Travel Adventures

Is Great Wolf Lodge Worth It for Families with Big Kids? A Real Weekend Review

March 29, 2026 by Rachel Leave a Comment

Yes, Great Wolf Lodge is absolutely worth it for families with big kids, especially if you want an easy, fun-filled getaway with great food, nonstop activities, and zero stressful planning. We recently spent a weekend at Great Wolf Lodge with kids ages 7–13. It ended up being one of those rare trips where everyone, from the kids to the adults, was fully entertained the entire time. Between the clean, warm indoor water park, surprisingly good dining options, and constant activities happening throughout the day, it felt like a full vacation without the hassle of flights, long lines, or overplanning. If you’re looking for a family getaway that delivers big on experience while keeping things simple, here’s exactly what it’s like and why it works so well for older kids.

What Makes Great Wolf Lodge So Easy for a Family Weekend Getaway?

One of the biggest reasons families love Great Wolf Lodge is how incredibly easy the entire experience is from start to finish. Compared to theme parks, there’s no over-planning, no complicated logistics, and no stress trying to piece together activities. You simply show up and start having fun.

For us, the drive-to convenience was a game changer. No flights, no packing liquids into tiny travel bottles, no airport chaos. We just load up the car and go. It instantly felt more manageable — especially for a quick weekend trip.

All the Family Fun Is Under One Roof at Great Wolf Lodge.

Once you arrive, everything you need is right under one roof. The water park, dining, activities, and your room are all just a short walk away. There’s no coordinating transportation. There’s no leaving the property for meals, and no worrying about keeping everyone entertained because it’s all built in.

Another huge win? There are no rigid schedule and no line-stress culture like you get at larger theme parks. You’re not glued to an app, booking ride times, or racing across a park to make a reservation window. The kids can ride their favorite slides again and again, take breaks when they want, and jump right back in when they’re ready.

And honestly, one of the most underrated perks is that you get two full days of water park access with just a one-night stay. You can start playing as soon as the water park opens on check-in day and stay until closing on check-out day. For a weekend getaway, that’s a ton of value and it makes the trip feel longer without adding extra nights.

Is the Great Wolf Lodge Indoor Water Park Clean, Safe, and Actually Fun for Big Kids?

The indoor water park is obviously the main attraction. But what really stood out to us was how well it The indoor water park is obviously the main attraction and the good news for parents is that it is safe, clean and packed with fun. As parents, what really stood out to us was how well it works for older kids, not just little ones.

There are plenty of slides and attractions that big kids actually get excited about from high-speed body slides to multi-person raft rides that the whole family can do together. It’s the kind of place where even your preteen kids won’t get bored after an hour. They’ll truly want to stay all day.

The large pool and lazy river were constant favorites for our crew. Whether they wanted something more chill or something more active, there was always an option. It made it easy for everyone to find their own version of fun.

From a parent perspective, the cleanliness and safety really stood out. The water park is well-maintained, and there are lifeguards stationed at every major attraction, consistently watching the water. The lifeguards are trained and audited by a nationally known safety organization. Great Wolf Lodge even has a central observation deck that monitors all the pools and lifeguards to ensure nothing is overlooked. When you can tell safety is a priority, it makes it a lot easier to relax and actually enjoy the experience with your kids.

And one of the best features (especially with older kids who go hard and crash fast) is the ability to leave and come back as much as you want. Need a snack break? Want to dry off for a bit? Ready for round two an hour later? No problem. That flexibility makes the day feel a lot less overwhelming and a lot more enjoyable for everyone.

Let’s Talk About the Food (Because It’s Actually Good 👀)

I’ll be honest, when I booked this Great Wolf Lodge weekend getaway, I didn’t have high expectations for the food because it’s a family destination. I assumed it would be the usual “keep the kids fed” situation. But this ended up being one of the biggest surprises of our entire trip.

If you’re wondering is Great Wolf Lodge worth it for older kids (and their parents), the food alone honestly plays a bigger role than you’d think.

There are full-service dining options with genuinely good, high-quality meals, not just burgers and fries on repeat. We’re talking about things like steak, salmon, pasta, and fresh, well-prepared dishes that feel like an actual restaurant experience. It made a huge difference, especially on a Great Wolf Lodge family trip with older kids, where everyone has opinions and expectations when it comes to meals.

Where to eat at Great Wolf Lodge

There are plenty of quick-service options that are fast without feeling like total junk food. Whether you’re grabbing something in between water slides or sitting down for a full meal, you’re not stuck compromising on quality or convenience.

