If you’re planning a family getaway in Michigan, the Great Wolf Lodge Water Park in Traverse City is a top contender for year-round indoor fun.
Known for its massive indoor water park and family-friendly accommodations, this resort — which has 23 locations nationwide — is designed with kids and parents in mind.
Here are some key things families should know about The Great Wolf Lodge’s sole Michigan location. And, if you’d also like to branch out and see more of Traverse City, be sure to read about:
- An overview of Traverse City for metro Detroit families
- A roundup of delicious family-friendly restaurants in Traverse City
- Summertime events in Traverse City worth planning around
1. Water park access is included with your stay
One of the biggest perks at Great Wolf Lodge is that your stay includes unlimited access to its 52,000 square foot indoor water park. Open year-round and kept at 84 F, it features attractions for every age and comfort level, from toddler splash zones to fast-paced body and tube slides for thrill seekers.
Families especially love that everything is under one roof — from restaurants to add-on non-pool activities — making it easy to relax in one spot, without any extra drive time.
“Everything was always clean, people were always kind and helpful and so many activities made it a blast,” shares Seaside13039658881 on Tripadvisor. “Our group with kids, ranging from 8 months to 10 years old, always had something to do.”
2. Alberta Falls is a must-ride slide
Alberta Falls is a four-story tandem tube slide and a standout attraction at the water park. It’s designed for two people and combines the fun of twists and turns with a moderate thrill level that’s just right for kids and adults riding together.
Kids must be at least 42” to ride, and those who are 42”-48” are encouraged to wear a life jacket.
Since it’s so popular, it’s a good idea to ride early in the day or during off-peak hours to avoid long lines.
3. There are kid-focused pools for every age
The Cub Paw Pool is perfect for toddlers, with miniature slides, water cannons and other features designed just for them.
For slightly older kids, Fort Mackenzie, the massive water play structure in the middle of the park, is a must-visit. This multi-level treehouse has spray features, bridges and a giant tipping bucket that dumps hundreds of gallons of water every few minutes.
4. You’ll also find lazy river and wave pool vibes
Drift along the Crooked Creek lazy river or catch gentle waves in the Slap Tail Pond wave pool. These are great for all ages and provide a more relaxed pace to balance out the big slides.
The wave pool spans from a zero-depth shallow end to the high-action, five-foot-depth waves. Kids and parents can tube, walk or swim with the current in the lazy river.
5. Explore dry-land games and activities, too
Dry off with a variety of on-site attractions, including a MagiQuest adventure throughout the lodge (complete with magic wand), Oliver’s Mining Sluice (search for gemstones), a bowling alley, arcade, mini golf and Build-a-Bear workshop.
These activities require an extra fee, or you can explore passes that offer more expansive access. But keep in mind, you might not need to.
“We took our daughter, son-in-law and two boys — ages 8 and nearly 4 — for three days and two nights,” shares Cadbanker on Tripadvisor. “The boys were perfectly happy with the water park and arcade, so we didn’t need the extra packages.”
6. Refresh at seven on-site restaurants
The Traverse City location offers seven dining options, ranging from Buckets Burgers & Bites and Hungry as a Wolf (for pizza and pasta) to Bear Paw and Dunkin’ for sweet treats.
Each serves up kid-friendly options without having to leave the lodge.
7. Private cabanas offer a home base
For families who want extra comfort, renting a private cabana can be a game-changer. These cozy spaces come with comfy seating, a mini-fridge, towels and even a TV, offering a quiet spot to take breaks, snack or let younger kids nap without leaving the park.
It’s a great way to stay close to the action while enjoying a bit of peace and privacy in between splash sessions.
If you’re considering exploring Traverse City outside of Great Wolf Lodge, explore our overview guide — and get the scoop on the best family restaurants and awesome summer events.
This content is sponsored by Southeast Michigan Ford Dealers. Visit buyfordnow.com. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s Ultimate Family Road Trip Guide.
