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I’ve compiled a list of the top waterpark resorts in the United States, specifically picked for their amenities, experience, and overall customer satisfaction. These destinations are perfect for both those week-long getaways and group travel, or a spontaneous weekend trip.
Top 3 destinations:
#1
Wilderness Hotel & Golf Resort
#2
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions
#3
Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa
Resort VS. Hotel – What’s the difference?
The main difference between a resort and a hotel lies in the level of amenities and experiences offered:
Hotel
- Primarily provides lodging and basic services like daily housekeeping, front desk, and sometimes a restaurant or gym.
- Typically located in urban or business areas.
- Guests usually stay short-term, often for business or transit.
Resort
- Offers a full-service experience including lodging, dining, recreation, entertainment, and wellness (like spas or pools).
- Often located in vacation destinations like beaches, mountains, or theme park areas.
- Designed for guests to stay longer and enjoy on-site amenities without needing to leave the property.
- Note: parking and additional services might not be included up front. Pay attention when completing the booking for any hidden fees that might occur during your stay.
Think of a hotel as a place to sleep and a resort as a place to stay, play, and relax.
Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa – ★★★★
Palm Coast, FL
This wonderful destination boasts a 91,000-square-foot water park and two signature 18-hole courses. With services like specialized amenity packages, spa treatments, and private beach access, you’re perfect vacation awaits.
“A truly unique experience”
Hammock Beach is a premium family‑friendly beachside resort excelling in golf, wellness, pools, and dining. It’s ideal for travelers seeking upscale yet relaxed vacations, especially golfers and families.
Amenities
- 8 dining options
- Boutique & Surf Shop
- Golf Pro Shop
- Fitness Center
- Tennis Court
- Kids Crew
- Spa & Salon
Related Article: Top 7 Kid Friendly Resorts
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Crown Reef Beach Resort and Waterpark – ★★★
Myrtle Beach, SC
“Perfect for kids of all ages!”
Crown Reef is a vibrant, family-focused beachfront resort with a standout waterpark, solid dining, and convenient amenities. It’s excellent for families or groups looking for all-in-one entertainment.
Amenities
- 15 individual water features
- Poolside bar
- Arcade
- Starbucks & an ice cream shop
- 2 restaurants
- Sun deck with beach access
- Fitness center
JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa – ★★★★★
Aventura, FL
JW Turnberry is an upscale all-in-one luxury resort, perfect for families, golfers, and wellness-minded guests—especially those who value on-site convenience and high-end amenities.
Featured in the ‘Family Travel’ Magazine!
With top ranking, thoughtfully designed facilities, and strong guest satisfaction, it’s an excellent choice for a full-service experience.
Amenities
- Restaurant
- Spa & Salon
- Fitness center
- Golf course
- Hot tub
- Bicycle Rentals
- Convenience Store
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions – ★★★
Round Rock, TX
Kalahari Texas is a massive, all-inclusive resort ideal for families, corporate retreats, weddings, and themed getaways—with unmatched indoor/outdoor water fun, adventure, dining, spa, and event spaces.
“A must-visit family vacation!”
Known as one of America’s largest waterparks with a 350,000 sqft facility, this safari-themed resort has endless options for fun!
Amenities
- 30+ slides
- 4 restaurants
- Adventure park
- Spa & Salon
- 4 shopping boutiques
- Build-A-Bear Workshop
- Arcade & Bowling
- Escape Room
Related Post: 10 Budget Friendly US Destinations
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LEGOLAND® Florida Resort – ★★★★
Winter Haven, FL
LEGOLAND Florida is a brick‑tastic family destination combining moderate thrills with immersive creative play, water park fun, and themed stays. It’s ideal if you’re traveling with younger children and want an experience inspired by LEGO and convenience.
“Great way to end summer!”
With buildable vacation packages for their 3 unique resorts, each with a different aesthetic, it’s easy to find something you’ll love.
Amenities
- Theme Park
- Water Park
- Sea Life Aquarium *new*
- Nightly kids entertainment
- 10+ dining options
- 6 shopping locations
Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort – ★★★★
Gatlinburg, TN
Nestled on 70 acres adjacent to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this resort offers easy access to both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. It’s ideal for families or groups seeking space, a full kitchen, and year-round entertainment.
“A perfect destination for a relaxing vacation, yet still exciting for the kids.”
Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park is a mountain-style resort offering villa accommodations (from studios to 5-bedroom units), making it the perfect destination for a relaxing family vacation.
Amenities
- 6 dining options
- Rooftop bar
- Heated outdoor pool and spa tubs
- Fitness center
- Mini golf
- Serenity Spa
- BBQ grills & firepits
- Outdoor playground
- Arcade & Escape Room
Hilton Vacation Club Beachwoods Kitty Hawk – ★★★★
Kitty Hawk, NC
Situated within a 100-acre maritime forest lies this luxury resort just steps from the beach. On site you’ll find outdoor games including chess, corn-hole, & spike-ball; select daily activities; paddle boat rentals; fishing access; easy beach access, and more!
Hilton Honors Earn 2x Points
Beachwoods is an all-suite resort with options from 1 – to 4-bedroom suites featuring full kitchens and living areas. It’s particularly great for those wanting full-home conveniences and on-site recreation.
Amenities
- Free parking
- Indoor/Outdoor pool
- Fitness center
- Tennis court
- Outdoor playground
Wilderness Hotel & Golf Resort – ★★★★
Wisconsin Dells, WI
This massive resort spans over 600 acres with over 500,000 sq ft and can easily be noted as one of the most comprehensive, fun-packed family vacations. It’s a perfect choice for family-focused, one-stop getaways with spacious lodging.
“You’ll never want to leave!”
Wilderness Hotel & Golf Resort is an epic vacation, great for kids of all ages and adults. With limitless water attractions, diverse accommodations, and amenities, you don’t need to leave the resort for anything.
Amenities
- 15+ dining options
- Spa
- Golf course
- Mega arcade
- 4-story indoor play area, “Timberland Playhouse”
- Mini golf
- Laser tag
- Indoor go-karts
- Escape Room
- Poolside bar
Let me guide you on your next adventure! Thanks to our global partnerships at Fora, you’ll get access to perks you won’t find online: complimentary spa treatments, romantic dinners, room upgrades, and more.
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