And once again, it snows. It never snows this much Downtown! Unfortunately due to one of the more recent snow storms, my son’s first birthday party here in Cincinnati with friends (we usually have a party in Florida with all of the cousins) had to be canceled! I tried to make it up to him the next day but I simply do not think it was quite the same.

So, this past weekend when another storm was heading our way, my husband and I decided to try and go somewhere to get away from it all. There were no more direct flights out of here so we decided to “get away” in town.

The husband suggested The Great Wolf Lodge. I had heard of it but we had never been. These last minute plans were mad on Valentine’s Day so no vacancy for us. Me in my infinite wisdom, booked a hotel as close to the lodge as I could get for a very reasonable penny and then the lodge for Monday night. I will not lie and tell you it’s an inexpensive venture however, what I would soon discover is that it’s really a cool place. I could not believe my eyes at the very size of this place. What I could believe is why it cost so much.

If you go directly onto their site, the most basic room is $209.95. If you visit another site like Expedia, you will be able to chop off a few bucks for a cost of $190.00. This includes 2 adults and 2 children for the room and the water park. Not really that bad if you were to consider the costs of water park tickets. ($27.99x 2adults + $10.50x2children = $76.98) This leaves the hotel room at about $113. In this most basic room is two queen beds, full bath, a semi-private living room with separate television, sleeper sofa and fireplace, a table with chairs, a mini kitchen and a balcony/porch.

The one thing that I liked (use with caution) is the wrist band that each guest receives. This is your room key, “cash” and admission tickets to the water park anytime you want. The kids get their own however, it only gives admission to the park. The water park is massive and has different areas for all ages including an adult only whirlpool and a family “hot tub” that is safe enough for babies. Various slides for all ages too, lazy river, wave pool…you get the picture.

Another great thing is you can get a 16″ cheese pizza for only $8.95! Everything else food related is pretty typical pricey. If you are smart, you can bring most of your own stuff and use the fridge and microwave in your room.

Another way to amuse yourself and your kids, is the amazing game room, with every game from skeeball to motocycle games, a roller coaster simulator and the fun ones that are like Vegas to win tickets for prizes.

Finally, if that’s not enough, you can purchase a Wizard’s wand and game book and play the largest scavenger hunt I have ever seen. With a wave of your wand over the correctly found object that span 4 floors, one receives a Rune. Collect all of the Rune’s and you may participate in different adventures, such as fighting the mighty dragon or helping the pixie with her failing crystal. It’s not as easy as it sounds so be up for an adventure!

I must say that I would most definitely recommend this “hotel” to anyone with children looking for a grand vacation all in one place. Of course, I did see quite a few business people there also. I know I had fun so perhaps it’s not just for kids…