Weekend Getaway That’s a Howling Good Time – Great Wolf Lodge

Looking for a weekend getaway that’s sure to be a howling good time for the whole family…? Great Wolf Lodge is just the place. We have visited this wildly entertaining destination twice now, and both times it did not disappoint. And I imagine we’ll go back for many more visits to come. This place is packed full of family fun activities.

Great Wolf Lodge is probably best known for its indoor waterpark. Which is what initially drew us to this location (in the middle of winter, might I add). And I must say, the waterpark is a blast! They have it all – from a section for tiny tots, to thrilling waterslides, and everything in between. It’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages and parents alike. In fact, they even have a restaurant and bar for snacks, lunch, and adult beverages – all of which you can pay for by scanning your Great Wolf Lodge wristband so there’s no need to tote your wallet with you. There’s also no need to worry about bringing a towel or lifejacket, as those are provided. (Just be sure to return them.) And there’s a Surf Shop in case you forgot your flipflops or any other random water-related item. It’s like they thought of everything.

In the warmer months, they have an outdoor section to the waterpark, as well. Outside, you can also find the mini golf course, and an adrenaline rush of an obstacle course. Only the outdoor water features are closed during the colder months, so you can still go putt putting and climb a crazy rope course if the weather permits. Personally, I love some miniature golf, but you won’t find me anywhere near that obstacle course, haha.

The rest of the lodge holds more fun attractions. The arcade is always a favorite for my kiddo, as is the gem mining activity. But wait; there’s more… So much more! The gift shop features a Build-A-Bear Workshop, there’s laser tag, bowling, an XD theater, and MagiQuest adventure games, not to mention the fun and FREE activities that they have scheduled all day long in the lobby. Seriously, there’s no getting bored at this place! There are also several places to eat inside the resort. And I have to say that the buffet at The Loose Moose Cottage is pretty dang tasty.

So, yeah… This place is paw-some! If you’re interested in checking it out, I do have some tips for first-time visitors.

When starting the booking process, be sure to check their website for any promotions they might be running.
When you check in, be sure to pick up an Activity Schedule at the front desk so you know when all the fun and free shenanigans are taking place. (PS: The dance party even includes glow sticks!)
Also be sure to stop by the gift shop to get FREE wolf ears for you and your kiddo(s).
Your wristband is your room key, payment method, and park pass. Make sure it is secure and comfortable when you put it on because you don’t want to take it off until you’re on your way home. If it’s too tight, you’ll be miserable. If it’s too loose, you run the risk of losing it.
Also be sure to commit your room number to memory (for obvious reasons) and because that, and your wristband, is how you’ll likely pay for everything because the lodge is cashless.
You might want to look into purchasing a Pup Pass, Paw Pass, or Wolf Pass because if you plan to do several of the attractions, this will likely save you some money.
You can purchase a “late checkout” option with your stay so that you can enjoy more time at the lodge before you have to head home.
When you go to the arcade and use the kiosk to get/load your play card, select the digital tickets option so you don’t have to carry around piles of tickets. The digital tickets simply load on your card. Trust me, I’ve made the paper ticket mistake…
Click this link to view the Lodge Map.
You can text Willow (your virtual assistant) at any time during your stay: 704-585-8877
There’s also a Great Wolf app (naturally…) that can make your life a lot easier while you’re visiting the resort.
The suites are very nice, but if you live close enough, you can also get a day pass to the waterpark.
There are also several Great Wolf Lodge locations if this particular one is not close for you.
If you’re thinking of celebrating a birthday at the resort, you might want to check out their party packages.
If you want a table or seating at the waterpark, and don’t want to fight the crowd, you can reserve your own personal cabana (very sweet). Because if you’re not there when the doors first open, you’re not likely to get a spot.
Please have eyes on your kiddo(s) at all times, especially in the waterpark. It’s a busy place and water can be dangerous. During our last visit, I saw no less than three different kids (of all ages) that were rescued and/or assisted by the amazing staff members – with their adults nowhere to be found.
If you’re having an amazing time, don’t be afraid to howl about it. No joke; you’ll find that people randomly howl here, haha.