reunions

Family Bonding Activities to Try This Winter at Woodloch Resort

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10 Family Bonding Activities to Try This Winter

While family bonding is a natural integral aspect for us all, no two families are the same. Mastering a healthy home and work balance takes years, sometimes decades, of practice. Bonding as a family unit often takes a backseat to individual sports, work deadlines, and school projects. To make matters even more complex, many families have kids in nearly every age group—from teens to toddlers.

Thus, family-focused vacationing has evolved into a crucial practice for large families. Woodloch, a multigenerational family-owned and operated business, knows the importance of incorporating a bevy of family bonding activities while vacationing. Thus, we’ve pieced together 10 unique ways to bond this winter here at the number one family resort in the country, according to USA Today.

10 Wintry, Festive Family Bonding Activities

At Woodloch, on any given day, lucky guests can partake in 30-plus, homegrown, family bonding activities, ranging from “Trebek-ardy” (a Jeopardy spin-off) to The Amazing Race and extreme paintball. In the wintertime, we embrace the snowy, frosty landscape by constructing a blazing-fast snow hill and crafting a lake-top ice skating rink, among many other things. Woodloch has a splendid mix of indoor and outdoor pursuits during core hours so that guests will always have a place to thaw while simultaneously having loads of fun.

Go for gold at the Winter Olympics, a family-focused, six-event extravaganza that would make Lindsay Vonn, Shaun White, and Mikaela Shiffrin proud.
Blast down Woodloch’s famous snow tubing hill, perfect for adventurous parent-kiddo tandems!
Lace ‘em up! Channel your inner Dorothy Hamill or Scott Hamilton on Lake Teeduskung’s natural ice skating rink. Or, utilize the synthetic, four-season ice sheet to work on that Zdeno Chara slapshot.
Gather for a family-style dinner where the littlest ones can learn essential skills, such as sharing, table manners, and healthy food groups. Oh, and the edibles here at Woodloch are nothing short of delicioso!
Embark on a scavenger hunt that will challenge your wits and stamina.
Crash into each other in our spacious bumper car facility—giggles will assuredly ensue.
Start a (baking) war. Woodloch is known for its cupcake wars, but we also offer many seasonally-inspired cooking contents, such as the “Gingerbread Wars.”
Test your knowledge via a trivia conquest, such as the “Brain Quest,” “Cash Cab,” “Survey Says,” or the classic Woodloch Feud.
Outsmart a themed escape room as a family unit. This winter’s theme is “Get a Clue.”

Photo of a Family Photo During the Winter Olympics, One of the Best Family Bonding Activities.

The Best Family Bonding Vacations: Welcome to Woodloch!

Because Woodloch is magnificently situated in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, only two hours from Manhattan, we’ve grown into an elite family bonding vacation destination, even amid winter’s snowy hearth. An all-inclusive stay includes two (or three) meals daily, comfortable accommodations, countless on-site activities, and live entertainment. Please read through the extensive Woodloch Wellness Standard before your arrival. It’s our collaborative goal to “Resort Responsibly.” And, as we near Santa’s arrival, remember to browse through our seasonal packages.

Filed Under: Activities, reunions, Uncategorized, Winter Tagged With: snow vacations

Planning a Family Getaway in Pennsylvania | Woodloch Resort

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Planning a family Getaway in Pennsylvania

Months into quarantine, you are likely still cooped up with your families wondering when your next vacation may be. And with trips abroad out of the question, a family getaway to Pennsylvania could be an ideal alternative. The good news is that Woodloch, the best family resort in the Pocono Mountains, is back to serving visitors once again, allowing them to soak in the beauty of nature and the wilderness at the mountains. It’s a great place for families to participate in good old fashioned (socially distanced) fun, while breathing in some fresh air.

Allow us to walk you through planning this family getaway in Pennsylvania.

Getting your finances in check

Costs As a family, one reason you may put off a vacation or getaway is because of your finances. For example, Budget Your Trip states that traveling to Philadelphia, which is about a two hour drive from the Poconos, is pegged at a daily price of $136 per person. A one-week vacation may be around $1,901 for two people, but the price per person can decrease if you are traveling as a family. No matter where families are going in the state they need to look out for deals that will save them money. This is why those who come to Woodloch can take advantage of our Kids 6 and Under free deal. Yet even when trying to budget many families are wisely factoring their safety into their finances.

Insurance Cheryl Golden of InsureMyTrip says that one thing that people are prioritizing when traveling these days is travel insurance, and this is where the added costs come in. The firm foresees that 25 to 30% of travelers will purchase travel insurance from now on for a sense of security. In these times it is highly recommended that you invest in insurance to be on the safe side. Yet, there is no question that this figure can be quite steep, which is something to be factored into your travel fund.

