In an attempt to draw more family travelers, many hotels and resorts across the U.S. and Canada now offer activities for every member of the family: while the kids are playing, Dad can golf while Mom enjoys a facial. Later, parents can enjoy a relaxing, romantic dinner without interruption. Don't worry, your kids will be so busy listening to stories, playing parachute games and meeting new friends, they'll hardly miss you.
At the Hotel Hershey in Pennsylvania, a paradise of delectable sweets, alluring scents and fabulous rides will keep your family content for days. And for children ages four and older, chocolate chases and relay races are just a few of several daily activities bound to make them smile.
HOTEL HERSHEY
HERSHEY, PENNSYLVANIAThis Mediterranean-style, five-story hotel overlooks the roses of Hershey Gardens and the famous, chocolate-inspired amusement park. The setting is palatial and the air is softly scented with freshly made chocolate.
What's there for you: Golf, nature hikes, bike riding, indoor and outdoor pools, cross-country skiing and Hersheypark.
What's there for kids: The Cocoa Kids Club offers daily activities for children ages four and older from 9 A.M. to 4 P.M.. Sample activities include scavenger hunts, chocolate chases, coloring contests and relay races. The Cocoa Kids Club costs $60 for a full day and $35 for a half day, per child. The Kids Night Out program runs from 6 P.M. to 10 P.M. and costs $40 per child.
Seasonality: Hotel Hersey is open all year, but Hersheypark is open from mid-May to October and select days in November and December. Children ages three and under enter free. Another fun attraction is Chocolate World, where kids get to see how chocolate is made.
Ratio of caregivers to children: One-to-10
Cost: During the summer season, a room with dinner and breakfast costs $329.00 per adult per night. Kids are $42-55 extra per child per night depending on their age.
For more information: Visit Hotel Hershey's Web site or call 800-533-3131. For Hersheypark, call 800-HERSHEY.
For more information on resorts in general, click on the following links: questions to ask before booking and tips on child safety.
Jeanne Muchnick lives in Larchmont, New York, with her two daughters.
Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Updated August 2005.
