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Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
The Midwest's Family Playground
By Elisa Ast All
, a large yet cozy resort where families can "cocoon" the whole time, or simply use it as a home base for their adventures in the Dells.
In addition to the outdoor water activities, the 209-room Great Wolf boasts a 40,000-square-foot indoor water park! Its signature attraction is the four-story treehouse offering more than 60 sprays and geysers that pour and squirt water from 12 levels. At the ringing of a bell, a huge bucket at the top of a 40-foot-tall tower dumps 700 gallons of water on everyone who rushes to gather at the bottom. Fast-action waterslides and water jets combine with more relaxing water fun such as whirlpools and lazy tubing along the winding river.
When you're ready to relax, you can head back to your distinctive guest room, which can be one of 12 designs, including the fabulous Great Wolf Kid Cabin Suite. This suite has a children-sized log cabin built within the room, including bunk beds, a day bed and television set. Parents sleep outside the log cabin in the king-sized bed. All guest rooms and loft suites include a wet bar, microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, pay movies, Nintendo, 25-inch television sets, private patios or balconies. Several guest units offer an in-room whirlpool, fireplace and living room.
Great Pajama Story Time for children is held in the lobby at 8 p.m. on weekends and holidays. There's a Cub Club frequent stay program for kids and a monthly "great" essay contest for children.
Hungry? Try the Loose Moose Bar and Grill full-service restaurant. Also enjoy the Iron Horse Fitness Room, Buckhorn Gift Shop, Yukon Jack's Gaming Parlor and Wolf's Den Snack Bar.
The Great Wolf Lodge is located near the intersection of Highway 12 and I 90/94 at the entrance to Wisconsin Dells. Contact them at 800-559-9653 or www.greatwolflodge.com.
If you like a more relaxed setting, try the Wintergreen Resort nearby. The 110-room Wintergreen is a crisp, clean resort on a smaller scale than the Great Wolf. If you don't like crowds, this might be the place for you.