Traveling with Teens

Welcome to our guide on making the most of a Great Wolf Lodge trip with teens! Great Wolf Lodge is packed with excitement, and it can be an unforgettable destination for families, including those with older kids who crave a bit of independence. Here, we've compiled 12 practical tips to help your teens fully enjoy their time while allowing them the freedom to explore safely. From activity suggestions to ways of creating a memorable experience, these tips will help you plan a trip that meets everyone’s needs—giving your teens plenty to do, while you get a little peace of mind!

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1. Let Them Explore the Waterpark Independently

Older kids often appreciate some freedom, so allow them time to explore the slides, wave pools, and other water attractions on their own (while setting check-in times, of course). Make sure to remind your teens of all the rules before you let them loose.

2. Challenge Them to MagiQuest

Teens can fully immerse themselves in the interactive MagiQuest game, which is both challenging and engaging, keeping them entertained beyond the waterpark.

3. Encourage Friendly Competitions

Great Wolf Lodge often has activities like mini-golf, bowling, and arcade games. Set up family or friend competitions, which teens tend to enjoy.

4. Save Money Booking

Use my link to Sign up for the Great Wolf Lodge Voyagers club (It's Free) and you will receive a $50 discount on your stay. This $50 off can be combined with the 30-50% off sales that the lodge offers on their website regularly. Combing the two makes you trip more affordable which is good because teenagers are expensive!

5. Sign Them Up for the Ropes Course

Many Great Wolf Lodges have ropes courses or climbing walls, which are perfect for teens who love physical challenges and outdoor fun.

6. Plan Evening Activities

The lodge has evening events, like glow-in-the-dark mini golf, dance parties, and story time. Teens might enjoy the chance to unwind and socialize with other guests at these events.

7. Allow Free Time for the Arcade

Give teens time in the arcade, where they can try out games and win prizes. It’s often a popular hangout spot for older kids.

8. Keep them Well-fed

Keeping your pack well-fed at Great Wolf Lodge is easy with plenty of dining options, from quick bites at snack bars to family-friendly restaurants. Meal packages are a great choice for hungry teens, and you can even bring along favorite snacks for quick energy boosts. If they’re craving something different, many nearby restaurants deliver right to the lodge. With a mix of meal options and handy snacks, you’ll keep everyone fueled and ready for fun!

9. Encourage Photo Moments

Teens might love capturing moments so let them take charge of photos at fun spots like the wave pool, character meet-and-greets, and themed room areas.

10. Upgrade to a Larger Suite with Privacy

Consider a suite with separate sleeping areas to give teens some privacy and space to unwind after a long day of activities

11. Empower Teens to Pack and Carry Their Own Bags

Encourage independence by letting your teens pack their own bags (with a quick check to ensure essentials like bathing suits aren’t missed). When you arrive, have them carry their own bags to the room. This helps them pitch in, reinforces responsibility, and makes the process smoother for everyone—after all, many hands make light work!

12. Set a Budget for Souvenirs

Give teens a set budget for souvenirs or snacks so they can manage their spending. This teaches responsibility and helps avoid overspending while still letting them choose a fun keepsake.

We hope these tips have inspired you to make the most of your Great Wolf Lodge adventure with your teens! By embracing a bit of independence and planning activities they'll love, you can create an experience that everyone in the family will treasure. Whether it's exploring the water park, trying out new activities, or finding the best spots for downtime, there are endless ways to enjoy this family-friendly resort. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be set for a smooth, fun-filled getaway that balances both family time and independence for your teens. Ready to dive in and start planning?

Great Wolf Lodge awaits!

Click here and sign up for the GWL Voyager club to Save $50 off your next trip to Great Wolf Lodge!

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