Omni Grove Park Inn | Asheville

The Omni Grove Park Inn – In-Depth Overview

1. Historical Background

Founding and Construction (1913):
The Omni Grove Park Inn, located in Asheville, North Carolina, was founded by Edwin Wiley Grove, a wealthy entrepreneur known for Grove’s Tasteless Chill Tonic, and his son-in-law Fred Loring Seely. Construction began in 1912 and was completed in an astonishing 11 months. The building materials included over 400 tons of boulders and granite stones sourced locally from Sunset Mountain, giving the inn its signature rugged appearance. Seely, without any formal training in architecture, personally designed and oversaw the construction, opting for a rustic Arts and Crafts architectural style inspired by the English countryside.

Early Notoriety:
Upon its grand opening on July 12, 1913, the hotel immediately attracted attention from the American elite. Notable early guests included Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, Harvey Firestone, and several U.S. Presidents. The lobby’s massive fireplaces (each with a chimney weighing over 400 tons) and original Roycroft furnishings highlighted its craftsmanship.

World War II Era:
During WWII, the inn took on national importance. In 1942, it was leased by the U.S. government and served several roles:

Internment center for Axis diplomats who had been arrested when the U.S. entered the war.

U.S. Navy rest center in 1944 for returning sailors and war personnel.

Later, it served as a hospital for the U.S. Navy.

Later Years:
In the decades that followed, the inn went through several ownership changes and restorations. In 2013, it celebrated its centennial with major renovations, preserving its original character while adding modern amenities. It was acquired by Omni Hotels & Resorts and now operates under their luxury portfolio.

2. Architecture and Design

The Grove Park Inn is a cornerstone example of the American Arts and Crafts movement:

Exterior: Constructed from uncut granite boulders; features steep gabled roofs and wide verandas.

Lobby (Great Hall): Features two massive 36-foot stone fireplaces, original Roycroft chandeliers, and panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Guest Wings: Original rooms in the Main Inn still feature Arts and Crafts furnishings and woodwork. The newer wings blend contemporary luxury with historical motifs.

3. Accommodations

The inn offers over 500 guest rooms divided into several wings:

Historic Main Inn Rooms: Smaller rooms that retain the original charm with period-style furniture and mountain views.

Vanderbilt and Sammons Wings: Larger, more modern rooms with expansive views and contemporary features.

Club Floor: Exclusive level with private lounge, concierge service, and complimentary breakfast and evening hors d'oeuvres.

Each room offers premium bedding, marble bathrooms, and unique decor reflecting either historic or contemporary mountain elegance.

4. Spa and Wellness

The Grove Park Spa is a 43,000-square-foot subterranean oasis carved into the mountain:

Features include:

Therapeutic mineral pools

Waterfall whirlpools

Eucalyptus-infused steam rooms

Cedar saunas

18 treatment rooms

A relaxation room with panoramic views and fireplaces

Quiet zones and meditation nooks
It is consistently ranked among the top resort spas in North America.

Sports Complex:

50,000 sq. ft. facility

Indoor pool, fitness center, tennis courts, racquetball courts

Offers fitness classes, personal training, and wellness programs

5. Dining Options

The Grove Park Inn offers multiple dining venues, each with a distinct experience:

Sunset Terrace: Upscale steakhouse and seafood with panoramic mountain views, especially popular at sunset.

Blue Ridge Restaurant: A farm-to-table buffet dining room known for its grand breakfast and Sunday brunch.

Edison, Craft Ales + Kitchen: Casual, modern venue offering regional craft beers and Southern-style pub fare.

Presidents Lounge and Great Hall Bar: Fireside cocktails and light fare in the majestic Great Hall.

Spa Café: Healthy meals and drinks catered to spa guests.

In-room dining: Available 24/7, catering to all guest needs.

6. Golf Course

The Grove Park Golf Course is a historic 18-hole, par-70 course designed by the legendary Donald Ross in 1926:

Signature tree-lined fairways and rolling greens

Panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains

Golf Clubhouse, Pro Shop, and professional instruction available

7. Events and Conferences

The Inn offers over 86,000 square feet of event space, including:

Grand ballrooms

Boardrooms

Outdoor terraces

Historical spaces like the Heritage Ballroom

It is a preferred location for:

Corporate retreats

Medical and educational conferences

Weddings and gala events

8. Cultural Impact and Community Engagement

National Gingerbread House Competition:

Held annually since 1992

One of the country’s most prestigious gingerbread events

Attracts hundreds of entries from amateur and professional bakers

Hosted in the Grand Lobby with displays throughout the holiday season

Community Involvement:

During the 2024 closure due to Hurricane Helene, the inn redirected resources to local businesses, launching the “Gingerbread Trail of Giving”

Collaborates with Asheville's tourism and preservation societies

9. Legends and Lore

The Pink Lady:

A well-known ghost story tied to the inn involves a young woman who reportedly died in the 1920s after falling from the fifth floor.

Described as a glowing pink apparition seen mostly near Room 545.

Guests and staff have reported cold spots, flickering lights, and gentle touches.

She is considered a “friendly spirit,” often associated with playfulness, especially around children.

10. Location and Accessibility

Address: 290 Macon Avenue, Asheville, NC 28804

Nearest Airport: Asheville Regional Airport (17 miles)

Transportation: Shuttle service, ride-share availability, valet and self-parking

Nearby Attractions:

Blue Ridge Parkway

Biltmore Estate

Downtown Asheville (art galleries, breweries, restaurants)

Botanical Gardens at Asheville

Summary

The Omni Grove Park Inn is more than just a luxury resort—it is a piece of living history nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains. It combines old-world charm, architectural integrity, and modern amenities, making it a year-round destination for those seeking relaxation, elegance, and cultural enrichment. From its storied past and haunted lore to world-class spa experiences and fine dining, it remains a pillar of Southern hospitality and American heritage.