This article was originally published October 17th, 2013. Almost a year later my husband and I are still talking about how amazing The Omni Bedford Springs resort is. We can’t wait to get back there.
I was born in Johnstown PA. Ok, I can see the majority of you asking where that is. It’s a small steel and coal town about 90 minutes outside Pittsburgh. Every year we try to make it to Windber PA, an old company town just outside of Johnstown, where I have family. It probably one of my most favorite places to visit. It’s not fancy, but it feels like home.
About 25 minutes down the mountain is a town called Bedford and in this town is this historic, beautiful, awe-inspiring resort. Now as a little girl, this resort was out of reach. There was no way my parents or grandparents were going to take us to the “fancy” resort. It was so far out of reach as a little girl, I never even thought to suggest it to my husband in the last 6 years.
We had plans to travel back to PA to visit with my Grandmother in September. I sat down to make reservations at the local motel when a thought popped into my head! The Omni!!! I’ve worked with a few other Omni resorts in the past including my favorite La Costa Resort. Why not send an email off and inquire about availability and a media rate.
Then day came when we finally pulled up the Omni Bedford Springs and Resort.
Recently the Omni Bedford Spring went through a $120 million renewal and expansion. Seriously $120 million and it is amazing!
History
There is so much to tell you about Bedford Springs, I’m not even sure where to start.
I guess the beginning is a better place than any. In the late 18th century Dr. John Anderson started treating patients/ guest with the healing mineral water that flowed from the springs. In 1806 the Stone Inn was built to house all the guests. Later Bedford Springs opened the first golf courses in America which was later redesigned by Donald Ross. In 1905 the indoor pool was opened, which is still filled with spring water!
Should we mention all the Presidents that have stayed there? James Buchanan used Bedford Springs as the “Summer White House.” Nine other Presidents have stayed at Bedford Springs including Taylor, whom it is rumored came because of the healing mineral spring water. We know how that turned out.
Right now you can actually book a Walk through History Package. Your room will be in one of the Historic Wings, you’ll be treated to a Guided Historic Walking Tour of the property, and a 3 course dinner in the Crystal Dining Room or 1796. My tip, ask about the fort that the Resort is built on top of. They’ll actually take you down and show you walls where you can see the holes they would aime the guns out of. Very cool!
The Hotel
Pulling up to The Omni Bedford Springs you round a corner and there sits this beautiful old resort. I was expecting a nice resort, but I was not prepared for what laid before me. I love that you can see the 4 separate sections to the hotel that have been built throughout the centuries.
Walk through the front foyer you’ll see old guest registries you might even see Presidential signature or two. Historic photos line the walls and it gives you a feeling that you are walking through history.
Our room was in the new spa wing. The moment we walked into the new wing it felt like we had entered a spa. Even our rooms smelled and felt just like a spa. It was heavenly!! This reminds me, I need to call The Omni Bedford Springs to find out how they do this.
Who wouldn’t want to soak in this tub with a glass of wine? Zach and Ellie had a nice time going for a swim in the tub.
Our view of the Allegheny Mountains was breathtaking and I loved seeing the touches of fall starting show up in the leaves.
The evening we arrived we took a swim in the indoor pool. Tranquil and relaxing, well after Mike took Zach back to the room. Ellie and I swam for about an hour just enjoy the century old pool.
Of course there is a Eternal Indulgence Package! You’ll be booked in a deluxe room, served a full breakfast, three-course dinner, welcome amenity and a $100 USD spa credit!
The Grounds
The next day we wander the grounds taking pictures, enjoy the tree swing and just enjoying the early fall mountain air.
We explored the trails and went on a hunt for the springs.
The kids enjoyed just running through the lawn.
After a morning of exploring is was so nice to just sit on the porch and relax.
The Course
My husband is a huge Donald Ross fan. If you’ve read any of my past travel adventures you’ve probably read that we head to Pinehurst NC at least once a year. Where my husband first fell in love with Donald Ross.
Originally built in 1895, the Bedford Spring golf course was one of the first golf courses in America. It was originally designed by Spencer Oldham. In 1923 Donald Ross came in and remodeled Bedford Springs’ 18-hole golf course.
Bedford Springs Old Course has undergone a total renovation overseen by noted classic golf course restoration architect Ron Forse, restoring it to its original course layout.
It was way more invited than we expected and we left totally regretting not playing.
We never wanted to leave! My husband and I spent the last day planning our return trip, with out the kids! Not that there isn’t plenty for the kids to do. We would like to spend a few days enjoying the spa, golf course and dining without constantly reminding them to use their manners.
What package would we get? The His and Her package of course! Deluxe room accommodations, full breakfast, one round of golf and a $100 USD spa credit sounds heavenly to me!
We can not wait to get back there! Who’s going with me?
If you live in the area, this is a great weekend splurge. If you don’t live in the area, it’s worth the flight and drive to get there!