Have you been searching for the perfect family vacation spot that brings fun for all ages in a close, convenient, and carefree setting? Get ready to wolf out, because your search stops at Great Wolf Lodge, North America’s largest group of indoor water park resorts!
My family and I were recently invited to check out Great Wolf Lodge’s newest location in Mashantucket, CT, just minutes from Foxwoods Casino. The first thing we saw was the giant, towering waterslides wrapping out and around the building, giving us just a preview of the fun to come inside. Walking into the lobby was like stepping out of CT and straight into a cozy log cabin, and that was only the beginning.
Before we hit the waterpark, we checked into our room, a kid’s cabin suite. The spacious room accommodates up to seven people, featuring a queen bed, a sleeper sofa, and a bunk area for the kids, all decorated with a cozy, campfire feel. The kids were thrilled to have their own little nook, complete with a twin bunk bed and a separate twin bed. (One of their favorite parts of the weekend was their “sleepover!”)
The rooms are opened with the swipe of a wristband, making for very easy access and not having to worry about losing a room key. The kids’ sleeping area is technically in the same room, but they still felt like they had their own personal area, and it made bedtime exciting and FUN.
The Great Wolf Lodge waterpark is the main attraction, but there is SO much to do beyond the waterpark as well. Here’s a recap of all the exciting things that Great Wolf Lodge has to offer.
1. The Waterpark, obviously!
This massive indoor space is kept at 84 degrees all year round, making for fun at any time. The waterpark has a few sections; a lazy river, a wave pool, an area with smaller slides (with a splash pad feel) for younger kids, an area with the BIG waterslides (with both speed slides and multi-rider tubes) and an area with a few mid-size slides, dump bucket, spray hoses and a walk-through area with various spots to stop and play or spray.
My kids are 3, 5, and 7, and there was something for all of them. The lines for slides were never more than a few-minute wait (if that), and we were able to ride everything multiple times. There is a snack bar area with pizza, salad, finger foods, etc., and even a bar if you want to relax with a beverage while the kids play. (I may or may not have taken advantage of that one!)
2. The “indoor” attractions.
Aside from the waterpark, there are also a ton of indoor activities. Strap into a safety harness and take on the Howler’s Peak Ropes Course. (You even get to zipline from the ceiling!) Climb and slide through the three-story Howler’s Peak Adventure Trail. Rack up some tickets for a cool prize at the Northern Lights Arcade. Aim for a strike at Ten Paw Alley, a bowling alley with shorter lanes but still big fun. Use your magic wand to explore the lodge in a Magic Quest adventure. Try to get a Howl-in-One on the mini golf green. Create your favorite Great Wolf Pack character at the Build-A-Bear workshop. Dive into the virtual realm for an exciting adventure with The Virtual Frontier.
3. Check out the daily lobby activities.
Whether it’s campfire stories, a dance party, various crafts, or even yoga, there is always something for the kids to do in the lobby area. We especially loved the campfire story about Luna the wolf; it even snowed in the lobby!
4. Grab a bite to eat!
You’ll surely have an appetite after all that fun, and there are tons of options! Fireside is GWL’s outdoor-themed full-service restaurant. With an extensive menu featuring everything from appetizers to salads, burgers, and steak, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
If you need a sweet treat after dinner, stop at Wood’s End Creamery for hand-crafted ice cream. While you’re playing the day away, swing by Hungry Wolf Food Hall with order windows on both the waterpark and indoor attraction areas. Need a little caffeine? Dunkin’ has you covered. If you want to grab and go, Freshwoods Market is your stop for snacks, pre-made lunch items (think sandwiches and salads), and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. If buffet style is your thing, Timers Table & Kitchen has you covered. Grab a plate and choose from various family-style options.
5. Get comfy.
Great Wolf Lodge has numerous themed suites to choose from, ranging from a standard suite that sleeps up to six, all the way to a premium suite that sleeps up to fourteen! All the suites have plenty of space to rest and recharge after a long day of FUN.
