Nestled in White Sulphur Springs, amid the breathtaking mountains of West Virginia, The Greenbrier Resort Hotel is a National Historic Landmark and world-class resort that has been welcoming guests from around the world since 1778. The natural mineral springs that drew the first guests over 235 years ago continue to lure visitors to the 11,000 acre luxury retreat today.
While the huge hotel and its championship golf courses are the Greenbrier's main attractions, there is another, less opulent one: a massive underground bunker that was meant to serve as an emergency shelter for the United States Congress during the Cold War. For thirty years, The Greenbrier maintained the the reinforced bunker that would house every member of the House and Senate in the event of nuclear Armageddon.
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President Dwight D. Eisenhower meets with Secretary of State John Foster Dulles at the White House.
In the late 1950s, President Dwight D. Eisenhower started to worry about how to maintain law and order in America in the aftermath of a nuclear war. Eisenhower decided that the Greenbrier, with its close proximity to Washington, D.C., would be a perfect cover for a congressional bunker.
In 1958, government workers broke ground on what was called "Project Greek Island."
Construction began in 1958 on the 112,544-square-foot bunker, which was built 720 feet into the hillside beneath The Greenbrier's West Virginia Wing. Completed in 1961, the facility was maintained in a constant state of readiness by a small group of government employees working undercover as Forsythe Associates, a company hired by the resort for audio/visual support services. For 30 years, it was kept secret. Hidden in West Virginia's Greenbrier Resort was a massive bomb shelter stocked with supplies for members of Congress in case of an emergency.
A 25 ton blast door, designed to open with only 50 lbs. of pressure.
Behind 3-foot-thick concrete walls is a space about the size of a WalMart. The air-intake system is so intricate — meant to filter out radiation — that it creates a vacuum-like effect when you walk in. Wind howls around you and sucks all the doors shut.
The exhibit hall, used by The Greenbrier for trade shows and meetings, was actually a disguised workstation area for members of Congress complete with hidden, 30-ton blast doors. The adjacent Mountaineer Room and Governor's Hall were designed as chambers for the US Senate and House of Representatives.
During the 30 years that it was an active facility, communications and other equipment were continually updated, keeping The Bunker at full-operation status. The location of the facility, critical to its effectiveness, remained a secret for more than three decades.
On May 31, 1992, The Washington Post published an article which exposed the facility. As a direct result, the U.S. government began de-commissioning The Bunker and ended the lease agreement with The Greenbrier in 1995.
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Today, daily Bunker Tours are offered to registered hotel guests and the general public.
Next time you’re in White Sulphur Springs, WV, go by The Greenbrier, and check out a tour of this remnant of days gone by. You can find out more at this site.
With so many hotels in West Virginia to choose from, you’ve got to narrow it down to what’s most important to you. Beautiful views? Free Wi-Fi? Flat-screen TV? Free parking? Whatever your ideal getaway, there are plenty of West Virginia hotels that can accommodate your needs, ensuring that you’ll have a pleasant stay. We’ve got some of the best resorts and best hotels in West Virginia that would be honored to host your next vacation, so whether you’re looking for a family-friendly spot or a romantic getaway, you’re bound to find a hotel on this list that’s perfect for you.
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Best Unique Hotels to Stay in West Virginia
Some of the most unique hotels in West Virginia will offer you an unforgettable stay. We’re talking about those types of vacations where you’ll already be planning your next visit, even before you’ve left! Whether your idea of the perfect vacation is spent on the golf course or the hot tub (or both), these unique hotels will give you that luxurious feel from the moment you check in.
Amenities: Outdoor and indoor pool, sauna, Tesla car chargers
Ratings: 4 stars
With over 2,000 acres of year-round recreational activities, you’ll never run out of things to do when you book a stay at Oglebay. The Bissonnette Gardens are absolutely stunning during April and May, the pool, adventure center, and golf course are always a fun summertime treat, the hiking trails are a kaleidoscope of color during the fall, and then in the winter, enjoy the Nutting Winter Spots Complex for even more outdoor fun. Oglebay’s Lodge is the perfect spot to call home while you explore the area, but if you’d prefer a little more privacy and seclusion, rent one of the cottages for an extra special getaway. Many of the rooms have fireplaces which add that extra special cozy factor that you’ll love.
