The writer was hosted.
The historic Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa, located in southwest Pennsylvania between Pittsburgh and Gettysburg, is a beacon of historic elegance and modern luxury. For those seeking an escape, a chance to steep in the opulence of yesteryear while enjoying contemporary comforts, this resort offers the perfect experience.
My husband and I enjoyed staying at the Omni Bedford Springs Resort, an experience that beckons luxury travelers, spa enthusiasts, and history buffs alike. The resort was a delightful getaway with fantastic amenities and delicious food offerings. Let’s explore why Omni Bedford Springs is an excellent destination for an irresistible getaway.
A Sanctuary of Historic Proportions
The Omni Bedford Springs has been a retreat for the body and soul since the Indians called the area home. Later, our nation’s founders sought the restorative powers of the natural mineral springs. It’s no coincidence that founding fathers George Washington, and Thomas Jefferson graced these grounds with their presence.
The minute you walk towards the front desk to check in and see the giant American flag from days when we only had 39 states, you know you are in a unique historic landmark place.
Imagine lingering where President James Buchanan spent 25 summers and used the hotel as his summer White House, conducting the nation’s business from a Sheraton desk. The same desk, still housed within the hotel, bore witness to the historic exchange of the first trans-Atlantic cables with Queen Victoria.
Be sure to walk through the resort, read the various accounts of history on the walls, and check out the windows etched with names from decades ago. The resort’s heritage tour is not merely a walk through the hotel but a chronological stroll through America’s past.
Read More: Local’s Guide to the Top Gettysburg B&Bs
Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa Guest Rooms
Each Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa guest room combines 19th-century charm and contemporary luxury. The rooms are spacious, adorned with plush bedding, antique furnishings, and state-of-the-art amenities, ensuring a stay that pampers the senses and soul.
Rooms come in three categories: Deluxe, Premiere, and Luxury. Each has either a king-sized bed or two queens. All rooms have wifi access, a flat-screen television, and a spacious bathroom with a granite vanity and marble floor.
The Premier and Luxury rooms feature a porch. My room overlooked the Eternal Fountain and flower garden. They also have double sinks, a soaking tub, and a separate walk-in shower.
Plush towels and bathrobes are provided. I loved the extra touches of an aromatherapy humidifier, a bath salts tray, and flameless candles.
There are also multi-room suites in the Premier and Luxury category rooms.
Gastronomic Delights in Historical Ambiance
Typical of Omni Hotels, the culinary scene at the Omni Bedford Springs Resort is fabulous. From the casual Tavern Restaurant to refined cuisine at the 1796 Restaurant, Omni Bedford Springs excels in its culinary offerings. The Crystal Dining Room stands out for its unique blend of American history, crystal, and locally sourced fare, paying homage to the resort’s luxurious roots and environmental consciousness.
1796 Restaurant
Named for the year Dr. Anderson purchased the land where the resort now sits, the 1796 Room serves steaks, fish, chops, and poultry.
1796 uses the highest quality 21-day aged USDA prime beef. Their meats are prepared on an infrared broiler at 1700°, ensuring juiciness, tenderness, and flavor.
They have a world-class wine list, and their professional staff can recommend the perfect wine pairing with your entree.
The Crystal Room
At one time, this was the resort’s main dining room. The Crystal Room has an elegant, upscale, traditional ambiance and delectable cuisine.
I enjoyed a breakfast buffet in the Crystal Room.
They also serve dinner, and you will enjoy a deliciously unique epicurean experience in a sophisticated ambiance.
Frontier Tavern
A casual spot set within the circa 1806 Stone Inn building, it hosts a lively evening bar. The tavern is popular with guests and locals. It is open for lunch, dinner, and late-night libations.
Guests can enjoy making S’mores or drinking wine in the outdoor fire pit.
Other eateries include:
- Tillie’s at the Clubhouse
- Evitt Coffee House
- The Lobby Bar
- Room Service
Springs Eternal Spa
Regarded as an Award-Winning Spa, Springs Eternal Spa, famed for its Bedford Bath Ritual, harnesses the therapeutic properties of the region’s natural springs. This is a full-service spa offering spa services to guests and locals. A visit to the Springs Eternal Spa to experience the Bedford Bath Ritual and a Himalayan Salt Stone Massage was a highlight of my visit.
Eight natural mineral springs on the property, first used by Native Americans for their healing properties, inspired the Springs Eternal Spa and its treatments.
The Bedford Bath Ritual, a signature spa offering, is an immersive experience that rejuvenates the spirit and relieves stress. It includes a mixture of hot and cold temperatures, leaving you feeling rejuvenated and your muscles relaxed. I loved the steam room and the hot whirlpool.
Next, I enjoyed a Himalayan Salt Stone Massage. During the massage, they use warm, hand-carved salt stones from the Himalayan Mountains. It soothes away stress and tension and balances the body, mind, and spirit.
After the massage, you can return to the hot tub, relax in the lounge, and enjoy a fresh fruit snack and fruit-infused water.
A Refreshing Dip in History
The Omni Bedford Spring Resort has both an indoor and outdoor pool on-site.
Indisputably, one of the most eye-catching features of the Omni is its magnificent Olympic-sized indoor pool. It was America’s first indoor pool, cementing its status as a historical gem where guests can engage in aquatic leisure. Built in 1905, the pool is one of the most beautiful spots in the hotel.
The outdoor pool is behind the hotel and is a favorite summer favorite.
A Golfer’s Haven
If you find solace on the green, the resort has an exclusive golf course with a magnificent view of the Allegheny Mountains. Designed by the illustrious Donald Ross and Spencer Oldham, this championship course has provided a verdant respite for countless golf enthusiasts.
Other Activities
In addition to the luxurious amenities, the historic hotel offers various indoor and outdoor activities for guests to enjoy. These activities include:
- Fitness Center
- Fishing in the renowned trout streams.
- Hiking and biking on the resort’s picturesque hiking trails.
- Guided history tours of the resort and its grounds, providing insight into the rich heritage of this national treasure.
- Archery
- Chess on the front lawn
- Board Games and puzzles in the library area
- Gift Shop
- Off-Road Vehicle Tour
And don’t forget to try out the famous “Bedford Springs Water,” which flows from eight natural springs on the property and has been believed to have healing powers since the 1800s.
Local Attractions
For those who wish to explore beyond the resort grounds, many local attractions are worth visiting. These include:
- Old Bedford Village
- Shawnee State Park offers over 3,000 acres of scenic beauty for picnicking, boating, and hiking.
- The Flight 93 National Memorial
- Local restaurants, shops, and galleries.
Pet-Friendly Hotel
Pets are welcome, and the Omni Bedford Springs Resort pampers them. They have a special menu for in-room dining for pets that includes Shredded Brisket & Rice, Venison Sausage Treats, House Made Dog Biscuits, and more.
An Accessible Hideaway
The Omni Bedford Springs is in an excellent location in many major cities. Whether you reside in Columbus, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, New York, Baltimore, DC, or Philadelphia, this retreat is a drive away, yet it feels like a world apart.
The resort is located at 2138 Business 220, Bedford, PA 15522.
The best part of staying at Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa is the opportunity to disconnect from everyday life’s hustle and bustle and connect with nature.
Surrounded by picturesque mountains, sprawling meadows, and tranquil forests, it’s easy to unwind and find inner peace in this serene setting. Whether you’re yearning for a romantic getaway, a tranquil spa weekend, a taste of history, or simply a lavish escape from the mundane, Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa is a destination that truly stands out.
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