Regardless of which location you visit, you’ll find the following options:

If you don’t want to leave the water park for lunch, Buckets Burgers & Bites is located right inside and serves quick, family-friendly meals like burgers, chicken tenders, salads, fries, snacks, and desserts. It’s a convenient option because you can eat quickly and head right back to the slides and pool. To be completely honest, these are my kids favorite French fries of all time! This location is perfect for grabbing a quick bite and bringing it back to your cabana.

Another easy dining option at Great Wolf Lodge is the pizza and take-out restaurant located right inside the lodge. This is a great option for families who want something quick, filling, and easy after a long day at the water park. The menu includes Brooklyn-style hand-stretched pizza, wings, pasta, salads, garlic cheese bread, sodas, and adult beverages, so it works well for both kids and adults. One of the best parts is the online and in-app ordering and quick pick-up. This makes it really easy to grab dinner and take it back to your room for a relaxing break before heading back out for evening activities.

The Best Dining Option at Great Wolf Lodge

One of the best dining options at Great Wolf Lodge is the on-site full-service restaurant. It’s perfect for when you want a full meal without leaving the resort. The restaurant serves breakfast and dinner with a wide variety of options, from farm-fresh eggs, bacon, stuffed French toast, and fresh fruit in the morning to burgers, ribs, pasta, seafood, steaks, salads, and desserts in the evening. You can get your favorite handhelds, like burgers or chicken sandwiches. Or you can order my favorite, the chili lime chicken bowl. This dining option is a favorite of ours because we all find something we like, but we are also able to sit and enjoy our time away over a fantastic meal.

And let’s not skip one of the best parts for parents, the cocktails and drinks. After a full day in the water park, being able to grab a fun drink without leaving the resort felt like a small luxury that made the whole experience feel a little more like an exotic vacation.

What really makes it work, though, is how easy everything is. Everything is right there, which is exactly why a Great Wolf Lodge weekend getaway feels so much more manageable.

One final thing I appreciated, especially if you’re planning a Great Wolf Lodge with big kids trip, is the flexibility. Everyone can eat when they’re hungry. They can take breaks when they need to, and you’re not locked into a rigid dining schedule. It keeps the entire day flowing so much better.

What is the Best Food and Fun Pass at Great Wolf Lodge? (Worth Adding When You Book)

Pro tip — add the Ultimate Food and Fun Pass when you book your stay. This add-on bundles together dining credits, refillable soda sippers, and access to attractions like MagiQuest, mini golf, bowling, and more. Instead of constantly pulling out your wallet for snacks, games, and activities, a lot of those extras are already included, which makes the trip feel much more all-inclusive. It also helps avoid the surprise costs that can add up quickly on family trips, especially at big theme park destinations. If you’re planning a Great Wolf Lodge weekend with big kids who want to do all the activities, this pass can be a really convenient way to simplify the trip and save money compared to buying everything separately during your stay.

Bottom line: the food at Great Wolf Lodge isn’t just convenient, it’s actually good. And when you combine that with everything else the resort offers, it’s a big part of what makes the whole experience feel easy, enjoyable, and genuinely worth it.

Why Kids Never Get Bored at Great Wolf Lodge: Everything You Need to Know Beyond the Water Park

One thing that really surprises people is how much there is to do outside of the water park. The water park may be the main attraction, but it’s definitely not the only thing keeping kids busy.

What Other Activities are Available at Great Wolf Lodge

Throughout the day and evening, there are organized activities happening all over the lodge. From dance parties and interactive games to character appearances and shows, there’s always something going on. The nighttime entertainment ended up being one of the highlights for our kids. The dance parties were high-energy and really well organized. Our kids loved being part of the action instead of just watching something.

The additional attractions like MagiQuest, the arcade, bowling, mini golf, and other interactive games are especially great for older kids. This is where Great Wolf Lodge works so well for families with kids of all ages. They’re old enough to explore a little, play games, do quests, and stay entertained even when they’re not swimming.

What I loved most as a parent was that the entire resort is designed so kids are never just standing around saying “I’m bored.” There’s always another activity, another game, another event, or another place to explore. It makes the whole trip feel very full without feeling stressful or over planned.

Are Great Wolf Lodge Rooms Comfortable for Families with Big Kids?

After spending all day at the water park, having a comfortable room to come back to makes a huge difference. And this is another area where Great Wolf Lodge really works well.