Address: 101 W Main St,m White Sulphur Springs, WV 24986
Price: $289/night
Amenities: Pool, spa,
Ratings: 4.5 stars
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One of West Virginia’s most popular resorts, a stay at The Greenbrier is something everyone should do at least once in their life. The Greenbrier has been a destination resort in White Sulphur Springs since 1778, and like a fine wine, it just gets better with age. The 11,000-acre resort offers a wide range of on-site accommodations to choose from, including both traditional rooms and four-bedroom houses. There are more than 50 indoor and outdoor activities here, giving you a chance to step outside your comfort zone and try something new like falconry, pickleball, or even croquet!
Best Hotel Pools in West Virginia
Enjoying a few laps around the pool is one of the best ways to make the most of your hotel stay. These hotels all have a reputation for having some of the best hotel swimming pools in the state, so be sure to pack your swimsuit when you book a stay at one of these lovely hotels.
Amenities: Downtown location, complimentary breakfast, indoor pool
Ratings: 4 stars
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Centrally located in downtown Charleston, Embassy Suites is a tried and true classic when it comes to hotels in West Virginia. You’ll be near the airport but still downtown so you can explore the sights and sounds of one of West Virginia’s largest cities. The rooms here are on par with the rest of the Embassy Suites line, so if you’ve ever stayed in one of these hotels in another city before, there won’t be any surprises. Be sure to wake up early and enjoy the breakfast buffet!
Amenities: Beautiful view, indoor swimming pool, free breakfast
Ratings: 4.5 stars
Fairfield Inn & Suites Huntington is a fantastic hotel to rest your head for a few days. Known for being a family-friendly hotel, the winner here is the beautiful indoor pool with a lovely view. If you’re lucky, that view will carry into your room!
Amenities: heated indoor/outdoor pool, marina, golf course
Ratings: 4 stars
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Everyone loves making a splash at Stonewall Resort. There’s a lot to enjoy at this luxury resort in West Virginia, and the pool is just the tip of the iceberg. The heated indoor/outdoor pool is one of the most popular hangouts, especially when the fire pit is blazing and you can enjoy roasting marshmallows after a few laps.
Best Luxury Hotels in West Virginia
Are you ready to step into the life of luxury that you deserve? These luxury hotels will treat you like the royal king/queen that you are from the moment you arrive. From white water rafting to historic Civil War landmarks, these West Virginia hotels will take your vacation to new levels.
The Hillbrook Inn in Charles Town has everything you could ever want in a luxurious getaway. Located on 30 acres of perfectly manicured land that was once owned by George Washington, it’s impossible to escape the incredible history of the place. The rooms in the main building offer free wi-fi, en suite bathrooms, and even iPads. For a more private setting, rent one of the cottages with your own private porch and fireplace for an unforgettable stay. The bed and breakfast is less than 15 miles from Harpers Ferry, one of the most historic towns in West Virginia practically overflowing with national historic landmarks. This is among the most beautiful luxury hotels in West Virginia.
Amenities: Beautiful view, indoor pool, free breakfast
Ratings: 4 stars
Recently renovated, if you’re looking for hotels near West Virginia University, this is the one. From the fitness center to the hot tub, you'll feel like royalty during your stay at the Morgantown Marriott. Just look at that view! The 9-story hotel offers both river views and city views, so you’re practically guaranteed something stunning to look at.
Best Boutique Hotels in West Virginia
These West Virginia hotels may not be situated on thousands of acres of land, but what they lack in size, they make up for in charm. Ideal for romantic getaways and peaceful retreats, these boutique hotels will quickly capture your heart.
Since undergoing a massive renovation in 2020, this historic building has received a new life while still celebrating the nearly 100-year history of the hotel. Hotel Morgan has been a fixture for Morgantown since 1925, and this beautiful hotel will quickly become your new home away from home during your travel. The hotel’s coffee shop spins into a cocktail bar in the evenings, offering a variety of delicious sweets, light bites, and more. The hotel is located in a perfect location that’s close to West Virginia University, the WVY Coliseum, Mountaineer Field, and downtown Morgantown, putting you smack dab in the middle of Morgantown’s main attractions.
