Archive for the ‘Travel’ Category

Have a Blast on These Southeast Spring Break Trips for Families

Posted on by Kristina Hernandez |

Are you looking for fun Spring Break Trips for Families? Planning your family’s Spring Break trips from Greenville, South Carolina? All places listed are within driving distance and those that we here at Kidding Around have been to personally. These weekend getaways from Greenville are perfect for making memories with your family this spring.

Spring break trips for families in the Southeast

If we missed your favorite place, add it in the comments!

Want to stay really close to home? With gas costs going up, a road trip might not be on the menu this spring break. If that sounds like you, you can still get away. Try this list of Spring Break trips within 90 minutes for Greenville, SC.

Spring Break Trips From Greenville: Southeastern USA

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South Carolina
North Carolina
Georgia
Tennessee
Virginia
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South Carolina Spring Break

Spring Break Myrtle Beach
Family friendly things to do in Hilton Head with kids.

Columbia, SC

The capital of South Carolina has so much to do, and it’s a great time to visit in spring because it gets super hot!

What to do: Visit the SC State Museum, EdVenture Children’s Museum, Riverbanks Zoo, the Columbia Museum of Art, and Congaree National Park.
Where to stay: This VRBO home in Columbia, SC is close to everything downtown!
Drive time: 1.5 hours

Fripp Island, SC

This is truly a special place that invites relaxation and time to recharge. It’s quiet and private and peaceful.

What to do: Biking, kayaking, restful excursions to the beach, and nature walks. If your rental includes resort amenities, you will also have access to public pools, an activity center with children’s programs, golf, and tennis courts. They do have a couple of heated pools if your kids want to brave the cold. Plus, Hunting Island State Park is right down the road.
Where to stay: VRBO has several condo options, like this Fripp Island Ocean Front Condo.
Drive time: 4 hours

Hilton Head Island / Port Royal/ Beaufort, SC

While the beach is a good option for family fun in the Lowcountry, there is so much more to do than play in the sand. I’ve taken my kids and whole family to this area for the last several years and we always have an awesome time.

What to do: Dolphin and kazoo factory tours, kayak or stand-up paddleboard trips, free aquarium, mini-golf, bike rides, pirate ship adventures, world class beaches. Here’s a list of HHI activities and here’s a list for things to do in the Port Royal/Beaufort.
Where to stay: We’ve loved this VRBO: Hilton Head
Drive time: 4 hours

Kayaking in a salt marsh in hilton Head

Myrtle Beach, SC

While swimming in the ocean isn’t ideal in April, you can still enjoy the outdoors plus some special family activities.

What to do: Beach, Brookgreen Gardens, Vereen Memorial Gardens, dinner shows, the big Ferris wheel, and state parks. Here’s our list of things to do in Myrtle Beach.
Where to stay:  Hampton Inn and Suites Oceanfront Resort or the Ellie Beach Resort (heated indoor pools; affordable)
Drive time: 4 hours

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North Carolina Spring Break: Weekend Trips from Greenville, SC

Biltmore gardens in Asheville, North Carolina
Sapphire Valley, North Carolina
Dump Zone at Great Wolf Lodge

Asheville, NC

You really can’t go wrong heading to Asheville in Western North Carolina for any reason at any time of the year. You can stay near the mountain town and enjoy restaurants or head over to Pisgah Forest where waterfalls and hiking trails abound.

What to do: Hiking, waterfall chasing, Biltmore House.
Where to stay: Pilot Cove on the edge of Pisgah Forest
Drive time: 1.5 hours

Buffalo Creek Vacations, NC

Stay in either a decommissioned caboose or luxury cabin with a hot tub and game room – all on a buffalo ranch.

What to do: Enjoy the beautiful property and watch the buffalo roam, check out the model train room, play in the game room, hike the trails around the ranch. Or go to nearby towns to explore, hike, drive the Blue Ridge Parkway and see the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains while you chase some waterfalls.
Drive time: 1 hour and 45 minutes

Caboose rentals in North Carolina
Caboose rentals

Great Wolf Lodge, NC

For a vacation where you rarely have to leave the hotel, Great Wolf Lodge in Concord, NC right outside of Charlotte is a great option. Inside the hotel, you will also find multiple dining options in a range of prices and styles.

What to do: Included with your hotel stay is admission to the giant indoor water park and free family activities. In addition to the included activities, you can purchase either bundled at a discount or a la carte passes to additional activities such as MagiQuest and ShadowQuest, mini-golf, ropes course, bowling, arcades, and more. Local activities include the NASCAR Hall of Fame and ZMAX Dragway.
Drive time: 2.5 hours

Sapphire Valley, NC

My family has vacationed here several times and just loved it. If you rent a VRBO at the Sapphire Valley Resort, you’ll have a kitchen, which can save a lot of money when it comes to cooking your own meals vs. eating out. And you can buy an amenities pass, which gets you into the indoor pool, sauna, and hot tub plus gym and mini-golf.

What to do: Use the cheap amenities pass at the resort for pool time, or head out to hiking nearby trails to beautiful waterfalls and drive the Blue Ridge Parkway (all free!).
Where to stay: Check AirBnB or VRBO for the Sapphire Valley Resort or Lake Glenville
Drive time: 1.5 hours

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Georgia Spring Break: Easy Weekend Trips From Greenville, SC

Helen, Georgia
Visit Blairsville, GA
Banning Mills Lake

Blairsville, GA

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination with the perfect mix of Southern charm and amenities, this is it. 

Things to do: Horseback riding, Trackrock Petroglyphs, Lasso the Moon Alpaca Farm, Meeks Park.
Where to stay: Shady Rest, The Ridges Resort & Marina.
Drive time: 3 hours

Helen, GA

Right in the middle of the Georgia mountains is the state’s third most-visited town, Helen. With tubing in the summer, Oktoberfest in the fall, and hiking all year round, this cute town is the perfect place to unwind with your family.

What to do: Hiking, family activities at Unicoi State Park like archery, fishing, and zip lining, eating authentic German cuisine, Hardman Farm.
Where to stay: A barrel cabin at Unicoi State Park.
Drive time: 2 hours

Historic Banning Mills, GA

Stay in a treehouse and ride the world’s longest zip line! The historic site is loaded with outdoor activities. You can also do smaller zip line courses, go hiking, or ride in a Spider ATV.

What to do: Lots of outdoor adventures like zip lining and spider ATVs
Where to stay: Right at Historic Banning Mills. They have fantastic treehouses and other accommodations.
Drive time: 3 hours

Treehouse at Historic Banning Mills
Treehouse at Historic Banning Mills

Pine Mountain, GA

Callaway Resort and Gardens is one of those places that surprises you in the best way. It’s massive, but not overwhelming, with winding bike trails, bursts of azaleas in the spring, and a heated outdoor pool that’s open year-round (that is actually warm!).

The gardens have one of the best butterfly centers in the country, you can wander through, a Discovery Center where you can get up close with raptors, and plenty of space to just slow down and breathe. If you can swing it, staying on-site makes the whole experience easier (and often cheaper when bundled).

