Great Wolf Lodge | Northern California

I think this is better than a pool

This place is great for an all-in-one stay and play vacation or even just for a day visit! There's a little something for everybody it seems! Your basic suites have a mini fridge and there is a communal microwave just down the hall. But they also have large family suites that are theme based! If you're not familiar with Great Wolf Lodge! Check out their website because there is so much more that I didn't even explore. I advise thoroughly reviewing the different packages available for saving money. You can add things like food and beverages to your package or add some of the other activities such as bowling, mini golf, or a rope climb. When you book a room your admission to the water park is included. And, the day you check out you can check out at 11:00 a.m. or for an additional fee you can check out at 2:00 p.m. When you check out of your room you can pack a little day bag and enjoy the rest of the day with continued play at the water park that closes at 8:00 pm. Each night after the water park closes, there is an activity in the lobby designed to get the kids all tuckered out and ready for bed after a fun-filled day! The activities I saw in just the two nights I was there with my grandchildren, included a theme- related craft, storytime with audience participation, and even a dance party! The whole facility was clean and I was very impressed with the staff! They were all so very helpful, courteous, and friendly! There are lifeguards at every turn in the water park! They are at the beginning and end of each water slide as well as stationed around every pool and the lazy river float! For overnight guests, there are in-and-out parking privileges so you can leave the resort by just scanning your wristband (which is also your room key)! This allows you to go find those additional items you forgot at stores such as Costco, Walmart, or a supermarket. Or, you could go grab a meal from one of the many dine-in and fast food restaurants very close by. I found this to be a pleasant surprise, as you can even take outside food into the water park area as to not have to pay resort prices for food, drinks, and snacks! But, if you don't want to leave the property at all... the resort does have restaurants, a convenience store, gift shops, and much more! Oh! Did I mention there were cocktails to be had? Like I said before, there really, truly is something for everyone! There are also great birthday party packages whether you're going for the day or a few days! And this place is practically in my own backyard, only an hour and a half away! I recommend you check it out!!! Note: My daughter found a great deal on Groupon and we saved at least 60 to 75% off the regular Lodge pricing! So that is something worth looking into if you have a chance as well.

The positive: Kids had an absolute BLAST! 5 stars for service because everyone I encountered was friendly and smiling. Shout out to the amazing arcade staff for randomly just handing out a huge handful of tickets to each of my boys - they were thrilled!! 🤩 property is cashless, a card linked to your bracelet allows for easy purchasing, I appreciated not having to carry my wallet. Bracelet also doubles as room key. Super convenient! 3 stars for location because it isn’t the best, but once you’re on site you don’t need to leave the property. The breakfast buffet is a good choice. Plenty of options, keeps the kids full while they run wild in the water park! Lunch options are pretty basic, not terrible, not amazing. Easy ordering process, short waits. Re: activities, I recommend the “wolf pass” as it allows the kids to try everything once at a discount. (The rope course & magic quest were their favorites! ) The slides are fun and the lines moved quickly. The kids & I really enjoyed the group slides. The lobby dance party was darling for the littles! Loved watching the kids tear it up. The negative: The chlorine!! By far the worst part. Major eye burner. A random kid my boys befriended started seeing double/blurry vision and staff had to administer an emergent eye wash. (Not kidding.) Get your kids goggles, preferably prior to arrival unless you love paying a premium. Also, it can be really crowded in the evening. Stuffy. Shoulder to shoulder in some places. The hotel itself is loud & overwhelming for adults in general, I think. The cost adds up (themed room, a magic wand, arcade games, meals, souvenirs) when we went 4 years ago the wolf ears were free at check in, I guess they aren’t anymore? Idk! Cabana rentals are expensive and unnecessary. It’s easy to find a spot to sit, but it gets really muggy in there. Overall, i genuinely enjoyed the quality time with my kids and they were soooo excited to ride the slides with us! Definitely good family time, the lobby dances are very memorable for littles. Yes, the whole trip is expensive, but it’s kinda one of those things you just know going in, it is what it is and you’re there for the memories. My son cried a few night ago at bedtime bc he misses it already. Eventually we’ll go back again!

Very expensive and won't give your deposit back