The Greenbrier Resort in West Virginia: A Timeless Family Tradition

There are places you visit — and then there are places that become part of your family’s story. For me, The Greenbrier Resort in West Virginia is exactly that.

I was born and raised in West Virginia, and so was my entire family. My grandparents began visiting The Greenbrier in the 1960s, and it quickly became a tradition woven into our lives. Located in White Sulphur Springs, just about an hour and a half from where I grew up, this iconic luxury mountain resort has always felt like home.

Now, I have the joy of bringing my own daughters back — watching them experience the same magic, traditions, and beauty that shaped my childhood. This April, we’re planning a special trip to celebrate my youngest daughter’s 10th birthday, and there truly couldn’t be a more meaningful place to do it.

A Historic Luxury Resort in White Sulphur Springs

Known as “America’s Resort,” The Greenbrier has been welcoming guests since 1778. This historic West Virginia hotel has hosted presidents, dignitaries, and generations of families seeking a refined mountain escape.

What makes The Greenbrier so special is the perfect balance of heritage and hospitality. The legendary Dorothy Draper interiors are bold, joyful, and unmistakable — colorful florals, iconic stripes, and grand yet welcoming spaces that feel both elegant and celebratory.

The resort’s rich history includes everything from its early days as a mineral springs retreat to its fascinating Cold War-era bunker, once built to house members of Congress. There is truly no other luxury resort in the United States with this depth of history and character.

Spring at The Greenbrier: Tulips in Full Bloom

If you are considering the best time to visit The Greenbrier, spring in West Virginia is extraordinary.

Each April, tens of thousands of tulips bloom across the property, transforming the grounds into a vibrant sea of color. The contrast of bright tulips against the resort’s classic white exterior is breathtaking. It feels like stepping into a European garden — right in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains.

Spring at The Greenbrier offers fresh mountain air, blooming gardens, and a sense of renewal that makes it ideal for a special celebration, romantic getaway, or luxury family vacation.

A Four-Season Mountain Resort in West Virginia

One of the reasons The Greenbrier continues to draw families back year after year is its incredible range of activities and amenities. It is truly a year-round destination.

Summer in West Virginia brings mild mountain temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor adventures like golf, hiking, falconry, swimming, and exploring the resort’s expansive grounds.

Fall offers crisp air and stunning foliage across the Appalachian Mountains.

Winter at The Greenbrier is equally magical, with snow-covered grounds, ice skating, indoor swimming, bowling, and cozy evenings by the fire.

No matter the season, there is always something to do. My girls are completely entertained every time we visit — from the pools to the activities to simply exploring the property. You will never be bored at The Greenbrier.

The Spa, The Dining, and Elevated Resort Living

The Greenbrier’s mineral spa heritage is one of its defining features. The natural sulfur springs first drew visitors to White Sulphur Springs centuries ago, and today the spa experience remains one of the most luxurious offerings at the resort. A spa appointment here is always at the top of my list.

The dining at The Greenbrier is equally impressive, offering everything from refined, elegant dinners to relaxed family-friendly options. The culinary experience alone makes it one of the best luxury resorts in West Virginia.

A Meaningful Return Home

Beyond the amenities, the history, and the design, what makes The Greenbrier so special to me is the feeling of coming home. There is something deeply personal about returning to your home state — especially to a place that holds generations of memories.

Watching my daughters run across the same grounds my grandparents once walked is something I will never take for granted. It is tradition, legacy, and celebration all wrapped into one extraordinary destination.

What to Pack for a Greenbrier Getaway

If you are planning a trip to The Greenbrier Resort, think polished, classic, and effortless. Mountain resort style calls for elevated ease:

Chic daytime sets for exploring the gardens
Feminine dresses for celebratory dinners
Tailored athleisure for morning walks
Lightweight sweaters for cool mountain evenings
A timeless swimsuit for the indoor pool

Whether you are planning a spring birthday celebration, a summer family vacation, or a winter mountain escape, The Greenbrier offers a luxury resort experience unlike any other.

If you’ve never heard of this iconic West Virginia resort, let this be your invitation. Book the trip. Explore the history. Walk through the tulips. Make the spa appointment.