The rooms are spacious, clean, and designed for families. Which means you’re not all squeezed into a tiny hotel room stepping over suitcases. Depending on the room type, there are separate sleeping areas, bunk beds, couches, and plenty of space for everyone to spread out and relax.

This was especially important for us with our older kid. Little kids will crash anywhere, but big kids and teenagers definitely appreciate having their own space to wind down, watch TV, play games, or just relax for a bit before heading back out for evening activities.

Another huge perk is how close the rooms are to everything. If someone needs a break, a snack, or just some quiet time, it’s easy to run back to the room for a bit and then head back out. That flexibility makes the entire weekend feel much more relaxed and manageable.

Why a Great Wolf Lodge Vacation Feels Like a “Big Trip” Without the Stress of One

One of the best ways I can describe Great Wolf Lodge is that it feels like a big vacation. Just without all the stress of planning a big vacation.

There are so many things that normally make family trips exhausting. From flights, packing restrictions, to rental cars. Then over planning every day, and trying to make sure everyone is having fun at the same time.

At Great Wolf Lodge, none of that exists.

You drive there, check in, and immediately start having fun. Everything is in one place – water park, food, entertainment, activities, and your room. You don’t have to plan every hour of your day because there’s always something happening. No need to worry about transportation. You don’t have to drag tired kids across a giant park at the end of the day.

It’s the kind of trip that feels big and exciting for kids, but easy and relaxing for parents. Honestly that’s a pretty rare combination.

Is Great Wolf Lodge Good for Kids of all Ages?

If you’re specifically wondering whether Great Wolf Lodge is good for big kids, the answer is absolutely yes.

In fact, I would argue that Great Wolf Lodge with big kids might actually be the sweet spot age for this trip.

Kids in the 7–13 range are tall enough and brave enough for the bigger water slides, independent enough to enjoy activities like MagiQuest and the arcade, and still young enough to fully enjoy the dance parties, shows, and themed atmosphere.

They can spend hours at the water park, take breaks for food or games, go back for more swimming, and then still have energy for evening activities. It’s nonstop fun without feeling like everything is designed only for toddlers.

Older kids also really appreciate the independence of the resort layout. Everything is close together and easy to navigate. It gives them a little freedom while still being in a very family-focused environment. And, as a parent, I felt totally comfortable with this level of well-confined freedom.

Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge with Older Kids

If you’re planning a trip to Great Wolf Lodge with little and big kids, here are a few tips that will make your trip even better:

1. Arrive early on check-in day
You can use the water park the day you check in, even before your room is ready. Pack a swim bag so you can start playing right away.

2. Plan for two water park days
With one overnight stay, you get access to the water park on both check-in day and check-out day. Plan to stay after check-out and spend time at the water park. In this case, have a ‘dry bag’ ready for the ride home.

3. Consider the Food and Fun Pass
If your kids want to do MagiQuest, arcade games, sweets, and other activities, the pass makes things easier and a better value.

4. Bring flip flops and cover-ups
You’ll be walking between the water park, restaurants, and activities a lot. The water park is warm, but the halls between the park and your room can get chilly.

5. Don’t over-schedule
One of the best parts of Great Wolf Lodge is that you don’t need a strict plan. Just let the kids choose activities and go with the flow.

6. Stay for the evening activities
The nighttime shows and dance parties ended up being some of our kids’ favorite parts of the trip.

Is Great Wolf Lodge Worth It? (Honest Take)

So, is Great Wolf Lodge worth it for families with big kids?

In our experience, yes. Most especially if you’re looking for an easy family getaway that feels exciting for kids but relaxing for parents.

What makes Great Wolf Lodge worth it isn’t just the water park. It’s the combination of everything: the activities; it’s the entertainment; it’s the food options; it’s the convenience, the rooms, and the fact that you don’t have to plan a complicated trip to have a really memorable family weekend.

It’s one of those trips where the kids are exhausted in the best way, parents actually get to relax a little. So everyone leaves feeling like they went on a real vacation. Even when it was just a weekend.

If you have kids of any age and want a fun, low-stress family trip, Great Wolf Lodge is a really solid choice.

FAQs Before You Go

Is Great Wolf Lodge worth it for big kids?
Yes, Great Wolf Lodge is great for big kids, especially ages 7–13. The bigger water slides, MagiQuest, arcade, shows, and activities keep older kids entertained all day.

How many days do you need at Great Wolf Lodge?
Most families find that one night and two days at the water park is the perfect amount of time for a Great Wolf Lodge trip.

