1. Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa – Ko Olina, Hawaii

Aulani seamlessly blends Hawaiian culture with Disney magic, creating an enchanting paradise for families. Situated on Oahu’s western shore, the resort offers beachfront access, immersive storytelling, and a plethora of activities for children.

Kid-Friendly Highlights:

• Aunty’s Beach House: A complimentary kids’ club featuring Hawaiian-themed activities and character interactions.
• Waikolohe Valley: A water wonderland with pools, lazy rivers, and splash zones.
• Disney Character Experiences: Meet and greets with beloved characters in Hawaiian attire.
• Family Activities: Hawaiian crafts, storytelling sessions, and themed parties.

Nightly Price Range: Approximately $705–$1,145 for standard rooms.

2. LEGOLAND California Resort – Carlsbad, California or Florida or NY

Designed for children aged 2–12, LEGOLAND offers a vibrant theme park experience complemented by a LEGO-themed hotel. The resort is a haven for young LEGO enthusiasts.

Kid-Friendly Highlights:

• Themed Rooms: Options like Pirate, Kingdom, and LEGO Friends rooms with separate sleeping areas for kids.
• Interactive Features: In-room treasure hunts with LEGO prizes and nightly entertainment.
• Exclusive Park Access: Early entry to LEGOLAND Park for hotel guests.
• On-Site Amenities: Heated pools, play areas, and character meet-and-greets.

Nightly Price Range: Starting from $89 per person, with additional resort fees.

3. Serenity Shores Resort – Branson, Missouri

Nestled on Table Rock Lake, Serenity Shores offers spacious villas perfect for large families. The resort combines luxury accommodations with a plethora of kid-centric amenities.

Kid-Friendly Highlights:

• Water Attractions: A 5,000 sq. ft. pool with lazy river, splash pad, and waterslide.
• Entertainment: Free arcade, movie theater room, and paddle boards.
• Outdoor Fun: Fishing poles, snack shack, and covered patios overlooking the lake.

Nightly Price Range: Varies by villa size and season; specific rates available upon inquiry.

4. Nemacolin – Farmington, Pennsylvania

Set on 2,000 acres in the Laurel Highlands, Nemacolin offers a luxurious retreat with a focus on family-friendly activities. The resort combines upscale accommodations with a diverse range of experiences for children.

Kid-Friendly Highlights:

• Kids Club: Supervised activities including swimming, mini-golf, arts and crafts, and scavenger hunts.
• Outdoor Adventures: Zip-lining, wildlife encounters, and nature trails.
• Indoor Fun: Bowling alley, arcade, and art classes.

Nightly Price Range: Approximately $558–$1,175, depending on room type and season.

5. Villatel Orlando Resort – Orlando, Florida

Villatel offers a unique blend of private villa accommodations with resort-style amenities, catering especially to large families and groups. Located near major theme parks, it’s an ideal base for Orlando adventures.

Kid-Friendly Highlights:

• Themed Villas: Homes with private pools, game rooms, movie theaters, and themed bedrooms.
• Resort Amenities: Lazy river, splash park, waterslides, and sports courts.
• Convenience: Full kitchens, spacious living areas, and shuttle services to Disney and Universal.

Nightly Price Range: Starting from $284 for a four-bedroom villa; rates vary based on villa size and season.

6. Sun Valley Resort – Sun Valley, Idaho

Sun Valley Resort combines the charm of a historic mountain lodge with modern amenities, offering year-round family-friendly activities in a picturesque setting.

Kid-Friendly Highlights:

• Winter Fun: Children 12 and under ski free with a paying adult during certain promotions.
• Summer Activities: Horseback riding, mountain biking, and outdoor pools.
• Family Entertainment: Bowling alley, ice skating rink, and movie theater.

Nightly Price Range: Approximately $130–$374, depending on accommodations and season.

7. Great Wolf Lodge – Multiple Locations

Great Wolf Lodge is a chain of indoor water park resorts with locations across the U.S., offering a rustic, cabin-themed experience combined with modern amenities. Each lodge provides a variety of attractions and activities designed for families with children.

Kid-Friendly Highlights:

• Indoor Water Park: Year-round access to water slides, wave pools, and splash areas.
• MagiQuest Adventure: An interactive game where kids use magic wands to solve quests throughout the resort.
• Story Time and Character Appearances: Evening events featuring costumed characters and bedtime stories.
• Kid-Themed Suites: Rooms designed with bunk beds and playful decor to delight young guests.

Nightly Price Range: Approximately $200–$400, varying by location and season.

The following we have not personally tried yet, but they are on our list to visit!

8. Mohonk Mountain House – New Paltz, New York

Nestled in the Hudson Valley, Mohonk Mountain House is a Victorian castle resort offering a blend of natural beauty and family-friendly activities. The resort provides a tranquil setting with a focus on outdoor adventures and relaxation.

Kid-Friendly Highlights:

• Kids’ Club: Supervised programs with activities like pony rides, hikes, and arts and crafts.
• Lake Activities: Canoeing, paddleboarding, and swimming in a pristine mountain lake.
• Winter Sports: Ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing during colder months.
• Evening Entertainment: Family-friendly movies and campfire s’mores.

Nightly Price Range: Approximately $500–$1,000, including meals and many activities.

9. Wilderness at the Smokies – Sevierville, Tennessee

Located near the Great Smoky Mountains, Wilderness at the Smokies is a family resort featuring both indoor and outdoor water parks. The resort combines the excitement of water attractions with the beauty of the surrounding mountains.

Kid-Friendly Highlights:

• Indoor Water Park: A 66,000-square-foot facility with slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river.
• Adventure Forest: A dry, indoor park with ropes courses, mini-golf, and laser tag.
• Family Suites: Spacious accommodations with bunk beds and kitchenettes.
• Proximity to Attractions: Close to Dollywood and other family-friendly destinations.

Nightly Price Range: Approximately $150–$350, depending on room type and season.

10. Tyler Place Family Resort – Highgate Springs, Vermont

Tyler Place is an all-inclusive, family-run resort on the shores of Lake Champlain. It offers a unique blend of individual family time and separate activities for kids and adults, fostering both togetherness and independence.

Kid-Friendly Highlights:

• Age-Specific Programs: Nine different age groups with tailored activities and counselors.
• Outdoor Adventures: Biking, kayaking, and nature exploration.
• Family Suites and Cottages: Accommodations designed for comfort and convenience.
• Evening Entertainment: Family-friendly shows and social events.

Nightly Price Range: Approximately $500–$700 per adult; children’s rates vary by age.

11. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge – Lake Buena Vista, Florida

Inspired by the national park lodges of the American Northwest, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge offers a rustic yet elegant retreat within Walt Disney World Resort. The resort provides easy access to the Magic Kingdom and other Disney attractions.

Kid-Friendly Highlights:

• Themed Pools: Featuring a waterslide and splash areas for children.
• Character Dining: Opportunities to meet Disney characters during meals.
• Recreational Activities: Movies under the stars, fishing, and bike rentals.
• Proximity to Parks: Complimentary transportation to Disney theme parks.

Nightly Price Range: Approximately $400–$800, varying by room type and season.

Each of these resorts offers a unique experience tailored to families with young children, ensuring memorable vacations filled with fun and relaxation.