The Most Fun Hotels for Kids Across the U.S.

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The Most Fun Hotels for Kids in the U.S. — Region by Region

I am totally guilty of planning entire vacations around a hotel that looks awesome. I don’t even care where it is or what’s around it–I want to only spend time at the amazing hotel. Especially when it looks like something my kids will love. And I’m talking more than just a pool and a kid’s menu—think features designed especially for little ones, plus amenities like complimentary breakfast that families really appreciate. But even better, I’m talking amenities and experiences on site that will entertain my kids for days.

If you’re looking for a getaway where the hotel is the entertainment, these hotels ought to do the trick. They’re for sure some of the most fun hotels for kids in the U.S. And I’m sure there are many more that I am unaware of, so add your favorites in the comments. That way I can explore more!

Fun Hotels for Kids on the West Coast

LEGOLAND Hotel – Carlsbad, California

This place is pure magic for LEGO lovers. Each room is themed (Pirate, Kingdom, Adventure, LEGO Friends, or Ninjago), with a separate kids’ sleeping area and a treasure hunt challenge built into check-in for kids. You’re steps from LEGOLAND California, and even the elevators are a party—complete with disco lights and music. Bonus: nightly LEGO-themed entertainment in the lobby.

This hotel is a on my list of the best theme hotels in the U.S. as well.

Sunriver Resort – Sunriver, Oregon

This high-desert property near Bend is like a family summer camp with luxury touches, offering a wide range of amenities and activities for families. There’s a massive pool complex with a lazy river, horseback riding, kayaking, and a fort-style playground. In winter, it’s a snowy wonderland with tubing hills and sleigh rides.

This resort almost feels like a full-on dude ranch, but without the crazy expensive price tag.

Great Wolf Lodge – Multiple Locations – A fun waterpark hotel for kids

Great Wolf is a chain, but every location offers that wow-factor for kids. Think massive indoor water park, MagiQuest interactive scavenger hunts, themed suites with log cabin bunk beds, character breakfasts, and story time in PJs. It’s a resort designed around families, rain or shine. While the kids splash and play, parents can unwind at the hotel’s bar, making it enjoyable for everyone. It’s one of my kids’ favorites.

Southwest Adventures

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess – Scottsdale, Arizona – One of the most fun hotels for kids year round

This resort is a playground for families. During holidays and summer seasons, the Fairmont goes all out with kid-friendly fun like water slides, splash pads, dive-in movies, fireworks and even a kid-sized zip line. The resort often features live music performances as part of its entertainment lineup, adding to the festive atmosphere for both kids and adults. You can also get complimentary fishing rods from the front desk and try casting a line in one of the ponds on site. You can read more about our experience at this resort here

In addition to all that, their “Trailblazers Kids Club“ offers activities like desert animal encounters, poolside science experiments, and indoor climbing walls. During winter, the resort transforms into a full-blown holiday wonderland with a skating rink, train rides, character meet-and-greets, and nightly snowfall. It’s basically Scottsdale meets Santa’s Village.

Parents will appreciate the luxury touches, world-class spa, and incredible restaurants while the kids are off adventuring.

The Woodlands Resort – The Woodlands, Texas

Just north of Houston, this resort features a sprawling pool area with a lazy river, dive-in movies, kayaking, bike trails, and even a s’mores cart. It’s a hit with kids of all ages.

The J.W. Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort – San Antonio, Texas

This resort is a dream for active families: a full-on water park with a lazy river, waterslides, and a sandy beach, plus mini-golf and a kids’ activity zone. Their River Bluff Water Experience keeps kids entertained for hours. There’s also a peaceful nature trail if you need a break from the splash. Bonus if you have a golfer in the family: this resort is adjacent to a PGA golf course and is home to the Valero Texas Open.

Read about our experience at the JW Marriott San Antonio Resort here.

Fun Hotels for Kids in Colorado

The Broadmoor – Colorado Springs, Colorado

If you’re dreaming of a family vacation that blends luxury with non-stop family fun, The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs is a must-see. This iconic hotel is packed with family friendly activities and amenities that make it one of the best hotels for families in Colorado. Kids will love splashing in the large outdoor pool, while parents can unwind at the world-class spa or enjoy a leisurely breakfast from the complimentary buffet.

The Broadmoor’s spacious family suites are designed for comfort, with plenty of room for everyone to relax after a day of adventure. Step outside and you’ll find endless opportunities for outdoor fun—think horseback riding, hiking scenic trails, or even casting a line for some fishing. The hotel’s prime location near Pikes Peak means you’re just a short drive from theme parks and all the perks of Colorado Springs, making it easy to explore the area’s top attractions.

When it’s time to refuel, The Broadmoor’s restaurants offer delicious dining options for every palate, from casual bites to elegant meals. Whether you’re looking to spend time together by the pool, embark on a mountain adventure, or simply relax on your private balcony or patio, The Broadmoor delivers the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation for your next family getaway.

This resort also does awesome holiday events. It’s on my list of the most magical Christmas hotels and the best New Years Eve hotels for families.

YMCA of the Rockies – Estes Park, Colorado

I originally put this hotel on the list of the best family resorts in Colorado. But I decided it needed a place on this list as well.

