There are times when planning a trip is fun – choosing the hotels, mapping out the route, searching for hidden gems in every stop. And there are other times when you’d prefer to skip the logistics, pack your bags, and check into a hotel that has everything you’re looking for on the premises.
If the latter sounds more appealing, maybe a family-friendly all-inclusive resort in the U.S.A. is what you’re looking for. With most meals, kids programs, and loads of activities included, what’s there not to love? Read on to find out the nine best all-inclusive resorts in the U.S.A. so you can ditch all the headaches that come with planning, and instead just focus on getting there.
Does the US actually have all-inclusive resorts?
We know what you’re thinking. Are there really all-inclusive family resorts in the U.S.A.? While the first thing to come to mind is probably Mexico, Caribbean, or a far-flung destination like Bali, the truth is that the U.S. is home to many family-friendly, all-inclusive resorts that are just waiting to welcome you. And nine of the best ones are located on, or close to, the East Coast!
Wondering how to get there? With a luxury passenger van rental, you’re guaranteed convenience, comfort, and fun that begins as soon as you hit the road. Next up are some things to know before hitting the road.
Travel arrangements for all-inclusive resorts
When deciding on the best method of transportation to get to an all-inclusive resort, you’ll want to consider two scenarios.
Transportation to the resort
To narrow down your options, here are a few questions to ask yourself:
- Distance: How far is the resort from your starting point? Can you drive or do you need to fly?
- Cargo space: Will your vehicle have enough space for everyone’s luggage? If not, can you rent something more spacious, like a passenger van?
- Roadside attractions: Are there any destinations you’d like to see along the way?
Transportation while at the resort
One of the highlights of staying at an all-inclusive is convenience – all the entertainment is within reach. Still, there are times when your own transportation will come in handy, especially when traveling with family.
- Arrival transportation: How will you get everyone comfortably to the resort from the airport?
- Day tripping: Are there any day trips you might want to take? For example, if you’re planning an all-inclusive getaway to Tennessee, why not visit Nashville with the kids?
- Shop ‘til you drop: Sometimes, the best shopping is outside the boundaries of the resort. Bring home as many mementos as you want with all that cargo space in a passenger van.
- Wine and dine: Want a change of culinary scene? Your own transport gives you the chance to check out the area’s top restaurants, instead of hiring an expensive cab or settling for what you can get to by foot.
Nine best all-inclusive family resorts in the USA
From New York to Nashville, country farms to mountain lodges, a surprising number of all-inclusive family resorts are in the U.S.A. Here are nine of the East Coast’s most popular options from north to south.
#1 Tyler Place Family Resort, Swanton, VT
Distance from Boston: 220 miles, approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes driving
Want some adult time while the kids are entertained? Tyler Place is a family-owned resort known for engaging programs for children, giving parents time to truly relax. So, while the little ones are off hiking and biking with new friends, you can enjoy included amenities like:
- Private accommodations in a cottage or suite
- All meals, plus picnic lunch baskets, candlelight dinners, and snacks for kids
- Heated indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs, water sports equipment
- Fitness center, driving range, mini golf, climbing wall, trampolines, and playgrounds
Don’t miss: The Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge and its diverse array of plant and animal life is a popular destination close to the resort.
#2 Migis Lodge on Sebago Lake, South Casco, ME
Distance from Boston: 100 miles, approximately 2 hours driving
Since 1916, Migis Lodge has been welcoming guests to its nook on the calm shores of Sebago Lake. The Main Lodge and private cottages showcase beautiful views of the pine forest and Sebago Lake. Enjoy luxurious amenities like:
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Lake activities like water skiing, kayaking, sailing, fishing
- Fitness activities such as tennis, disc golf, and fitness classes
- Access to the lodge’s private island
- Organized lobster bakes
- Daily housekeeping service, plus fresh ice and firewood delivered to your accommodation
Don’t miss: A day trip to Sebago Lake State Park, where Maine’s renowned landscapes come to life. Hike, swim, and enjoy a picnic with scenic lake views.
