While the U.S. is home to a handful of amenity-packed hotels, few compare to The Omni Homestead Resort — which just so happens to be the country’s oldest! Now a National Historic Landmark, this expansive property has hosted 23 U.S. presidents throughout its 250-plus-year history. A recent $150 million renovation helped bring the resort into the present day while retaining its Old World charm. Ahead, our full review of this one-of-a-kind historic haunt in Hot Springs, Virginia.
The Look of The Omni Homestead Resort
Flanked by the Allegheny Mountains, the 2,000-plus-acre Omni Homestead Resort is characterized by its striking Colonial Revival-style exterior. The distinct aesthetic, which oozes elegance and historic charm, continues inside, including in public areas such as the Great Hall. As the beating heart of the property, this sophisticated space boasts bespoke carpeting inspired by the surrounding flora and fauna, soaring ceilings, towering white pillars, roaring fireplaces, hardwood floors, and bold pops of colors and patterns in the form of upholstered chairs and sofas. The 10 bars and restaurants have a similarly timeless look and feel, including the upscale American Audubon Dining Room, with its crisp white interiors, dazzling chandeliers, and domed ceiling, and the aptly named, 1920s-era Theater 1923 — a cocktail bar/screening room/entertainment venue equipped with sofas, lounge chairs, side tables, and a wooden bar area — that regularly hosts wine tastings.
Recently renovated rooms and suites — there are 483 of them total — are spread out across five wings, each of which has its own distinct color palette (think: pinks, blues, greens, and lavenders). Rooms are all outfitted with rich fabrics and furnishings, cozy reading nooks, plush linens, and distinct framed prints documenting the resort’s lengthy history. The suites are especially spectacular, and, depending on the category, are outfitted with private sun porches, in-unit fireplaces, separate living rooms, and pedestal tubs. We’d be remiss not to mention the five two-bedroom Presidents Suites that boast 1,500 square feet each and are specifically designed after the U.S. presidents for which they’re named (Madison, McKinley, Taft, Wilson, and Eisenhower).
The Vibe at The Omni Homestead Resort
The vibe here is like a refined summer camp thanks to ample amenities and activities galore. For example, there’s a 60,000-square-foot spa (which is equipped with an adults-only Serenity Garden complete with poolside cabanas, a Finnish-style sauna, and river reflexology walk); historic hot springs (more on that later); an equestrian center for horseback riding; two championship golf courses; and a water park equipped with slides, a lazy river, and a water play zone. Hiking, mini-golf, skeet shooting, fly fishing, biking, carriage rides, kayaking, tennis, and archery are available, too, as are winter activities like ice skating, skiing, and snowboarding.
Who Will Love The Omni Homestead Resort
Pretty much any type of traveler — history buffs, wellness enthusiasts, outdoor lovers, and foodies alike — will love this amenity-packed resort. Families will especially appreciate the many kid-friendly activities, such as the water park and junior spa treatments.
Who Might Not Love The Omni Homestead Resort
Those craving a more intimate hotel experience may feel overwhelmed by the property’s size.
Best Amenity at The Omni Homestead Resort
As mentioned above, the resort is teeming with activities and amenities. However, if pressed to choose just one, we’d go with the Warm Springs Pools, which date back 250 years. These mineral-rich, crystal-clear waters are ideal for a restorative soak. Per the resort, the original stone basin used for bathing was built in 1761, making it the first spa structure in the U.S. Note that reservations are required for 50-minute soaks and that there’s a schedule you need to check in advance.
What’s Included at The Omni Homestead Resort
Your stay includes Wi-Fi; access to the 10 on-site drinking and dining venues, the fitness center, and the pools (including the water park); shuttle service to all of the resort's recreational activities (including the Warm Springs Pools, which are five miles away) as well as to downtown Hot Springs; and a complimentary afternoon social hour from 3 to 4 p.m., which includes a fresh-baked sweet treat plus a selection of hot and iced teas.
Activities such as lawn games (croquet and cornhole), tennis, nightly movie screenings, and daily historic tours are also included, as are the Old Course or The Cascades driving ranges.
Extra Fees & Costs You Should Know About at The Omni Homestead Resort
The $49 nightly resort fee includes all of the above. Spa treatments and access to the hot springs cost extra, as do the below activities:
How to Get a Deal at The Omni Homestead Resort
Visit the offers tab to view the latest deals and discounts, including up to 15% off summer stays plus discounts for AAA members, senior citizens, and government and military personnel. Themed packages for golf, spa, and romantic getaways are also available.
The Sweet Season
Hot Springs, Virginia, is a year-round destination. However, for the lowest rates, consider a weeknight stay or visiting during the shoulder season months of April and February and/or September through November.
In the Neighborhood of The Omni Homestead Resort
The Omni Homestead Resort is located in the quaint town of Hot Springs, Virginia. Within a quick drive of the property — 10 minutes or less — you’ll find attractions such as Ashwood Station Antiques, the Bath County Historical Society, Bacova Beer Company, Warm Springs Gallery, Rock Roadhouse Winery, and the Garth Newel Music Center.
Nearest Airport to The Omni Homestead Resort
Roanoke Regional Airport is about 80 miles away (about an hour and a half by car).
Nearest Public Transportation to The Omni Homestead Resort
While there is no public transportation, the property provides shuttle service to all resort recreational activities and downtown Hot Springs.
This magnificent mountain hideaway has a fascinating centuries-old history, a slew of modern amenities, and captivating activities to attract all types of travelers. You’ll never want to leave the resort, and you won’t need to.