Is the food at Great Wolf Lodge good?
Yes, there are both quick-service and sit-down dining options, and many families are surprised by how good the food is compared to typical theme park food.

Do you have to stay overnight to use the water park?
Most guests stay overnight, but some locations offer day passes depending on availability.

What age is best for Great Wolf Lodge?
Great Wolf Lodge is best for kids ages 5–13, but families with teenagers and younger kids can all still have a great time.

What should you bring to Great Wolf Lodge?
Bring swimsuits, flip flops, cover-ups, a refillable water bottle, and a separate bag for the water park on check-in day

The Bank Hilton Head Island

July 10, 2023 by Rachel 1 Comment

We recently visited Hilton Head Island, South Carolina and we were lucky enough to check out the hottest new place on the island. The Bank on Hilton Head Island is a must-see for everyone planning on visiting. From date nights to family pizza nights, The Bank should be your new go-to spot.

About The Bank Hilton Head Island

The Bank, which is located on Pope Avenue just before Coligny Plaza, houses various types of food and drink in an actual former bank — vault and all!

The location is spacious. Inside there are long tables meant to fit overlapping parties of guests. It’s a food hall type vibe with open seating. And? it works! We made friends with several people who popped down next to us.

There are two indoor places for ordering. Food orders can be placed on one side for Bank Heist Burgers, Pizza Co (which is wood-fired pizza made fast), and Mo’ Money Tacos.

The other side of the indoor space features Side Hustle Brewing. There is limited space at the bar for seating. But there are many other beautiful spots to find a seat throughout the building.

Side Hustle Brewing

Side Hustle Beer Company used to be located on Arrow Road in Hilton Head (at a much smaller location). Moving into The Bank provides them with so much more space to make their incredible beers.

The bar for Side Hustle Brewing has an extensive draft list. And, if beer isn’t your thing, they offer wine and mixed drinks, too. Just line up at either side of the bar and someone will take your order. If it’s too busy inside, head outdoors to the Outdoor Beer Garden.

The Outdoor Beer Garden features many of the same Side Hustle brews, plus you’re in close proximity to the live music, fire pits, and games.

Hungry? There are lots of options.

The Banks has somewhat of a ‘food hall’ vibe. Here are your options:

Bank Heist Burgers
Mo’ Money Tacos
Pizza Co.

All things considered, there’s something for everyone! But, I have to admit, the pizza is incredible! Truly.

Also, order the chicharones. For real. They’re delicious.

Other important (and not so important info)

The Bank leans heavy on the puns. From drinks named “Strategic Risk,” to burgers called “The Bandit.” The puns are always present.

The Bank is a cashless venue. Yep, that means that a place called the bank doesn’t actually handle cash. Crazy? Maybe. But, it keeps things simple.
Hours are 11 am to 11 pm. No outside food is allowed, but there are plenty of options if you’re hungry.

The entire place is family/kid-friendly. But, there is a specific spot called the Family Zone. The Family Zone is a place made for small kids. But, the whole place is truly family friendly (as are most breweries).

Family or not, there are tons of backyard-type games available outside. There’s cornhole, giant yard jenga, giant connect four, and more!
Even if you’re not staying nearby, The Breeze Trolly stops just outside The Bank (stop # 10!).
Plenty of on-site parking is available. But, there is also plenty of space to park (and lock) your bikes.

Regardless of what day (or time of day) you visit, The Bank is sure to be a fun time.

The Bank – website
59 Pope Ave.
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

Hours: 7 days a week, 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Video of exactly what you can expect on a trip to The Bank

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Tips for Going On a Camping Trip with a Baby

July 16, 2020 by Rachel 23 Comments

What’s more exciting than taking your toddler or baby on their first camping trip? It’s a great opportunity for the whole family to enjoy, have fun, and bond over a hot campfire and roast marshmallows. Camping also so happens to be one of the few ‘safe’ ways we can travel and explore right now. Whether you’ve just started camping, or you’re an expert, there are a few ways to make sure that everything runs smoothly. Here are my tried and true tips for going on a camping trip with a toddler or baby. Let’s make that camping trip with a baby a success!

Do Weather Research

When going on a camping trip with a toddler or baby, you need to be conscious about the weather. Young children are super vulnerable to weather conditions. It wouldn’t be fun to spend the camping trip huddled inside the tent. Doing some basic research will help you in the long run!