#3 Chatham Bars Inn, Chatham, MA
Distance from Boston: 90 miles, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes driving
Oceanfront vistas and 5-star amenities make Chatham Bars Inn on Cape Cod one of the most coveted all-inclusive family resorts in the U.S.A. Luxury perks include:
- A private beach with cabanas
- On-site dock with a fleet of boats for excursions
- Heated outdoor pool
- Tennis courts
- The Spa at Chatham Bars Inn with a relaxation room, steam showers, Zen Garden, and spa boutique
- Complimentary bike rentals
- Kids Crew programs for children
Don’t miss: Tearing yourself away from the luxury confines of Chatham Bars Inn might not be easy, but it will be worth it. Explore quaint seaside towns like Brewster and Harwich.
Image courtesy of Mohonk Mountain Resort.
#4 Mohonk Mountain House, New Paltz, NY
Distance from NYC: 90 miles, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes driving
Want to feel like royalty for a few nights? This historic all-inclusive family resort, nestled in the Hudson Valley, is actually a Victorian-style castle blending luxury and rustic charm. A stay here includes:
- Three gourmet meals per day
- Unlimited access to hiking, paddleboarding, and tomahawk throwing
- An indoor pool and spa facilities
- Guided house history tours
- An extensive trail network and spectacular gardens
- Complimentary greens fees at the Mohonk Golf Course
Don’t miss: A breathtaking drive along the Shawangunk Mountains Scenic Byway, whose panoramic mountain views are often touted as the most beautiful in the state.
#5 Rocking Horse Ranch: Highland, NY
Distance from NYC: 90 miles, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes driving
On the list of all-inclusive family resorts in the U.S.A., Rocking Horse Ranch in the Hudson Valley is at the top. The property’s wide range of activities excite guests of all ages, and nightly entertainment keeps the whole crew engaged. Rates include:
- Unlimited horseback riding
- Access to the Big Splash Indoor Water Park
- Outdoor activities like mountain tubing, bungee jumping, and rock climbing
- Nightly entertainment shows with magicians, comedians, and jugglers
- All meals prepared by Culinary Institute of America graduates
- Supervised children’s programs for ages 2 to 12
Don’t miss: A walk over the Hudson River on the former railroad bridge, today the world’s longest elevated pedestrian bridge, found in Hudson State Historic Park.
#6 Skytop Lodge, Poconos, PA
Distance from Philadelphia: 100 miles, approximately 2 hours driving
Elegant accommodations and a wide range of recreational activities make Skytop Lodge one of the Pocono’s best all-inclusive resorts in the U.S.A for a family. Enjoy an immersion into nature any time of year while soaking up amenities like:
- Daily breakfast
- Outdoor activities including hiking, biking, and fishing
- Use of the indoor pool, fitness center, and game room
- Seasonal activities such as ice skating, snow tubing, and zip-lining
- Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property
Don’t miss: A visit to Bushkill Falls to view the famous series of powerful waterfalls, known as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania.”
#7 Woodloch Pines Resort: Hawley, PA
Distance from Philadelphia: 120 miles, approximately 3 hours driving
Create special memories on the beautiful lakefront setting at Woodloch Pines, one of the top all-inclusive family resorts in the U.S.A. From outdoor adventures to indoor fun, guests of all ages will enjoy the following amenities:
- Three meals per day
- Indoor and outdoor water parks
- Recreational activities like boating, fishing, and hiking
- Evening entertainment and live shows
- Basketball and tennis courts
- Kids’ programs and activities for various age groups
Don’t miss: Shopping, dining, and gallery hopping at Hawley Silk Mill, a historic textile mill turned vibrant community center.
#8 Blackberry Farm, Walland, TN
Distance from Nashville: 180 miles, approximately 3 hours driving
Sit in the lap of luxury adjacent to one of the most beautiful National Parks in the U.S.A. The sprawling Blackberry Farm, known for exceptional hospitality and gourmet cuisine, is a wellness-focused property offering inclusions like:
- Accommodations in uniquely designed suites or cottages
- Three meals a day, featuring seasonal and locally sourced cuisine
- On-site activities like hiking, biking, horseback riding, and fishing
- Use of the spa facilities at The Wellhouse
- Participation in culinary and wellness classes
- Access to the farm’s creamery, bakery, and charcuterie
Don’t miss: A visit to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The scenic drives are reason enough to visit, but the waterfalls and overlooks really pack a punch.