Top things to do at Callaway Resort & Gardens:

  • Stay in the lodge, villas, or cottages
  • Bike or wander through 2,500 acres of gardens and forest
  • Step inside the Butterfly Center
  • Catch the Birds of Prey show
  • Time your visit with seasonal events and festivals
View of awesome fountain at Callaway Resort
Day butterfly exhibit at Callaway Resort and Gardens

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Tennessee Spring Break: Spring Break Trips from Greenville, SC

The view from Lookout Mountain in Tennessee.
Indoor waterpark at Wilderness at the Smokies

Chattanooga, TN

There are so many fun things to do in the Chattanooga/Lookout Mountain area that we have put together a full guide for you.

What to do: Rock City, Tennessee Aquarium, Ruby Falls, Lookout Mountain, Point Park Battlefield, Chattanooga Zoo, riverboat.
Where to stay: Hotel Chalet at the Choo Choo (a refurbished train car), Garden Walk Inn, Embassy Suites, or cabins at Cloudland Canyon Park.
Drive time: 4.5 hours

Gatlinburg / Pigeon Forge, TN

The town of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee rests outside the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and is just beautiful. It’s filled with a seemingly endless amount of entertainment like a fun dinner or miles of hiking trails in the mountain areas.

What to do: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Anakeesta, Wild Bear Falls indoor waterpark, Sky Bridge, Ripley’s Aquarium, WonderWorks, the Titanic Museum, the Island at Pigeon Forge, Pink JEEP tour, dinner shows, Dollywood. Here’s a huge guide.
Where to stay: The Go Lodge, Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort, Greystone Lodge on the River, Margaritaville Island Hotel, Camp LeConte (glamping), Wilderness at the Smokies, Inn on the River, or covered wagons and tipis at Smoky Hollow Outdoor Resort. Be sure to check for special offers, like the ones that Camp Margaritaville in Pigeon Forge is running.
Drive time: 3 hours

Pool at Camp Margaritaville
Camp Margaritaville

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Virginia Spring Break: Beat the Heat in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Featured photo for Roanoke, Virginia with an iconic star monument and mural of people dancing outside the Taubman Museum of Art
Colonial Williamsburg

Roanoke, VA

Roanoke in Virginia’s Blue Ridge is less than a half-day’s drive from Upstate South Carolina, and it offers wrap-around views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, easy access to the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, and a fantastic selection of both indoor and outdoor fun for families!

What to do: Mill Mountain Park, Center in the Square, Blue Ridge Parkway, and more.
Where to stay: Hotel Roanoke is an amazing upscale option, and SpringHill Suites offers affordable comfort and convenience for families.
Drive time: 4 hours

Williamsburg, VA

We spent just a little over a day in Colonial Williamsburg and put together our top tips from our visit, plus our list of all the things we’d do if we could plan a longer vacation exploring Virginia’s Historic Triangle!

What to do: Explore Virginia’s Historic Triangle in Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown.
Drive time: 6.5 hours

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Florida Spring Break: Get Away for Spring Break to Somewhere Warm

Suncoast of Florida: Beaches to visit.
Legoland Florida

St. Augustine, FL

St. Augustine is a great central city for some super cool activities like checking out manatees at Blue Springs, exploring alligator farms and historic forts, or heading into Orlando.

What to do: Alligator Zoo, Castillo de San Marcos, historic tours, old town St. Augustine, Blue Springs State Park, within driving distance to lots of day trips like Daytona Beach and Orlando.
Where to stay: VRBO has some great options, like this beachfront condo.
Drive time: 6.5 hours

Alligator farm play area in Florida

LEGOLAND, FL

The outlier on our list but still worth the trip is LEGOLAND near Orlando, FL. The amusement park has rides, interactive games, special events, and even a hotel on the property. They also have a virtual reality roller coaster and a water park that’s open from March through October.

Drive time: 9 hours

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Places to travel in the United States

Find more family vacation destinations for every occasion with Kidding Around Travel!

What are your spring break plans?

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Greenville, SC: Travel With KAG!

Posted on by Shannon Pruitt |

Planning a visit to Greenville, SC? Travel to the area is booming, and we’re so glad you’re here! We love our little city (and so does The New York Times, Forbes, and Southern Living!) because there’s so much for everyone to see, do, and eat. Art connoisseurs, outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, and history buffs will all find something to enjoy while visiting Greenville.

And, of course, families have an incredible amount of opportunities to make memories here. So, since you’re planning to visit, we wanted to make your planning a little easier by giving you a list of our top recommendations for places to eat, places to stay, and things to do in Greenville… as well as a guide to parking in downtown Greenville.

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Amenities and Family Fun Abound at the Inn on the River in Pigeon Forge, TN

Posted on by Kristina Hernandez |

The Inn on the River in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee has lots of great amenities for families as they enjoy time together and explore the fun town of Pigeon Forge and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It was voted the #1 best hotel in Pigeon Forge for 2024!

We received a complimentary stay so we could review the hotel. All opinions are those of the author.

If you’re looking for a central place to stay when you visit the Smoky Mountains, one that helps your dollar stretch pretty far, than look no further than the Inn on the River in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The hotel is near all the great attractions of Pigeon Forge, has several family-friendly amenities, and has staff that truly go the extra mile to make you feel at home.

Inn on the River

The Inn on the River

The Inn on the River is exactly like sounds, right on the Little Pigeon River. We had a riverfront view from our room, complete with chairs outside so we could sit and watch the calming river rush by. We even saw a blue heron fishing for dinner on our first night there. Plus, we could see the Great Smoky Mountain Sky Wheel and were within walking distance to several attractions and restaurants.

In fact, our first night there, we walked across the street to try out Magiquest and then walked over to Five Guys for burgers and fries for dinner. It was really nice not to have to drive since we had just come from Greenville. There are several restaurants that you can walk to as well as shows and other entertainment. The Inn lists lots of those places within walking distance on their website. Pigeon Forge is only a three-hour drive, but I’m not a big fan of sitting in the car for long so this was perfect for us.

We explored several attractions during our visit, and nothing was more than a six-minute drive. It was truly an ideal location. The 128 rooms have all been recently renovated and were clean and comfortable. Each room also has a customized Alexa device, which my kids endlessly used to request Dolly Parton songs and ask what cats sounded like. Rooms also have a coffee maker, mini-fridge, and microwave.

So Many Amenities at Inn on the River

The Pools

Let’s start with what kids care about: the pool. The Inn on the River has both an indoor heated pool with jacuzzi and an outdoor pool. We traveled there in January so we didn’t use the outdoor pool, but I did need to tear my kids away from the indoor pool because they loved it. The water is heated, and there are pool toys and goggles available. The room is so nice and warm, too, which felt amazing after being outside in the chilly air most of the days we were in Pigeon Forge. The hot tub is so relaxing as well. Each night we spent at the Inn included a pre-bedtime swim, which was just a great way to wind down the busy days.

Indoor pool at The Inn on the River

Free Breakfast

The Inn on the River also provides free breakfast each morning and has an assortment of both hot and cold offerings like eggs, sausage, biscuits, fruit, waffles, and oatmeal. There is a beautiful sunroom that you can choose to eat your breakfast in that overlooks the river. It’s really nice and calming, and we loved eating out there. Fill up on that breakfast so you can tackle all your fun plans while in the Smokies.