Do a Test Run

When you feel that you’re ready and everything has been prepared, do a camping test run in the backyard. That way you’ll be able to catch if there are any snags with the camping gear. It will also be a test run for your toddler or baby to spend the night in a tent.

Bring Familiar Toys

If your toddler or baby is uncomfortable, giving them with a familiar toy will make them happy and calm them down. Only take a couple of familiar and favorite things. By giving your child their favorite toy, you’ll be keeping them busy — and it will give you more time to prep the campsite!

Do Your Research on the Location

As any parent knows, kids (especially young ones) are naturally curious. So if they see wild berries, they might try to eat them. As soon as you get to the campsite, make sure to check for any harmful plants, like wild berries. If you do find any harmful plants, make sure to warn your toddler about them. In addition to warning them, you need to check up on what your toddler eats at all times. Especially if they have the tendency to wander off!

Choose a Campsite With Lots of Activities

Toddlers are filled with energy, so they need to be kept busy. If you only sit around the campsite all day, they’ll surely get bored quite fast- and naughty! When there are many activities at your campsite, your toddler will have a wonderful experience and they’ll definitely want to come back again the next year. It’s best to plan these activities in advance to avoid potential disagreements with family members once at the campsite.

Take a Mat for Crawlers

If you have a young child that’s still in the crawling stage, make it a priority to take a large enough mat for them. It will stop them from crawling in the dirt and potentially hurting their tiny hands. If you have a pack and play, that works as well!

Take a Headlamp

To avoid your little one getting scared at night, and to keep them calm while you move around the campsite- take a headlamp with. A fun headlamp would also be fun for them, as well as aid in reducing the anxiety that the darkness may cause.

Take Sunscreen and Bug Spray

You may be able to stand a sunburn, or a few mosquito bites- but your toddler or baby on the other hand may not. Especially if your child hasn’t had a sunburn or been bitten before. If they experience such a thing, it may cause them distress to a certain degree where they would end up avoiding camp. Young children are quite vulnerable to the sun’s rays, so take the necessary precautions like keeping your child in the shade. When you buy sunscreen and bug spray make sure that you buy the right ones- such as ones that are made with natural oils and don’t contain DEET.

Put the Electronics Away

Once you get to the campsite, put the electronics away. If you give your toddler or baby a cell phone or tablet to keep them busy, the whole purpose of going on a camping trip would be defeated. Only bring your camera along to snap photos during outdoors family time.

Pay Attention to Children Near the Campfire

It’s easy to assume that your child knows not to go near the campfire. But the truth is they don’t. If you’re not mindful of what your toddler or baby is doing when they’re by the campfire, don’t be surprised when you see them going straight for it! If you plan on having a fire, sit and tell your child that they can sit near it, but they remain seated in a designated spot. Of course, you still need to keep an eye on your child just the same.

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Tell me — what tips would you give to parents going camping with young children?!

Hilton Head Island Travel Tips + Must-Sees!

October 27, 2019 by Rachel 47 Comments

My first trip to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina was just over 2 years ago. From the moment we returned home, we’ve been dreaming and planning our next trip to Hilton Head. Now considering myself a semi-pro at Hilton Head, I want to provide you with all of my go-to places and must-sees! Check out these Hilton Head Travel Tips!

One thing that was set well in advance was our condo for the week. We stayed at Seacrest Villas, directly on the North Forest Beach, and just steps away from Coligny Plaza.

Our condo was beautiful. It was three-bedrooms, 3-baths, and had a full kitchen and dining room — plus TWO balconies! It was truly gorgeous! And part of me — the super mom part of me — could have had just that and nothing else for an entire week. No responsibilities; not our house; no laundry and cleaning — just that for a week.

But there was so much to do!

Annie O’s Kitchen

We discovered this place by pure chance. We found ourselves upon a child-free evening and had not at all planned it out. Where would we go alone!? Well, a google search later and the results… showed a bunch of other places. But I happened to see the description of this restaurant — their meats, dairy, and eggs, are all-natural and cruelty-free. There are no antibiotics, no preservatives, no pesticides, and sustainable. Basically, totally our wheelhouse.

I had the Chicken and French Toast (what a fun play on chicken + waffles!) and Chad got the flash-fried whole flounder with collard greens.

We absolutely loved the atmosphere and the vibe from the staff. They were incredibly hands-on — the chef even came by to deliver our meals to the table. The cornbread? Bomb. The sweet tea? SO bomb. The desserts?! OMG I can’t even!

