guests who have visited over the centuries.
Holiday Celebrations: The resort is particularly special during holidays, such as Christmas and Easter, with festive decorations, themed activities, and elaborate dinners.

10. Tips for Visiting

Book Activities Early: Popular activities like golf, spa appointments, and special tours can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Booking early ensures you get to enjoy all you want.
Dress Code: The resort maintains a dress code for certain restaurants and the main dining room, especially for dinner. It’s a good idea to pack a mix of casual and more formal attire.
Make Use of Resort Maps: The resort is vast, and maps are helpful for navigating the many buildings, paths, and amenities.

The Omni Homestead Resort offers the perfect blend of history, luxury, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re soaking in the hot springs, exploring the beautiful grounds, or enjoying an exquisite meal, this unique destination ensures a memorable experience for everyone.

R E V I E W:

Our stay at The Omni Homestead Resort was nothing short of magical! This historic hotel has so much charm, and it’s clear why it’s a beloved destination. The resort seamlessly blends old-world elegance with family-friendly activities, making it the ideal spot for our family vacation.

From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel right at home. The beautiful architecture and grand lobby set the tone for an amazing experience. The rooms were spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room for our family to relax after a day of exploring.

The best part about our stay was how family-friendly The Omni Homestead truly is. There were endless activities for everyone—our kids loved the water park area, complete with slides and a lazy river, while we adults got to unwind at the spa. The KidsClub was also a lifesaver, giving us some time to enjoy a quiet dinner while knowing our little ones were having fun with crafts and games.

Another highlight was the variety of activities available throughout the resort. We loved spending time together as a family while trying new things—horseback riding, archery, and mini-golf were all big hits with our kids. We also enjoyed the guided historical tour, which gave us a fascinating look at the resort’s long history, helping us appreciate its significance even more.

Dining options were fantastic too! We had casual lunches at Woody’s and enjoyed an elegant dinner at The Dining Room. We even danced to live music one night—a special memory for all of us. They also offered kid-friendly menus, so there was something for everyone, even our pickiest eater.

This resort truly has something to offer in every season, and we can’t wait to come back. Overall, The Omni Homestead is a gem—offering a perfect mix of luxury, history, and fun. It’s rare to find a place that appeals to all ages, but this resort delivers. We made so many wonderful family memories and can’t wait to return for another stay!