Readers across the country have affirmed this month what those of us here in the Upper Ohio Valley already know: Oglebay Resort truly is a special place, particularly during the holiday season.

From the Winter Festival of Lights — now in its 40th year — to the Festival of Trees, the Christmas shop at Speidel, the Carriage House, visits from Santa and so, so much more, Oglebay goes all-out to make a visit or a weekend stay special for families.

Readers of USA Today selected Oglebay as the nation’s best hotel to visit for the holidays. The honor is fitting and a testament to the leaders and workers at the resort that put in the effort each day to make the facility truly special.

Also making the list was The Greenbrier Resort, landing at the No. 4 spot. A visit to the famed resort over the holidays offers opportunities to sip on tea and make beautiful ornaments, decorate cookies and Christmas trees with family, test your hand at a Merry Mint Mixology class, and experience traditional, seasonal performances and ceremonies.

Other resorts in the Top 10:

– The Broadmoor — Colorado Springs, Colorado

– Crystal Springs Resort — Hamburg, New Jersey

– The Equestrian Hotel at World Equestrian Center — Ocala, Florida

– The Peninsula, Chicago, Illinois

– Omni Mount Washington Resort — Bretton Woods, New Hampshire

– Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center — Grapevine, Texas

– Big Cedar Lodge — Ridgedale, Missouri

– The Roosevelt New Orleans — New Orleans, Louisiana.

What a testament to Oglebay’s unique approach to the holiday season that it topped a list that included these hotels. It’s hard to imaging that the foundation laid 40 years ago when the Festival of Lights got its start would turn into such a magical experience each year.

Visit Oglebay this holiday season with your family. It’s most certainly worth your time.