After our dining experience, we convinced the whole family to join us for a ‘last hurrah’ dinner at Annie O’s. And the whole extended family all said, hands down, the best food we had during the whole trip!

HILTON HEAD TIPS: Join their VIP Club to receive special deals like BOGO 50% off entrees. And make a reservation before you go!

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: Somewhat. The atmosphere is less appealing to children, but the waitstaff and other employees were super friendly to the kids.

DETAILS: Annie O’s Kitchen. 124 Arrow Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 341-2664

Coligny Splash Pad

The beach, the pool… they can be… exhausting for parents. There’s just so much sand and ‘stuff,’ that kids need. This splash pad was a perfect break for all of us. Located near Coligny Plaza, the splash pad is just off the beach and easily accessible.

Our kids had a blast running in and out of the fountains — and even made a couple of friends! I suggest hitting the splash pad first thing in the morning before the sun really starts beating down on the kids. But, in case you find yourself there a little later, just know that it does have a little overhead shade, thanks to the awesome trees!

HILTON HEAD TIPS: Arrive first thing in the morning for the least amount of overcrowding.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: 100%!

DETAILS: Coligny Beach Park. 1 N Forest Beach, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

Skull Creek Boathouse

My sister insisted that we go here. We were having a rough day with the kiddos and I didn’t have even a second to check out the menu ahead of time. But I’m so happy that I put all of my trust in her with this restaurant decision!

When we arrived shortly after 5 PM, the place was already packed with an hour wait for outside seating. As much as we wanted to sit outside, we were also dealing with a time limit thanks to the kiddos bedtimes! Instead, we opted for an immediate high-top table inside. Believe it or not, they have highchairs for the high-top tables, so they could easily accommodate two infants.

Our meals were delicious! I ordered the fried fish and chips and a big side of hush puppies (because, yum!). And Chad ordered a lobster rice bowl that tasted amazing.

My sister and her husband loved the Lowcountry boil — and I had some serious food envy of them!

After our meal, we headed to the dock to check out the views. On the other side of the dock there is a beautiful outdoor beer garden with picnic tables, sandboxes for kids, and giant connect four games. The live music was a young guy playing guitar and singing up on stage. It was the perfect way to spend an evening!

HILTON HEAD TIPS: Arrive early and be prepared to wait if you are looking for outdoor seating. But also enjoy that time in the beer garden while you wait!
The restaurant will text you when your table is ready!

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: Really family-friendly! Each child will get to pick a prize from the treasure box after the meal. The outdoor beer garden is the perfect place for parents to spend a relaxing evening with young kids.

DETAILS: Skull Creek Boathouse. 397 Squire Pope Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926.
(843) 681-3663

Java Burrito

We stopped here, first and foremost, for the Java. But I was so impressed by the food setup that I had to come back later in the week to try it out. It’s nestled in a business park on William Hilton Parkway, so you almost have to go searching for it, but I promise it’s worth it!

Their coffee bar is definitely high-end, specialty coffee, with a huge clientele that prefers a pour-over (hello!? LOVE pour overs!). But they also offer cocktails for those customers who are going to hang out in the cool café for a bit!

As far as the food, they offer Mexican-style burritos and bowls with ingredients that are locally sourced, for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Yep – they do breakfast burritos with farm-fresh eggs!

I opted for a burrito with chicken, rice, beans, queso, and guacamole. As someone that frequents other fast-casual burrito places, I can tell you that this was far superior to the rest of them. The freshness is something that you can taste!

HILTON HEAD TIPS: Take a look at the menu online ahead of time so that you have an idea of what you want to order. Definitely order coffee, too!

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: Yes, for a quick family meal. But not for lounging around.

DETAILS: Java Burrito. 1000 William Hilton Pkwy Suite J6, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928.
(843) 842-5282

Duck Donuts

So I realize that this is a franchise location and not a native Hilton Head Island thing… but for those of us who do not live near a Duck Donuts, checking this out while we’re on the island is KEY.

See, I have a love affair with donuts. I like them fancy and I like them plain — I don’t discriminate! Ha!

These donuts are served up fresh out of the fryer! We customized our order of a dozen and a half so that we could basically try all of them. Somehow a single plain old fashioned donut ended up in our pack. And I swear to you that is the best darn old fashioned, plain old donut, I have ever had!

(Good news, Ohio friends — there are several Duck Donuts locations open, including Polaris, Pinecrest, and soon-to-be, Summit Mall!)

HILTON HEAD TIPS: Prepare to wait in line — this place is popular!

