There’s a chill in the air here in Chicago.  For me, that means it means it’s time to start planning ways to help our family survive another winter, without the kids all driving each other nuts in the basement family room.

One favorite way for Midwestern families to escape cabin fever is a weekend escape to the Wisconsin Dells, the water park capital of the United States.  There’s a lot to do in the Dells in the summer, but for our family, doin’ the Dells is a winter sport, best done on a bitterly cold weekend, when you’ve run out of ways to entertain the kids indoors. When you just can’t watch another kids movie and you’re bored with board games, the Dells can feel like a tropical paradise.  

Great Wolf Lodge

We did the Dells last winter and stayed at the Great Wolf Lodge.  We had a howling good time in this vast indoor wilderness. It’s an aquatic adventure that will please both the little ones, who can hang out in the zero depth entry area, as well as my pre-teen sons who were screaming with delight (along with their mom) as we plunged down the Howlin’ Tornado.  This 80,000 square foot water park is kept a toasty 84 degrees and  the frozen beverage bars by the pools really bring the tropical mood home.

MagiQuest

When we needed a break from the aquatic action, my 11 year old and I headed over to Great Wolf’s newest activity— MagiQuest. It’s an interactive fantasy role play game where you get your own magic wand and attempt to slay dragons, unlock secret chambers and learn from wizards.  This fantasy world game was a perfect escape for a couple hours.

If you’re looking for an affordable weekend escape, Great Wolf Lodge is a great option. 

If You Go:

Great Wolf Lodge
www.greatwolf.com/dells
1-800-559-9653

disclosure: We stayed as guests at the Great Wolf  Lodge, but my opinions are all my own.

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