Raise your hand if you’ve ever felt torn – should we take a vacation that’s fun for the kids, packed with activities to keep them excited all weekend, or should we take a vacation – a kicked back, drink in hand, watching the waves roll by kind of trip. It can be tough to find things to do on a family getaway that are as fun for Mom and Dad as they are for the kids, but these summer resorts have found the key to just that.
For your kids: Scavenger hunts! Waterparks! Tubing! For you: Lake cruises! Bonfires! Tubing! (Adults like to play, too!) However you choose to spend your vacation, you’ll find it all and more at these four resorts.
It may be the twenty-first century, but fortunately Sunrise Lodge in Land O’Lakes didn’t get the memo. Wonderfully old-school, this privately-owned resort offers a classic menu of activities for kids and their families. So bring your cat-eye sunglasses and plaid Bermuda shorts, Mom and Dad, when you check into one of the 24 cottages on the 30 acres here.
Kids can learn to canoe, try in a scavenger hunt or take part in a naturalist program. Hiking, biking, fishing, sandcastle building, tubing, ice cream making, and campfires with ghost stories and s’mores can keep you and your kids busy from sunrise to sunset. Oh, and if it’s really hot outside, cool off with water balloon volleyball.
Parents can partake in activities with their kids, but it’s not required. Check with Sunrise Lodge for more details on participation.
The Osthoff Resort – Elkhart Lake
Located on the shores of Elkhart Lake, this premier AAA Four Diamond resort offers a casual atmosphere in a refined setting. Indoors and outdoors, there’s plenty for every member of the family to do.
During the summer season, the Pleasures Activities Programs provides kids ages four to ten with a slew of organized adventures. Parents can attend but don’t have to. Entertaining and educational, the program has an emphasis on Wisconsin resort traditions like crafts and cooking. Family activities include bonfires on the beach and lake cruises.
For more than 130 years, Lake Lawn Resort has been a summer tradition for Midwestern families.
Today's owners are putting a renewed emphasis on children’s activities. A supervised program for children ages three and up offers tons of structured fun.
While you’re enjoying grown-up time at the resort’s spa or on its 18-hole golf course, the kids can create crafts, play games and even participate in an obstacle course. Make a reservation to take advantage of the "KZ Experience" – that’s short for "Kid Zone" – program.
Timber Ridge Lodge and Waterpark at Grand Geneva – Lake Geneva
On the outskirts of Lake Geneva, Timber Ridge offers a world-class waterpark and fun for the whole family.
When Mom and Dad want time alone, the "Kids are Grand" program taps into every child’s need to create and explore. Kids can test their culinary skills, hike in nearby woods and participate in an array of unique activities.
The resort offers plenty for parents with downtime to do, including five-star dining and golf. Lake Geneva also offers a historic downtown district with shopping and restaurants.
Plan more kid-friendly fun with our top trip ideas for family getaways, and see our directory page to start planning your trip!