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: Very! The kids have fun watching the donuts being made.

DETAILS: Duck Donuts. 890 William Hilton Pkwy #70, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 842-3825

Frosty Frog

This little dive of a frozen cocktail bar is located in Coligny Plaza and features about 25 different frozen daiquiri combinations such as a Hurricane, Grape Danger, Sex on the Peach, Piña Colada, and Jungle Juice! Real Talk: They put all of their drinks, daiquiri or not, in styrofoam to-go cups — whether you’re eating in or taking food to go. Also, you’re allowed to walk with the open container anywhere within Coligny Plaza.

We took our daiquiris to go and walked around the plaza a few nights. They were so delicious! My favorites were Jump Start and Grape Danger.

After several visits, we decided to give their pizza a shot. And OMG it’s delicious! Like, really good and the slices are, as Ari would say, GINORMOUS!

HILTON HEAD TIPS: If there are more than 3 of you ordering daiquiris, save yourself a few bucks and order a gallon to-go. It’s the most cost-effective way to sip some frozen yummies!

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: Not very. We saw a lot of children with their parents, but it’s really more of a bar than anything else.

DETAILS: Frosty Frog Cafe. 1 N Forest Beach Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 686-3764

Lowcountry Backyard

Located in Palmetto Dunes, this gem of a restaurant serves up local cuisine with some serious Lowcountry flair! We arrived just before 4:30 PM, which is when they open for dinner service. We were quickly greeted with two other families awaiting the dinner ‘bell’! Great minds (and early bedtimes for babies — likely)!

The atmosphere in the outdoor seating area is awesome. There’s giant Jenga, a hillbilly golf set, a giant porch swing, and a stage for the nightly solo performances.

Our food did not disappoint. Between the fried green tomatoes, the shrimp and grits, crab dip, and grilled pimento cheese sandwiches, we left… ~~satisfied~~ very full.

HILTON HEAD TIPS: Arrive right when they open to avoid a wait. Sit outdoors.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: Very. There is so much to keep the kids entertained, between the games, the music, and the mason jars with lids as sippy cups!

DETAILS: A Lowcountry Backyard. 32 Palmetto Bay Road, #4A, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 785-9273

Pirates of Hilton Head

My husband took our four-year-old on this adventure, just the two of them, as a special treat. The Pirates of Hilton Head is an excursion in Harbour Town (near the lighthouse!) on The Black Dagger! The kids, which range in age from 3-10, in groups of about 20 children (max), learn to speak like pirates, get tattoos, and takedown Stinky Pete with water cannons! Ari had such an amazing time and came home with enough gold doubloons to last him a lifetime! We will definitely be hitting this up with every visit.

HILTON HEAD TIPS: Check Groupon and other discount sites to see if they have any deals first (they did for us!). Also, make sure you plan to spend some time in Harbour Town because there’s a $6 fee to be in the area, but you will have in-and-out privileges all day. Final tip — wear a small backpack and bring plenty of water and snacks.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: Very much so! Especially for kids 3 and up!

DETAILS: Pirates of Hilton Head. 149 Lighthouse Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 363-7000

We will certainly be making Hilton Head our go-to vacation spot from here on out. I can’t wait to visit all of these places again! Make sure you pin this for later! xo

8 Tips For The Perfect Day Trip to Great Wolf Lodge

August 21, 2019 by Rachel 28 Comments

It’s nearly the end of Summer and here in the Midwest, that can only mean one thing — snow is just around the corner! While some may think that being in the Midwest means constant cold through the Winter months, the exact opposite can — and is! — true!

Did you know that Great Wolf Lodge now offers Day Passes for those who want to visit without staying in their hotel accommodations?

We recently took a day trip to our Sandusky Great Wolf Lodge to check it out. What we came back with was a SUPER good time and a LOT of tips for those planning a day trip for themselves.

