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How can you escape it all while still being in the middle of it all? Isn’t that a contradiction? Not when you’re staying at Turf Valley Resort in Ellicott City, Maryland! Turf Valley Resort is the perfect getaway spot along one of the busiest travel corridors in the United States, the Baltimore-Washington DC corridor.
So can you find calm in this busy area? Yes, you can, at Turf Valley Resort in Ellicott City.
Turf Valley Resort
Located on the outskirts of Ellicott City lies Turf Valley Resort, a favorite wedding destination. But the resort offers something for everyone, regardless of whether they are here to attend a wedding, a meeting, a family reunion, or just getting away from it all.
What is Turf Valley Resort?
Occupying 1000 acres, Turf Valley Resort is a hotel and a golf membership facility. Turf Valley Resort is a hotel that also offers 2-3 bedroom villas for those desiring an extended stay. Golf and Social memberships allow locals to enjoy the facilities.
PRO TIP: The executive rooms are some of the largest hotel rooms I’ve ever experienced! Book this type of room if you’d like a lot of room.
What can you do at Turf Valley Resort?
You can spend an entire weekend at Turf Valley Resort without leaving the premises and not getting bored!
Golf
Golf is where this resort shines. Renovated in May 2022, the two championship golf courses, the Original Course and the Hialeah Course, are only open to members and guests of the resort. Golfers preferring a traditional course will enjoy the Original Course’s winding course through the resort. Golfers preferring a shotmaker’s course, where accuracy counts, will enjoy the Hialeah Course with its tree-lined fairways and creeks eagerly awaiting the slightest error.
A new short game practice area allows golfers to warm up for their day’s play. Looking to improve your game? PGA Professionals stand ready to instruct and give you tips.
As a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, the courses feature native plants and trees. The beauty of the courses is evident for hotel guests lucky enough to enjoy a view of them from their hotel rooms.
After playing 18 championship holes, relax at some of the other resort facilities.
Pool
Cool down in the resort’s indoor or outdoor pool. Open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, the outdoor pool is a hit with families and sun worshippers alike. Kids will enjoy the waterslide. The little ones can enjoy the splash area or enclosed children’s pool. The Sand Trap Pool Bar features an extensive drink menu as well as a variety of food items.
Open year-round, the indoor pool features views of the golf course. Guests can also enjoy the whirlpool right next to the pool. The indoor pool’s extended hours means there is a pool option early and late in the day when the outdoor pool may be closed.
Outdoor Activities
Not a golfer? Don’t fret – Turf Valley Resort offers plenty of exciting amenities!
With three tennis courts, a pickleball court, and a volleyball court, you and your group can stay active. Sign up at the front desk, which is where you can pick up the necessary equipment as well.
Looking for something a little lower-key? Challenge your travel-mate to a game of cornhole or practice your cornhole skills.
Fitness Center
Hotel guests don’t have to sacrifice their usual fitness routine if they don’t want to. Open 24/7, the Fitness Center features everything a guest could expect from a fully-stocked workout room. Sweat it out on treadmills, stationary bikes, or ellipticals. Work your muscles on weight machines or free weights. Even a middle-of-the-night workout is okay!
Spa
Whether you’ve worked hard on the golf course, the tennis court, or your tan, wind down with a glorious spa service. Located on the lower level, the spa offers traditional pampering services such as facials, massages, and other body treatments.Hidden gem of the spa: Vichy Showers! Don’t miss this ultimate luxury.
PRO TIP: Spa services must be booked at least three weeks in advance. Plan accordingly!
Bars and Restaurants
The Sand Trap, located on the outdoor pool deck, serves a variety of cocktails for guests wishing to enjoy their drinks while catching some rays. The menu includes items such as sandwiches, pizza, and salads.
The Fairway Lounge, located off the lobby, serves mesmerizing cocktails and light fare, including a late-night menu. The lounge menu includes signature cocktails, mocktails, and a variety of beer and wine.
Alexandra’s American Fusion is the main dining facility located on the lower level and visible from the lobby. The menu focuses on seasonal inspirations and locally sourced products. A breakfast buffet is available during busy weekends.
The Patio, directly outside Alexandra’s, overlooks the 18th hole of the Original Course, making for perfect photo ops. Elect to sit outside enjoying happy hour and hors d’oeuvres or opt from the full menu at the restaurant. During chillier evenings, fire pits within the tables keep guests toasty and warm.
And, of course, room service is available for hotel guests, though the hours are more limited than the restaurants.
Final Thoughts on Staying at Turf Valley Resort
Whether you’re looking for a fun place to get away for the weekend, a home base for exploring Howard County, including Ellicott City and Columbia, or even to spend a day or two before flying from BWI Airport (25 minutes away), Turf Valley Resort is an excellent choice you won’t regret!
Check out these other Maryland posts:
- Best Sunflower Fields to Visit in Maryland
- 8 Best Lavender Fields to Visit in Maryland
- Best Things to do in Salisbury, MD
Happy travels,
Annick, The Common Traveler
I’d like to thank Visit Howard County Maryland and Turf Valley Resort for hosting my visit. As always, my write-ups are an accurate reflection of the experiences I had.
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Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.