Great Wolf Lodge – Poconos Review: A Family-Friendly Getaway

Photo of the Wolf Den Suite at Great Wolf Lodge by Anisah Audu-Evans.
When it comes to resorts in the Pocono Mountains, there are quite a few to choose from. Big name water parks like Camelback and Kalahari are among the most booked family-friendly hotels. However you can also opt for casinos, apartments or secluded cabin stays. When it came to picking a location for my first family getaway to the mountains, Great Wolf Lodge is one that kept coming up.
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If you’re looking for a location that guarantees big fun without leaving the Northeast, Great Wolf Lodge in the Pocono Mountains delivers in a big way. Starting with its massive indoor water park – which is heated year-round and designed with all ages in mind – to the woodland adventure theme and inviting lodge-inspired rooms, this was an obvious choice for a trip with my toddler. Wondering what to expect? Feeling nervous for your stay? Read my Great Wolf Lodge – Poconos review on the blog.
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At A Glance: Great Wolf Lodge

Location: 1 Great Wolf Drive, Scotrun, PA 18355.
In a nutshell: Family-friendly resort with an indoor water park and woodland-themed rooms.
Bed & bath: Affordable ‘suites’ that give a rustic wilderness vibe.
Food & drink: Multiple restaurants, from buffet breakfast to burgers, pizza and ice cream.
Location: Pocono Mountains – close to New York and Philadelphia.

The Rooms At Great Wolf Lodge

The Great Wolf Lodge Poconos prices start from around $200 for a night in the basic suite and go all the way to $2000+ for a deluxe villa.

We stayed in a Wolf Den Suite in the Mountain Tower and it was worth every penny. If you’re traveling with one or two young kids, you will definitely appreciate the separate space. Bunk beds are tucked into their own themed nook, complete with animated forest murals. My toddler was thrilled with the animals, and I appreciated having our own bed across the room so we could unwind without disrupting his excitement (or sleep). The decor leans heavily into the rustic, cabin feel – not luxury, but very cozy and charming.

About The Restaurants

Letโ€™s be honest: youโ€™re not coming for the food. Dining on-site is convenient but can be pricey, so book a dining package in advance. Timbers Table & Kitchen offers buffets that are kid-friendly (hello mac and cheese, pizza, and oatmeal with all the toppings), but itโ€™s not exactly gourmet. For a quick bite, Hungry As A Wolf (pizza) or Buckets  (burgers, fries etc.) get the job done.

That said, if you want a proper  meal, Fireside is slightly more elevated. Otherwise, itโ€™s worth venturing a few minutes off-property. The Water’s Edge, Barley Creek Brewing Company and Smugglerโ€™s Cove are local favorites.

Things To Do At Great Wolf Lodge

The water park is hands-down the main event here. Itโ€™s massive, clean, and – most importantly – warm. With temperatures kept at 84ยฐF year-round, it felt like a tropical escape in the middle of Pennsylvania. Thereโ€™s a great mix of thrill and chill: big slides for older kids and parents, splash zones for toddlers, and a lazy river for anyone needing a break. Our favorites? The wave pool and hot tubs. Itโ€™s the kind of place where the kids stay entertained for hours.

That said, it does get crowded, especially at midday. Mornings and late afternoons are your best bet for shorter lines. Better still, pack a pool bag so that you can head here on your check out day and shower in the changing room before heading back home.

As well as the water park, restaurants and arcade, there are events throughout the day. We caught story time by the fireplace. Moreover, we spotted arts and crafts, character meet-and-greets, dance parties and more. Thereโ€™s something happening almost every hour, which means even a rainy day wouldnโ€™t ruin your visit.

FAQ

Is Great Wolf Lodge worth it for adults?

Absolutely! It’s not only kids who are in for a good time here. Make the most of your visit with cocktails and beers at the bar, or go all out and rent a cabana at the water park. Don’t miss the quiet adults-only hot tub either – it was empty while I was there. There is also plenty to do for teenagers; from zip lining to bowling, so they’ll be entertained if you want some alone time.

Great Wolf Lodge Mountain Tower vs Main Lodge vs Woodland Villas?

The Mountain Tower suites are in a newer extension to the Main Lodge, so depending on which room you’re staying in, you could have to ride an elevator and take quite a walk until you get to the water park and restaurants.

If you want to be closest to the action, go for the Main Lodge. If you prefer newer rooms and a more quiet area, the Mountain Tower could be for you.

Staying with a group? The Woodland Villas offer lodge-inspired private living with adjoining kitchens, outdoor terraces, built-in firepit and multiple bedrooms.

What is included with your stay?

Every stay includes:
1. Access to water park from open to close (including day of check in and check out)
2. Life jackets and towels in the water park (you don’t need to bring these)
3. A lineup of daily events (make sure you download the app to see what’s happening, and when!)
4. Wolf ears! The iconic accessory is complimentary upon check in, though you may need to ask.

What should I bring?

Don’t forget a pool bag, as guests staying at the hotel get access to the water park on the day of check in and check out. You can leave the towels and life jackets at home though, as there are plenty there.

What are the attractions at Great Wolf Lodge?

Guests can take part in the following for an extra fee:
1. Magiquest (take part in an adventure with a special magic wand – best for older children and teens)
2. Howlers Peak Rope Course (aerial climbing – best for older children and teens as guests must be 48 inches tall)
3. Ten Paw Alley (with shorter lanes and smaller bowling balls for all ages)
4. Oliver’s Mining Co. (indoor treasure seeking for all ages)
5. Moonstone Mirror Maze (interactive mining experience for all ages)
6. Northern Lights Arcade (arcade with prizes and games for all ages)
7. Howl at the Moon Glow Golf (best for older children and teens)

BOOK YOUR ROOM AT GREAT WOLF LODGE

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