History buffs and luxury seekers have traveled to Bedford, Pennsylvania, for decades to take in the town's Colonial charm, see the natural beauty of its springs and surrounding Allegheny Mountains, and stay at one of America's first spa retreats. First opened in 1806, Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa is a historical wellness and golf haven that has beckoned travelers to this area for centuries. Read all about it below.
The Look of Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa
The sprawling 2,200-acre, 216-room resort is filled with historical charm and luxurious touches. From the moment you arrive, the red brick exterior paired with white columns gives a distinct Greek Revival-style Colonial look. The lobby is just as beautiful with creamy white walls, dark wood floors, and a central rounded bar where guests can order classic cocktails or a glass of wine to kick off their vacation. The guest rooms and suites embrace the resort's 200-year legacy, with historical black and white photos of the area on the walls and textiles that feature decorative patterns that would have been used in the early days of the property.
Some rooms have balconies with rocking chairs overlooking the grounds, which elevates the luxury experience even more.
The Vibe at Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa
The historical resort is known for plenty of firsts, including one of the country's first spa retreats, golf courses, and indoor swimming pools. The serene indoor pool harkens back to the days of yesteryear, with plenty of lounge chairs around its perimeter. The pool opened in 1905 as one of the first of its kind in the country, and once featured live music from an adjacent opera box. The property's Frontier Tavern restaurant and bar is housed in the circa 1806 Stone Inn section of the resort and has a cozy, casual vibe. Here, guests can try a local beer on tap and pair it with a slew of bar bites like chicken wings, Reuben sandwiches, or baked macaroni and cheese topped with brisket.
Who Will Love Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa
Couples looking for a romantic getaway will enjoy the signature spa, luxurious rooms with marble bathrooms and garden views, and beautiful grounds, while friends traveling together will love the ample activities around the resort like golf, hiking, fishing, and tennis.
Before You Book Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa
The resort does allow children, but many onsite amenities and activities are better suited for teens and adults.
Best Amenity at Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa
The 30,000 square foot Springs Eternal Spa is a must-do experience at the resort. The facility and its treatments are all inspired by the eight natural mineral springs on the resort's property. Here, you'll find the Bedford Bath Ritual, which guests can use complimentary with a spa booking. This beautiful area features a whirlpool, cold plunge, steam room, mineral deluge shower with water flowing from a natural spring, and a signature body scrub. After a massage or facial, guests can enjoy the outdoor patio, where lounge chairs overlook a stunning garden, or a quiet indoor lounge, where reading a good book and sipping tea tie the spa day together.
What's Included at Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa
Included with your stay is access to two resort-style indoor and outdoor pools, the spa, an 18-hole golf course, a tennis court, fitness center, hiking trails, bike rentals, history tours of the resort (where guests learn about the springs and tales of past U.S. presidents who have visited), Wi-Fi, and s'mores. Additionally, self and valet parking are included in the resort fee.
Extra Fees & Costs You Should Know About at Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa
The property's resort fee and guest room tax are $39 and 8% per night, respectively. The resort fee covers all of the included amenities listed above.
How to Get a Deal at Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa
The resort's offers page features all of the best deals and packages to save money on your stay. The resort is currently offering up to 13% off if you stay two nights or more, AAA rates, and a spa package that includes a $100 spa credit.
The Sweet Season
The high season in Bedford is summer, when events and warm weather take over the area. Additionally, a second high season coincides with the fall foliage season, usually in October. The low season is winter, when the weather can be brutally cold and outdoor activities can be canceled due to changing weather conditions. The sweet season is early spring, from early April through mid-May, when mild temperatures and fewer people crowd the historical sites around the area.
In The Neighborhood of Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa
There's quite a bit to do around the resort, including the National Museum of the American Coverlet, the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art, Lakemont Amusement and Water Park, Old Bedford Village, and Shawnee State Park. Additionally, local restaurant options include 10/09 Kitchen, Jean Bonnet Tavern, and the Golden Eagle Inn.
Nearest Airport to Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa
Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) is just under a two-hour drive from the resort. Other airports that service the area are Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), Reagan National Airport (DCA), Dulles International Airport (IAD), and Baltimore/Washington International (BWI), all of which are about two and a half hours from the resort by car.
Nearest Public Transportation to Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa
There isn't a central transportation hub near the resort; to get around, you'll need to rent a car or use a ride-share or taxi.
Couples looking for a luxury spa or golf retreat will enjoy some time away at Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa.