Hot Springs gets plenty of love, being the home of the iconic Omni Homestead Resort, but don’t overlook Warm Springs, just down the road. For outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and art aficionados, add a trip to this charming village—there’s plenty to do. Stay in the warm and welcoming Inn at Gristmill Square, which looks like a small 19th-century Colonial village, with historical buildings and an elegant restaurant and pub housed in a converted mill. Dinner at the inn’s Waterwheel Restaurant is a definite must for foodies, who will appreciate chef/owner John Loeffler’s inventive menu; oenophiles may very well get lost in its impressive wine cellar. Art lovers shouldn’t miss popping into Warm Springs Gallery, where owner Barbara Buhr has curated an impressive roster of established and emerging artists, with many depicting Bath County landscapes. Don’t miss The Garden Room upstairs, with its collection of cheeky cards, elegant jewelry, pantry staples, kitchen linens, and more. The adjacent Garden Café serves delicious soups, salads, and artisan sandwiches, all handcrafted on-site. Plus, there’s Milk House Market at Old Dairy for lunch and sweet treats, and Troddenvale Cider for satisfying sips.
This article originally appeared in the Best of Virginia 2025 issue.
