Splash, Play, Repeat: Our Family Vacation at Great Wolf Lodge Naples



A Family Staycation at Great Wolf Lodge Naples, Florida

I’ve always wanted to visit a Great Wolf Lodge, the popular hotel water park with over 20+ locations nationwide. 

When a Great Wolf Lodge Naples opened just 30 minutes from us in Naples, Florida, we couldn’t resist booking a 2-night staycation. It turned out to be the perfect mix of water fun, adventure, and close family time.

Waterpark Included

The highlight of any Great Wolf Lodge trip is, of course, the indoor waterpark, but there’s also an outdoor lagoon too. So no matter the weather, your family is set. Access to both areas is included for all registered guests, which makes it a great value. From big slides and lazy rivers to toddler splash areas, there was something for everyone—and lifeguards everywhere.

I rarely go in our own pool (I hate getting my hair wet with chlorine, lol), but for water rides, I made an exception. Together we chased each other around the lazy river and raced down slides. One of our favorites was the River Canyon Run, a big raft ride that can fit the whole family (up to 5 people) at once.

Pro tip: Arrive early on check-in day. Even before your room is ready, you can pick up wristbands and head straight into the waterpark to maximize your time.

Day Tip: If you’re just going for the day (yes, day passes are available), bring your own towels or be prepared to rent them. Lockers are on-site too, but honestly, we just claimed a couple of pool chairs and stashed our things there without any issue.

Standard Family Suites

We booked a Standard Family Suite, which comfortably fit all four of us. Two queen beds, a sofa bed, mini fridge and a bathtub! 

The lodge-style interior of the hotel is surprisingly gorgeous, with towering wood beams, stone fireplaces, and a cozy rustic vibe that made it feel like a true getaway

And here’s the best part: every person staying in your suite automatically gets waterpark access. No buying separate tickets or wristbands—it’s baked into the price.

Wolf Pass Upgrade

Beyond the slides and splashes, there’s so much more to do. We went for the Wolf Pass upgrade so the boys could try everything: ropes course, mini golf, arcade, Ten Paw bowling, and the MagiQuest-style adventure trail.

To my surprise, they loved these activities even more than the waterpark. The ropes course had them climbing and zipping across beams high above, they enjoyed playing tag in the treetop adventure trail, while the arcade had them scheming like tiny casino-goers, determined to win tickets for prizes.

If you’re staying more than one night, the Wolf Pass is totally worth it.

What’s included in the Wolf Pass upgrade:

  • Ropes course

  • Mini golf

  • Ten Paw bowling

  • Arcade credits

  • MagiQuest adventure game + wand

  • Mining or gem experience

  • One candy cup

  • One ice cream scoop

Dining & Drinks

One of the biggest conveniences of Great Wolf Lodge is that you don’t have to leave the property to eat. From quick bites like pizza and burgers to sit-down meals, the dining options made it easy to keep everyone fueled up.

We grabbed breakfast at the buffet each morning, which was great for loading up before a busy day. And because parents deserve perks too: the Naples Great Wolf Lodge has a Dunkin’ Donuts on site (praise be to caffeine), plus several bars for adult beverages and poolside frozen piña coladas—inside the Fireside Restaurant, at the poolside bar, and even outside by the main pool.

Savings tip: You can pre-pay dining credits with the Platinum Dining upgrade when booking (we did!), and you can bring your own beverages to stock the fridge in your room.


Fun for Every Age (Little Cubs to Big Wolves)

One question I got asked a lot in my DMs: “Will my older kids actually enjoy it?” Short answer: Yes.

For younger kids, Great Wolf has life jackets, splash zones, a mini water play area, story times, character meet-and-greets, and even craft/coloring stations. It’s basically toddler paradise.

But my 12-year-old boys? They were all in for the ropes course, playing tag on the tree-top adventure trail, and racking up arcade tickets well into the evening. As we walked out the doors to our car, unsolicited, they both said they had a fun time, which is high praise for tweens.

Great Wolf Lodge Naples, Florida family staycation with indoor waterpark, ropes course, arcade, and fun activities for kids of all ages. Tips for dining, Wolf Pass upgrade, and saving money.”

Final Thoughts

Our Naples staycation at Great Wolf Lodge checked all the boxes: fun, convenient, and just the right amount of exhausting (in a good way). Between the waterpark, the Wolf Pass activities, and the food-and-drink options, there really was something for everyone. Overall, I was impressed with how clean and well-kept the entire property was—even with so many families running around.

If you’re planning a visit:

  • Stay at least 2 nights to take advantage of everything.

  • Bring extra swimsuits (because one set is never enough and no one likes to put on a wet suit the next day).

  • Great place for celebrating a child's birthday! 

  • Bring snacks and drinks for the room to save money.

  • Arrive early on check-in day and use the waterpark before your room is ready.

  • Budget for extras like the Wolf Pass—it really does maximize the experience.

  • Check out the deals page for Great Wolf Lodge, Naples Florida

Would we go back? Absolutely. We’re already talking about it, but next time we’re bringing friends too.

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