Following a recent $24 million renovation, the property has been carefully restored to highlight its historic character while introducing contemporary comfort. Guest rooms are notably spacious, with select accommodations offering private balconies overlooking Union Station. Many suites feature separate living and sleeping areas, enhancing both comfort and functionality for longer stays. Some of the rooms even have balconies.

The hotel’s interiors preserve charming original elements, including a historic mailbox still in use, while design updates subtly echo the building’s heritage and its proximity to the rail lines that once defined the city. Its central location places guests within easy walking distance of major attractions, including the Indiana Convention Center, the Indiana State Capitol, and both Gainbridge Fieldhouse and Lucas Oil Stadium. A vibrant selection of restaurants, cafés, and bars surrounds the property, making it an ideal base for exploring the city on foot.

Dining and amenities further elevate the experience. Bar Cardinale offers an elegant setting for evening drinks or dessert, while the café and market provide both full-service breakfast and convenient grab-and-go options. Playful design touches—such as trolley-inspired service windows—add a sense of whimsy while nodding to the hotel’s transportation heritage.

Leisure facilities include an inviting indoor pool and a compact fitness center equipped with modern machines, rounding out a stay that balances historic ambiance with contemporary ease. The Omni Severin remains one of Indianapolis’s most distinguished addresses, offering guests a refined and well-situated retreat steeped in history.

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About two hours north of Rome, in the rolling countryside of southern Tuscany, the enchanting hot springs of Saturnia offer one of Italy’s most memorable natural experiences. Known for their cascading, mineral-rich waters, these thermal pools have been prized since ancient times for their restorative properties. The most iconic section, a series of tiered limestone basins formed by centuries of flowing water, creates a striking, almost otherworldly landscape.

The springs are free and open to the public year-round, making them an accessible luxury. For the most seamless visit, consider hiring a private driver or renting a car, as public transportation options are limited. Recently renovated shower facilities and a small on-site café make it easy to refresh and linger a bit longer. Do note that the constant flow of mineral water encourages natural algae growth in the calcified pools, particularly along the stone terraces—so surfaces can be slippery. Water shoes with good traction are highly recommended for a safe and comfortable visit.

Arriving early in the morning or later in the evening offers a more tranquil experience, when steam rises gently from the pools and the surrounding countryside feels especially serene.

The springs are free and open to the public year-round, making them an accessible luxury. For the most seamless visit, consider hiring a private driver or renting a car, as public transportation options are limited. Basic amenities—including changing areas and a small café—are available during daylight hours, but arriving early or later in the evening ensures a quieter, more atmospheric soak.

En Route: Pitigliano

On your return journey, plan a stop in the dramatic hilltop town of Pitigliano, perched along a sheer ridge of volcanic tufa. Its honey-colored buildings seem to rise directly from the rock, creating one of Tuscany’s most striking silhouettes. Wander its narrow lanes to discover a wealth of historic landmarks, including a monumental aqueduct, elegant churches, ornate fountains, and small archaeological museums.

Often called “Little Jerusalem,” Pitigliano became a refuge for Jewish families fleeing Rome in the 14th century. Traces of this heritage remain in the preserved Jewish quarter, where you’ll find a synagogue, museum, and traditional shops that once included kosher bakeries and butchers. Today, it offers a fascinating cultural layer to an already captivating town—making it an ideal complement to a day of relaxation at Saturnia.

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The skyline is defined by the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence’s unmistakable symbol. Its crowning achievement is the vast dome engineered in 1420 by Filippo Brunelleschi. Inspired by the Pantheon yet revolutionary in execution, Brunelleschi’s double-shell design spans 55 meters, making it the largest masonry dome ever built. The hidden space between its inner and outer layers reduces weight while enabling the structure’s soaring, elegant profile.

For those willing to climb, 464 steps lead to the lantern at the top. The route passes above the cathedral’s nave and alongside intricate frescoes, offering a rare, close-up perspective. At the summit, sweeping views stretch across terracotta rooftops to the rolling Tuscan hills beyond.

