Nestled in the scenic Allegheny Mountains, in Greenbrier County in West Virginia, The Greenbrier Resort offers guests an unparalleled luxury experience paired with rich history, exceptional amenities, and countless activities. Known as “America’s Resort,” this historic luxury resort has hosted royalty, world leaders, and well-heeled travelers for more than two centuries. Whether you’re a history buff curious about its past, a luxury vacation seeker looking for indulgence, or a travel enthusiast planning an unforgettable getaway, the Greenbrier has something magical to offer. This world-class resort is a national historic landmark and in this blog you will learn so many things, which will make you want to visit this Greenbrier Hotel.
After two separate visits—one during a snowy Christmas and another on a bright summer day—I’m here to share my honest review of The Greenbrier Resort and all it has to offer. Prepare to be captivated by luxury, history, and hospitality like no other!
The Greenbrier Resort in West Virginia: A Glimpse of History
The Greenbrier is not just a resort—it’s a living piece of history. Founded in 1778, it has served as a retreat for travelers seeking relaxation in the healing waters of the White Sulphur Springs. These are one of many natural mineral springs in Southern West Virginia, which claimed many years ago to have healing properties for anything that ailed you. Over the decades, it has evolved into a lavish property, combining Southern charm with opulent details.
Notable Guests & Historical Relevance:
Presidents from Dwight Eisenhower to George W. Bush have stayed here, making the resort a haven for political and cultural luminaries. Many actors and actresses, musicians, and NFL teams have stayed here. In fact, the New Orleans Saints use the resort as their practice field in the summer before the football season starts. When I was visiting once, Reece Witherspoon was said to be on the property, I never saw her, but others staying at the resort did.
The famed Greenbrier bunker, built during the Cold War, started in 1958, served as a secret fallout shelter for U.S. Congress members—a fascinating piece of history that you can still tour today. The public only found out about this bunker the past 30 years, before that is was still prepped as a shelter for the government. The resort is technically not that far from Washington DC, and with a variety of ways for government officials to travel here (by train, plane or vehicle), it was the perfect place for those officials to stay if there was a major emergency in Washington DC.
In 1992 The Washington Post article revealed to the world that the bunker existed, so it was immediately decommissioned as congress could not stay here in an event of emergency. So that is when the tours started. The tour shows the incinerator room, and shower rooms, and bunk beds with names of people serving in congress at that time. It was constantly updated due to new members being elected to congress during election seasons. This was for any kind of disaster in Washington DC including chemical, or nuclear disaster where Congress needed to escape from Washington DC. Doctors were on staff, and a list of all medications that the members of Congress took were constantly updated just in case they needed to come to the bunker. They rotated food into the bunker and then rotated it into the resort, keeping the bunker completely stocked and ready at a moment's notice.
I do not have any pictures of the bunker because you are not allowed to take pictures. In fact, you cannot bring your cell phones on the tour either.
Architectural Splendor:
Renowned decorator Dorothy Draper transformed The Greenbrier’s interiors into a vibrant display of bold colors and patterns, creating a distinctive and timeless design that continues to wow visitors. The exquisite interior design is classic, an old world feel. You will walk in and be taken back in time. The rooms are classy but not modern. You will have a mini fridge full of soda and alcohol, a large closet and the most comfortable beds you will ever sleep in.
Recent News
The Greenbrier has faced challenges in recent years, including financial difficulties under the ownership of the Justice family. Despite foreclosure proceedings in 2023 and 2024, the resort continues to operate and enchant travelers with its unmatched charm. West Virginia governor Justice and the Justice companies have basically straightened everything out, claiming that the foreclosure issues were politically motivated.
Luxurious Accommodations
The Greenbrier offers accommodations that range from elegant guest rooms to extravagant suites and private estate homes. Every space exudes timeless sophistication with classic furniture, luxurious bedding, and Draper’s iconic style. Unlike modern hotels, the rooms evoke an old-world charm, making for a truly unique stay.
Looking for opulence? Opt for the Windsor Club Presidential Suite, featuring multiple bedrooms and a private butler. For a more budget-friendly option, their standard rooms provide all the essentials with the same air of refinement. Regardless of where you stay, expect thoughtful amenities and exceptional service. My stay was in the budget friendly rooms, which will still cost more than just a Holiday Inn in Lewisburg WV. But this is to be expected, as this is a luxury resort that even offers afternoon tea.
Culinary Delights: Dining at The Greenbrier
Food lovers, rejoice! The Greenbrier offers an impressive selection of dining options that range from casual cafés to fine dining restaurants. My list below is just a few of the places to grab some food while visiting.
Must-Try Dining Spots:
The Main Dining Room – The resort's crown jewel, offering upscale cuisine paired with impeccable service. I highly recommend their filet mignon—it’s melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Tree Tops Café – Perfect for poolside dining, offering lighter fare like fresh salads and sandwiches.
Draper’s Cafe – A more casual spot where Southern comfort food takes center stage. Don’t skip the fried green tomatoes!
Prime 44 West- a great steakhouse style of restaurant, honoring WV native Jerry West.
In Fusion- Asian themed restaurant near casino.
The Forum- Italian restaurant with great pizza
The dining is enhanced by the use of seasonal and local ingredients wherever possible, ensuring each dish feels extra special. There are also several bars and a smoothie shop.
Activities and Amenities
You’ll never run out of things to do at The Greenbrier. The amount of recreational activities are shocking, and the wide open spaces at the resort are beautiful. The resort itself is over 10,000 acres. The resort boasts a stunning array of activities to suit all interests.
Golf Courses – Designed by legends like Jack Nicklaus and Sam Snead, The Greenbrier’s golf courses are a paradise for enthusiasts. You can plan a visit during a tournament to see the professionals play, (Greenbrier Classic) or join the golf club yourself and enjoy a round of golf.
