The Greenbrier- White Sulphur Springs, WV

Have you ever had the dream where you find yourself in a strange place, wandering aimlessly down never ending hallways? If so, make that dream a reality at The Greenbrier. A bit reminiscent of The Shining’s Overlook, with an added dash of mid-century style and a lot of Southern Charm, this is one beautiful historic hotel. 

Built in 1913 by the C&O railroad on the site of a preexisting Victorian resort, the elite flocked to The Greenbrier to “take the waters” and escape the humid hell that is summer in the South. By the 1920s The Greenbrier had become a society destination, hosting the rich and famous of the era.

In the 1950s, following a period of government ownership during World War II, the hotel enlisted renowned interior designer Dorothy Draper to make the hotel fabulous once again. And she did exactly that. Her daring mid-century designs remain to this day, and have come to represent The Greenbrier. Room after stunning room will have you longing for a martini with Bing Crosby and Bob Hope. Had you stayed here in the 1950s, I’m pretty sure that would have happened.

There is no shortage of rooms to explore at The Greenbrier. Floor after fabulous floor of lobbies, libraries, lounges, and even a cold war bunker. Although access is somewhat more limited now than in the past (they use the area as data storage of all things!), you should absolutely take the bunker tour. Designed to house Congress in the event of a nuclear attack, the bunker remained secret until 1992.  Deep below the resort, the bunker houses a decontamination chamber, hospital, dormitories, a cafeteria, and meeting rooms. A small city that remained hidden for so long. Although a bit spendy, the tour is absolutely worth the price of admission.

In addition to being wonderfully retro and awash with art and antiques, The Greenbrier has beautiful grounds, and stunning mountain views. They offer several pools, indoor and out, as well as an amazing golf course. Following The Greenbrier Classic each July, you can channel Sam Snead, and play the course with the pro’s pin placements.

The Greenbrier offers just about every diversion you can think of, and makes for a fabulous winter get away. While you may not be able to enjoy the golf course, you can stay entertained for days and never leave the building. A fabulous spa, a movie theater, a bowling alley, multiple restaurants, and even a casino exist under the roof of this massive mid-century monument.

The Greenbrier retains the formality of the past, so gentleman, pack your dinner jacket. Under no circumstances do you want to purchase one at the resort, as like with most things Greenbrier, theirs are ridiculously expensive. Your stay will be pretty pricey; they slip in service charges, resort fees, and tip on just about everything, but it is well worth it for the experience.