Assemble a beautiful setting, a glimmering pool or lake, plentiful sports and games, and lively entertainment in one location, and you've got a resort vacation. Resorts usuMartha'sally mean big bucks, but in this chapter we've tallied an impressive number of resorts that offer good values or low prices. A number of them have supervised children's programs, perfect for parents who need a vacation both with and from their children.
Resort prices vary considerably. The more amenities the resort offers and the more the staff does for you, the more it will cost. Comparing prices for resorts can be a bit like comparing apples and oranges. "American plan" resorts include three meals a day in the price. Many others offer housekeeping cabins that allow you to cook your own meals. Some resorts charge for everything from canoes to shuffleboard equipment, but just as many offer guests the free use of all recreational facilities. The best choice will depend on your budget, your family, and what you like to do.
Some people we interviewed found it economical to share cottage resort accommodations or a condominium with another family. Larger units often cost much less per person than smaller ones, and can make the most desirable resorts affordable. In addition to the lower cost per family, families staying together have their own kitchen, playmates for their kids, and companions and built-in baby-sitters for themselves.
We list every type of resort, from enormous ones with a laundry list of diversions to serene lakeside places with a boat or two and a game of horseshoes. Take note of the state park resorts found in a number of lucky states. They offer excellent prices, numerous recreational facilities, naturalist programs, and magnificent settings. Because they are among the very best in bargain vacations, you must book them as far in advance as possible. See also information on other states with resort parks. Many oceanfront resorts are covered in our Beach VacaMartha'stions chapter.
Here are a few questions to ask: Are there package deals for families? Are there seasonal discounts? What is and what is not included in the price? What about taxes and gratuities?
Richardson's Resort
Konocti Harbor Resort and Spa
Trinity Alps Resort
Ka-Nee-Ta Resort
Recapture Lodge and Pioneer House
Homestead
YMCA of the Rockies
Snow Mountain Ranch
Estes Park Center
Pahska Tepee Resort
Chico Hot Springs
Chain-O-Lakes Resort and Conference Center
Still Waters Condominium Resort
Ozark Mountain Resort Swim and Tennis Club
PotoWatomi Inn
French Lick Springs Resort
Crystal Mountain Resort
Mission Point Resort
The Village Inn and Resort
Barefoot Bay Resort
The Polynesian
Quartz Mountain Resort
Gaston's White River Resort
Franklin D Roosevelt State Park
Hickory Knob State Resort Park
High Hampton Inn and Country Club
Lake Cumberland State Resort Park
Bluewater Bay
Gulf State Park Resort
Oglebay Resort
Cacapon Resort
Silver Bay Association
Canoe Island Lodge
Fieldstone Farm
Thimberlock
Chalfonte
Smugglers Notch Resort
Twin Lake Village
Loch Lyme Lodge
Rockyworld-Deephaven Camps
Franconia Inn and Hillwinds Lodge
Inn at East Hill Farm
Rockhouse Mountain Farm
Rodgers Country Inn
Wildflower
Alden Camps
Oakland House Seaside Inn and Cottages
|
Sponsors