Free Hot Drinks and Popcorn

Additionally, the Inn offers free hot chocolate, coffee, and tea all day long. I cannot even count how many times we had hot chocolate during our visit. It was a lot. They also offer free popcorn from 7 PM- 10 PM every night. My kids were in heaven.

One thing that we didn’t make use of that I completely forgot about was the outdoor fire pit. It’s right on the river, but I forgot because the kids wanted to use the pool at night. Next time!

Gifts for Kids

When we checked in, the hotel staff let each of my kids pick a small gift, which included a toy. It was so cute and personable. Check-in was fast, and the staff was very kind and helpful, letting us know when breakfast was, how late the pool was open, and that they had free books and games available for guests while they enjoyed their stay. The lobby is very inviting as well, with comfortable couches to relax on in front of the fireplace.

Honest Mom Review of the Inn on the River

There are tons of places to stay in Pigeon Forge, and it’s hard to know which one is right for your family. I was impressed with the Inn on the River because their staff was very kind, helpful, and welcoming. Everyone was so nice, from the front desk clerk and manager to the employees cleaning the tables and replenishing food during breakfast to those sweeping the floors of the hallways.

Inn on the River cozy lobby fireplace

The location was also perfect. I didn’t need to travel much at all once we arrived to the hotel, and it was easy to get around Pigeon Forge both by car and foot. Lastly, I don’t think it gets much better for kids on vacation to have a pool all year round. I’m a lot more lenient with my kids when it comes to their bedtimes when we are traveling and was happy to have them enjoy swimming for a couple later-than-usual nights. The hot chocolate was awesome, too, and a free breakfast is so helpful when traveling to save on meal costs.

I also really loved the location right next to the river. It was chilly when we went, but I could open the curtains and watch the river, which I really enjoyed. Anything close to nature like that is a win for me.

Making Your Reservation

Be sure to sign up for Inn on the River’s email newsletters and check their Specials page before you book as they offer some packages that may be of interest. All active duty military get 10% off their stays.

Like any hotel, costs vary depending on the season and room type. During the slower winter season, you can get a riverside room with two queen beds for around $159/night. That same room in the busiest months of July and October is around $285/night, and in December, it’s about $259/night. If you have AAA or AARP, that will knock the price down about 10%.

You can book a room online on the Inn on the River website.

Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg Family Guide

For more things to do in Pigeon Forge, see our Guide to Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg.

Inn on the River Website
2492 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 

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Soar to New Heights at The Island in Pigeon Forge, TN

Posted on by Kristina Hernandez |

Inside: A guide to the Island in Pigeon Forge, TN created by parents who’ve visited multiple times, including things to do, places to eat, and where to stay.

The Island in Pigeon Forge in Pigeon Forge, TN, is full of fun things to do for the whole family, whether you like exciting rides, good food, or prime shopping. We visited the Island and have all the details you need to plan a great trip.

Some of the experiences listed below were provided as complimentary tickets or stays for Kidding Around.

If you’ve ever seen photos of the iconic Ferris wheel in Pigeon Forge, this is where it is, on the Island in Pigeon Forge. While the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel is absolutely a must-do, the Island is filled with tons of things to stay busy and have fun for the whole family.

My kids and I have visited the Island a couple times and never run out of things to do and see! While many of the attractions require admission tickets, there are plenty of free things to do there. Additionally, Pigeon Forge has a wonderful guide with coupons that is available online and via hard copy at the Welcome Center. You can also get it mailed to you.

 

Island in Pigeon Forge, TN

 

Playing at The Island

Great Smoky Mountain Wheel

The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel at the Island was our favorite thing to do. We went once during the day and took another spin at night. We could see so far, and the views of the mountains were stunning. We visited in the winter, and we could see snow on the tops of the mountains. We loved it. We felt very safe (I have a slight fear of heights!) and really enjoyed the views.

The night ride was also amazing because we could see all the lights around Pigeon Forge. It was so cool. You go 200 feet up, so you get a great bird’s eye view. Tickets are $16.99/adult and $11.99/kids 3 – 11. You can buy a day/night pass for $22.99.

Great Smoky Mountain Wheel from below
Great Smoky Mountain Wheel

Island Ropes Course

The Island Ropes Course consists of three levels of obstacles. It also gives participants the option of doing a free-fall controlled jump on the highest level to complete the course. You can spend as much time as you want on the course, which includes two zip lines. The course is all outdoors, so definitely dress for the weather.

There is also a little ropes course, the Sky Tykes Course, for kids under 48″ tall. The bigger ropes course is open to anyone 42″ or taller. Those under 48″ need an adult on the ropes course with them. Tickets are $16.99/person for the Island Ropes Course and $5.99/kid for the Sky Tykes Course.

Island Ropes Course in Pigeon Forge, TN
Island Ropes Course

SkyFly: Soar America

SkyFly opened in 2021 and received USA Today‘s “Best New Attraction” award in 2021. I had no idea what to expect with this ride, but it was so, so cool. You are suspended in a seat in front of a 50-foot dome screen and taken on a six-minute ride across 20 iconic locations in the United States, from Niagara Falls to the Grand Canyon to Alaska. I absolutely loved it and would do it again in a heartbeat. Tickets are $25.80/adult and $20.19/ages 11 and under. Kids must be 40″ tall to ride.

SkyFly Soar America Pigeon Forge
SkyFly: Soar America

Arcade City

We aren’t a huge arcade family, and we had the grandparents with us when we visited Arcade City on the Island, but we had such a fun time! The place is super clean, and there are tons of games for all ages. The arcade includes everything from basketball and crane games to virtual reality, multiple-person games.

It’s the kind of spot that works great for all ages, which is perfect if you’ve got a range of people with you or just need an easy indoor activity. $25 gets you a $30 game card, $50 gets you a $65 game card, and $100 gets you a $145 game card. Sometimes you can even find better deals around town or online.

Arcade City at the Island at Pigeon Forge, TN
Arcade City

Other Attractions on the Island

Other attractions on the Island include an Escape Room, a mirror maze, bumper cars, a carousel, a 7D theater, racing track, a little kids-size roller coaster, and lots of other games. You can pay for these individually or get an unlimited rides two-day pass for $40-50/person. The pass covers a great many rides on the Island.

You can also visit the parrot shop and see live parrots or even some baby parrots. They are adorable. There’s also a Build-A-Bear Workshop and lots of shops to explore that carry unique gifts.

And if you’re lucky enough to be in Pigeon Forge for New Year’s, you can see fireworks at the Island for New Year’s Eve!

Eating at The Island

The Island was designed to look like a small village with cozy streets lined with cute little shops where you can buy toys or clothes, take one of those Old Time Photos in sepia with your family, and The Fudgery (get the chocolate fudge). It’s fun to stroll around and check out all these places. Take a break and relax in one of the many inviting chairs surrounding the small lake where the dancing fountains spray the water in coordination with the outdoor music.

When you’re hungry, the on-site restaurants include a Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen, Mellow Mushroom, Yee-Haw Brewing Company, and Timberwood Grill. You can grab an authentic, and quite delicious, margarita at the Changes in Latitude bar at the Margaritaville hotel, as well as enjoy a quick bite (get the pretzels with cheese dip…mmmm).

Shopping on The Island: 80+ Fun Shops to Explore

We had so much fun exploring the shops at The Island in Pigeon Forge! With over 80 stores, there’s a little something for everyone, from unique souvenirs and home decor to silly toys and sweet treats. We wandered in “just to look” and end up laughing at quirky finds and even bought some vintage candy that Grandma remembered from her childhood.

One of our favorite stops was Pepper Palace, where they offer free hot sauce samples (yes, really!). Our teenager tried every single sauce they offered — even the really spicy ones — until we hit the level where they required a waiver. That was our cue to tap out!

You can browse the full list of shops and plan your must-visits here: Shopping at The Island

Shops at the Island at Pigeon Forge, TN
Shopping at The Island at Pigeon Forge

Lodging at The Island

The Island at Pigeon Forge is central to pretty much all of the attractions in town. It’s 10 minutes from the Smoky Mountain Opry and Titanic Museum and 15 minutes from Dollywood. You can walk across the street to a couple different pancake houses and other attractions if you like.

Choosing to stay on the Island is a great decision for all of these reasons! The Margaritaville Island Hotel is incredible and guests can enjoy the rooftop pool and hot tub all year long. There’s also the Margaritaville Island Inn on the Island, which is under the same brand but is a little less expensive and includes a continental breakfast.

Parking at The Island

Parking at the Island is free, just take a right past the Margaritaville Island Hotel and over the bridge, where there is a huge lot. Park for free there and take a trolley into the main part of the Island if you don’t want to walk.

Pro Tips

Don’t forget to grab the coupon books around town or check online since many of them have coupons to attractions and restaurants on the Island. The Island’s website offers many coupons as well.

You can plan to spend a few hours or a couple of days here, especially if you stay at one of the properties on the Island.

If you visit The Island during Winterfest in Pigeon Forge, the Wonders of Lights Walking Trail starts at the Island and is free to walk through.

The Island at Pigeon Forge Website
131 Island Drive, Pigeon Forge, TN
865-286-0119
The Island Facebook Page

Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg Family Guide

Are you looking for more fun things to do in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee? Check out our Kidding Around Guide to Pigeon Forge!

Are you looking for affordable places to take your kids to dinner? Check out our 10+ Places Kids Eat Free in Pigeon Forge guide.

kids eat free pigeon forge tn

Have an Epic Snow Tubing Adventure in Sapphire Valley: Frozen Falls Tube Park

Posted on by Kristina Hernandez | 2 Comments

If you’re looking for a family-friendly place to go snow tubing, Frozen Falls Tube Park at Sapphire Valley is the perfect option. Kidding Around contributor Kristina took her kids and had quite the adventure, which she is sharing with our readers.

Frozen Falls Tube Park

Having already gone snow tubing once with my kids, they were more than thrilled to learn we were going to do it again, this time at a place where our family has vacationed twice – but only in the summer. Experiencing the Sapphire Valley in Cashiers, North Carolina has a whole other feel in winter and just as fun!

Best snow tubing, skiing, and tubing near Greenville, South Carolina

Find out all the coolest places to snow tube in North Carolina (or ski and snowboard).

Sapphire Valley Resort

The ski lodge and mountain are on the Sapphire Valley Resort in Cashiers, NC, less than two hours from Greenville. They have skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing all winter as long as the weather cooperates. The best place to stay updated on current conditions is through the Ski Sapphire Valley website and Ski Sapphire Valley Facebook pages.

If you stay at the resort, which we have done twice through VRBO and AirBnB, you can purchase an amenity card at the community center, which will give you access to the indoor pool and sauna (and outdoor pool during warmer months), mini-golf course, arcade, and fitness center. This is located right across from the ski lodge. The amenity card is just a few dollars per person. 

Snow Tubing: Frozen Falls Tube Park

Snow tubing at Sapphire Valley happens at Frozen Falls Tube Park, right behind the community center and next to the bunny slope. Snow tubing tickets are sold at the community center and are $35/person or if you have an amenity card, it is $26/person. You can’t buy them in advance so you need to show up, sign a waiver, and purchase your ticket. You can purchase your weekend ticket in person starting at 9 am on Fridays. They do take group reservations of more than 10 people and those must be made a week ahead of time.

On busy days, they do sell out so plan accordingly (keep reading for backup plans). Each tubing session lasts for 1.75 hours and start every two hours beginning usually at 10 am, although that can change. Check the schedule before you go.

Sapphire Valley, Frozen Falls Tube Park

There are no height restrictions so kids can definitely do snow tubing but they will be in their own tube. My kids (ages 9 and 5) had a blast. There is nothing quite like flying down a mountain on a giant tube! It’s exhilarating and a bit scary at first. The run is about 500 feet with a drop of 60 feet. To get up the mountain, you have to stand on an escalator-type contraption, like the kind you use at the airport that is totally flat and moves. There are staff that help to get you and your tube on it. 

If you tube during the day when it’s sunny, the run will be slower than if you snow tube when the sun goes down. The 4 pm and 6 pm runs are a lot faster than the midday ones. We went snow tubing in the later afternoon and evening and were able to go down together with me holding the handles of the tubes that my kids were in.

But once the sun went down, you had to go solo because the lanes were a lot faster. My kids were initially hesitant but they were brave and went down alone – and then wanted to do it all over again. 

Snow Tubing Tips

These are the most important things you need to know about snow tubing at Sapphire Valley:

  • Tickets are $35/person unless you have an amenity card, and then it’s $26 
  • Tickets can be purchased at the community center (across from the horse statue)
  • Tickets are not sold in advance so get there early to get your preferred time
  • Weekend tickets are sold beginning on Fridays at 9 am in person at the community center
  • You must sign a waiver before purchasing tickets, which you can print out and do beforehand to save time
  • Dress for cold weather and bring extra socks (in case shoes get too wet or muddy and seep through)
  • No age or height restrictions and parents are responsible for their kids
  • Every tuber will have their own tube
  • Tubing sessions are for 1.75 hours
  • Group rates are available and reservations must be made a week ahead of time
  • Always, always check the weather and website/Facebook page before you go since the resort is very dependent upon weather conditions

“Land of the Waterfalls”

The resort sits right in the middle of the “Land of the Waterfalls” so besides enjoying snow tubing, families can pair a trip with lots of hiking and waterfall chasing. There are roadside waterfalls like Bridal Veil Falls and Dry Falls plus gorgeous hikes with stunning waterfalls like High Falls in Glenville and Schoolhouse Falls in the Panthertown Valley.

High Falls
High Falls in Glenville, NC

There are tons of great options to make your trip to Cashiers especially memorable. This will come in handy if you need to kill some time before your snow tubing slot if your preferred time is sold out. Both Bridal Veil Falls and Dry Falls are within a 30-minute drive to the resort and Silver Run Falls is nearby as well and is just a short hike to get to it. Whitewater Falls is also about 30 minutes away and is quite the sight given that it’s the tallest waterfall east of the Rockies! There are several nearby waterfalls to the resort in our NC Waterfalls Tour story. 

This story on the Sapphire Valley  I wrote also has lots of detailed information on hikes in the area plus other relevant links you may find helpful.