Here’s what you need to know about a Day Trip to Great Wolf Lodge:

Arrive Early.
The waterpark hours change seasonally, so be sure to check your locations’ hours.
Arrive just when the waterpark is opening to avoid a rush. The folks who have stayed overnight are not yet up. Plus, that days’ check-ins haven’t arrived yet either.
Leave the towels at home!
The waterpark at Great Wolf Lodge has towels available for guests to use, so it’s not necessary to pack yours from home.
Have a plan for meals.
A day of fun at the waterpark will leave your children with a seemingly insatiable hunger. The good news is that GWL has a lot of options.
There are options for seated dining, quick dining in the park, and other options (like pizza!) in the resort itself.
As a family of 5, it was most cost-effective to just order a large pizza and a couple of sides for lunch. I kid you not, my picky eaters finished the. entire. pizza! Bonus points? It truly was delicious.
Check the daily schedule for activities.
Scheduled events range from character appearances to storytime. The event calendar changes daily, so check your location’s website for the can’t-miss land attractions. It will help to give a break from the water attractions.
Rent a locker.
Without a room to leave your belongings in, the easiest way to ensure that our belongings were safe while we were enjoying the attractions was to rent a locker.
The lockers were on-site in the waterpark, easily accessible, and made me feel so much better about the safety and security of my valuables.
Leave the puddle jumpers at home!
The waterpark is equipped with both lifevests and puddle jumpers for kids of all ages and sizes, so there is no need to bring any floatation devices from home.
Obviously, a lifejacket or puddle jumper doesn’t mean a child is 100% safe in the water (they never are — and you should always watch your children around water), but it does provide some small sense of relief regarding having a child in the water and on the water slides.
Wear sandals or flipflops.
Putting your shoes on and off to go between the waterpark and dry activities will definitely happen and there’s a fairly good chance you won’t be completely dry. I suggest wearing shoes such as flipflops or sandals.
Be prepared for exhausted children.
At the end of the day, your children will, without a doubt, be exhausted. Be prepared for your children to sleep on the way home.

My final tip — HAVE FUN! Well, that’s honestly the easiest part, right?

Want more information? Check out Great Wolf Lodge for pricing on Day Passes and overnight accommodations.

Plan a Trip to Great Wolf Lodge on a Day Pass

The Kimpton Schofield Hotel Cleveland + Jeni’s Ice Cream // A Match Made In Staycation Heaven

July 22, 2019 by Rachel 13 Comments

I’ve been dreaming of one thing for the last 7 years. And last night that dream became a reality. I had my first every staycation, completely alone!

Sunday afternoon I headed up to Downtown Cleveland to stay at the Kimpton Schofield Hotel to celebrate two things — freedom and National Ice Cream Day!

The Kimpton Schofield Hotel, located directly in the heart of the action on Euclide Avenue, just launched a partnership with local (and now national!) ice cream icon, Jeni’s Ice Cream! And personally, I am HERE FOR IT.

My Mom-Staycation began the moment valet took my keys. At that moment “mom” was off the clock! Moments after unpacking in my room, room service arrived with two pints of Jeni’s Ice Cream and an ice-cold bottle of Prosecco.

A few sips of prosecco and a few spoonfuls of Jeni’s Honey Vanilla Bean were just the welcome I needed. I breathed a collective sigh of relief from all of the motherhood stressors of the last 7 years. It’s amazing how taking time for self-care can change your entire mood, am I right?!

After enjoying my welcome amenities, I stood in awe of the city views from my room windows. Across the street was the iconic Downtown Heinen’s, located in the historic Cleveland Trust Rotunda Building. It was breathtaking to see my favorite city from this angle.

Later, I dined at the incredible on-site restaurant, Parkers Downtown. Yes, I had a solo reservation; and, no, I had no qualms about it.

To start, I ordered a glass of their dryest red. To some, dining alone (or, heck!, even having a glass of wine alone) in a restaurant would be intimidating. But for the first time in a while, I was able to enjoy my dining experience. No kids, no extra chatter, just quiet.

Everything on the menu sounded incredible and I definitely ordered more than I could possibly eat by myself! I ordered the artisan cheese board, loaded fries (with goat cheese and bacon), and the Korean Fried Chicken Sandwith (with kimchi and aioli on a brioche bun). Y’all! It was INCREDIBLE. All of it! I tried my best to dine as slowly as possible (a small luxury for those of us with kids), but I am guessing I only lasted about 20 minutes before throwing in the towel and bringing the rest back to my room as leftovers.

Nonetheless, my experience was perfection. The service was so thoughtful, the meal was beyond delicious, and everything was overall exceptional. I look forward to trying out their brunch and happy hour in the future.

My post-dinner excursion included a walk down Euclid Avenue and a loop down East 4th before heading back to my room to revisit those Jeni’s Ice Cream pints! Honestly, as nice as it was to be ‘away’ from everyone and everything, my room at the Kimpton Schofield was so relaxing and inviting with its cozy bed and original artwork, I didn’t want to leave!

SO many thanks to the Kimpton Schofield team for hosting me for an amazing staycation!