If you’re looking to travel with kids in Virginia, here are 8 top family resorts to consider!
Looking for a fun, family-friendly getaway in Virginia? You’re in the right place! This beautiful state, where I’ve happily called home for over a decade now, is packed with amazing family resorts that are perfect for year-round adventures and memory-making with the kids. My boys love nothing more than the excitement that comes with a special weekend away.
Whether your crew loves outdoor adventures, cozy indoor fun, or just some relaxation away from the routine of home, Virginia has resorts for every kind of traveler; the explorer, the chill-seeker, the history buff, and the non-stop family-fun enthusiast.
When I’m planning a family trip, I like to research what to expect. So to make it easier, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite family resorts in Virginia to help you plan a trip that’s low on stress and big on fun.
8 Family Resorts in Virginia
There are so many great places to visit in Virginia and it’s full of family-friendly options. We also have four solid seasons, so there’s a resort perfect for each time of year. The weather is pretty mild year-round, which makes it the perfect spot for a family getaway, whether you’re planning a summer adventure or a cozy winter escape.
And if your crew loves the outdoors, Virginia is a dream for nature lovers, with hiking trails, beaches, lakes, and parks.
Is Virginia Worth Visiting for Families?
Yes! Virginia is one of the top family destinations in the US, and for good reason. From exciting trips to places like Busch Gardens theme park to hands-on history lessons in Colonial Williamsburg, there’s so much to do with the kids.
I always want to make sure there is plenty to do on property because kids bored in a hotel room need room to roam. These resorts are packed with fun amenities and activities, so you don’t have to worry about planning out every detail.
What Are The Best Family-Friendly Resorts in Virginia?
The Homestead
We took the boys to The Homestead the week school let out a few years ago, and they had the BEST time! The trip was such a fun mix of activities and pool time, and our room was super cozy. The Homestead is great in the summer because of all the pools and also around the holidays, too (they even have a mini ski slope).
The outdoor pool area was a huge hit. There’s a lazy river, three water slides, and plenty of space for the kids to splash around. And on a rainy day, there’s the beautiful historic indoor pool.
We also checked out the arcade, played a little mini golf, went bowling, watched a movie in the theater, enjoyed afternoon tea and even saw families off on horseback riding tours.
And when you’re ready for some grown-up downtime, the hot springs and spa are the dreamiest way to recharge. Plus: golf!
Map it: Directions to The Homestead
Sanderling Resort
If you want to go to the beach but don’t want to pay five figures for a beach outing, The Sanderling Resort is the place to go. It’s actually where Thomas and I got engaged, so it’ll always have a special place in my heart! Although it’s technically in North Carolina, it’s just across the border so it feels almost like you’re still in Virginia!
With cozy, coastal-inspired rooms and stunning ocean views, it’s the perfect blend of beach trip fun and hotel convenience. Spend your days building sandcastles and jumping waves with the kids, then wrap it all up with a sunset dinner at one of the nearby local restaurants (so many good ones!).
One of the pools is adults only and the other is for kids, so book a room on the South side of the property. They also have walk-out rooms so you can get in and out to the pool area so fast! No need to bring beach chairs or umbrellas either – they have them.
Map it: Directions to The Sanderling Resort
The Greenbrier
Just across the border in West Virginia, you’ll find The Greenbrier also known as America’s Resort and it’s basically the definition of classic elegance. Think timeless charm, vintage vibes, and all the amenities you could dream of in one beautiful spot. Thomas has been, but I haven’t yet, and we have it on our list of places to take the kids ASAP!
From the sprawling golf course and luxurious spa for adults to a full-on bowling alley and tons of outdoor activities for kids, there’s something for everyone. There’s an entire Adventure Zone designed just for kids, an Aerial Adventure Course, indoor pool, arcade, bike rentals, an escape room (!), fishing, and more.
If you do happen to be going kid free or with older kids who can wander around, parents can sneak off to the lively casino or enjoy a cocktail at the bar to wind down. It’s a splurge-worthy stay!
