Bethel Inn Resort facts for kids
The Bethel Inn Resort is a super fun place to visit in Maine! It's a special kind of resort that offers everything you need for a great vacation, no matter the season. You can find it nestled in the beautiful Mahoosuc Mountains, right in the charming village of Bethel, Maine. Imagine having 200 acres of exciting activities to explore! The resort has yummy places to eat, a fantastic golf course, and even skiing nearby in winter. Plus, there's a relaxing spa, a health club to stay active, a cool lake house, and a place for big meetings. It’s a perfect spot for families and friends to make awesome memories all year long.
A Look Back: The Inn's Story
The main building of the Bethel Inn first opened its doors way back in 1913. In its early days, many guests came to visit a special doctor named John George Gehring. He was a pioneer in helping people feel better by combining ideas for both the mind and body. Wealthy patients traveled from all over New England and the Midwest to see him.
As the resort grew, more buildings were added. Soon, people started coming "for the season" just to relax and enjoy the quiet beauty of Bethel and the cool mountain air. It was a popular getaway spot!
Over time, how people liked to vacation changed. The Inn faced some tough times and even closed its doors on February 22, 1979. But that wasn't the end of its story! A smart advertising expert named Richard D. Rasor bought the property in May 1979. He had big plans to bring the Inn back to life and make it even better.
Growing Bigger and Better
In 1986, a huge building project began. It was a massive effort that cost $7.5 million! The resort grew by 100 acres, adding lots of new guest rooms and 53 fancy condominiums. The golf course was expanded to a full 18 holes, and a new conference center and health club were built. The best part? They added an outdoor swimming pool that's heated and open all year round! Imagine swimming outside in the snow!
The Inn Today
Since its big comeback in 1979, the Bethel Inn Resort has truly been reborn. Today, it has 150 comfortable guest rooms, welcoming thousands of visitors every year. About 59,000 guests stay overnight each year, enjoying all the fun and relaxation the resort has to offer. It's a busy and happy place where people come to unwind and have adventures in Maine's beautiful mountains.