Tips on how to finance your getaway

With the increased airfares and added insurance many people may not have the cash in hand to afford a family getaway. One way to fund your getaway is to opt for a loan as this will help you cover the fluctuating costs. This can be especially helpful if you have been watching your finances but still want to take the family on a weekend away. A guide to personal loans by Marcus outlines how there are specific packages aimed at those saving for a vacation. You can use this type of loan to cover the most costly expenses such as travel insurance and hotel rooms. This allows you to pay over an extended period of time, so you can afford to take a trip and are not constantly worrying about finances to the detriment of your enjoyment. While it may be tempting (and easier) to put everything on your credit card, it is not advised as you may end up with an enormous unexpected debt when you get home.

Finding a balance in activities

When budgeting for your family getaway, it is also necessary to consider your daily activities and excursions. You can allow yourselves some excitement in choosing these, as they can get you pumped for your much needed escape. Travel tips from experts interviewed by HuffPost include finding the balance between being prepared but realistic. If you choose to visit us, there are tons of activities awaiting you at the Poconos resort, but you should not feel pressured to tick off all of them. After all, this getaway is also a chance for you to relax.

Have a good look at the offerings we have – perhaps you can do some golf for dad, the spa for mom, wine tasting for both parents, art classes for the kids, and fishing for the whole family. Choosing activities that will make everyone happy will make it easier for you to write your rough itinerary. This way, you can also prioritize which activities and amenities you are willing to spend on, and this will then be added to your overall travel fund.

Adjusting to new concerns

Although travel may look a lot different compared to what it used to be, this doesn’t mean that it isn’t doable. The bottom line in planning a family getaway is to get everyone involved in order to open lines of communication. As previously mentioned, the demand for travel insurance is high right now, giving potential travelers peace of mind. Advice from Condé Nast Traveler emphasizes making sure that you do what you can to make everyone comfortable. Just know that we are taking COVID-19 very seriously for your safety.

Planning a family vacation is no easy feat, but with strategic steps, compromise, clear communication, and a dash of anticipation and excitement, you will see your getaway come to fruition in no time. Now, there’s no excuse to shelve your family getaway for the distant future. Make those memories happen as soon as you can – and let the Pocono Mountain be the backdrop for this to happen.

Filed Under: reunions

Surprise Vacation: The Ideal Family Christmas Gift | Woodloch Resort

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The Ideal Family Christmas Gift: Plan a Surprise Vacation

There’s nothing quite like a surprise vacation with the kids, especially when it’s wrapped with a tidy bow under the Christmas tree. Santa Claus knows how much your family deserves an extended break from the city en route to the Pocono Mountains. It’s hard to imagine a Christmas-themed wonderland that’s more jolly and festive than Woodloch, the top-ranked family resort in the U.S. Saint Nick himself and his faithful reindeer are scheduled to visit Woodloch this December, just in time for your well-deserved surprise vacation.

All-Inclusive Christmas Packages

The “Ultimate Christmas Break” is tailor-made for a surprise vacation with the kiddos, as it runs from December 26–29. What’s better than a holly jolly Christmas at home, surrounded by loved ones and a mountain of presents? A four-day post-Christmas extravaganza at Woodloch! OK, so here’s how it works: Mom or Dad book the “ultimate holiday gathering” online, place the gift under the tree (From: Santa Claus, To: Fam), and save it for last. Just make sure there aren’t full glasses of eggnog around, because the whole gang is bound to leap, shriek, and high-five in a fit of joy. If you prefer to speak with a friendly reservationist, simply dial 800-966-3562.

Photo of Santa Claus at Woodloch. Plan a Surprise Vacation around Christmastime!

Surprise Vacation = Unending Christmas Cheer

Woodloch’s village of employees takes Christmas to…ANOTHER LEVEL. Not only do we have Santa Claus on speed dial, but our annual Festival of Lights remains one of the most dazzling spectacles in the Pocono Mountains around the holidays. Meanwhile, the stimulating yule log hunt will keep the kids (and adults) guessing for hours until, of course, it’s time for some eggnog, sugar cookies, and perhaps a visit from the North Pole’s fearless leader! Other smile-inducing activities include the gingerbread wars, Christmas caroling, reindeer races, and hot cocoa around a crackling bonfire.

Snow-Packed Fun under the Sun

If you’re a good girl or boy this autumn, maybe Santa Claus will talk Jack Frost into providing some sunshine and moderate temperatures? Regardless, the family will be able to partake in dozens of homegrown activities throughout your stay, including snow tubing, ice skating, and, of course, the Winter Olympics, a hair-raising family-based competition for the ages! When you need to warm up, feel free to swish inside for a swim, a splash, and a crash.

It’s never too early to start thinking about the holidays. To learn more about a potential surprise vacation to Woodloch, please visit our packages page.

Filed Under: holiday, reunions, Winter Tagged With: christmas

Kids’ Night Out at Woodloch Resort: Fun After-Dark Activities

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Woodloch-Style Kids’ Night Out: Fun After-Dark Activities

We’re rapidly approaching Jack Frost’s inevitable arrival here at Woodloch, the country’s most beloved family resort. Soon enough, the Pocono Mountains will shed its autumn skin, and winter will subtly greet the land with fresh powder, crystalline hoarfrost, and oodles of holiday spirit. The fun never ceases at Woodloch, even in the heart of winter. And the midwinter savings are impossible to ignore, especially if you’re looking for a discounted midweek stay. Once the sun dips behind frozen Lake Teedyuskung, droves of families flock indoors for a warm family-style meal and some live, late-night entertainment. However, there are several other after-dark activities if the family feels the need to explore our massive indoor complex, including movies, games, crafts, and more. It’s the kids’ night out that your little ones never knew they needed!

A Kids’ Night Out in the Pocono Mountains

Every kiddo is different. It’s not easy to find an after-dark activity that everyone can agree upon. Thankfully, Woodloch’s all-inclusive packages allow the whole gang to find suitable activities that will leave a lasting impression on your long-awaited escape. We’ve pieced together unique nighttime pursuits that will assuredly lead to wide smiles during your next Woodloch-themed kids’ night out.

Live entertainment – You don’t want to miss the night’s entertainment, ranging from themed shows to magicians and comedians.
Horse races – Win prizes by selecting the victorious “steed.” These wooden horses may run at a snail’s pace, but the lively atmosphere is palpable.
Woodloch Forest – Get “lost” in Woodloch’s indoor playground forest or play arcade-style games nearby.
York Room movies – Grab some popcorn, find a seat, and let the movie magic begin! The York Room shows two movies nightly, ranging from Pixar hits to Marvel blockbusters.
Ice skating – Lace up your skates and hit the ice inside our four-season rink. The 9,000-square-foot synthetic surface is an idyllic place to learn how to skate.
Arts and crafts – If the littlest ones still have some energy after dinner, slip into the arts and crafts room. Sit back, relax, and watch their creativity soar!
Arcade bunker – Hours upon hours of gaming awaits inside Woodloch’s “bunker,” home to various pinball machines, racing games, classic arcade systems, pool, and ping pong.
Trivia contests – It’s always trivia night here in the Poconos. We take a wide variety of traditional trivia contests, such as Cash Cab, Name That Tune, Family Feud, and put a Woodloch spin on them.
Silent DJ party – Woodloch’s staff-led, three-DJ silent party is a hit! There are enough headphones for everyone, including Mom and Dad. It’s the perfect exclamation point to a long-awaited kids’ night out.

Award-Winning, All-Inclusive Family Resorts

Hopefully, these 9 late-night activities give you a “taste” of what a Woodloch-style kids’ night out could look and feel like. Don’t forget that the Woodloch experience is all-inclusive, as all meals, accommodations, and (most) activities are included in the packaged price. We highly recommend keeping your eyes peeled for money-saving specials, especially during the cozy wintertime season. When the sun’s shining, the whole family can partake in dozens of homegrown activities, such as the Winter Olympics, snow tubing, and ice skating on Lake Teedyuskung. Please check availability online at your earliest convenience by clicking the “Book Now” button on the top right corner of your screen.

Filed Under: Activities, reunions, Uncategorized Tagged With: kids

Family Reunion New York: Small-Scale Gatherings at Woodloch Resort

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Small-Scale Family Reunions near New York City: Woodloch

As 2020 nears a close, it’s virtually impossible not to reflect on what a wacky unique year this was in Woodloch’s history. We’re so incredibly thankful for all of the support from frequent and new guests alike over the past six-plus months. While things may be operating a bit differently these days, Woodloch remains a beacon of light for families in desperate need of time away from the city. In light of recent events, many family reunions (among many other celebrations) have been placed on hold. Thankfully, Woodloch is a safe spacious option for those aiming to plan a small-scale family reunion near New York City.

7 Reasons to Plan a Family Reunion at Woodloch

Today, we’re going to provide seven unique reasons to plan your next “miniature” family reunion at Woodloch, the top-ranked family resort in the country, according to USA Today. Planning a family reunion near New York City is no small task, mainly because the market is saturated by so many overpriced destinations. However, if you’re willing to venture into the heart of Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains, you’ll be met with an idyllic space that’s tailor-made for family gatherings. We’ve written about summertime family reunions before, but 2020 certainly feels different. Thus, we’ve pieced together seven motives to plan your next small-scale family gathering at Woodloch, a 1,200-acre paradise along Lake Teedyuskung’s serene shoreline.

1. Dozens of Programmed Activities

As you’ll notice on our sample activity sheet, your group will have the opportunity to partake in dozens of homegrown activities on a daily basis. From go-karting to nature walks and scenic boat rides, Woodloch’s got it.

2. Delicious Catered Meals

Woodloch’s traditional, family-style dining service lives on (with proper social distancing measures). The culinary team can accommodate any dietary restriction. Guests will enjoy locally-sourced ingredients and tasty homemade items from our on-site bakery. Sample menu selections include jumbo crab cakes, prime rib, roast turkey, and pork medallions.

3. Spacious Overnight Accommodations

Our large vacation rentals are perfect for small-scale family reunions. These three-to-six bedroom units allow the entire family to sleep under one roof comfortably. Amenities include fireplaces, renovated kitchens, decks, luxury furnishings, and ample square footage.

4. Close Proximity to New York City

Woodloch is less than two hours away from the heart of Manhattan (approximately 100 miles). It’s a short, scenic drive the meanders through the spellbinding Pocono Mountains en route to our 1,200-acre slice of Pennsylvania paradise.

5. There’s Ample Space for Social Distancing

With 1,200 acres of private property, including a 15-acre lake, all of your social distancing concerns will quickly be alleviated upon arrival. Through the Woodloch Wellness Standard, we’ve taken a vow to “Resort Responsibility.” Please read our statement carefully. Despite rigorous measures to help stop the spread of COVID-19, your small group will have access to nearly every integral aspect of the Woodloch experience.

6. Customized Packages and Specialized Services

No two family reunions near New York City are alike, particularly when you choose Woodloch. Make planning easier with this helpful guide! We can swiftly arrange event spaces, structured team-building events, staff-led contests, on-site golf excursions, and so much more with the help of our group sales department.

7. Be a Part of History

The Kiesendahl family has been tied to this property since the late 1930s. You’re invited to be a part of Woodloch’s history as we celebrate 60-plus years of excellence and good, old-fashioned family fun!

What more could you ask for? Make memories that will last a lifetime this winter here at Woodloch. To plan a family reunion near New York City, please inquire online (or call us directly at 800-453-8263, option #2).

Filed Under: reunions, Uncategorized

Poconos Summer Camp – Summer Camps near NYC | Woodloch

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Woodloch: The Ultimate Poconos “Summer Camp”

Finding the ultimate Poconos summer camp, complete with bonfires, nature hikes, seemingly countless hours in the lake, and budding friendships, has never been easier. Enter Woodloch, the top-rated family resort in North America. While Woodloch is widely beloved for its family-focused, homegrown programming, guests also enjoy our sprawling, 1,200-acre lakeside setting as a place to laugh, learn, grow, and bond.

A Unique Poconos Summer Camp: What’s the Occasion?

Woodloch isn’t a typical Poconos summer camp that pulls adolescents from their families for a couple of weeks. At its core, our four-season respite helps foster family bonding in a variety of ways, including team-building activities, family-style dining, and after-dark entertainment. That being said, Woodloch wears many hats. We also cater to groups of all shapes and sizes from Manhattan to Philadelphia and Allentown. So, what’s the occasion? We’ve hosted a wide-ranging variety of uniquely-designed Poconos summer camps, including Girl and Boy Scout trips, multi-family gatherings, church groups, team banquets, homeschool trips, STEM-centered outings, and some of the best birthday parties imaginable.

A Bevy of Classic Camp Activities

Photo a Kayakers on Lake Teedyuskung, Home to the Finest Poconos Summer Camp.

As one of the top-reviewed overnight summer camps in Pennsylvania, we’ve meticulously curated dozens of homegrown activities that are meant to look and feel like classic camp-like activities. After all, the landscape that hugs Lake Teedyuskung was once home to multiple Poconos summer camps, including a horseback outpost and a weight-loss retreat. Naturally, this private, 15-acre lake, as well as the surrounding forestry, procures thoughts of the good old days where kids would come of age amid Mother Nature’s embrace.

Thankfully, Woodloch is as customizable as any other Poconos summer camp. Not only can children water ski, swim, row, paddle, and sail atop this serene lake, but the shoreline is where much of the magic happens, including the crowd-pleasing Summer Olympic games, speedy go-cart races, and countless craft-related workshops. Much like most summer camps near NYC, the kids can also hike in the surrounding wilderness, play over a dozen unique sports as we;; as brain-teasing games, and learn new skills.

All-Inclusive Summer Resorts in Pennsylvania

Start planning a “unique-to-you” summer camp getaway at Woodloch, and give us a call at 800-453-8263 (option #2). Our team can answer any potential questions, help piece together a sample itinerary, and pair the group with accommodations that suit your size, style, and budget. As always, our all-inclusive Poconos vacation packages allow families, groups, teams, and Troops to potentially save hundreds by bundling. Browse through our packages at Woodloch.com.

Filed Under: reunions, Summer Tagged With: kids actvities