The Spa – Treat yourself to exclusive spa treatments that use the healing properties of the region’s sulfur springs.
Hiking Trails & Grounds – Explore the natural beauty surrounding the resort with trails that offer breathtaking views. The perfect activity is taking a walk through the botanical trails.
Aerial Adventure Course and Adventure Zone- perfect for the kids and some family fun. The adventure zone is for the kids, but the Aerial Adventure will get your adrenaline going with outdoor adventures.
Bowling, Arcade, and Croquet- Greenbrier guests can enjoy these family friendly activities
Horseback Riding, Bike Rentals, or River Rafting- If interested in riding horses or taking some time floating down a river in a kayak, The Greenbrier can help you plan those outings where you can go at your own pace or with a tour. The Greenbrier River Trail system is a perfect place for a bike ride.
Fitness & Recreation – Resort guests can play tennis at the outdoor tennis courts, go swimming in the indoor pool or the outdoor pool, or cycling—you name it, they’ve got it, including a fitness center.
Casino Club- A perfect place to spend some time gambling, maybe you will hit big.
Complete Conference Center Facility: If you want to plan a business conference, this is the perfect place. Business owners, and business leaders have been using this award-winning resort for years.
During my summer day trip, I had the chance to walk the grounds and even peek at the New Orleans Saints, who were using the resort as a training facility—a fun surprise! This list does not even begin to cover all that can be done here. Falconry, Fishing, Geocaching, Ice Skating and more are available.
Getting to The Greenbrier
Reaching The Greenbrier is a breeze:
By Car: The resort is located off Interstate 64 in White Sulphur Springs, WV near Lewisburg WV,
By Air: Fly into Greenbrier Valley Airport, just minutes away.
By Train: Arrive in style with Amtrak Stations at White Sulphur Spring.
Weddings and Events
Wedding packages and more. The Greenbrier is also a top-notch destination for weddings and corporate events, boasting grand ballrooms, scenic outdoor venues, and all-inclusive planning services. Couples rave about the picturesque settings, while businesses praise the seamless event execution. If you’re looking for an iconic venue, The Greenbrier delivers elegance and charm in spades. There are meeting rooms that can be transformed for your wedding reception, but there are plenty of options at the resort for the wedding and reception.
My Review of a Christmas Stay
Nothing compares to The Greenbrier during the holiday season. The resort transforms into a winter wonderland with dazzling lights, Christmas trees in every corner, and a cozy, festive atmosphere.
Here’s what stood out:
The Rooms: Luxurious yet nostalgic, with a classic feel that made my stay extra special. Mine was the most budget friendly room which had a large closet mini fridge with drinks and snacks. Also the most comfy beds I have every slept on.
The Food: Everything from the cafe to the fine dining options was delightful! Prime 44 West was my favorite at the resort.
The Staff: Warm and welcoming guests, adding a personal touch that made me feel like part of The Greenbrier family.
Casino: I did not stay long as the slot machines were not friendly to my pocketbook this trip. I personally do not play in table games; I only stick with the slot machines.
My Christmas stay started when I arrived at 8AM. I was delayed by one day when visiting because of the snow. I was glad I was able to check in once I got there as my reservation was still active. I called to make sure this could happen since I would not be able to be there the day before as originally planned. So of course, my room was ready and waiting on me, just as if I had come the night before.
When arriving early, I just stopped at the Greenbrier Gourmet and Coffee Bar for a much-needed coffee and quick breakfast sandwich. I got an egg, ham, and cheese croissant which was amazing. They also have chocolate croissants on the menu so I bought one of those to snack on later. Next was a trip to my room and a quick rest from my drive this early morning. I liked the room, I have never stayed at a place like this before, luxury but classic. The room was not large, but held 2 beds, it has a large closet with a safe and of course a mini fridge. I noticed you could order room service if you like, but I never did.
The rest of the day I just explored the resort. walked around on the paths outside for a bit but not long as it was cold and snowy, visited the casino, ate a late lunch snack at Drapers, then went bowling. In the evening, I checked out a couple bars which were lively and fun, ate at Prime 44 West and went back to the casino. I was bound and determined to hit big. Which I never did. After dark I took a walk around the property again, just for the Christmas light.
My Review of a Summer Day Trip
My summer experience was equally enchanting! I toured the famous Cold War bunker, which was both fascinating and humbling. Then, I took a leisurely stroll around the grounds, soaking in the lush landscapes and historic atmosphere. The landscaping is perfect at the resort. Beautiful flowers and freshly cut grounds, everything is perfect. Seeing an NFL team training on-site added a unique, unexpected excitement to the day. On this trip I did not stay at the resort, but it was nice to see everything alive and beautiful, which was a totally different feeling that the snowy winter visit.
Why You Should Visit
Whether it’s the unique blend of historic charm, luxurious accommodations, world-class dining, or endless activities, The Greenbrier sets itself apart as a premier luxury destination. Of all the places on the national register of historic places, this is my favorite.
My visits left me enchanted, and I’m already planning my next getaway. Trust me—once you experience The Greenbrier, you’ll want to return again and again.
Plan your unforgettable escape to The Greenbrier today!
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Oh, the idea of traveling by train and arriving to stay at this historic property sounds delightful! Thanks for the comprehensive review. I love that you included activities for all seasons.
Looks like a charming stay to spend the holidays!
Lovely property! The historic charm of the hotel is what fascinated me the most.
My parents used to visit fairly regularly, but never brought us along (as kids). This looks like it would be a fun getaway to explore the history and hiking trails in the area.
Many years ago we lived not far from here. I always wanted to go but at that time in our llives it was out of reach. Now that you have reminded me, I think I should put it back on the list. It still looks lovely and the history is so fascinatingl