One natural phenomenon in the area that only occurs twice a year is the Shadow of the Bear. It happens in the fall and also from mid-February to early March and is really cool. A shadow that looks like a bear pops out from behind Whiteside Mountain in Cashiers at 5:30 pm on sunny days. 

Where to Stay near Sapphire Valley

This section contains STAY22 affiliate links. Kidding Around earns when you book through these links.

If you want to stay at the resort and make use of the great amenities, search around on VRBO for options, like this cabin in Sapphire Valley Resort.

We stayed at the Hampton Inn & Suites directly across the street from the resort. This hotel was awesome for several reasons: 

  • It has an indoor pool and hot tub, which we made use of when our initial tubing time was unavailable 
  • It has a free, hot breakfast in the morning included which has everything from waffles to eggs to smoothies to oatmeal and bagels
  • The location is just perfect as it took us no time to get to the resort
  • It is super clean and the staff are friendly and helpful
  • It has free coffee, tea, and hot chocolate all day long
  • Great option for budget-conscious families (we saw so many families there!)

The wintertime is this area’s slower season so prices are probably as cheap as they will be all year. This season is often called the “Secret Season” because of the lower cost of trips there. 

Where to Eat near Sapphire Valley and Cashiers

Every time I’m up in the Cashiers, we eat at Slabtown Pizza, about ten minutes from the resort. It’s delicious food with fast, friendly service. Even on a busy night, we had our food in about 20 minutes, which was important because the kids were super tired. For a large pizza and Greek Salad, it was around $26. You can also order food and pick it up. 

Another option is Whiteside Brewing Co., centrally located in Cashiers, which serves up typical American cuisine like burgers and sandwiches, plus craft brews. Their pretzels are worth the trip alone. They are amazing.

On our way to a hike, I grabbed a coffee from Buck’s Coffee Cafe, which was delicious. They also have bagels, paninis, and pastries. The decor is so cool, too, like a lodge with comfy chairs and couches and photos of various animals in the wild. Next time I plan to try Zookeepers Bistro, also in Cashiers, for an early lunch.

If you stay in a VRBO and want to cook your own meals, there is an Ingles in Cashiers on Hwy. 64 to pick up groceries locally. 

Special Events + Skiing

We got pretty lucky during our snow tubing trip to see the famed Outhouse Races at the resort. It’s happening this year on February 7th, 2026.

You may be asking yourself if that is what it sounds like – you’d be right. Teams make their own outhouse and then race down the mountain on skis. It’s every bit as hilarious as it sounds. Outhouse teams were creatively named: “The Sounds of Movement” after the Sound of Music, “Storm Pooper” after Star Wars movies, and a church-themed one sponsored by the Knights of Columbus called “Fly By Confession.” 

Outhouse races in Sapphire Valley

The crowd really gets into the races, too. They cheer for their favorite outhouse and a collective gasp happens when the outhouses inevitably crash into the snowbanks. The event happens every February and concessions, kettle corn, and hot chocolate are sold. The public can watch for free. 

The resort also offers skiing and snowboarding, neither of which we tried not because they didn’t look fun (they did) but because I’m a scaredy cat when it comes to flying down a mountain on skis! They have a big mountain as well as a bunny slope and offer gear rental packages with a lift ticket. Or you can purchase just a lift ticket if you have your own gear. The lift and rental rates are online. They are on the lower end of ski resorts in the area.

The resort is usually open until March 1, but that could change depending on weather conditions.

Ski at Sapphire Valley in North Carolina

Sapphire Valley Resort
127 Cherokee Trail, Sapphire Valley, NC
828.743.7663

Have you been to the Sapphire Valley Ski resort?


Winterfest Wonders of Light Walking Trail in Pigeon Forge, TN Lights Up Winterfest

Posted on by Kristina Hernandez |

The new Winterfest Wonders of Light Walking Trail in Pigeon Forge, TN, less than three hours from Greenville, SC, is part of the three-month-long Winterfest that happens every year in East Tennessee.

For those not familiar with Winterfest in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, it is a months-long festival in the area that has more than six million lights to delight visitors. The festival starts in November and runs through February and encompasses not only free holiday lights around town but also holiday-themed shows, attractions, and other entertainment for the whole family.

The newest installment of Winterfest is the Winterfest Wonders of Light Walking Trail, a free walk-through light display that has several access points along the river in Pigeon Forge. I visited towards the tail end of Winterfest in late January and it was perfection because the Christmas crowds had come and gone and the town was in one of its rare down times. It was awesome. And it’s back for the 2025-26 season!

Winterfest runs from November 6, 2025 – February 15, 2026.

Riverwalk at Winterfest in Pigeon Forge

The Winterfest Wonders of Light Walking Trail

The trail runs from Pigeon Forge Municipal Parking Lot, which is at 2936 Teaster Lane between the LeConte Center and The Island in Pigeon Forge along the Riverwalk Greenway to Patriot Park, which is about a mile-and-a-half one way. There are more than 40 light displays along the paved path, including light tunnels (my favorite). It’s really neat and such a lovely display of lights.

We parked at the Island of Pigeon Forge to start at the beginning and before long, my kids and I were surrounded by blue and white sparkling lights that made a tunnel. Then we saw a huge display that looked like a fountain of lights with snowmen, stars, and snow mounds followed by blue and white stars hung high along the path and then a giant 52-foot long caterpillar – it was quite sparkly.

There are butterflies, shooting stars, deer, bears, squirrels, and all kinds of imaginative and fun characters along the way. My kids, ages 12 and 8, and I really enjoyed it.

Accessing the Walking Trail

So there are several access points along the route if you only want to do a part of it. A handy map can be found here that is very helpful.

Winterfest Riverwalk Pigeon Forge Caterpillar

Access points include where we started at the Island at Pigeon Forge, the LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge, Patriot Park, the city’s Municipal Parking Lot, and the Old Mill. The entire path is paved so it is handicap and stroller-accessible. It’s also pet-friendly as long as pets are kept on a leash.

Visiting the Winterfest Wonders of Light Walking Trail

There is no charge to visit the Winterfest Wonders of Light Walking Trail in Pigeon Forge, which is awesome. Thank you to the City of Pigeon Forge!

You can walk the trail from November 6, 2025 – February 17, 2026.

After you walk the trail, you can visit the Island at Pigeon Forge, where you can ride the Great Smoky Mountain Sky Wheel, fly over the country at SkyFly America, enjoy shopping and dining, and watch the water light show. There are free trolleys available from the parking lot to the Island.

Island at Pigeon Forge at Night

For other things to do during Winterfest, we have a big story on it. Just note that once Christmas is over, most of the shows take a short break through January. There are plenty of other things to do in the Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg area. For places to stay, see our reviews on several awesome spots in the area for families.

Find More to Do in Pigeon Forge, TN

Relaxation and Family Fun Combine at Camp Margaritaville Pigeon Forge (2026 Family Getaway)

Amenities and Family Fun Abound at the Inn on the River in Pigeon Forge, TN

Soar to New Heights at The Island in Pigeon Forge, TN

Winterfest Wonders of Light Walking Trail in Pigeon Forge, TN Lights Up Winterfest

Winterfest is a Must-Do for Families: Pigeon Forge, TN

41+ Things to Do in Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg, TN: Our Ultimate Travel Guide

Speed, Views, and Family Rivalries Await on the Pigeon Forge Racing Coaster

Can You Escape Nana’s Cabin in Pigeon Forge? We Did!

