Looking for the perfect holiday gift? Treat Mom, Dad (Grandma, and Grandpa), and your kids? Even if it’s not summer treat yourself to a thrilling indoor water park adventure with the grandkids! Here's a suggested
itinerary for a delightful 3-day, 2-night mid-week escape.
Day 1: Arrival
1:00 - 2:00 PM: Quick and easy travel – just under 2 hours from
Montclair, 2.5 from NYC.
2:30 PM: Dive into the resort… Grab an early lunch at McDonalds
(Near the Gab) and start with resort arrival and relaxation with a refreshing swim in the incredible water park. This place is great for all ages .
6:30 PM: Family dinner.
8:00 PM: TV and Bedtime for the little ones.
Day 2: Water Park Extravaganza
Breakfast: Fuel up for a day of excitement.
All Day: Splash and play at the water park. Grandparents join the
fun! Arrive around 11:30 – Lunch time – Lazy River, wave pool, the Grandkids will show you around
Evening: Dinner at any of 5 restaurants – Steak, Mexican, Italian
or Buffet full buffet . Your choice. Check out my review at the Double Cut Stek house. Enjoy a spacious two-bedroom suite with a king bed, separate bath, and an adjoining room with two doubles and a private bath. ( Family and kids)
Day 3: Departure
Breakfast: A leisurely start to the day.
11:00 AM: Check-out and depart for home.
Noon: Arrive home, cherishing the unforgettable memories made.
This festive gift guarantees cherished moments with the family, exhilarating water park adventures, and comfortable lodgings. It's an immersive experience poised to craft enduring memories for all participants. For optimal enjoyment, it's recommended to steer clear of weekends or holiday weeks. Opting for a mid-week escape, arriving on a Wednesday and departing on a Friday, ensures a more
relaxed and crowd-free atmosphere. Additionally, weekday rates are more budget-friendly, enhancing the overall value of this unforgettable getaway.
Which Water Park?
Kalahari Lodge and Great Wolf Lodge, both nestled in the picturesque Poconos of Pennsylvania, offer distinctive experiences, each with its unique charm.
Kalahari Lodge ( the one we stayed at) stands out with its colossal waterpark, boasting an impressive size that surpasses Great Wolf Lodge. The expansive facility caters to visitors year-round, functioning
not only as a hotel but also as a convention center, providing a comprehensive resort experience.
On the other hand, Great Wolf Lodge, ( which is the other park I visited ) though smaller in comparison to Kalahari, compensates with an intimate and charming atmosphere. The lodge's outdoor surroundings exude a more
pleasing ambiance, creating a serene backdrop for guests.
Location-wise, Great Wolf Lodge is situated closer to the GAP off Rt. L80 than Kalahari, a factor to consider for those prioritizing proximity and ease of access.
The choice between the two may hinge on personal preferences. While Kalahari impresses with its grandeur and year-round offerings, Great Wolf Lodge's more intimate setting and appealing
outdoor spaces might sway those seeking a cozier retreat. It's worth noting that Great Wolf Lodge may come across as nicer, depending on individual tastes.
Ultimately, both lodges contribute to the Poconos' allure, offering visitors varied options to match their preferences, whether in favor of Kalahari's expansive facilities or Great
Wolf Lodge's more intimate charm.
Tip
Traveling mid-week presents various advantages, and your tips provide valuable insights for making the most of this travel strategy. Here's a concise summary:
More Tips:
1. Flexible Scheduling:
Opt for mid-week travel and accommodations for cost-effective options.
Consider arriving on Tuesday or Wednesday for optimal mid-week deals.
2. Avoid Peak Days:
Steer clear of busy Monday mornings and Friday afternoons to reduce crowds and expenses.
3. Accommodation Savings:
Capitalize on mid-week discounts by booking early
4. Less Crowded Attractions:
Enjoy a more relaxed experience at the water park attraction- Avoid the weekend crowds.
5. Dining Deals:
Explore mid-week restaurant specials for discounted meals. Some restaurants and diners are nearby and new culinary experiences.
6. Avoid Rush Hour:
Plan travel times to dodge rush hours, ensuring a smoother journey with less traffic. Tip: Avoid Valet parking. $39.00 per night Self park is easy too.
7. Business Travelers:
Check for business-related events- Kalahari Lodge has a very large Convention center; mid-week may be less crowded due to earlier or later meetings.
8. Package Deals:
Seek mid-week travel packages that bundle, accommodations, and activities for a cost-effective experience.
9. Avoid Holidays:
Steer clear of public holidays to minimize both crowds and expenses. TIP: Stay clear of Christmas, Easter weeks -Stick with the plan
10. Check Event Schedules: - Research local events, conferences, and business meetings; mid-week travel may align with quieter periods.
Remember to plan ahead, stay flexible, and take advantage of potential savings for a more relaxed and budget-friendly mid-week travel experience.