Once a former plantation house, the Bluefield Inn is now one of the most popular boutique hotels in West Virginia. You’ll be met with true Southern hospitality from the moment you arrive at this historic hotel. Once you’ve got yourself settled in one of the luxurious rooms with 600-thread count sheets, retire to the beautiful porch with your favorite beverage and enjoy the view.
The Blennerhassett is another amazing boutique hotel in West Virginia, and you’ll feel like royalty during your stay here. Ideal for a romantic getaway, take advantage of this hotel’s spa services and give yourself the gift of pampering yourself and your loved one. One of the hotel’s most unique features is the atrium, a perfect spot to cool down after a blood-pumping workout in the fitness center.
Best Mountain Resorts in West Virginia
There’s nothing that can compare to waking up and seeing a beautiful mountain view before you, and these mountain resorts will give you just that, and so much more. Who knows, you may even be inspired to lace up your hiking boots and tackle the mountain trails surrounding these resorts to reach new heights!
Treat yourself to one of the most luxurious vacations with a stay at Pipestem Spa. Located in the mountains of southern West Virginia, you’ll feel a million miles away from it all. Pipestem’s spa menu offers everything from bourbon tastings to hot stone massages, ideal for a memorable romantic getaway. They even offer several wedding packages in the event that you’d like to seal the deal and make it official! You'll love your stay at one of the most relaxing luxury resorts in West Virginia.
Amenities: Mountain views, indoor pool, free breakfast
Ratings: 4.5 stars
If majestic mountain views are what you seek, you can’t go wrong with a few nights spent at the Hampton Inn Elkins. You’re only three miles away from Elkins’ thriving downtown scene and about 11 miles away from the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area, a treasure trove of hiking trails and even more beautiful views. This hotel is clean, quiet, and the perfect spot for anyone who wants a little rest and relaxation without being too far removed from city life.
If you've ever stayed in one of the best hotels in West Virginia before, tell us about it in the comments section! If you're considering booking one of these lodging options, you'll want to check out some of our favorite outdoor adventures in West Virginia so you can start planning your epic getaway today.
Sometimes, a quiet, peaceful, secluded, luxurious mountain escape is just what the doctor ordered. Unplug. Unwind. Replenish your reserves. Renew your vigor. All this and more is possible at Deer Park Inn & Rustic Tavern, a West Virginia resort tucked away almost in the middle of nowhere. But what a beautiful "middle of nowhere" this setting is for a resort - the foothills of the majestic Allegheny Mountains outside of Buckhannon, West Virginia. In fact, this might just be the best resort in West Virginia.
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Deer Park Inn & Rustic Tavern is a unique, luxurious resort tucked away in the beautiful Allegheny Mountains near Buckhannon, West Virginia.
The inn is actually a renovated 18th-century log cabin and country farmhouse with five guest bedrooms set on an expansive estate featuring a plethora of wildlife, fishing ponds, and private hiking trails.
Expect southern hospitality at its finest when you stay the night at Deer Park Inn. The complimentary breakfast that's included in your room rate, for example: it's a three-course, gourmet, made-from-scratch feast.
Ethically sourced coffee or tea. A customized, chef-prepared banquet of options like farm-fresh eggs, freshly squeezed juice, local meats, garden herbs, garden veggies, gooseberry muffins, buttermilk pancakes, farm fresh butter, real West Virginia maple syrup, and so much more.
With delicious, gourmet, farm-to-table food, a full bar, beautifully decorated rooms, free wireless internet, and more, Deer Park Inn is the perfect spot to get away from it all in peace and seclusion.
Yet even though this resort is in the middle of nowhere, as it were, and the only full-service lodging option in this area of West Virginia, Deer Park is actually conveniently located just eight minutes from downtown Buckhannon, one of the best downtowns in America.
To learn more about escaping to this beautiful, secluded resort in the middle of nowhere in West Virginia, visit Deer Park Inn on the web. We bet you'll be packing your bags in no time! Doesn't this look like a dream escape? It's not the only beautiful resort tucked away in a secluded mountain setting! Try Guesthouse Lost River for another fun splurge in West Virginia.
Love exploring our amazing state? Check out this fascinating footage of the abandoned West Virginia town of Thurmond:
