What’s Included in a Great Wolf Lodge Stay?
A Great Wolf Lodge stay offers a comprehensive family vacation package centered around its massive indoor water park, but it also extends to a variety of other activities, entertainment, and dining options, often bundled together in a single inclusive price.
Introduction to the Great Wolf Lodge Experience
Great Wolf Lodge has become synonymous with indoor water park resorts, offering families a convenient and exciting getaway regardless of the weather. But beyond the slides and splash pads, a well-planned Great Wolf Lodge stay includes access to a wide array of amenities and experiences designed to cater to all ages. Understanding exactly what’s included will allow you to maximize your vacation budget and ensure a memorable trip.
The Cornerstone: The Indoor Water Park
The centerpiece of every Great Wolf Lodge is, undoubtedly, its massive indoor water park. Heated to a comfortable 84 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, it provides an escape from the elements and a guaranteed source of entertainment for everyone.
- Water Slides: From thrilling tube slides to winding body slides, there’s something for every level of adventurer.
- Lazy Rivers: Relax and float along a gentle current.
- Wave Pools: Experience the excitement of ocean waves in a controlled environment.
- Kids’ Areas: Specially designed zones with smaller slides, spray features, and shallow pools for younger children.
- Splash Pads: Interactive water playgrounds with tipping buckets, geysers, and sprinklers.
Access to the water park is typically included for registered guests from check-in time on the day of arrival until closing time on the day of departure. This extends the fun and gives you more time to enjoy the attractions.
Beyond the Water: Dry-Land Adventures
While the water park is the main draw, Great Wolf Lodge offers a diverse range of dry-land activities to keep the family entertained. These activities often come at an additional cost, but some packages may include them.
- MagiQuest: An interactive live-action adventure game where players use wands to complete quests throughout the lodge. This is a very popular, but not included, add-on.
- Northern Lights Arcade: A vast arcade filled with classic and modern games.
- Ten Paw Alley: A miniature bowling alley designed for younger children.
- Howlin’ Timbers Play Park: An indoor ropes course and climbing structure (available at select lodges).
- Character Appearances: Meet and greet Great Wolf Lodge characters like Wiley the Wolf and Violet the Wolf.
- Story Time: Evening story time sessions for younger children.
- Arts and Crafts: Various craft activities offered throughout the day.
Dining Options: Fueling the Fun
Great Wolf Lodge offers a variety of dining options to suit different tastes and budgets. From quick snacks to sit-down meals, you’ll find something to satisfy your appetite.
- Restaurants: Buffet-style and à la carte restaurants offering a wide selection of dishes.
- Snack Bars: Quick-service options for burgers, fries, pizza, and other casual fare.
- Sweet Shops: Ice cream parlors and candy stores for satisfying sweet cravings.
- Bars and Lounges: Relax and unwind with a cocktail or a beer.
Dining is typically not included in the base price of your stay, but various dining packages can be added to your reservation to save money on meals.
Accommodation: Comfortable and Convenient
Great Wolf Lodge offers a range of suite options to accommodate families of all sizes. Suites typically include:
- Spacious Bedrooms: Separate sleeping areas for parents and children.
- Living Areas: Comfortable seating areas for relaxing and socializing.
- Bathrooms: Private bathrooms with showers or bathtubs.
- Kitchenettes (in some suites): Microwaves, refrigerators, and sinks for preparing snacks and drinks.
- Themed Suites: Some suites are themed after popular characters or stories, adding to the overall experience.
The suite is included in the cost, and room location can sometimes be requested, but not always guaranteed.
Making the Most of Your Stay: Planning and Packages
To maximize your Great Wolf Lodge experience, it’s important to plan ahead and consider purchasing a package that includes the activities and amenities that are most important to your family.
- Paw Pass: Includes access to select attractions, such as MagiQuest, arcade credits, and a meal at a restaurant.
- Wolf Pass: Offers even more activities and dining options than the Paw Pass.
- Birthday Packages: Includes a birthday cake, decorations, and other special treats.
- Romance Packages: Includes champagne, chocolates, and other romantic amenities.
Choosing the right package can save you money and ensure that you have access to all the activities and amenities you want to enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the water park really included in the room rate?
Yes, access to the indoor water park is the core offering and is included for all registered guests of the resort. You can typically access the water park starting at 1 PM on the day of check-in, even if your room isn’t ready, and can continue enjoying it until closing time on the day you check out.
Are towels provided at the water park?
Yes, towels are typically provided at the water park for guests to use. However, it’s a good idea to bring your own beach towels from home, especially if you plan to use them outside the water park or want a specific size or type.
What age is appropriate for Great Wolf Lodge?
Great Wolf Lodge caters to a wide range of ages, from toddlers to teenagers. The water park has dedicated areas for younger children, as well as thrilling slides and attractions for older kids and adults. The dry-land activities also offer something for everyone.
Can I bring outside food and drinks into the resort?
Policies vary, but generally, bringing outside food and drinks into the water park area itself is discouraged. However, you’re usually permitted to bring snacks and drinks into your suite for personal consumption. Check the specific lodge’s policy before your visit.
What should I pack for a Great Wolf Lodge stay?
Essentials include swimsuits, comfortable clothes, water shoes or flip-flops, sunscreen, and toiletries. Don’t forget any personal medications or items your children may need. If you’re planning to participate in MagiQuest, you’ll want to bring or purchase a wand.
Are there lifeguards at the water park?
Yes, certified lifeguards are stationed throughout the water park to ensure the safety of guests. They are trained in water rescue and first aid. However, it’s still important to supervise your children closely and follow all posted safety rules.
What is the check-in and check-out process like?
Check-in typically starts at 4 PM, and check-out is usually at 11 AM. However, as mentioned before, water park access is often granted before official check-in and extends beyond check-out time. You can store your luggage at the front desk if your room isn’t ready or you want to continue using the water park after checking out.
Is there Wi-Fi available at Great Wolf Lodge?
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is generally available throughout the resort. However, the speed and reliability of the Wi-Fi may vary depending on the location and the number of users.
Are there accommodations for guests with disabilities?
Great Wolf Lodge strives to be accessible to all guests and offers a range of accessible suites and amenities. Contact the resort directly to discuss your specific needs and ensure that they can be accommodated.
What if I forget something important?
Most Great Wolf Lodge locations have a gift shop that sells a variety of items, including swimsuits, sunscreen, toiletries, and souvenirs. You can also purchase forgotten essentials like phone chargers or over-the-counter medications.
How far in advance should I book my stay?
It’s generally recommended to book your stay well in advance, especially during peak season or holidays. This will give you the best chance of securing the suite you want at the best possible price.
What if I need to cancel or change my reservation?
Cancellation policies vary, so it’s important to review the terms and conditions of your reservation carefully. In most cases, you can cancel or change your reservation without penalty if you do so within a certain timeframe. However, fees may apply for cancellations made closer to the arrival date. Always contact the resort directly to make changes to your reservation.