Relaxation, Fun, and Family Time are Highlights of Compass by Margaritaville in Pigeon Forge, TN

Go Old School and Play All Day: Asheville Retrocade

Posted on by Kristina Hernandez |

In Asheville, NC you’ll find the Asheville Retrocade, a fantastic place to spend a few hours during rainy, cold, or hot weather. You can play all day for one price, and it’s great for the whole family.

Need someplace in Asheville, NC to spend a few hours indoors during a rainy, cold, or hot day? We’ve got just the place: Asheville Retrocade, an old-school arcade that features two floors of games and is family-friendly.

Asheville Retrocade
Asheville Retrocade

Playing at Asheville Retrocade

I am always looking for fun, indoor things to do when the weather isn’t cooperating and found just the spot at Asheville Retrocade. For this trip, I was visiting with a friend and her young daughter staying in the area. Thanks to Google, we found this indoor mecca of Pac-Man and race car driving.

At Asheville Retrocade, you pay a flat fee of $10/person (kids under 5 are free). That gives you access to two floors of pinball, Pac-Man, dance-off games, race car games, air hockey, Skee-Ball, and tons more games. You don’t need any quarters here.

Asheville Retrocade pinball machines
Pinball at Asheville Retrocade

They claim to have more than 5,000 games at the arcade. They do have a lot, but I’m not sure it equals 5,000. That said, I totally lost track of time and spent about two-and-a-half hours at the arcade. It was such a fun way to spend time with my kids and my friend.

Play All Day with Retro Games

When you get to Asheville Retrocade, you pay $10/person and get a wristband that allows you to come and go all day. The arcade is truly like taking a step back in time. I didn’t play a lot of video games as a kid, but the ones I did play, like Pac-Man, are ingrained in my childhood. I love them. It was a lot of fun to play those nostalgic games.

We went during Christmas Break, and there was actually a line to get in. I was nervous that we wouldn’t be able to play many games because of too many people. But I shouldn’t have been worried. We only ever had to wait maybe five minutes for a game and there were always spots open at other games that we could play.

The kids we had with us were ages 3, 9, and 12, and all of us had a blast. The place is truly family-friendly and welcoming. There were a lot of families when we went, and it was so much fun to enjoy that time together and see other families doing the same.

Asheville Retrocade racing games
Asheville Retrocade

Food and Drinks at Asheville Retrocade

The arcade has several options for drinks, including local craft beer, wine, and fountain drinks. They also have free water available.

There is snack food available for purchase.

Things to Know When Visiting Asheville Retrocade

Here are a few tips for when you visit:

  • There is free street parking, which is awesome.
  • After 9 PM, guests need to be ages 21+
  • If a game you want to play is occupied, just be patient and wait or play something else. It will open up soon!
  • There are bathrooms and hand sanitizer available, but still wash your hands during and after your visit.
  • Expect heavier crowds during school breaks, holidays, and rainy days.
  • You can book a private party at the arcade.

Heading to the Asheville Retrocade

The arcade is open daily from noon-2 AM. After 9 PM, patrons need to be 21+. You can purchase your wristband when you get there.

Need more ideas for Asheville fun? Visit our Asheville Guide for ideas on how to enjoy the city with your family.

Asheville Retrocade
800 Haywood Road, West Asheville, NC
828-575-9488
Asheville Retrocade Facebook | Asheville Retrocade Website

The Ultimate Guide to Day Trips Near Upstate, SC

Posted on by Clare Berlinski |

Are you looking for day trips near Upstate SC? You have found our official Kidding Around Day Trip Headquarters! We have compiled our ever-expanding list of day trip offerings into one page, where you can easily find your desired trip, fuel your wanderlust, and still have the kiddos back by bedtime! Happy adventuring!

Kidding Around day trip guide

What kind of Day Trip are you Looking for?

Quick, Nearby, Inexpensive Towns
Columbia Area Things to Do
Charleston Area Things to Do
Western North Carolina Trip Ideas
Charlotte Area Things to Do
Georgia Area Things to Do
Tennessee Area Trip Ideas
Educational Day Trips
Day Trips by Season
Holiday Day Trips

Greenville, SC KABOOM Awards

Best Day Trips: Who Has KABOOM?

The KABOOM Awards are Kidding Around’s annual best of contest. Readers say these are the TOP Day Trips in Greenville, SC

(more…)

The Greatest of the Great Wolf Lodges? We Might Have Found It in LaGrange, GA!

Posted on by Sarah Burnett |

If you’ve never been to a Great Wolf Lodge, this massive family resort blends themed accommodations, onsite dining, holiday programming, and a gigantic indoor water park—along with many more indoor attractions. And if you have been to one, we think this might be the best one yet! Add to that the Hallmark charm of the surrounding city of LaGrange, and you’re looking at the perfect family getaway.

Thanks to Great Wolf Lodge for hosting us so we could share this experience with our readers. For reader convenience, pricing details are included in this article, but please note that all pricing is subject to change and should be verified with Great Wolf Lodge in LaGrange, GA before finalizing your trip.

Quick Look at Great Wolf Lodge in LaGrange, GA
📍 150 Tom Hall Parkway, LaGrange, Georgia 30240
🏨 Standard, themed, and premium suites available
💲 Basic rooms start around $250, with themed and premium suites priced higher
🚗 Extra $15/day per vehicle in the parking lot
💦 Indoor water park access included with stay
🎄 Seasonal programming, like Snowland, is included with stay
🎉 Free daily activities such as crafts, shows, and character events
🐾 Pup, Paw, and Wolf Passes available for add-on attractions
🍔 Variety of in-resort dining options
🎁 Free wolf ears for every guest
🗺️ Tons of charm + added adventure in LaGrange

Great Wolf Lodge in LaGrange, GA

Meet Great Wolf Lodge: An Epic Stay with Immersive Family Fun

Great Wolf Lodge is the largest chain of indoor water parks in North America, with more than 20 locations across the United States and Canada. Each one features family-oriented accommodations with a rustic woodland theme, and additional attractions and dining options to engage overnight guests and daytime visitors.

Great Wolf Lodge in LaGrange, GA is one of the newer locations, opening in 2018. When we told our readers about our visit, a few responded that this Great Wolf Lodge is their favorite—and it was easy to see why! The decorations were incredible, all the guest spaces were clean, and the staff were patient and polite. There are so many things to do, and we could have enjoyed our whole weekend without ever leaving the hotel.

With that said, we did make some excursions into the city and found that LaGrange was like something out of a Hallmark movie! If you’ve never visited this area, plan to stay several days to enjoy the best of both the city and the resort, especially during the holidays.

Great Wolf Lodge is extremely popular and has a busy feel to it, so for a truly relaxing trip, plan ahead as much as you can in advance. We recommend booking your suite, purchasing passes around the attractions you want to enjoy, and deciding in advance what you want to explore in the surrounding city during on your visit.

