Tucked away in Northeast Ohio, less than three hours from Columbus, The Grand Resort is redefining what an Ohio getaway can look like. While many travelers automatically think of destinations like Nashville, Scottsdale, or Florida for a luxury escape, this sprawling resort proves you do not have to leave the state to experience elevated accommodations, fine dining, world-class amenities, and true relaxation. Named the number one resort in Ohio by U.S. News & World Report three years in a row, The Grand Resort has become one of the Midwest’s most surprising luxury destinations.
Originally developed as part of the Avalon Golf and Country Club properties, The Grand Resort feels more like a high-end destination resort you would expect to find in Arizona or coastal California than in Northeast Ohio. The moment guests arrive, the atmosphere shifts from everyday Midwest routine to polished resort living.
“More travelers are realizing they do not have to board a plane to experience a true luxury resort getaway. What surprises many first-time guests is that The Grand Resort offers the same atmosphere, amenities, dining, and relaxation they would expect from destinations in Scottsdale or South Florida — yet it is all just a comfortable drive from Columbus. People arrive expecting Northeast Ohio and leave feeling like they discovered a hidden resort destination,” says Mike Case, Director of Communications for The Grand Resort.
The property offers an impressive range of experiences designed for couples’ getaways, girls’ weekends, golf trips, corporate retreats, weddings, and wellness escapes. Guests can spend the day at the adults-only outdoor Roman bath pool, unwind at the full-service spa, book a massage or facial, lounge in luxury cabanas, or enjoy the resort’s indoor and outdoor pools.
Golfers are especially drawn to the resort’s four championship golf courses, which have become nationally recognized among avid players. But even for non-golfers, The Grand Resort delivers an experience that feels curated and immersive rather than simply a place to stay overnight.
Dining is another standout. The resort offers multiple upscale restaurants and lounges, allowing guests to move seamlessly from poolside cocktails to elegant dinners without ever leaving the property. The overall experience is designed to feel effortless — something many travelers increasingly value.
What makes The Grand especially appealing for Central Ohio travelers is accessibility. Unlike destinations requiring airports, rental cars, and extensive planning, this is a getaway that can realistically happen over a long weekend. Guests can leave Columbus after work on Friday and arrive in time for dinner and evening cocktails.
That convenience has become part of the appeal. Travelers are increasingly seeking experiences that feel luxurious without the exhaustion of complicated travel logistics. The Grand delivers the feeling of a true escape while remaining surprisingly close to home. The resort also continues investing heavily in guest experiences and amenities, helping it evolve well beyond the traditional country club model many people might assume. Today, the atmosphere is sophisticated, modern, and intentionally designed around hospitality and lifestyle.
“What makes The Grand Resort memorable is the way guests feel the moment they arrive. Whether someone is visiting for a spa weekend, a golf trip, or simply a chance to unplug, we want every stay to feel effortless, luxurious, and personal. Many of our guests from Central Ohio tell us they cannot believe an experience like this exists so close to home,” says Kelli Denman, General Manager of The Grand Resort.
For readers looking to explore somewhere new this summer, The Grand Resort offers the rare combination of luxury, convenience, and discovery. It feels transportive without requiring the stress of airports, complicated itineraries, or cross-country travel. In an era where many destinations feel overcrowded and overhyped, The Grand Resort delivers a sophisticated escape that feels both elevated and refreshingly accessible — all within a comfortable drive from Central Ohio.
For more information or to plan a stay, visit www.thegrandresort.com
"Many of our guests from Central Ohio tell us they cannot believe this amazing experience exists so close to home."