Homestead Reimagined: Utah Icon Begins $120M Luxury Transformation

MIDWAY, UT – April 23, 2026 – A new chapter is unfolding for one of Utah's most cherished historical landmarks. Davidson Hospitality Group has been selected to manage the iconic Homestead Midway Utah, a sprawling 190-acre resort poised for a monumental rebirth. The appointment comes as the property undergoes an extensive, $120 million multi-year transformation designed to elevate it into a premier luxury destination, blending its storied past with a future of unparalleled hospitality.

Under the oversight of Davidson's specialized Resorts vertical, the four-season resort is in the midst of a yearslong project that will see new and reimagined amenities debut incrementally between spring 2026 and fall 2027. The ambitious plan, spearheaded by owner Slate Canyon Hospitality, aims to position the property for inclusion in Marriott's prestigious Autograph Collection, a brand known for unique, character-rich hotels.

A Landmark Reborn: The $120 Million Vision

The scale of the Homestead's revitalization is comprehensive, touching nearly every aspect of the guest experience. A centerpiece of the project is the complete reimagining of its championship golf course. Managed by the world-renowned Troon®, the new John Fought-designed layout, set to open in summer 2027, will feature redesigned greens, fairways, and bunkers, alongside a water-efficient irrigation system. A state-of-the-art Pro Shop with an indoor golf simulator will ensure year-round play.

Wellness and events are also receiving significant investment. The forthcoming Spa at Homestead promises a world-class sanctuary with dry saunas, steam rooms, and treatments centered around the property's natural hot springs. For gatherings and celebrations, the new Barn & Carriage House will introduce 17,600 square feet of elegant indoor and outdoor event space. A dedicated Activity Center, expected in 2027, will serve as a hub for recreation, housing indoor pickleball courts, a modern fitness center, and registration for the resort's famous crater.

Dining will be elevated with two new venues: Simon's Tavern, a sophisticated bar concept, and the 1886 Grill, an open-air restaurant designed to maximize mountain views. These will complement existing restored venues like the Milk House and The Sunroom, located within the historic Virginia House.

Blending Heritage with Modern Luxury

The Homestead's story is deeply woven into the fabric of the Wasatch Valley. It began in 1864 when Swiss immigrant Simon Schneitter, drawn to the area's resemblance to his homeland, discovered a geothermal hot spring while farming. Dubbed a "hot pot" by settlers, this natural wonder became the foundation for Schneitter's Hot Pot Resort, which opened in 1886.

At the heart of this history is the Virginia House, the only remaining example of Federal-style architecture in the region and a property listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1992. The current transformation is carefully designed to honor this legacy. The restoration of historic structures alongside the introduction of modern luxury is a core tenet of the project.

Perhaps the resort's most unique feature is The Crater at Homestead, a 55-foot-tall, beehive-shaped limestone formation cradling a geothermal spring. With mineral-rich waters maintaining a constant temperature of 90-96 degrees Fahrenheit, it offers a year-round natural swimming hole for swimming, snorkeling, and even scuba diving—an experience no other regional competitor can claim.

Davidson's Strategic Expansion in the Wasatch Back

The selection of Davidson Hospitality Group signals a strategic move for both the resort and the management company. With a portfolio that includes the Snowpine Lodge in Alta and the Asher Adams, Autograph Collection in Salt Lake City, Davidson is cementing its presence as a key operator in Utah's booming luxury tourism market.

"We are excited to welcome Homestead to our growing portfolio of distinctive resorts, with our sights set on elevating performance, experiences, and opportunities," said Thomas Fraher, Senior Vice President of Operations for Davidson Resorts. "Our team of seasoned resort experts will create tremendous value for our valued partners through knowledge, anticipation, execution, and collaboration."

This expertise is precisely what the resort's owners were seeking. Scott Jones, Managing Partner of Slate Canyon Hospitality, praised the new partnership. "As we continue on our transformation journey, we are delighted to engage Davidson as tried and true stewards of hospitality excellence," Jones stated. "Nearly 140 years ago, Homestead established itself as the heartbeat of the community, and we look forward to partnering with Davidson to blend historic charm and unforgettable experiences for travelers from all over the globe."

Balancing Growth with Community and Nature

The large-scale development has not been without careful consideration for its impact on the small community of Midway. The project is a significant economic driver, projected to create over 800 jobs, including 110 new permanent positions upon completion—a substantial boost for a town with fewer than 20,000 residents.

After dialogue with local officials and community members, the resort's development plans were revised to better align with community values, particularly regarding open space. The final plan, which received preliminary approval from the Midway City Council, preserves nearly 56 acres of open space on the property. The developers have also committed to dark sky-compliant lighting and adherence to local noise ordinances.

Environmental stewardship remains a key focus, from the water-efficient golf course to ongoing discussions with the city regarding water rights. The careful management of The Crater and the surrounding landscape is paramount to preserving the very features that make the Homestead unique. As the transformation continues, the resort is poised to become a model for how large-scale development can coexist with historical preservation and community values, ushering in a new golden age for this Utah icon.