We’ve pulled together details on everything you need to plan your perfect itinerary. Take a look, and we hope you have a wonderful vacation!

Arrival Details
Selecting a Suite
Passes for Attractions
Attraction Details
Indoor Water Park
Snowland Celebration
Dining at the Lodge
Exploring LaGrange

Plan Your Perfect Arrival

We want your visit to Great Wolf Lodge to be zero stress, so we’re going to start by walking you through the arrival process. We checked in at night and waited about an hour, due to limited staffing overnight. If you can check in during the day, you’ll find the counter fully staffed, but more people coming and going. It’s wise to be prepared for a wait either way.

When you arrive, pay close attention to parking signs and follow the road to the main circle right outside the lobby. If you’re traveling with multiple adults, I recommend having one adult bring the kids inside and get in line to check in while the other parks the car and brings in the bags.

The lobby is huge, and there’s plenty of space for kids to move around under your supervision while you wait. A gift shop is directly opposite from the check-in counter, and restrooms are nearby, as well.

You can briefly pull up to the entrance to unload everyone, but vehicles cannot be parked unattended in the circle. To park, you’ll pull a parking ticket from bar gate on the far side of the circle. Parking costs about $15 per vehicle per day, and you will receive more information on this when you check in.

Keep a sharp eye out for children and other vehicles as you navigate the parking lot.

Pick a Cozy Cabin Suite for Booking

Great Wolf Lodge offers standard, themed, and premium suites. All of these are designed with families in mind, and both standard and themed suites generally accommodate 4-6 guests. If you can spare the expense, themed suites really bring an added feel of magic to your trip.

We stayed in a themed KidCabin Suite and loved it. We were able to stay in the same room as our kids, while a dividing wall gave the sense that we each had our own space. Our children loved the bunk beds under murals of woodland creatures, and our bed sat beneath a large mural of the forest. We each had our own TV with cable, too, which let us wind down with a family movie at night.

Great Wolf Lodge in LaGrange, GA

Premium suites incorporate the same fun feel as themed rooms, but offer significantly more space for groups with 6 to 12 guests. These are great options for larger families or multiple families traveling together.

Pricing is variable, but generally speaking, we found standard suites starting at about $250/night and rates went up from there. For the greatest affordability, watch the website or join the Voyagers Club, a free loyalty program, to find out about seasonal deals and packages.

Purchase Passes for Add-On Attractions

All overnight visits to Great Wolf Lodge include access to the indoor water park, seasonal programming like Snowland, and free daily activities for children. However, if you stop there, you will be missing so much that this resort has to offer. There are many add-on GWL attractions, including a ropes course, climbing wall, gem mining, mini-golf, bowling, arcade, MagiQuest, and Build-A-Bear.

Look into Great Wold Lodge deals and packages when booking your stay to find the most affordable combos, or take the simple route and plan to add one of three available passes for each family member to join in the fun!

Option 1: Pup Pass

The Pup Pass costs about $50 and is best for toddlers and little kids. It includes…

  • One Build-A-Bear
  • $5 for the arcade
  • One small candy cup
  • One kid-sized ice cream

Option 2: Paw Pass

The Paw Pass costs about $60 and is best for kids and teens. It includes…

  • One set of swim goggles
  • One MagiQuest game + wand
  • $5 for the arcade
  • One small candy cup
  • One kid-sized ice cream

Option 3: Wolf Pass

The Wolf Pass costs about $70 and is best for older kids, teens, and adults. It includes…

  • One game of mini-golf
  • One game of bowling
  • One round on the ropes course
  • Double admission to the climbing wall
  • One MagiQuest game + wand
  • $5 for the arcade
  • One small candy cup
  • One kid-sized ice cream

Keep in mind that some of these attractions do have height or clothing restrictions, like closed-toed shoes, so be sure to check on any requirements before purchasing passes.

What to Expect for Each Attraction

With so many attractions, you might be wonder what’s worth the investment. With only a quick weekend in LaGrange, we were unable to experience them all, but we’ve done some research and found out as much as we can to help you out!

Add-On Attractions at Great Wolf Lodge in LaGrange

Great Wolf Lodge in LaGrange, GA

Northern Lights Arcade

We had the chance to visit the Northern Lights Arcade, which we found to be great for all ages. They had a decent range of games, including a crane machine, racing games, and the Jurassic Park shooter game.

The arcade makes for an easy break between other activities, and we spent about a half hour in this area just using the credits that were on our passes. If you have any sensory-sensitive children, just be mindful of the flashing lights and loud noises that are typical for these kinds of spaces.

Included in the Pup, Paw, and Wolf Passes. If you do not purchase a pass, pricing varies by game. Credits are purchased and loaded onto a card, and then different games charge different credits. This will vary based on the games you choose, but we found that the $5 on our passes covered about 3 games each.

MagiQuest

MagiQuest was our children’s favorite activity other than the indoor water park, and from what we hear, it is one of the most popular attractions anywhere it’s offered. Participants receive a magic wand, and the wand operates as their game controller at stations dispersed throughout the whole resort. Everywhere you look in Great Wolf Lodge, you will find kids waving their wands and finding that decorations light up and talk in response to their gestures.

Our children could have easily spent the entire weekend playing MagiQuest if we’d let them. They spent the better part of a day playing it every chance they could, and still did not even complete a quarter of the full game experience available. This is the kind of game that you play as the opportunity arises, and you bring your wands back on every future visit to get farther in your quest.

Included in the Paw and Wolf Passes. If you do not purchase a pass, this attraction starts at about $20 per wand plus about $15 for a game for each participant.

Ten Paw Alley

If you have ever wanted to try bowling with your kids, Ten Paw Alley is a great way to introduce them to the experience. It is designed for all ages to enjoy, even toddlers, with shorter lanes and lighter bowling balls that make it easier than your typical bowling alley. Bumpers are also available upon request.

Included in the Wolf Pass only. If you do not purchase a pass, this attraction starts at about $7 for one round of bowling or $25 for family admission (one round per person for up to 6 people).

Howl in One Mini-Golf

Putt-putt is the perfect addition to any family vacation, and the folks at Great Wolf Lodge didn’t forget it! More elaborate than your typical putt-putt course, the themed 9-hole miniature golf course at Howl in One Mini-Golf gives your kids the chance to play through giant animal figures, sand traps, and other fun obstacles. It fits well within the greater Great Wolf Lodge woodland theme and is a fun way to enjoy the immersive experience of the hotel.

Included in the Wolf Pass only. If you do not purchase a pass, this attraction starts at about $10 per round or $25 for family admission (one round per person for up to 6 people).

Rustic Ridge Climbing Wall

The Rustic Ridge Climbing Wall gives kids and adults the chance to burn off energy in a more physical environment. Harnessed climbers can choose from multiple routes with varying difficulty, making it accessible for beginners while still fun for older kids and more experienced climbers. Staff members provide harnesses and supervision for safety, which makes it a great place for families to climb together.

Included in the Wolf Pass only. If you do not purchase a pass, this attraction starts at about $10 for single admission or $25 for family admission. Minimum height and maximum weight restrictions apply, and closed-toed shoes with rubber soles are required.