Adjacent to the cathedral stands Giotto’s Campanile, begun in 1334 by Giotto di Bondone. Clad in green, white, and pink marble, this elegant bell tower rewards the 414-step ascent with equally stunning—often less crowded—views of the city. Its twelve bells still mark the day with regular chimes.

Facing the cathedral, the Baptistry of San Giovanni is among Florence’s oldest and most revered buildings. Dating to 1059, it is a masterpiece of Romanesque design. Inside, shimmering mosaics by artists including Cimabue, Meliore, and Coppo di Marcovaldo cover the ceiling in one of medieval Italy’s most significant decorative cycles.

The Baptistry also played a central role in Florentine life—every citizen was baptized here for centuries. In 1330, Andrea Pisano completed the South Doors, adorned with scenes from the life of St. John the Baptist. After the devastation of the Black Death, Florence launched a competition in 1401 to create new bronze doors—an event often seen as a catalyst of the Renaissance. The commission went to Lorenzo Ghiberti, whose North and East Doors (completed 1425–1452) showcase groundbreaking use of perspective and narrative relief. So exquisite were the East Doors that Michelangelo famously dubbed them the “Gates of Paradise.”

Travel Tip: If you plan to climb both the dome and the campanile, spread them over separate visits to fully enjoy each experience—and to save your legs.

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Firenze is a beautiful, walkable city and easily navigable as all roads lead to the historic city centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Every stroll greets you with elaborate piazzas, ornate fountains, courtyards, gardens, and shops. Churches, basilicas, and convents surprise you with glorious mosaics, frescoes, and artworks by famous Florentine masters.

Walk the same streets as Leonardo Da Vinci, Botticelli, Brunelleschi, Michelangelo, and other great artists and innovators who helped to shape Renaissance Florence under the patronage of the Medici dynasty. All in one day you can see Michelangelo’s statue of David, marvel at Brunelleschi’s Duomo, sip Chianti within sight of the Palazzo Vecchio, and shop for luxury leather goods, an industry that put medieval Florence on the map.

When it comes to dining, there is no shortage of traditional trattorias, haute cuisine, wine bars, and gelaterias. World-class chefs showcase how the simplest of Tuscan ingredients can be taken to innovative levels, while mom-and-pop ristorantes serve up heaps of classic pastas and pizzas. Sip on a glass of vino rosso in one of the lively cafés or seek out one of the many wine windows in the historic district.

Most of the year, Florence can be crowded, particularly in the cathedral zone. Make sightseeing easier by purchasing advance tickets for timed entry to the major sites. Florence is a direct two-hour train ride from Rome and has an international airport. Once there, follow our Florentine itinerary to be immersed in the cultural and culinary heritage of this dreamy city and the surrounding countryside.

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To truly experience Rome, take time to explore its neighborhoods on foot. Spend a leisurely morning wandering through the lush Borghese Gardens or browsing the shops along Via del Corso. Indulge in a wine tasting in the charming streets of Trastevere, or marvel at the panoramic views from Castel Sant’Angelo. Delve into the ancient heart of the city at the sprawling Roman Forum, a testament to Rome’s role as the reputed Birthplace of European Civilization. No trip would be complete without visiting St. Peter’s Basilica and Rome’s other remarkable churches, underscoring its central importance to Christianity.

After exploring the timeless wonders of the Eternal City, add on a few exciting day trips. Take a day to visit Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, or unwind in the natural hot springs of Saturnia. Plan your holiday with us and discover why Rome proudly holds the title of Caput Mundi — the Capital of the World.

DAY 1 – Centro Storico, Rome’s Historic Center

Dedicate your first day to exploring the heart of Rome, Centro Storico, where the city’s rich history and timeless charm unfold at every turn. Ancient cobblestone streets wind through lively piazzas lined with trattorias, while tourists mingle with buzzing scooters and tiny cars. History whispers from every corner, offering glimpses of Rome’s storied past.

Start your walking tour at the iconic Piazza Navona, once the site of Domitian’s 1st-century AD horseracing stadium. Today, it’s one of Rome’s busiest squares, alive with tourists, street performers, and the hum of activity. Dominating the piazza is the stunning Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone, a baroque masterpiece, with three of Bernini’s legendary fountains—Neptune, The Moor, and the dramatic Fountain of the Four Rivers—as the square’s focal points. These fountains are perfect photo opportunities and popular meeting spots.

A quick jog through charming side streets will bring you to Piazza della Rotunda, home to the awe-inspiring Pantheon. For over 2,000 years, its massive unreinforced dome has defied time and gravity. Built by Marcus Agrippa in 25 BC as a temple to all the gods, it now serves as a Catholic church and a masterpiece of perfect geometry, housing the tombs of notable figures like Raphael and Marie Curie.

After soaking in the Pantheon’s grandeur, grab a gelato and continue to the famed Trevi Fountain. Along the way, you’ll encounter the towering Column of Marcus Aurelius, a 2nd-century monument adorned with a spiral relief celebrating his military victories. As you near the Trevi Fountain, the roar of cascading water and the sight of tourists tossing coins into the shimmering waters will signal your arrival. Installed in 1732, the fountain marks the end of a 1st-century BC aqueduct that still provides fresh drinking water to Romans. Its dramatic sculptures reflect Rome’s unparalleled ability to harness nature, symbolizing the city’s power and eternal influence.

Walk off lunch with a leisurely climb up the iconic Spanish Steps from Piazza di Spagna to Pincio Hill, where panoramic views of Rome await. Nearby, explore the impressive Villa Medici, once home to the Grand Dukes. Take a guided tour of its art collections and lush Renaissance gardens, offering a glimpse into aristocratic life.

Adjacent to Villa Medici, Villa Borghese Park, Rome’s third-largest public park, offers a peaceful escape. If time allows, visit the Galleria Borghese, home to masterpieces by Caravaggio, Canova, and Bernini, set within frescoed Renaissance rooms. The park also features an Etruscan museum, a small zoo, and a miniature Globe Theatre. If you can’t see it all in one visit, both the park and gallery are worth returning to for a deeper exploration.

DAY 2 – The Colosseum and Forum

Spend the day around the eclectic Monti district, one of Rome’s oldest neighborhoods. Not only does this district boast the Colosseum, Forum, triumphal arches, Trajan’s Market, and remains of Nero’s palace, but it is a bastion of Bohemian life with artsy shops, ethnic eateries, coffee shops, and cocktail bars.

Start the day with a guided tour of the Colosseum, constructed in AD 80 by Emperor Vespasian as a public entertainment complex. The world’s largest ancient amphitheater was used for public spectacles such as re-enactments, executions, wild animal hunts, and gladiatorial battles. Several tour companies offer comprehensive architectural tours that include access to the gladiator’s underground holding area and the arena floor.

Outside of the Colosseum is the impressive Arch of Constantine, built in AD 315 to commemorate a military victory giving Constantine the Great sole control of the western Roman empire. Fortify yourself with lunch at a family-run trattoria or a trendy wine bar in the area because exploring the Forum will take several hours.

Give yourself most of the afternoon to explore the vast Forum complex, ideally with a tour guide who can bring the site’s rich history to life. For centuries, the Forum was the beating heart of Roman life, evolving into the city’s judicial and religious center. Don’t miss the Capitoline Museum on the edge of the Forum, home to a world-class sculpture collection and offering breathtaking vistas over the ancient ruins.

If time permits, cap off the day with a stunning view from the Victor Emmanuel II Monument, built between 1885 and 1935 to honor the first king of unified Italy. Take the panoramic elevator to the rooftop terrace, where you’ll be treated to sweeping views of Rome, bathed in the warm glow of the early evening sun.

Day 3 – Castel Sant-Angelo and Vatican City

Be sure to cross the Tiber River via the Pont Sant’Angelo, one of Rome’s most beautiful bridges. This ancient Roman structure is adorned with magnificent sculptures of angels by Lorenzo Bernini, added in 1688, and offers a stunning entrance to Castel Sant’Angelo.

The Bridge of Angels leads to what was originally Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum, built in AD 134, but was later renamed Castel Sant’Angelo in the 14th century and repurposed as a fortress by the popes. Ascend the rotunda for spectacular views of both Rome and Vatican City—a truly iconic panorama.

It’s just a short walk from Castel Sant’Angelo to Vatican City, the world’s smallest country and the spiritual heart of Christendom. In 1506, Pope Julius II commissioned the construction of the magnificent Saint Peter’s Basilica to house the tomb of Saint Peter. Over the next 120 years, the basilica was transformed by legendary architects like Raphael, Michelangelo, and Bernini. While entry to St. Peter’s Basilica is free, lines can be long—sometimes hours long.

Skip the wait by purchasing advance tickets, which may also grant you access to a guided tour, the dome, and the treasures of the Vatican Museums, including Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel masterpiece. And if the timing is right, you might even catch the Pope addressing the faithful from his papal balcony!

Day 4 – The Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere

Start your morning with a stroll through Campo de’ Fiori, Rome’s famous market, just a short walk from Piazza Navona. Grab a coffee and browse vibrant stalls filled with cheese, olives, spices, and local delicacies—perfect for picking up picnic ingredients. Next, head a few blocks east to the Torre Argentina Cat Colony, where thousands of feral cats live among ancient Roman ruins, offering a charming blend of history and modern life.

A short walk further takes you to the historic Jewish Ghetto, home to one of the oldest Jewish communities outside Israel. From 1555 to 1870, Rome’s Jewish population was confined to this flood-prone area. Today, it’s a vibrant neighborhood of restaurants, bars, and bakeries. Don’t miss the impressive Tempio Maggiore (Great Synagogue), built in 1904 on part of the demolished ghetto. The temple’s museum offers a glimpse into the rich history of Jewish life in Rome, including a 15th-century Spanish Synagogue.

A couple of blocks away, stop by Pasticceria Boccione, Rome’s oldest Jewish bakery, famous for its Jewish-Roman-style pizza and ricotta and sour cherry tart. The streets around Via del Portico d’Ottavia and Piazza Costaguti are filled with kosher restaurants and cafés offering traditional Jewish dishes.

Take the Metro or walk across the river via the Pont Sisto into Trastevere, which means “beyond the Tiber.” This lively neighborhood pulses with energy, boasting fun cafés, pubs, and wine bars, and is home to a vibrant ex-pat community. Meander through its charming cobblestone streets, taking in the medieval buildings and soaking in the authentic Roman atmosphere.

Your first stop should be Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of Rome’s oldest churches, believed to sit above a 4th-century Christian shrine. Look up at its iconic Romanesque campanile (belltower) rising above Piazza di Santa Maria. Inside, the 12th-century basilica dazzles with golden Byzantine-style mosaics and 22 columns salvaged from the Roman Baths of Caracalla. As evening falls, the piazza comes alive with street performers and locals gathering around the fountain, creating a lively atmosphere.

For lunch, head to one of the many pizzerias or trattorias tucked away in Trastevere’s narrow alleyways. While the neighborhood has no main streets, Via del Moro and Via della Scala are lined with great restaurants, bars, and shops. Don’t miss the Mercato in Piazza San Cosimato, a covered market where you can pick up cheese, fresh pasta, produce, or a quick snack from friendly local vendors.

Trastevere also hides a Renaissance gem: the Villa Farnesina, built in 1501 for the Pope’s Sienese banker, Agostino Chigi. This intimate yet impressive summer residence along the Tiber River is adorned with Renaissance frescoes by Raphael. Its meticulously designed gardens, with Renaissance parterres, ornamental trees, and archaeological displays, are a peaceful retreat.

For those who enjoy a little adventure, take the 30-minute hike up Janiculum Hill, Rome’s second-highest point, for stunning panoramic views over the city and Vatican City. Walk along Via Garibaldi, passing the monumental equestrian statue of Giuseppe Garibaldi, until you reach the scenic overlook. Not into hiking? No worries—catch a bus to Piazzale Garibaldi for the same breathtaking views in less time.

Day 5 – Basilicas and Boutiques

Start your morning by visiting two of Rome’s most impressive basilicas: San Giovanni in Laterano (Saint John Lateran), where all the popes were crowned until 1870, and Santa Maria Maggiore, famous for its sacred relics, frescoes, and stunning mosaics, which are continuously being restored and intersting to see. These two iconic sites are within easy walking distance of each other, making for a seamless exploration.

Saint John Lateran, established in AD 324, is the oldest basilica in the Western world and holds the title of the “Mother of all Churches.” This monumental site is rich with history, housing important relics, massive 2,100-year-old doors, and the tombs of six popes. As you explore, don’t miss the Baptistry and the Holy Stairs, a revered pilgrimage site where visitors climb on their knees to reach the well-preserved medieval Papal Chapel of the Sancta Sanctorum—a truly awe-inspiring experience. Adjacent to the basilica stands the Lateran Palace, the official residence of the popes from the 4th to the 14th century, before they moved to Saint Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican. The history, the art, and the sheer scale of these sites will transport you through centuries of religious and architectural grandeur.

Fill your afternoon shopping for souvenirs on the long, busy via del Corso. Fashionistas indulge in high-end shopping throughout the fashion district where exclusive boutiques and famous designers are located. Begin at via Condotti, a short but upscale shopping avenue near the Piazza di Spagna. From here, the fashion trail runs along via del Corso toward Piazza Venezia, lined with elegant stores, and in the other direction, toward Piazza del Popolo, where you can find lots of jewelry and leather shops. If shopping is not in your wheelhouse, visit more of Rome’s incredible attractions.

DINING IN ROME

Dining in Rome is an unforgettable experience, where every meal feels like a celebration of Italy’s rich culinary heritage. From charming trattorias tucked away in cobblestone streets to vibrant piazzas filled with outdoor cafés, Rome offers a feast for the senses. Start your day with a creamy cappuccino and a fresh pastry at a local bar, then indulge in classic Roman dishes like cacio e pepe, carbonara, or saltimbocca alla romana. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of local wine or a refreshing spritz.

Fine Dining

Start with La Pergola, the city’s only three-Michelin-star restaurant, where world-renowned chef Heinz Beck offers an unforgettable dining experience high above the city with panoramic views. The menu combines Roman ingredients with contemporary techniques, making each dish an intricate masterpiece.

Another exceptional choice is Il Pagliaccio, a two-Michelin-star gem in the heart of Rome, where chef Anthony Genovese crafts avant-garde dishes inspired by both Italian and international flavors. For a taste of traditional Roman luxury, Aroma Restaurant offers not only a superb gastronomic experience but also a stunning view of the Colosseum from its terrace.

For an elegant, yet relaxed atmosphere, Glass Hostaria in Trastevere blends innovative cooking with modern design, earning it a Michelin star for its creative and bold dishes. If you’re looking for a quieter, intimate fine dining experience, Metamorfosi brings art and food together with imaginative creations, offering a true culinary journey.

Casual Eateries

Casual dining in Rome is all about savoring the city’s rich flavors in a laid-back, authentic atmosphere. From cozy trattorias to bustling pizzerias, the dining scene in Rome offers endless opportunities to enjoy simple, delicious meals with friends and family.

One of the best ways to experience Roman casual dining is through its famous pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice). Head to Pizzeria La Montecarlo, near Piazza Navona, for thin, crispy slices of pizza topped with a variety of fresh ingredients. If you’re in the mood for a classic Roman supplì (fried rice balls filled with gooey mozzarella), make your way to Supplizio, where these tasty treats are served with a side of nostalgia.

For a relaxed meal of traditional Roman pasta dishes, Trattoria Da Enzo in Trastevere is a local favorite. Known for its comforting cacio e pepe and carbonara, this intimate eatery offers a true taste of Roman home cooking. Similarly, Osteria dell’Ingegno, located near the Pantheon, is perfect for an easygoing meal of hearty Roman dishes and local wines. If you’re craving a sandwich, try a classic Roman porchetta sandwich at Ariccia’s Porchetta, a perfect bite for a casual lunch on the go.

Gelato

No trip to Rome is complete without indulging in a few creamy scoops of gelato. The city is brimming with charming gelaterias, each offering their own twist on this Italian treat. For a decadent experience, head to Venchi Cioccolato e Gelato and Buccianti Gelateria, both nestled near the iconic Pantheon, where you can savor rich, velvety flavors. Near the picturesque Piazza Navona, Gelateria del Teatro delights with its artisanal creations, blending fresh, local ingredients into each scoop. For a modern twist, venture into the bohemian streets of Trastevere to Otaleg, where innovative gelato flavors are crafted with a contemporary flair.

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You do not have to be a train enthusiast to appreciate the one-of-a-kind escape offered at Hideaway on the Hocking, 15 minutes south of Athen, Ohio. They’ve transformed colorful, vintage train cabooses into cozy cabin suites, each parked on sections of the original rail tracks that once passed by the farm. These charming cabooses feature full bathrooms, compact kitchenettes with a cooktop, and various bedroom and sleeping configurations to suit your needs. You’ll also have your own covered outdoor patio, a grill for cooking up your favorites, and a fire pit to enjoy s’mores under the stars.

 

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If you’re in the market for a fun, easy escape, look no further than Athens County in southern Ohio! Our recent family road trip to Hideaway on the Hocking, 15 minutes south of Athens, was quite the rejuvenation vacation. We were greeted by warm spring weather and sunny skies, making for the perfect start! Even though it rained off and on through the weekend, it didn’t stop us from making the most of our time. We explored the property on foot, soaked in the hot tub several times, grilled delicious dinners, and ended each evening around the fire pit, toasting marshmallows for s’mores under the stars and twinkling fairy lights.

The Hideaway presents different year-round opportunities for a serene or active getaway with a touch of luxury. I highly recommend reserving one of the three Retreats—stunning glass-front houses overlooking a bend in the Hocking River. We stayed in The Falls, a charming 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with a spacious upper deck, covered patio with outdoor furniture, and a gas fireplace in the living room that made the cooler evenings comfortable and cozy. The Falls Retreat had all the comforts of home – and then some! We can’t wait to return in the summer or fall to enjoy even more of this beautiful spot!

Modern Interior

The Falls Retreat boasts a bright and airy interior with 16-foot glass windows and an open floor plan that invites you to relax and unwind. On the first floor, you’re greeted by glass and screened doors leading into a bright kitchen featuring a large center island surrounded by counter height stools—perfect for a casual breakfast or a game of dominoes, of which we played many! The living room, with a plush sectional sofa, beckons you to kick back and chill out. Whether you’re snuggled up with a blanket by the fireplace, enjoying a round of board games, or catching a movie on the Smart TV (complete with streaming apps!), there’s no shortage of ways to unwind. If you prefer a quiet moment, simply open the tall screened windows to let in the fresh air, and listen to the peaceful sounds of chirping birds and the trickle of the nearby falls while curled up with a good book.

The two bedrooms were perfect for our family, but the space can accommodate up to 6 people with the queen sleeper sofa. The ground-floor master bedroom, featuring a king bed, is off the kitchen and overlooks the patio. It’s equipped with a wall-mounted smart TV, wall fan, and a closet stocked with everything you might need for a weeklong stay—extra towels, plush robes, floor fans, and other thoughtful essentials.

Upstairs, the second bedroom is equally inviting, with a comfortable queen bed and its own private bathroom. Both bathrooms feature walk-in showers and are stocked with high-end toiletries, including luxurious, eco-friendly ROAM shower products from Indianapolis. There’s also a charming little work station (or in Madalyn’s case, a fabulous make-up vanity) that overlooks the great room. A door from this area opens to a second-floor outdoor patio, where you can take in the scenic river and fire pit below—another perfect spot to start the day with a cup of coffee or unwind with a drink after a day of adventures.

