Choosing the right accommodation is paramount when planning a memorable family vacation to the Poconos. This picturesque region of Pennsylvania offers a diverse array of options, from sprawling resorts with thrilling waterparks to serene lodges nestled in nature, each promising unique experiences for families on a short-term getaway of 3-10 days. Finding a hotel that caters to the distinct needs of parents and children – from engaging activities and convenient amenities to comfortable lodging – is key to a stress-free and fun-filled trip. Our guide cuts through the noise to highlight the best family stays in Poconos, ensuring your Poconos stay is nothing short of spectacular, allowing you to focus on creating cherished memories together.
Looking for a place to stay? Find your perfect spot in the Poconos.
Our Top Picks: A Deep Dive
Great Wolf Lodge Poconos
Step into a world of endless adventure and whimsical fun at Great Wolf Lodge, an immersive resort that feels like a permanent family festival. This bustling, vibrant, and incredibly family-focused destination truly captures the spirit of a joyful family escapade. Its rustic-lodge theme, combined with vibrant colors and animated characters, creates an energetic and exciting atmosphere perfect for younger children and active families. Designed to be a self-contained destination where every moment is packed with entertainment, it offers a relaxing haven for parents who appreciate having everything under one roof. The bustling environment ensures there’s always something to do, but quiet corners can still be found for downtime, creating a balance of joyful, organized chaos.
Great Wolf Lodge is an expansive indoor waterpark with slides, wave pools, and toddler areas, ensuring year-round aquatic fun regardless of weather. Daily character appearances, story times, and Cub Club crafts provide engaging activities for younger children, fostering imagination and interaction. Families will appreciate the variety of family suites with separate sleeping areas and options for multi-generational families, offering comfort and privacy after a day of adventure. On-site dining options, including kid-friendly menus, and an arcade, miniature golf, and ropes course ensure there’s always something to do for everyone. The unique Magiquest interactive game turns the entire resort into a fantasy adventure, keeping older kids thoroughly engaged.
Located in Scotrun, it’s centrally positioned for exploring other Poconos attractions, though many families find little reason to leave this exciting resort. Booking well in advance, especially for weekend stays or during school breaks, is highly recommended to secure preferred dates and rates for these popular best family stays in Poconos. For safety, always supervise children closely in waterpark areas and follow all lifeguard instructions. A great kid-friendly activity is the Magiquest interactive game, which is a fantastic way to keep older children active and engaged throughout the resort. As a local travel tip, consider a short drive to nearby Bushkill Falls for a beautiful natural hike if your family wants a change of scenery from the resort’s high energy.
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions
Kalahari Resorts transports families to an African-themed oasis, blending the excitement of a massive waterpark with upscale, comfortable accommodations. This grand and vibrant resort buzzes with energy from families exploring its vast amenities. It strikes a balance between lively recreation and luxurious relaxation, offering spacious common areas and beautifully themed decor that evokes an exotic escape. While it’s a bustling hub of activity, the sheer scale of the resort allows for different paces of vacationing, ensuring both high-energy fun and moments of tranquil unwinding. It’s a vibrant city base for families seeking an all-encompassing, exotic adventure among the best family stays in Poconos.
America’s largest indoor waterpark is a standout feature, featuring dozens of slides, a surf simulator, and expansive splash zones suitable for all ages. The outdoor waterpark (seasonal) adds even more aquatic variety, including cabana rentals for a private family retreat, enhancing the experience of these Poconos family hotels. Family-friendly dining establishments, including a buffet and quick-service options, cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs, making meal times easy and enjoyable. The Adventure Park with a ropes course, climbing walls, arcade, and mini-golf offers plenty of dry-land entertainment for non-waterpark enthusiasts. Luxurious family suites and villas, some with multiple bedrooms, kitchenettes, and private patios, are ideal for larger families or longer stays.
Situated in Pocono Manor, Kalahari is conveniently close to popular attractions like Mount Airy Casino Resort and Camelback Mountain. Consider purchasing a multi-day pass for the waterpark, as it often provides better value, and arrive early on peak days to maximize your time on the slides. For safety, always remind kids to walk, not run, on wet surfaces in the waterpark, and make sure younger swimmers utilize the provided life vests. The Adventure Park, with its ropes courses and climbing walls, is a fantastic kid-friendly option for when children need a break from the water. As a local travel tip, exploring nearby Stroudsburg’s charming downtown can offer unique shops and eateries if you’re looking for local flavor.
Camelback Lodge & Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark
Camelback Lodge exudes a modern, sleek mountain resort feel, perfectly integrating high-energy waterpark thrills with sophisticated comfort. The atmosphere is lively and contemporary, appealing to families seeking both adventure and style in their Poconos family hotels. It feels like a vibrant basecamp for active families, seamlessly blending the excitement of an indoor waterpark with easy access to outdoor mountain activities. There’s a distinct sense of being in a contemporary, purpose-built resort that prioritizes family entertainment without sacrificing comfort or aesthetic appeal. It’s a dynamic, full-service destination where relaxation and adrenaline coexist beautifully, making it one of the premier best family stays in Poconos.
Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark, named a top indoor waterpark, boasts an array of unique slides, a wave pool, and zero-depth entry areas, ensuring fun for all ages. There’s direct access to Camelback Mountain for skiing and snowboarding in winter, and a mountain adventure park (ziplining, mountain coaster) in warmer months, offering year-round outdoor fun. Spacious family suites with separate living areas and kitchenettes are ideal for self-catering some meals and providing space for everyone to relax. Multiple on-site dining options range from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants, ensuring variety for every palate. An arcade, mini-golf, and a ropes course provide additional entertainment when not in the water or on the mountain.
Located directly at the base of Camelback Mountain in Tannersville, this is an excellent choice for families who want to combine waterpark fun with outdoor adventures. Take advantage of their multi-day passes for waterpark entry, which can often be more cost-effective, and always check seasonal operating hours for outdoor activities. When utilizing the outdoor mountain activities, ensure proper gear and follow all safety briefings from staff. The ability to easily switch between Aquatopia’s water thrills and mountain activities like ziplining or the mountain coaster is a unique kid-friendly highlight. As a local travel tip, consider visiting the Crossings Premium Outlets nearby for some family shopping, an excellent option for a rainy day.
Split Rock Resort
Split Rock Resort offers a more laid-back, traditional resort experience, with a focus on lake activities and classic family entertainment. It feels like a welcoming, expansive campus rather than a single building, providing a sense of space and various pockets of activity. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, appealing to families who enjoy a blend of structured fun and independent exploration. It has a nostalgic charm, reminiscent of classic family vacations, making it a comfortable haven where families can create their own adventures. It’s less about the hyper-modern thrill and more about accessible, diverse recreational options, standing out among the best family stays in Poconos for its unique vibe.
The indoor H2Oooohh! waterpark provides a fun aquatic escape, complementing the resort’s outdoor offerings with year-round swimming opportunities. Families can enjoy Lake Harmony access for boating, swimming, and fishing (seasonal), offering a natural Poconos experience that connects you with the region’s beauty. On-site bowling alley, movie theater, arcade, and miniature golf ensure entertainment options regardless of weather, perfect for keeping everyone happy. A variety of accommodations, from standard hotel rooms to villas and cottages with kitchens, cater to different family sizes and preferences. Numerous planned family activities and events, especially during peak seasons, keep children engaged and entertained throughout their stay.
Situated on Lake Harmony in Lake Harmony, it’s perfectly positioned for families who love water sports and a more rustic Poconos feel. Consider booking a villa or condo if you prefer more space and the option to cook your own meals, which can be a budget-saver for families seeking the best family stays in Poconos. When enjoying Lake Harmony, always ensure children wear life jackets when on boats or near the water for their safety. The on-site movie theater and bowling alley offer classic entertainment options that are perfect for evenings or non-waterpark days. As a local travel tip, exploring Hickory Run State Park, just a short drive away, provides beautiful hiking trails and a chance to immerse yourselves in nature.
Skytop Lodge
Skytop Lodge offers an elegant, historic, and refined mountain lodge experience, blending timeless charm with abundant family activities. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet welcoming, providing a serene escape where families can connect with nature and enjoy upscale amenities. It feels like a grand country estate, offering a relaxing family haven where traditions are cherished and outdoor adventures are celebrated. While it maintains an air of classic luxury, it is undeniably family-focused, ensuring children have just as much fun as adults. It’s a place for families who appreciate comfort, excellent service, and a picturesque setting, making it one of the truly distinct best family stays in Poconos.
Extensive outdoor activities include a private lake for boating and swimming, a challenging Treetop Adventure Course, scenic hiking trails, and a highly-rated golf course for all skill levels. Guests can enjoy both indoor and outdoor pools, plus a dedicated children’s program and playground, ensuring kids have ample supervised fun. Elegant dining options that are family-friendly, offering high-quality meals in a beautiful setting, are available, along with more casual cafes. A variety of room types, from classic lodge rooms to spacious cottages, provide comfortable and scenic accommodations tailored to family needs. Year-round events and seasonal activities like ice skating and cross-country skiing cater to diverse interests and ages.
Located in Skytop, it offers stunning natural beauty and a secluded feel, perfect for families seeking a retreat. While it’s a luxury option, many activities are included in the daily rate, making it a great value for families who plan to utilize the extensive offerings. Check their activity schedule upon arrival to plan your days effectively. For the Treetop Adventure Course, always adhere to guide instructions and ensure harnesses are properly fitted for all participants for optimal safety. The dedicated children’s program and playground provide supervised fun, allowing parents some quiet time while kids make new friends. As a local travel tip, take advantage of the lodge’s extensive property for scenic nature walks, which are a wonderful way to connect with the Poconos landscape.
Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort
The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort presents a historic, charming, and tranquil riverside retreat with a strong emphasis on outdoor recreation. The atmosphere is peaceful and inviting, exuding a classic, timeless elegance that feels refreshingly low-key compared to the bustling waterpark resorts. It’s a relaxing family haven where the focus is on natural beauty, gentle activities, and shared experiences by the Delaware River. The resort feels less like a modern entertainment complex and more like a beloved, established getaway, perfect for families who appreciate history, nature, and a calmer pace of vacationing when considering the best family stays in Poconos.
Located directly on the Delaware River, the resort offers river trips, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing for memorable outdoor adventures suitable for all ages. An on-site 27-hole championship golf course and a mini-golf course provide options for golfers of all ages and skill levels. An indoor pool, fitness center, and planned family activities like bonfire nights and outdoor movies ensure entertainment even if the weather isn’t perfect. A variety of dining options, from casual to fine dining, with menus that often highlight local ingredients, caters to diverse family tastes. Family-friendly rooms and suites, some with river views, provide comfortable and scenic accommodations, making it an ideal choice among Poconos family hotels. Its proximity to charming towns makes day trips easy, blending resort relaxation with local exploration.
Situated in Shawnee on Delaware, it’s ideally located for families interested in exploring the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and historic sites. Consider the golf packages if your family enjoys the sport, or focus on river activities for a unique Poconos experience, and always check their calendar for seasonal events and family-friendly entertainment. When participating in river activities like canoeing or kayaking, always wear provided life vests and follow local water safety guidelines for everyone’s safety. The river trips and mini-golf course are excellent ways to enjoy the outdoors together, offering gentle activities suitable for various age groups. As a local travel tip, a short drive will take you to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, perfect for exploring scenic overlooks and historical sites.
The Stroudsmoor Inn Towne
The Stroudsmoor Inn Towne, an extension of the larger Stroudsmoor Country Inn, offers a more intimate, charming, and homey feel in a vibrant town setting. It’s a delightful contrast to the sprawling resorts, providing a cozier atmosphere that feels like a comfortable guesthouse with personal touches. The vibe is welcoming and relaxed, perfect for families who prefer a quieter base for exploring the Poconos, rather than a large, activity-packed resort. It’s a quaint and charming haven, emphasizing local charm and proximity to town amenities, offering a sense of authentic Poconos living for a short stay, ideal for exploring the surrounding area and experiencing the best family stays in Poconos from a different perspective.
Its close proximity to the vibrant town of Stroudsburg offers easy access to local shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, perfect for exploring on foot and immersing yourselves in the community. The inn features comfortable rooms and suites, some with kitchenettes, providing flexibility for family meals and extended stays, enhancing the comfort of your Poconos family hotels experience. Guests have the added benefit of access to select amenities at the main Stroudsmoor Country Inn property (a short drive away), including pools, hiking trails, and seasonal activities like horseback riding. This option often provides a more personalized service experience compared to larger resorts, making families feel truly welcomed and cared for during their visit. It’s a good value option for families looking for a base to explore the Poconos, balancing comfort with affordability and a sense of local immersion.
Located in Stroudsburg, it provides an excellent base for exploring the town and nearby attractions like the Delaware Water Gap. Check if there are any special packages or discounts for longer family stays, and confirm which amenities at the main Country Inn are accessible during your visit. This hotel offers a different pace than the waterpark resorts, focusing on local exploration and community engagement. When exploring Stroudsburg on foot, always be mindful of traffic and stick to designated pedestrian areas for safety. Exploring the local shops and enjoying ice cream in Stroudsburg’s vibrant town center offers a charming, low-key activity for the whole family. As a local travel tip, don’t miss the opportunity to visit nearby local farms or pick-your-own fruit orchards for an authentic Poconos experience, especially during harvest seasons.
Booking Smart: Pro-Tips for Families
When planning your family vacation to the Poconos, a few strategic tips can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable stay, helping you find the best family stays in Poconos with ease.
Book Early, Especially for Peak Seasons: Poconos resorts, particularly those with waterparks, are incredibly popular during school breaks, holidays, and summer months. Booking 3-6 months in advance can secure better rates and ensure availability for preferred room types, giving you peace of mind for your family getaway.
Consider Weekday Stays: If your schedule allows, traveling Monday through Thursday can lead to significantly lower room rates, fewer crowds at attractions, and a more relaxed atmosphere overall. This enhances your family’s experience by reducing wait times and allowing for more spontaneous fun.
Look for All-Inclusive or Activity Packages: Many Poconos resorts offer packages that include meals, waterpark access, or specific activities. Always compare these against booking elements separately to find the best value for your family’s interests and budget, maximizing your savings on your Poconos family hotels.
Request Connecting Rooms or Suites: For families with older children or those needing more space and privacy, always request connecting rooms or book a suite. This provides comfort for adults and children while keeping everyone close, offering a much-needed retreat after a day of activities.
Pack Smart for Resort Stays: Bring swimsuits, goggles, and extra towels, as some resorts may charge for these. Also, consider packing a small first-aid kit, along with snacks and drinks, as on-site dining can be pricey, and having essentials handy saves both time and money. Remember sun protection even indoors at waterparks due to skylights.
For more general travel info, visit the Wikivoyage page on Poconos.