Great Wolf Lodge in LaGrange, GA

Howlers Peak Ropes Course

Howlers Peak Ropes Course challenges kids to navigate bridges, obstacles, and balance elements while securely harnessed. This attraction is best suited for older children and teens who are comfortable with heights and enjoy a physical challenge. This ropes course reaches to the upper floors of the resort with a straight view down to the ground, so it is best for confident family members who are up for a challenge.

Included in the Wolf Pass only. If you do not purchase a pass, this attraction starts at about $15 per climb or $45 for family admission (one climb per person for up to 6 people). Minimum height and maximum weight restrictions apply, and closed-toed shoes with rubber soles are required.

Build-A-Bear Workshop

Build-A-Bear is a nationwide chain offering a creative, hands-on experience where kids can personalize and assemble their own stuffed animal. This quieter, slower-paced activity is great for younger family members and those who might need a break from the more intense sensory experiences in some of the other attractions. It’s an especially fun way to get souvenir sets for siblings, as each child gets to design their own stuffed animal alongside each other.

Included in the Pup Pass only. If you do not purchase a pass, this attraction starts at about $35 for a furry friend, $10 for an outfit, plus more for additional accessories.

Oliver’s Mining Co.

Oliver’s Mining Co. is a gemstone mining experience where kids purchase a bag of dirt and sift it in water to discover polished stones and fossils. It’s simple, engaging, and works well for a wide range of ages, especially kids who enjoy hands-on discovery activities. If you’ve got a kid who’s a collector—you know who we mean, the kids who are determined to pocket a rock on every outing and put it on their bookshelf—then don’t let them miss out on this classic attraction!

Not included with any passes. This attraction starts at about $15 for a single bag and about $35 for a family bag.

Levels of Fun at the Indoor Water Park

The indoor water park is the core of the Great Wolf Lodge experience, and access is included with every overnight stay. Day passes are also available for purchase if you are not staying at the resort, but these must be booked in advance and are not available for same-day use.

We spent several hours at the indoor water park, and it was a huge hit for all our kids. The space includes a variety of themed areas for different ages and kinds of play. My favorite was the large, multi-level set of playgrounds called Fort Mackenzie and Whooping Hollow at the center of the water park.

My youngest loved the Cub Paw Pool, a wading area with small slides for smaller family members. My oldest adored the water slides, and there were many! You’ll also find a wave pool, obstacle course, and a semi-lazy river.

Great Wolf Lodge in LaGrange, GA
Great Wolf Lodge in LaGrange, GA

Safety is critical for kids around the water, so here are a few things we recommend doing first, as soon as you walk into the water park:

  • Find the nearest life jacket station, and buckle your kids into appropriately sized life jackets.
  • Visit the measuring station at the foot of the biggest slides, where your kids will receive color-coded bracelets based on their heights to clearly indicate what they can (and cannot) ride.
  • Find the age-appropriate play areas for each of your children, and plan to supervise children at all times. Children should not be left to play unattended in any part of the water park.

We were also very happy to see vigilant lifeguards on duty throughout the park.

Great Wolf Lodge in LaGrange, GA

If you’d like to enjoy an extended session at the water park, consider booking one of Great Wolf Lodge’s cozy cabanas. There are many available options, with most overlooking the wave pool, a couple more towards the middle of the water park, and a special birthday cabana conveniently located between the Cub Paw Pool and giant slides.

Great Wolf Lodge in LaGrange, GA

We got to check out the birthday cabana and loved the comfort, convenience, and privacy it offered. On top of that, our kids loved the Happy Birthday button, which they could push to shoot smoke out of the top of the cabana and play birthday music inside!

Wherever you set up, we recommend laying out towels and then putting important belongings in one of the available lockers to rent. It’s helpful to arrive when the water park opens to secure your spot, grab some towels, and enjoy the space before it gets too crowded for the day.

Great Wolf Lodge in LaGrange, GA

Seasonal Fun at Snowland

All the attractions at Great Wolf Lodge in LaGrange are available year-round, but we were so excited to visit during their annual Snowland Celebration! This unique seasonal offering transforms the entire lodge into a winter wonderland with a host of holiday activities from about Thanksgiving to New Years.

Great Wolf Lodge in LaGrange, GA
Great Wolf Lodge in LaGrange, GA

On our visit, we found a Christmas dance party underway with “snow” bubbles falling from the ceiling and holiday music blasting through the speakers. Santa paid special visits to his throne in the lobby, and we passed families playing holiday-themed Bingo and making holiday crafts. All of us especially enjoyed the free hot chocolate bar after exploring the surrounding town in cold weather.

When you check in, you can request a schedule of holiday events for your stay, or you can find events posted daily on signs in the lobby.

Dining Options in the Lodge

You don’t need to leave the resort for meals, and there are plenty of options to suit every appetite.

During our stay, we shared a pizza from Hungry As a Wolf, which serves family-sized meals including pizza, pasta, and salad. We also grabbed food to go from Buckets Burgers & Bites, which offers classic burgers, chicken tenders, and fries. My husband couldn’t resist Timbers Tacos, with flavorful tacos, quesadillas, and nachos.

Great Wolf Lodge in LaGrange, GA
Great Wolf Lodge in LaGrange, GA

Other on-location choices include Campfire Kitchen for breakfast, Barnwood for upscale dining, Freshwoods Market for grab-and-go meals and snacks, Wood’s End Creamery for ice cream, and Great Wolf Candy Company for a wide assortment of chocolates and more. There’s even a Dunkin’ Donuts for coffee, pastries, and quick breakfast items.

Just be aware that food pricing inside the resort is very convenient, but very expensive. For more budget-friendly options, consider packing some easy snacks and sandwiches, or venture into LaGrange to check out the local dining scene. We highly recommend Milano’s for an authentic Italian dinner while you’re in town!

Exploring LaGrange

Even with all the fun to be had at Great Wolf Lodge, it is truly just the tip of the iceberg for family fun in LaGrange. This charming city combines small-town warmth with historic elegance, and during the holidays, it feels like something out of a Hallmark movie.

Sweetland on Ice at Sweetland Amphitheatre in LaGrange, GA

Downtown LaGrange is perfect for wandering, with unique shops, cozy bookstores, and toy-filled boutiques. You’ll even find a romantic fountain and a statue of General Lafayette, giving the city a storybook feel that’s perfect for families.

You can enjoy seasonal ice skating at Sweetland on Ice, explore the beautiful Hills & Dales Estate, or get up close with animals at the nearby Wild Animal Safari. The greater LaGrange area is packed with opportunities to find adventure and make memories as a family, not to mention some great photo ops!

Hills & Dales Estate in LaGrange, GA
Sweetland on Ice at Sweetland Amphitheatre in LaGrange, GA

With Great Wolf Lodge as your home base, you can explore, play, and make memories in LaGrange, Georgia that will last long after the holiday lights have come down.

A Howling Good Time Awaits!

Between the themed suites, holiday programming, indoor water park, and countless activities, Great Wolf Lodge is a destination all its own. You could easily spend your entire trip without ever leaving the resort—but when you’re ready to explore more of LaGrange, there’s so much to discover. Whether you spend every moment at the lodge or venture into the charming city of LaGrange, your family is in for an unforgettable getaway.

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