Well-appointed Amenities

We like to cook when we travel, so I tend to pack half the kitchen for our road trips. But at Hideaway on the Hocking, we didn’t need to worry about that! This place is a chef’s dream. They’ve thought of everything—from top-of-the-line cookware and bakeware to beautiful glassware and barware, including patio-friendly dishes for outdoor meals. One of the nice touches was a tray full of local products providing a taste of Athens County. It included Shag Bark chips, Integration Acres paw paw salsa, Court Street Coffee, and a selection of Herbal Sage Teas.  You’ll also find a full assortment of utensils, plus a closet stocked with countertop appliances, a loaded spice rack, Bluetooth speaker for your perfect playlist, and even a mini Coleman lantern for a nighttime walk. And don’t forget the record player and binoculars for some nostalgic vibes and wildlife spotting! The thoughtful touches don’t stop there—there’s a generous supply of toiletries, comfy indoor and outdoor blankets, and a gas grill complete with all the accessories you need for a perfect barbecue. Plus, they make it so easy to keep the hot tub fresh! After your soak, they’ve got pre-portioned chlorine flakes to add, keeping everything in tip-top shape with zero hassle.

Personalized Experiences

This weekend was exactly what we needed— a double-wide napping swing, endless rounds of dominoes, rejuvenating hot tub soaks, peaceful, albeit muddy river walks (for them, not me!), and, of course, rounds of s’mores. While at the Hideaway on the Hocking, One of the highlights of our stay was the old-school ice cream-making experience we added on. The kids had a blast! Everything we needed was provided right from the start—the wooden bucket, ice, rock salt, hand crank, electric churner, vanilla beans, and fresh milk and cream from Hideaway’s own dairy farm. Gabe got things rolling, and Madalyn took over the churning process—doing it all by hand, of course. They really earned their sweet reward! And to top it off, cones, cups, sprinkles, and cherries were included. It was a great way to make the best of a rainy few hours!

The Hideaway offers an impressive variety of nearly two dozen experiences that can be added to your stay, turning your getaway into something personalized and unforgettable. From intimate, romantic picnics and soothing in-house massages to decadent charcuterie boards, breakfast-in-bed boxes, and even a Private Chef to prepare a gourmet meal, there’s something to elevate every moment. While we didn’t get to fully explore the property on foot due to the weather and time of year, Dan and the kids took a post-rain (and slightly muddy) River Walk hike that stretched along the Hocking River, leading them to a pretty quarry pond. The 400-acre property boasts a network of trails winding through hills and woods, offering countless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Whether you’re into fishing, kayaking, or hiking to summits for panoramic views, outdoor enthusiasts will truly appreciate the area. We can’t wait to return in the warmer months to experience even more of the magic Hideaway on the Hocking has to offer!

For more unique lodging options at Hideaway on the Hocking, check out the their colorful vintage cabooses-turned-suites! Read more in my article “Choo Choo Charm: Sleep in Style aboard Vintage Railcars.”

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• Family soaking time | 10 AM – 1 PM (swimsuits required and children under the age of 16 may come with a parent; Ladies’ Bathhouse)
• Adult co-ed soaking time | 10 AM – 3 PM and 5 PM – 6 PM (ages 16+; swimsuits required; Gentlemen’s Bathhouse from 10 AM – 1 PM)
• Adult soaking | 3 PM – 5 PM (by gender, ages 18+; swimsuits optional)
• Omni Signature Experience – Private Soak In The Warm Springs Pools | Tuesday–Sunday, 6:30 PM and 7 PM

Each session includes 50 minutes of exclusive access to either the Gentlemen’s or Ladies’ Bathhouse, each dating back to the late 19th century. The bottom of the pool is comprised of stones made smooth from the constant rushing water, so it is not particularly slippery. The pools are between 5 and 7 feet deep, so swimmers are provided noodles to float on. The afternoon we were here, it was gently snowing, with flakes falling through the ocular and melting before they touched us. It was a beautiful and enchanting experience! And Bonus! The pools do not have a strong sulfuric odor. Thomas Jefferson took the waters here, as did Franklin Roosevelt. You can even see the unique contraption designed to lift Roosevelt from his wheelchair into the private waters of his bathhouse. Changing rooms line the pools, some featuring natural “hot tubs” tucked into small nooks, perfect for a relaxing solo soak.

