Family vacations are a huge part of the American experience. Parents stress about them for months leading up to the trip and hope to find something that everyone will actually enjoy. Studies show that Americans are drawn to all-inclusive resorts.
A recent study in TravelAgeWest’s “Need to Know” research found that 77% of travel advisors report that “most” or “some” of their clients have opted for an all-inclusive vacation to better manage costs.
The appeal of an all-inclusive resort is that it offers a getaway that includes meals, activities, and entertainment all wrapped up in one price. All-inclusive resorts, long popular in international destinations, have been operating in the United States for decades, offering great alternatives to Mexico or the Caribbean. Without the need for passports, expensive flights, and sunburns, a family can bundle everything in one price, and just show up, prepared to have fun.
Leading Family-Focused Properties
Established American properties have combined breathtaking locations with extensive family programming, creating all-inclusive experiences tailored to multi-generational travel. Many of them have been operating for 50 years or more and have perfected the model.
Woodloch Pines
Woodloch Pines in Hawley, Pennsylvania, has operated as a family resort since 1958. The Pocono Mountains property offers a choice of two to three meals daily, as well as entertainment programming similar to that of a camp. Activities include paddle boating, fishing, archery, tennis, and games such as scavenger hunts, quiz shows, cooking demonstrations, and talent shows. The resort also offers a variety of nightly entertainment.
The food is plentiful, if basic, and served in the large dining room overlooking the lake.
Woodloch excels in all-inclusive experiences. The sheer number of activities for families is astounding. You could spend an entire week here and still discover undiscovered activities. If you have kids under the age of 12, this would be a great all-inclusive option to try this summer.
Mohonk Mountain House
Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz, New York, sits in one of the most beautiful spots in the Northeast. On the banks of a glacial lake surrounded by the Shawangunk Mountains, the views are next level.
The Victorian-era resort, established in 1869, includes meals and most activities, making it a delightful all-inclusive resort. Guests who love hiking can find 85 miles of trails, rock climbing, cross-country skiing, and lake activities, including canoeing and fishing. My husband pronounced this the best hiking he has done in years.
Other activities include tennis, lawn games, guided nature programs, and music. The kids’ programming features a kids’ club for ages 4-12, offering fun outdoor activities led by staff that include hikes, lawn games, crafts, and free playtime.
The food is very good and is served buffet style for breakfast and lunch.
Skytop Resort
Skytop Resort in Skytop, Pennsylvania, is a vast property spanning 5,500 acres in the Pocono Mountains. Founded in the 1920s, the resort offers options for both all-inclusive and traditional hotel-style stays.
No matter which you choose, you’ll have access to various activities, including golf, fishing, hiking trails, lawn bowling, bouncy houses, and staff-led activities. For those who like things a little more adventurous, there are additional paid activities, including a ropes course, zip lines, and ax throwing.
The food at Skytop is a step above the rest. The breakfast is served buffet style, but lunch and dinner are more formal affairs.
High Hampton
High Hampton in Cashiers, North Carolina, reopened in 2021 after extensive renovations. The Blue Ridge Mountains resort offers regular hotel stays, or all-inclusive, including meals. All guests have access to a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing on the Lake, canoeing, and a 18-hole golf course.
The property offers family-friendly programming throughout the year, featuring nature programs, stargazing sessions, and seasonal activities such as apple picking and holiday celebrations.
If you’re a foodie, this is the resort you should book right now. Husband-and-wife chefs Scott and April Franqueza create delicious menus that feature local ingredients and some carefully honed cooking skills. Both of them have worked in restaurants around the world.
All Inclusive Meets Multi-generational travel
Multi-generational travel is growing fast across all sectors, and the appeal of all-inclusive resorts in the United States cannot be overstated. Families seeking convenience without the complications of international travel or the need for passports will appreciate having easy-to-access resorts within the US.
These properties often emphasize outdoor activities and natural settings, differentiating themselves from beach-focused competitors in the Caribbean and Mexico.
Unlike Caribbean resorts that typically center around pools, beaches, and adult-oriented evening entertainment, American all-inclusive properties focus their efforts on multi-generational activities and family experiences. Activities such as guided nature walks, stargazing programs, arts and crafts sessions, and campfire gatherings encourage family bonding rather than typical resort entertainment.
All the properties mentioned also offer family-style activities designed to bring together multiple generations, from grandparents to toddlers, who participate in the same programs.
Are More US All-Inclusive Resorts on the Way?
According to a recent study by Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, 75% of travelers believe the best way to travel is to book an all-inclusive trip, and 77% believe it’s the least stressful way.
The all-inclusive resort sector in the United States is expected to expand as families prioritize simplified vacation planning. All-inclusive makes planning a vacation easier in more ways than just the planning. Bundled pricing helps families budget more effectively, reducing the need for daily decisions about dining and activities. Plus, it makes for a more restful vacation for the vacation planners.
As the domestic all-inclusive market continues developing, resorts that create experiences showcasing regional attractions and natural settings will find families ready to try taking an all-inclusive vacation together.
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