All Articles 7 all-inclusive resorts in the U.S. that cater to kids

7 all-inclusive resorts in the U.S. that cater to kids

Seven spots youngsters (and parents) are sure to enjoy.

By Kimberly Peiffer3 Jan 2023 3 minutes read
Mohonk Mountain House in Upstate New York
Mohonk Mountain House in Upstate New York
Image: Courtesy of Mohonk Mountain House

Planning a family vacation should be fun, not stressful, which is why booking an all-inclusive resort can be the perfect way to go. Not only are meals included in the price, but many all-inclusive resorts offer a host of activities for the whole family, from pools and waterparks to evening entertainment. Below, we round up some of the best all-inclusive spots in the U.S. that kids will remember for a lifetime—no passport required.

C Lazy U Ranch in Granby, CO

Horses at the C Lazy U Ranch in Granby, Colorado
Horses at the C Lazy U Ranch in Granby, CO
Image: Management/Tripadvisor

Kids and adults alike will love the secluded respite that is C Lazy U Ranch, just two hours from the Denver airport. Guests can choose from a variety of activities any season, from fishing and hiking in the summer to ice skating in the winter. But the adventures are just the beginning of the perks of planning your all-inclusive getaway here. Shack up in a cozy cabin after a long day of exploration, and enjoy culinary delights, too (three meals per day are included in the price of your stay).

Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz, NY

Great Room at the Grove Lodge at Mohonk Mountain House
Great Room at the Grove Lodge at Mohonk Mountain House
Image: Courtesy of Mohonk Mountain House

A stunning retreat on Lake Mohonk in New York’s Hudson River Valley, Mohonk Mountain House is ideal for those looking for nature and plenty of outdoor activities to do with kids. In summer, swim or kayak in Lake Mohonk, throw tomahawks, bow shoot, schedule an afternoon picnic, or hike around the resort’s abundance of lush acreage. Come winter, snow shoe, ice skate, or cross-country ski on the property’s expansive acreage. When caretakers need a break, leave the little ones with the drop-off Kids’ Club program, and head to the newly renovated spa for a soul-soothing massage or facial. Added bonus: the resort’s inclusive pricing structure. Most activities, plus meals, are included in the price of your stay.

Woodloch Resort in Hawley, PA

For a family-friendly jewel in the Poconos, head to Woodloch Resort. There’s a pool, game room, golf course, adventure playground, snow tubes, go carts, spa, magicians, and more at this sprawling resort where your stay includes a meal plan with two to three meals a day. And oh yeah, there are babysitters, too. For a date night, check out a comedy show, dance to a DJ set, or head to a fire pit and listen to acoustic music with your better half. Late-night trivia for ages 16 and up is also a blast.

Kalahari Resort in Baraboo, WI

Family dining at the Kalahari Resort in Baraboo, Wisconsin
Family dining at the Kalahari Resort in Baraboo, WI
Image: Management/Tripadvisor

Wisconsin’s largest indoor water park offers endless entertainment for the kiddos. The Kalahari resort in Wisconsin Dells is the perfect weekend getaway thanks to 125,000 square feet of indoor climate-controlled water playground, from a wave pool to a Crocodile Cove and a lazy river. But the water park is not the only draw—there’s also a massive game room, mini-golf, escape rooms, virtual reality, and live entertainment to keep the kids occupied, no matter the freezing Midwest temperatures outside.

Aerial view of Aulani Disney Resort and Spa in Oahu, Hawaii
Aerial view of Aulani Disney Resort and Spa in Oahu, Hawaii
Image: Management/Tripadvisor

Aulani, A Disney Resort and Spa in Oahu, Hawaii

From complimentary activities to access to all the pools, reefs, and beaches on the resort’s premises—sans resort fees—there are many reasons to book a stay at Aulani. Explore various packages to find the best deal that suits your family. The Disney Vacation Club Villas offer a larger, more private stay than the resort (including a full kitchen), but still grant access to all the amenities the hotel has to offer. The only question left is: ukulele or hula lessons first?

The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island in St. Simons Island, GA

Tripadvisor travelers have called The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island “wonderful and wild,” and we can’t sum up this barrier island paradise better ourselves. While on the pricier side, this Golden Isles retreat has excellent dining, a saltwater pool, and a garden and orchard. Stay in one of six historic cottages (the lodge is capped at 32 guests), and set out for some stellar hiking on the 25-plus miles of trails, wildlife viewing, naturalist-led excursions, biking, kayaking, and more. When hunger strikes, expect everything from locally sourced oysters to salads made with bounty from the grounds’ garden.

The Grand Hotel in Mackinac Island, MI

Carriage rides outside of The Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island, Michigan
Carriage rides outside of The Grand Hotel, in Mackinac Island, MI
Image: Management/Tripadvisor

The historic Grand Hotel makes for a particularly great summer or early fall vacation with kids. Offering a mix of rich history and up-to-date resort amenities, you’ll fall in love with the historic charm of this tiny island in Lake Michigan. After hopping on a short ferry, you arrive at this car-free destination and the adventure begins. A horse and carriage ride is a must, as is swimming, biking and walking around downtown. The hotel offers plenty of seasonal events to choose from as well as various packages (room, breakfast, and some kids activities are included with most) to meet the needs of your family.

Kimberly Peiffer
Kimberly Peiffer is an editor, writer, and content strategist with over a decade of experience working for digital and glossy print publications. She has spent her career curating luxury lifestyle content, from the most glamorous places to travel, to the best skincare to buy. When she's not writing (or editing many things), you're most likely to find her at a hot yoga class, skiing down a mountain, or sipping margaritas on a beach-any beach will do. She has written for Robb Report, Glamour, Oprah, Travel & Leisure, InStyle, People, Shape, Vogue and many others.