Map It: Directions to The Greenbrier
Great Wolf Lodge
Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg is a total dream for families. It’s like a kid’s paradise and a parent’s best friend all in one. With a massive indoor water park that includes water slides, a lazy river, and even a surf simulator, it’s the perfect getaway no matter the season (rain or shine, the fun goes on!). We love to go in the middle of the winter – look for a deal! We loved the bunk room suite with a fun space for the kids.
If you’ve had enough of the water park, there’s MagiQuest (an interactive adventure game kids love), mini bowling, and a super fun arcade that will take all your money – haha. The dining options are super family-friendly, too; plenty of choices for even the pickiest little eaters. Bring some breakfast foods or get a box of donuts they have on property!
The rooms are a hit with kids, too. Some are decorated like cozy little cabins, so they get their own fun space to relax. There’s a nightly dance party that’s just as entertaining for grown-ups as it is for the kids.
Map it: Directions to Great Wolf Lodge
Massanutten Resort
Tucked away in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, Massanutten Resort is a year-round gem packed with activities for the whole family. Whether you’re visiting in the sunny season or during snow-covered months, there’s always something fun to do. We haven’t stayed overnight, but we’ve been for the day to the big water park there.
In the warmer months, you can hit the indoor and outdoor pools, go mountain biking, zip-lining, hiking, or tee off at the golf course. And when winter rolls around, the fun keeps going with the indoor water park, snow tubing, and skiing. It’s truly a four-season playground.
After a full day of adventure, wind down with a relaxing massage at the spa, or check out one of the resort’s fun, on-site classes (perfect for learning a new skill or just switching things up!).
Map it: Directions to Massanutten Resort
Lake Gaston Resort
While I haven’t been to this resort, I’ve been to Lake Gaston and it’s a great lake for swimming and boating! Lake Gaston Resort is one of those no-frills kind of places that’s perfect for families who want to soak up nature without totally roughing it. Set on the shores of a peaceful 20-acre lake, it’s got just the right mix of outdoor adventure with running water and bathrooms for those who’d rather sleep in an actual bed (that’s me!). You’ve got a few lodging options to choose from, a lakefront motel, bring your RV, or pitch a tent at the campground if you’re feeling outdoorsy.
Think of it as camping with amenities: an outdoor pool, an arcade, or challenge the whole fam to a round of bowling or a match on the tennis courts. There are also hiking trails to explore and sandy lake beaches for relaxing or building sandcastles.
It’s low-key, budget-friendly, and packed with plenty to do, so everyone can unplug, unwind, and enjoy some classic family fun.
Map it: Directions to Lake Gaston Resort
Wintergreen Resort
Tucked into the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, Wintergreen Resort is a perfect year-round escape for families who love a little adventure mixed with relaxation. You can stay in the Mountain Inn, rent a condo or a house and have access to the amenities and dining options.
In the winter, it’s all about skiing, snowboarding, and tubing with options for every skill level including group lessons for beginners. But once the temps warm up, Wintergreen totally transforms. You can hit the golf courses, try your hand at fly fishing, explore hiking trails, or cool off with a dip in the pool.
And if you’re visiting in the summer, don’t miss the live music events! The July Jubilee and Memorial Day Festival are always full of energy, great tunes, and fun for the whole fam.
Map it: Directions to Wintergreen Resort
Kingsmill Resort
Nestled along the scenic James River, Kingsmill Resort is that perfect mix of classic charm and modern-day luxury, all tucked into a gorgeous natural setting. We have yet to go, but this is another on our list!
You can choose from cozy guest rooms or go all out with a riverfront cottage (great views!). Kingsmill is known for its water activities: there are three pools (outdoor, indoor, and a big lazy river!) plus paddle boarding, fishing, jet skis, pontoon boats, and bike rentals. Plus golf and a spa on site!
Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens are great add-ons to a stay at Kingsmill!
Map it: Directions to Kingsmill Resort
Plan your next family getaway in Virginia with confidence!
You can’t go wrong with any of these amazing resorts. They’re all packed with fun, family-friendly activities, cozy spots to unwind, and just the right mix of adventure and relaxation for the whole family.
Check out more of my tips for visiting Virginia:
