10 Essential Summer Resorts for Family Fun

Is there a season more delightful than summer? While some may disagree, for many, the warmth, sunshine, and carefree vibe of this time bring the most joy.

It's a period when families can come together more easily, festivals and fairs fill urban areas, and travelers embark on their own versions of the great American road trip.

Choosing a destination for your summer getaway in the U.S. can be challenging due to the abundance of options. From vibrant cities to diverse national parks, pristine beaches, deserts, plains, forests, and more, the choices are vast.

To help you find the perfect spot for your summer adventure, we've focused on a selection of resorts and hotels that provide a classic summer experience reminiscent of our favorite camp memories — but with superior dining and no obligatory capture-the-flag games. Enjoy outdoor adventures and water activities at a range of accommodations, from points-friendly properties to a whimsical all-inclusive castle.

No matter where you venture, remember to pack your sunscreen!

Mohonk Mountain House

One of the finest family resorts in the nation is Mohonk Mountain House, a charming castle located just 90 miles from New York City. Established in 1869 and nestled within 40,000 acres of woodland, Mohonk is ideal for year-round visits, especially in the summer. There are activities for everyone, including canoeing, swimming in Lake Mohonk, archery, ax throwing, hiking, horseback riding, outdoor movies, campfires, and concerts. Plus, your stay covers three meals a day (with alcohol available at an extra cost), afternoon tea with cookies, and most activities, allowing you to have a clear idea of your trip budget.

Families will find a kids' club packed with activities, giving parents a chance to enjoy some personal time.

Booking Details: Mohonk Mountain House tends to be on the expensive side. However, considering all that’s included—particularly meals—it might actually represent better value than it seems. During the summer, prices often exceed $1,000 per night for two guests. Fortunately, kids stay for free during midweek stays of at least two nights until September 1.

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa

For a remarkable getaway in Texas, consider a stay at Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa, located about 20 miles from Austin in the picturesque Texas Hill Country. This Category 6 World of Hyatt property lets you cool off by floating along a lazy river, speeding down waterslides, or relaxing in an adults-only pool for some tranquility. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy an 18-hole golf course, while those seeking adventure can partake in horseback riding, zip lining, archery, fishing, and trap shooting. Dining options abound, featuring a chic farm-to-table restaurant, a modern steakhouse, an intimate sushi counter with only ten seats, and a delightful ice cream parlor.

Booking Details: As a Category 6 World of Hyatt resort, the nightly rates at Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa typically range from 21,000 to 29,000 points. Cash prices vary throughout the summer and can drop as low as $307 per night.

Big Cedar Lodge

The stunning Ozark Mountains in Missouri are a sight to behold. A fantastic spot to set up a temporary residence is at the expansive Big Cedar Lodge, located adjacent to the 10,000-acre Dogwood Canyon Nature Park. During the summer months from May to September, visitors can partake in special events like miniature golf contests, live concerts, and family bonfires, along with activities such as sand volleyball, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming in the pools or lazy river. There’s even an amusement park featuring go-karts, bowling, a ropes course, and more. If that’s not sufficient, consider renting a boat to explore the lakes or enroll in wakeboarding lessons. Don’t miss the spectacular fireworks display!

How to book: Big Cedar Lodge provides a wide range of lodging options, from glamping tents to fully equipped cabins, along with numerous choices in between. You can find prices starting at around $300 per night for off-site "camp huts" and reaching up to $1,000 per night for larger cabins.

Grand Hotel

Located on Mackinac Island in Michigan, the Grand Hotel—affectionately dubbed "America's Summer Place"—offers a unique twist on the traditional summer resort experience. Each charming room showcases its own character, history is prominently featured, and horse-drawn carriages are the standard mode of transportation since vehicles are prohibited. Guests can engage in various outdoor pursuits such as hiking, strolling through vibrant gardens, horseback riding, tennis, and golf. The hotel’s pool and pool house have recently received a $10 million upgrade. Don't miss the Woodlands Activity Center, which includes a mini-golf course, a nature center, and BMX trails. With 13 on-site dining options and bars, there's something for everyone.

How to book: Summer rates at Grand Hotel start at approximately $399 per night, but these prices can vary greatly throughout the season.

Omni Mount Washington Resort

Nestled in New Hampshire, the stunning and historic Omni Mount Washington Resort is surrounded by 800,000 acres of the White Mountain National Forest. A summer visit here means action-packed days filled with fly-fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking, guided rock climbing, and the exhilarating opportunity to zip line across New England’s longest course. The resort features an 18-hole golf course and a disc golf course for those who prefer a different swing. You can also enjoy breathtaking views on a gondola ride or take a journey on "The Cog," the world’s first mountain-climbing cog railway.

How to book: Rates at Omni Mount Washington Resort begin at approximately $229 per night.

Bishop's Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection

Featured on TPG's list of the best new hotels of 2021, Bishop's Lodge in Santa Fe, New Mexico, provides a luxurious getaway that highlights Southwest-inspired summer activities. Once you arrive, you might find it hard to leave the beautiful room complete with a traditional kiva fireplace, but an exciting world awaits outside. Experience an adventurous rafting trip on the Rio Grande, challenge yourself on a mountain bike, or master the art of fly-fishing. For a more relaxed outing, consider a chocolate-tasting session, an outdoor art class, a mindfulness experience in nature, or a gentle hike. The Coyote Camp Kids Club offers engaging activities that allow children to discover their surroundings and unleash their creativity.

How to book: Summer rates for accommodations at the Auberge-affiliated Bishop's Lodge begin at $809 per night. From now until September 2, children under 10 can dine for free from the resort's kids' menu.

The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa

Looking to embrace your inner cowboy this summer? Or perhaps you desire ample space to relax? Head over to Sonora, Texas, just a few hours west of Austin, for a stay at this sophisticated and cozy resort, featuring only 16 rooms and 16 cabins. While the spa offers a tranquil retreat for parents, it's the engaging activities available on the expansive 13,000-acre ranch that truly shine. Dive into the cowboy lifestyle by learning to ride a horse, followed by indulging in a classic cowboy cookout. Afterward, take a bike for a trail ride before cooling off in the infinity pool and enjoying karaoke night. Beyond the resort, don’t miss the enchanting Caverns of Sonora.

How to book: Room rates at The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa start at $399 per night. Please note that a two-night stay is required for bookings.

Carmel Valley Ranch

Nestled on 500 acres just outside Carmel Valley, California, Carmel Valley Ranch is an all-suite resort that belongs to Hyatt's Unbound Collection. Guests may find themselves delighted by the myriad of activities offered, ranging from traditional tennis and golf to more unique experiences like beekeeping and falconry. Sharpen your archery skills, connect with local artisans, or interact with the resort's friendly animals, including fluffy alpacas and charming goats. Visitors can also explore the nearby wine region or gather around a fire pit to enjoy s'mores. Perfect for families or an adults-only retreat, this resort is a fantastic way to earn some World of Hyatt points this summer.

How to book: As a Category 8 World of Hyatt resort, standard award nights at Carmel Valley Ranch range from 35,000 to 45,000 points. Cash rates begin at $389 per night.

Cliff House

If you're seeking milder summer temperatures, consider embarking on a road trip around Maine to explore its stunning coastal vistas. At Cliff House, a resort set on a rugged stretch of Cape Neddick, the whole family will be captivated by the panoramic ocean views, various on-site activities, and nearby outdoor adventures both in and out of the water, along with stylish rooms, suites, and cottages. Enjoy the indoor and outdoor pools, catch a film at the cinema, discover wildlife at the center, or participate in arts and crafts classes. For an authentic New England experience, indulge in a Maine lobster bake, then gather around a fire pit to end the evening listening to the waves crash against the rocky shore.

How to book: Rates at Cliff House start at approximately $859 per night.

The Resort at Paws Up

Nature beckons in Montana, particularly at the renowned Resort at Paws Up, recognized as one of the most glamorous glamping resorts available. At this activity-rich resort, families can choose from a variety of accommodations, ranging from opulent glamping tents to spacious cabin-style homes perfect for everyone. However, you'll likely spend the majority of your time outdoors on the expansive 37,000-acre ranch, engaging in activities such as cattle drives, ATV rides, fly-fishing, horseback riding, or even taking a hot air balloon ride to appreciate the breathtaking scenery. Best of all, rates at The Resort at Paws Up include three daily meals (with select alcoholic beverages) along with many activities (though not all).

How to book: Summer rates at The Resort at Paws Up begin at $3,354 per night for two adults and two children in a luxury two-bedroom tent. For a two-bedroom, two-bathroom house, rates start at $3,990 per night for two adults and two children.