Photo: The Omni Grove Park Inn / Photo courtesy of the property
The upscale Omni Grove Park Inn offers guests a restful and comfort-filled getaway, delivering on founder E.W. Grove’s original vision. Stay where presidents, luminaries, and celebrities – most notably President Barack Obama, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Thomas Edison, and Henry Ford, just to name a few – have come and gone, and come again. Here's our review of this Asheville gem.
The Look of The Omni Grove Park Inn
As soon as travelers round the bend from the entrance, they’re met with a red-shingled roof and large stone inn. In the Great Hall, original stone fireplaces are the focal points, as well as an open-air space that houses Sunset Terrace, a culinary experience with hand-cut steaks and fresh seafood. Dark and neutral earthy tones are found throughout the lobby, as well as the guest rooms. After being built in about 11 months in 1913, the resort seemingly blends into its surroundings and transports guests back to that era, as many of the Inn’s original features have been preserved.
The Vibe at The Omni Grove Park Inn
In a word: tranquility. And it’s found all around. Upon entering the Great Hall, pay attention to the calming music, rocking chairs flanking two 36-foot-wide stone fireplaces, and the low lighting, which rounds out the peaceful ambiance.
Who Will Love The Omni Grove Park Inn
Those who want to escape reality and relax in a mountainous, yet upscale setting with unobstructed views of the Blue Ridge Mountains will find the Grove Park Inn the perfect getaway.
History buffs will enjoy the Grove Park Inn with a self-guided tour and several historical items from the Inn’s inception to accompany the walk-through. Don’t forget to take an elevator ride in the original elevator tucked away in the stone fireplaces to take a peek at the Palm Court in the Main Inn, which has been restored to its former glory.
Pet owners will be glad to know that the Inn is pet-friendly.
Who Might Not Love The Omni Grove Park Inn
Guests who want to be in the middle of the action of downtown Asheville may miss the hustle and bustle of the city center.
Best Amenity at The Omni Grove Park Inn
Foodies may say that the best amenity is the four restaurants serving locally sourced cuisine, each with their own personalities and four bars and lounges serving artisanal cocktails and light fare. Try dining al fresco at Sunset Terrace for unwavering mountain vistas; Vue 1913 for a leisurely meal; and The President’s Lounge for local craft beer and wines by the glass.
Perhaps travelers looking to melt away stress will find the best amenity to be The Spa at Omni Grove Park Inn, a $50 million, 43,000-square-foot subterranean spa with numerous water features. Here, guests can revitalize their mind, body, and spirit with therapeutic treatments.
Golfers can tee off at the historic Grove Park Inn Golf Club, set against a backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Recognized as one of the “Best Golf Courses” by Golfweek, it's a 6,055-yard, par-70 course that's been played on by legends.
What’s Included in The Omni Grove Park Inn
Stays here include wifi and scenic views of the native landscape or the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Fees and Extra Costs at The Omni Grove Park Inn
Parking, taxes, and a $30 daily resort fee are not included in the price of a stay. The resort fee includes local calling, in-room high-speed Internet access, in-room coffee and tea, two in-room bottles of water, on-property shuttle services, an audio history tour, daily newspapers located in the Great Hall, and access to the Sports Complex with use of the indoor pool and outdoor tennis courts.
How to Get a Deal at The Omni Grove Park Inn
Check on the Inn’s offers page for multiple specials like the “Escape and Save”, and “Cool Mountain Getaway”, among others. Discounted room rates are also extended to AAA members and military personnel.
In the Neighborhood of The Omni Grove Park Inn
Just a 10-minute drive from downtown, Grove Park Inn is surrounded by houses that predate the Inn, lush greenery, and Grovewood Village, a historic craft, art studio, and museum complex adjacent to the Inn.
Nearest Airport to The Omni Grove Park Inn
Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) is a little over 16 miles away, or about 20 minutes by car.
Nearest Public Transportation to The Omni Grove Park Inn
The N5 bus route stops at the Inn, but many guests opt for the Grey Line Trolley Tour, a hop-on/hop-off trolley that takes visitors on a tour of Asheville’s popular attractions.
The Bottom Line
A hideaway for renewal and rejuvenation in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains with top-notch hospitality, locally sourced cuisine, acclaimed spa, awe-inspiring views, and much more to discover.