For families seeking a classic Colorado adventure with all the comforts of home, the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park is a fantastic choice. This family friendly resort is all about making memories, offering a huge variety of family friendly activities that keep kids and parents smiling from check in to check out. Start your day with a family scavenger hunt, then dive into the outdoor pool or soak in the hot tub while taking in those breathtaking mountain views.

The YMCA of the Rockies features spacious family suites—many with kitchens—so you can whip up snacks or meals whenever you like. The resort’s unbeatable location puts you right next to Rocky Mountain National Park, opening up a world of adventure: hiking, boating, horseback riding, and wildlife spotting are all just steps away.

When you’re ready to relax, enjoy the resort’s dining options, including a cozy restaurant and café, or head into the nearby town of Estes Park to explore local shops, restaurants, and family friendly entertainment. Whether you’re planning a laid-back family getaway or an action-packed vacation, the YMCA of the Rockies is the perfect home base for fun, adventure, and quality time together in the heart of Colorado.

Southeast Escapes

Gaylord Opryland Resort – Nashville, Tennessee – An amazingly fun hotel for kids and adults

This jaw-dropping resort features indoor rivers (with boat rides!), waterfalls, and lush gardens under glass atriums. There’s an epic SoundWaves water experience, scavenger hunts, interactive exhibits, and seasonal festivities—especially magical during the holidays. It’s even on my list of the most magical Christmastime hotels for families. And it’s located very close to Grand Ole Opry, which is a must-do in Nashville!

Omni Homestead Resort – Hot Springs, Virginia

This classic resort mixes southern charm with tons of family fun—think zip lining, mini-golf, horseback riding, a lazy river, and even a natural hot springs-fed pool. The kids’ club and outdoor adventures make it a memorable escape. It ranks high on my list of best family resorts in Virginia.

The Hotel Chalet at the Choo Choo – Chattanooga, Tennessee – One of the most unique & fun hotels for kids

This resort is too unique not to mention. Families can sleep in restored train cars and explore the historic train depot. It’s a quirky and memorable stop that train-loving kids will adore, right in the heart of a charming, walkable city. While you’re there, be sure to explore the nearby old town for additional family-friendly attractions, local dining, and cultural experiences.

Hawaiian Paradise

Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa – Ko Olina, Oahu, Hawaii

Not only is this resort one of the most fun hotels for kids, it’s also in one of the most beautiful places. Aulani blends Hawaiian culture with Disney magic. There’s a lazy river, splash zones, water slides, a snorkeling lagoon, ukulele lessons, and character meet-and-greets—with a more peaceful vibe than the theme parks. This hotel is high on my bucket list for family travel places in North America.

Ready to plan your next adventure? Visit the Aulani website to learn more or plan your visit to this magical resort.

Rocky Mountain & Western Escapes

The Ranch at Rock Creek – Philipsburg, Montana – One of the most fun dude ranch hotels for kids

It’s like summer camp, but so much better. The Ranch at Rock Creek is an all-inclusive, luxury dude ranch with horseback riding, archery, wildlife tracking, and fly fishing. There are guided kids’ adventures and even a ropes course, plus glamping options for a Western experience with comfort. It’s a unique getaway that your kids will talk about for a long time.

Fun Hotels for Kids in Florida

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – Orlando, Florida

Disney World is home to many fun hotels for kids. But this one stands out for a few reasons. One, you’re immersed in Disney magic without breaking the bank. Plus, with suites themed after Cars, The Lion King, Finding Nemo, and The Little Mermaid, this resort is a feast for the eyes. It’s one of our favorite family resorts in Orlando. The pools are epic (one even plays music underwater), and you get all the perks of staying at a Disney resort—plus access to the Skyliner gondolas.

The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island – Amelia Island, Florida

This one’s a bit more upscale but still super fun for families. There’s a pirate-themed kids’ program (with real treasure hunts!), a naturalist who leads kids on eco tours of the beach, and nightly s’mores. Parents will love the spa and golf course while kids are off adventuring.

East Coast Favorites

Mohonk Mountain House – New Paltz, New York – One of the most fun hotels for kids and adults alike

When I first saw pictures of the Mohonk Mountain House, I could not believe this existed in the U.S. This castle-like resort perched on a mountain lake has an incredible roster of kid-friendly offerings: boating, hiking, swimming, crafts, scavenger hunts, rock scrambling, and a junior naturalist program. Plus, the setting is straight out of a fairy tale. This hotel also makes my list of the best Christmas hotels for families.

Congress Hall – Cape May, New Jersey

Known as “America’s First Seaside Resort,” Congress Hall blends old-school charm with family-friendly fun. There are beach cabanas, lawn games, bike rentals, and a kids’ program called “Blue’s Clubhouse” with nature walks and crafts. The hotel is just a short walk from the beach and local shops, making it easy for families to explore. In summer, they even host a carnival on the lawn!

Bonus: Unexpectedly Awesome

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts – Various Locations Nationwide

Think of this as camping, but way more fun. Jellystone parks offer cabin accommodations along with daily character visits, water zones, obstacle courses, gem mining, hayrides, and crafts. Each location is a bit different, but all are family-focused with that silly Yogi Bear charm.

Final Thoughts

These hotels go way beyond the basics. They turn a simple family trip into a full-blown adventure your kids will remember for years. Whether you’re hitting the beach, the desert, or the mountains, there’s a hotel out there that’s just as much fun as the destination itself.

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