Oglebay celebrated a significant milestone with the grand opening of its newly reimagined lodge arrival experience and restaurants. This renovation, initiated in January, was supported in part by a grant from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) and matched by community gifts to culminate in a remarkable enhancement to the guest experience.
Bob Peckenpaugh, President & CEO of the Wheeling Park Commission, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are thrilled to see this project reach completion. These enhancements not only elevate the comfort and ambiance of the lodge but also provide our team with the opportunity to create new and improved service levels for our guests.”
Guests will now be welcomed by a redesigned arrival experience that offers clear guidance and shelter from inclement weather. The covered drive is anchored by four illuminated pillars, leading guests seamlessly to the front door and a new water feature creates a stunning focal point at the entrance.
Upon entering the lodge, guests are greeted by a redesigned desk area with open workstations, designed to foster natural and friendly interactions between staff and visitors. The interior renovations reflect the lodge’s natural stone and dark wood aesthetic, enhancing the inviting ambiance throughout. Sarita’s Coffee & Goods has significantly expanded from its original counter space and resides with the retail experience. It features private label barista-style coffee, baked pastries, grab-and-go foods, and a curated selection of Oglebay apparel and keepsakes.
Oglebay also unveiled new dining and relaxation spaces, set to delight guests with enhanced experiences. These areas feature fireplaces, floor-to-ceiling windows, an open display kitchen, natural wood accents, and inviting, eclectic atmospheres.
The new Skyline Kitchen & Bar invites guests to rise, rally, and revel with classic comfort foods served with a modern twist. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and available for a relaxing drink, the team is dedicated to creating memorable dining experiences filled with fun and flair.
Trace Chophouse sets a new standard for dining, offering a space that transports guests back in time to the frontier days of tracers mapping the land. This elegant yet rugged venue serves premium steak and seafood dishes, complemented by a fine selection of wines and an impressive drink list, five nights a week.
Hickman Lounge has also been elevated, now offering a focus on craft cocktails and small bites in a beautiful setting, perfect for relaxed conversations.
Principal Architect Vic Greco from The Mills Group remarked, “My team recognized from the start that this project was a rare opportunity, requiring meticulous attention to detail and thoughtful execution. Every aspect was scrutinized with care and profound consideration. I can sincerely say that this project is one of the most transformative in my career. I want to credit not only the design team and contractors but especially the Wheeling Park Commission for their vision and trust, which allowed us to bring this project to fruition”.
Oglebay’s Lodge renovation received a major boost through West Virginia’s Tourism Development Act tax credit program, securing over $3 million in potential credits. These credits can be utilized over several years after the project’s completion and opening to the public. The West Virginia Department of Economic Development also played a key role by leveraging a federal grant to obtain over $60,000 in workforce training funds, which will be used to train Oglebay employees as they launch new restaurants.
Furthermore, the Oglebay Foundation’s “Forever Yours: The Campaign for An Enduring Oglebay” provided essential funding support for these renovations. This effort aligns with the foundation’s goal of securing 100,000 gifts by Oglebay’s centenary in 2028. Eriks Janelsins, President & CEO of the Oglebay Foundation, emphasized the campaign’s impact on enhancing park assets like Wilson Lodge and Wheeling Park.
Peckenpaugh expressed gratitude towards the Wheeling Park Commission, Economic Development Administration, Oglebay Foundation, and its donors for their dedication to enhancing Oglebay’s facilities and visitor experience.
