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Escape, Relax, and Recharge In Style

Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa Offers Elevated Daycations, Dining, Kids Zone, Golf, Celebrations, Events

Article by Julie Brown Patton

Photography by Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa

Originally published in Celina Lifestyle

Whether seeking recreation or relaxation, a luxurious retreat that blends effortless style with Texas Hill Country's natural beauty awaits at Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa, all inspired by nature and rooted in meaningful connections.

Tucked within 4,000 acres of rolling hills, nature preserves and scenic waterways, the resort recently was named one of the Top 5 Resorts in Texas in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards 2025. With four championship golf courses, a serene spa, inspired dining, elevated fitness amenities and refined guest accommodations, guests are greeted with legendary Texas hospitality and voluminous ways to unwind with flair.

Christian Jones, MBA, Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa director of marketing, shares that wellness and recreation are thoughtfully woven into the resort’s design. "Guests can stay active in a 33,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art fitness center, or relax at one of four distinct pools, including a serene adults-only infinity pool and a heated indoor option perfect for year-round laps. The Mokara Spa invites guests to slow down and recharge, while the resort’s award-winning golf courses offer unforgettable play."

He adds: "Younger guests can enjoy their own adventures, too, whether splashing around in the family-friendly pool and splash pad, or joining guided nature hikes and outdoor games as part of Barton's Kid Zone programming."

Christian says although the resort's located just 20 minutes from downtown Austin, once guests arrive, "it feels like a world away." Taking cues from the surrounding natural landscape, the artwork and guest rooms or suites offer a residential ambiance with layered textures, mixed materials and eclectic furnishings.

"It’s a sophisticated retreat that feels like a home away from home. Throughout the property, we’ve created intentional spaces, like rocking chairs on the porch overlooking Lady Bird Lawn or fire pits perched above the 18th hole of the Fazio Foothills golf course, all of which invite guests to slow down, connect and take in the beauty around them," he explains. 

Opening as a country club in the mid-1980s, the resort’s doors officially opened Sept. 5, 1987, with former First Lady of the United States Lady Bird Johnson attending the grand opening ceremony.

Christian says one of the on-site golf courses was designed by Austin native Ben Crenshaw and his business partner Bill Coore, another by Arnold Palmer and two by Tom Fazio. He says the resort has hosted a variety of notable events and tournaments, including the Liberty Mutual Legends of Golf (Champions Tour) Tournament, and many influential guests, including President H.W. Bush, President George W. Bush, President Barack Obama, music-great Willie Nelson and Heisman Trophy winner Earl Campbell.

"The University of Texas legendary football coach Darrel K Royal was a founding member of Barton Creek Country Club and frequently golfed Barton Creek’s courses; one of the resort’s ballrooms is named in his honor," Christian adds.   

The resort's golf courses helped earn the resort a place among the Top 20 resorts in the world, and an additional high-ranking recognition as one of the Top U.S. Golf Resorts by Golf Digest.

The resort's various dining options include Blind Salamander Kitchen & Bar (seafood, duck, lamb, filet mignon); Bob's Steak & Chop House (award-winning prime steaks, chops, seafood);  Crenshaw's Bar & Eatery (golfers' hideaway); Jim Bob's Lobby Lounge (craft cocktails and small plates); Nopales (casual dining such as chicken street tacos); Canyons Grill (Austin-inspired dishes and clubhouse fare); Texas Spice (breakfast entrees with Southern flavors); Travis Pool Bar & Grill (poolside dining) and Velvet Joe's Coffee House (barista-crafted beverages, grab-and-go pastries, sandwiches, salads). 

“Our Mokara Spa is a sanctuary inspired by nearby creeks and waterways,” Christian states. “Guests, both resort and local, come to unwind in our relaxation lounge, rooftop pool and steam room before indulging in treatments to restore and recharge. From aromatherapy and hot stone massages to HydraFacials and restorative body treatments, everything we offer is curated to create a sophisticated, deeply soothing escape.”

Christian says the Barton Creek team also hosts special events, such as weddings, open-air markets, live music, hands-on exhibits, thematic stays and acoustic performances with song writers. 

Every season brings something new to discover at Omni Barton Creek, Christian assures. This summer’s 'Summer in the Hills' series featured open-air vendor markets at Barton Fest, live music under the stars through Barton Creek Live and the debut of SMOKE: A Celebration of Fire & Flavor, which is a signature culinary event that brought together top barbecue talent from across Texas and Oklahoma. As the seasons shift, the resort transforms once again for Holiday in the Hills, a festive celebration where twinkling light trails, interactive snowfalls and cozy moments set the stage for magical winter memories.

The resort's located in Austin at 8212 Barton Club Drive, whether for two or a whole crew.

512.329.4000
OmniBartonCreek.com

Barton Creek Special Offer Examples

  • Book by Sept. 1 to enjoy 15% off two nights or 20% off three-plus nights through Oct. 31, 2025. Kids eat free. 
  • Bed and breakfast package.

  • Championship golf package. 

  • Simply spa package.

  • Seasonally specific options. 

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