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We savored an enchanting winter getaway at the Homestead, where every moment felt like a blissful escape into a mountain paradise. The holiday magic lingered in the twinkling lights and festive decorations, while we enjoyed the year-round heated outdoor pool, hot tub, and indoor pool—each offering its own unique atmosphere for relaxation.

The spa is particularly lovely in the winter as thermal steam rises from the folds of the hillside and firepits blaze. Snowflakes gently fell in the morning, but gave way to bright sunshine and fifty degrees, so we lounged outdoors in the luxurious thermal water pools and hot tub. The couples massage at the spa was an an exceptional experience. The adult-only spa is a peaceful retreat and has become one of my favorite winter sanctuaries.

Explore the resort offerings, from the stables to the slopes. While the weather may not have been ideal for skiing, the kids taking lessons couldn’t have been more thrilled, embracing every the icy hillside with excitement and enthusiasm. Whether you’re enjoying a crackling fire pit, being active outdoors, lounging at the spa, or savoring gourmet meals, the Omni Homestead ensures that your winter stay is nothing short of enchanting.

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We used The Junto Hotel as our home base for a staycation in Franklinton as part of my research for The Insiders Guide to Columbus, 3rd ed. It was our first time staying here and we had a really nice experience. The king suite was spacious and modern with nice amenities like refillable water bottles, Bodum pour-over style coffee makers, nifty lighting, and a cool window bench overlooking the patio and green space.

The hotels public spaces are warm and communal (if you want to be). There is a nice outdoor patio with a wood-burning fireplace and indoor workstations. The Gear Garage is a great way to get interactive with the neighborhood and city, as you can rent complimentary bikes, scooters, kayaks, and all sorts of other lawn games and cameras. For late-night nosh, the Poutine Window is open in the evenings.

Cocktails at Little West Tavern and Bar

We enjoyed happy hour at Little West Tavern on the ground level of The Junto Hotel. The bar is beautiful – like an upscale western saloon with a double-sided bar that opens to a patio facing COSI. The bar and restaurant became quite busy, but the service was still good. The full dinner menu is available at the bar and LWT is now open for lunch and will be starting breakfast service soon too. It’s the hotel’s main dining room, but has street level entrances for non-hotel guests.

Dinner at Little West Tavern and Bar

Dinner at Little West Tavern is a bit pricy (especially the drinks!)  and the menu is meat-heavy. That said, the restaurant is a beautiful space with an open wood fired hearth and lovely patio. We were seated at a regular table, but there are a few seats around the chef’s counter, which we would try to get next time. We wanted to see how they did non-meat dishes so we ordered the ceviche for starters along with the cheddar biscuits. The biscuits were great and the ceviche was super fresh, but even with the chili crisp, it still needed some heat and salt. We decided to do a surf and turf for dinner and ordered the steak Diane and ember roasted prawns- both grilled masterfully.

I thought it a little odd that the shrimp came out without any additional garnishes or small side of greens. The a la carte sides are shareable, so we got brown butter mashed potatoes, which were tasty, but the Brussels sprouts were the standout dish of the night. LWT is a solid dinner option, especially for meat lovers and if on the west side. I still plan to go back for lunch sometime to check out the $22 burger. For as busy as they were, the service was very attentive and good.

Brass Eye Rooftop Bar

Our first visit  to the Brass Eye rooftop bar at The Junto Hotel, was during an beautiful fall day post brunch, but a DJ was still playing nice jazz and the weather was perfect. The various indoor and outdoor spaces are warm and comfortable. Cheers to the Columbus skyline on a gorgeous fall day with my love. Pretty view of the city and over Franklinton.

This night, we shared a beautiful sunset from the Brass Eye – Rooftop Bar at The Junto Hotel. It offers a great view of the city skyline from the rooftop patio that wraps around three sides of the building. They make superb cocktails too!

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