Photo by Caroline Cagnin.
#9 Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort
Perhaps the most famous of all family-friendly all-inclusive resorts in the U.S.A., Orlando’s Four Seasons Resort boasts so much more than access to Disney attractions. Families love stopping here on a road trip to Miami. Amenities include:
- Access to the 5-acre Explorer Island water park
- An adult-only pool and pools for families
- Complimentary kids’ camp for children ages 4 to 12
- Daily breakfast options, including the coveted Disney Character Breakfast
- A state-of-the-art fitness center and wellness programs
- Tennis courts and a golf course
- Complimentary transportation to the Disney parks
- A world-class spa and wellness services
Don’t miss: The Kennedy Space Center, where you can tour the facility, view a rocket launch, and hear about NASA’s future missions.
Tips for choosing the best all-inclusive family resort
Just like choosing a family-friendly passenger van, you want to be sure that your chosen resort meets all your family’s needs and expectations. Here are a few tips to make that decision easier.
Tip #1 Price point: Start by finding the resorts that fit your budget.
Tip #2 Standard amenities: Determine what’s included in the cost. In particular, meals, excursions, and programs for the kids.
Tip #3 Property features: Check for essential property features like pools, spas, fitness centers, and restaurants. If you’re traveling with children, ensure facilities cater to kids.
Tip #4 Parking: If you’re bringing a vehicle, such as a passenger van rental, confirm whether parking is included in your stay or if there are additional fees.
Tip #5 Transportation services: Some resorts include shuttle services to nearby attractions, others do not. Know ahead of time if you will need your own transportation.
Tip #6 Onsite activities: Explore the range of activities available for all ages, including sports, arts and crafts, and evening entertainment.
Tip #7 Ratings and reviews: Look for online reviews for great insight into the overall guest experience. For instance, research sites like TripAdvisor and Booking to read unfiltered opinions and ratings.
Tip #8 Dining options: Make sure there is a variety of food options, including kid menus, to cater to even the pickiest of eaters.
Tip #9 Safety standards: Safety and security are paramount to a fun-filled vacation. Investigate the resort’s safety measures, including lifeguards at pools, onsite security, and staff training for child supervision.
Tip #10 Special deals: Ask about special deals or packages that may include additional perks, such as spa credits, excursions, or discounts for extended stays.
Tip #11 Cultural experiences: Many resorts offer cultural experiences or local excursions, giving you the chance to engage with the community and environment.
Getting clear on these points will help narrow down your resort options and have you lounging by the pool in no time!
FAQs about all-inclusive resorts in the USA
Do all-inclusives exist in Florida?
Yes, all-inclusive resorts exist in all parts of Florida, ranging from exclusive, adults-only to family-focused.
Do you have to pay for kids at all-inclusive resorts?
Typically, all-inclusive family resorts in the U.S.A. include kids and kids programs in the cost. It’s best to check directly with the resort about exactly what comes with your stay.
What amenities are typically included in an all-inclusive family resort package?
Typical amenities included in an all-inclusive family resort package are:
- Accommodations
- Three meals a day
- Onsite entertainment
- Excursions and activities
- Property features
- Fitness center and some spa services
In conclusion, you’ll want to clarify all the perks that come with your stay before making a reservation.
What types of family-friendly activities and entertainment are available at these resorts?
Depending on the resort, family-friendly activities and entertainment can include live shows, water sports, arts and crafts, cooking classes, guided hikes and babysitting services. Check with your rep when booking your stay.
Do all-inclusive family resorts accommodate special dietary needs and requests?
Nearly all all-inclusive family resorts are able to accommodate special dietary needs and requests.
Arrive in style to your all-inclusive getaway with a Greenvans rental van. Get a free quote fast!
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