In the whirlwind of seasonal sports, school projects, and never-ending schedules, it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly running but never actually getting anywhere. Recently, my sister and I decided we’d had enough of the "crazy." We packed up my three daughters and headed to the mountains of Virginia for a much-needed reset at the historic Omni Homestead Resort.

Known as the "Birthplace of Southern Hospitality," The Homestead feels like stepping into a more intentional era, one where the WiFi is fast but the pace of life is slow.

Finding Our Rhythm in the Mountains

From the moment we arrived, the stress of thefie hockey field and carpool lines started to melt away. We traded our cleats for stirrups and took the kids horseback riding through the crisp mountain air. There’s something about being on a mountain trail, surrounded by ancient trees, that forces everyone to disconnect from their screens and actually connect with each other.

We also channeled our inner Katniss with a morning of archery. It was the perfect blend of focus and fun, and surprisingly, the kids were amazing shots!

A Walk Through Living History

One of the most unique things about The Omni Homestead is that you aren't just staying at a hotel; you’re staying inside a landmark. Established in 1766, this resort has been a sanctuary for travelers for over 250 years.

As we walked through the Great Hall, it was hard not to feel the weight of the history around us. The resort has hosted 23 U.S. Presidents, from Thomas Jefferson (who came to soak in the springs for his rheumatism) to more modern leaders. We took a moment to look at the historical photos lining the hallways, showing how the resort evolved from a simple wooden inn to the "Grand Dame" of the Alleghenies.

Even the activities feel rooted in tradition. Whether it’s the daily afternoon tea or the classic architecture of the Jefferson Pools, there is a timelessness here that makes you feel like you’ve successfully escaped the frantic pace of modern life. It’s a place where the past and the present sit comfortably together.

Water That Heals (and Entertains)

You can’t visit Hot Springs without experiencing the water. We spent hours in the heated pools, but the highlight was the soak in the warm springs. It wasn’t just relaxing; it felt like a total physical reset.

For a unique experience, we walked the reflexology path in the serenity garden. If you’ve never tried it, it’s a series of smooth stones designed to massage pressure points on your feet. It’s a bit of a "hurts so good" sensation that left us feeling completely grounded.

The Sweet Traditions

Some of our favorite moments weren't the "big" activities, but the resort’s storied traditions:

Afternoon Tea: We got dressed up just a little bit and enjoyed tea and finger sandwiches. It was a lovely way to slow down before dinner.
Family Bingo: Don’t underestimate the competitive spirit of a Homestead bingo! It was a nostalgic, high-energy highlight for the kids and we won several prizes (like warm spring soaks and ice cream)!
Cookie Decorating and Crafts: My children are always up for some fun crafts. The Homestead had plenty of activities to partake in, but we opted for cookies and decorating totes.

Why We Loved It

The beauty of The Homestead is that it’s an "everything" resort. It’s elegant enough for a girls' trip but welcoming enough for a pack of kids. We came for the escape, but we left with something better: a sense of calm and a gallery full of photos with smiles and laughter.

Pro Tip: Make sure to leave time just to sit on the porch in the rocking chairs. The view is free, and the peace is priceless.

Ready for Your Own Mountain Reset?

If your family needs to trade the chaos for a little southern charm, I’d love to help you plan your own Homestead story. Whether you're looking for a multi-generational reunion or a simple sister getaway, let’s make it happen.

Contact Skye at Skye’s the Limit Vacations 📧 Email: skye@skyesthelimitvacations.com Let’s start planning your peaceful escape today!

A Timeless Escape: Our Girls Getaway to The Omni Homestead Resort