Here’s a rewritten and more concise version of the content:
Full Review of the New Great Wolf Lodge in Scottsdale, Salt River, AZ
I’m thrilled to share my full review of the new Great Wolf Lodge in Scottsdale, AZ. This family-friendly resort offers plenty of fun for kids, but it’s not without its downsides. Keep reading for the good… and the not-so-good.
Hi friends! I hope you’re having a wonderful morning. Today, I’m diving into a detailed review of the brand-new Great Wolf Lodge in Scottsdale. This kid-centric resort is packed with activities the whole family will enjoy. Let’s break it down to see if it’s the right fit for your crew!
Our Stay
We spent three days and two nights at the lodge, and it was everything my kids could dream of. The girls were beyond excited! I booked our room the moment reservations opened—despite the website crashing multiple times. The room rates were reasonable, and I felt it was worth the cost.
What’s at Great Wolf Lodge?
This resort has a cozy, campfire vibe with two mascots, Wiley and Violet, who roam the property for photo ops. The activities are endless:
- Water Park: Indoor, climate-controlled at 86°F, featuring slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and a toddler area.
- Other Fun: Mini golf, an arcade, a ropes course, rock climbing, bowling, and a Build-A-Bear workshop.
- Magiquest: A scavenger hunt using magic wands (purchased separately) that brings props and characters to life. It’s like Harry Potter meets family fun—the kids adored it!
The Highlights
- Included Activities: The water park and daily scheduled events (story time, dance parties, bingo, etc.) were a hit. Some activities (like bowling and the ropes course) cost extra, but the pricing felt fair.
- Water Park Fun: The girls loved it and spent hours there daily. It’s perfect for kids of all ages.
The Downsides
- Food: Overpriced and underwhelming. Options were limited, and the quality didn’t match the cost. Even the pizza was disappointing.
- Growing Pains: The lodge had just opened, so some kinks needed ironing out—broken slot machines, thin blankets, and a blinking smoke detector disrupted our first night’s sleep.
What’s Nearby?
Great Wolf Lodge is conveniently located near Scottsdale’s best attractions:
- Dining: Prep & Pastry, Olive & Ivy, True Food Kitchen, and Blanco Tacos are just a short drive away.
- Shopping: Fashion Square and Desert Ridge Marketplace are nearby.
- Nature: Pinnacle Peak Park offers scenic hiking trails with stunning desert views.
How Does It Compare to Disney?
Great Wolf Lodge isn’t Disney—and it doesn’t try to be. Disney excels in efficiency and magical touches, while Great Wolf Lodge focuses on fun and family bonding. It’s worth experiencing once, but it’s not a place I’d rush back to. Still, the kids had a blast, and it was a memorable way to celebrate the end of my airline training.
Final Thoughts
Great Wolf Lodge is a fantastic destination for families, especially if you’re looking for a mix of indoor and outdoor activities. Just plan to eat off-property for better meals.
Have a wonderful day, and I’ll catch you soon!
xoxo,
Gina
This version is more streamlined, with clearer headings and fewer repetitive details. Let me know if you’d like further adjustments!
