17 Kid-Friendly Lodges for Fantastic Family Getaways

12. Timberline Lodge

An iconic Pacific Northwest landmark, Timberline Lodge is hailed as one of the best examples of Depression-era, WPA-built mountain architecture in the United States. Perched on the south slope of Mount Hood and constructed by blacksmiths and stonemasons, the inn houses so many artifacts and works of art it seems as much a museum as a hotel. Although winter is high season here because of the nearby ski resort, summer brings meadows bursting with colorful wildflowers and superb high-country hiking. Rates range from cheap (bunk beds with shared bath) to expensive (king bed, private bath and wood-burning fireplace in room). Even picky eaters will find something to enjoy at one of the lodge’s many dinning options. 

Details: 27500 West Leg Rd., Government Camp, Oregon; 503-272-3311 (for lodge reservations call 503-272-3410)

13. Crater Lake Lodge

Perched on the edge of the deepest lake in the United States, Crater Lake Lodge in Oregon’s south Cascades offers your family a front-row seat to one of the West’s most fascinating natural-history stories. A volcanic caldera, this lake of sapphire water was formed in the aftermath of Mount Mazama’s volcanic eruption circa 5,670 B.C. It’s now Oregon’s only national park. The lodge was originally completed in 1915, and though renovated since, the vintage charm remains intact. About half of the 71 rooms face the lake; these are well worth spending a tad more money.

Details: 570 Rim Dr., Crater Lake, Oregon; 866-292-6720

14. The Suttle Lodge

In the heart of the Deschutes National Forest near Sisters, pine-ringed Suttle Lake has drawn families in search of summer fun since the 1920s. Its modern lodge blends cushy comforts and rustic appeal, with plenty of knotty pine and wrought-iron furnishings, high-end deck chairs and stone fireplaces. Kids will love paddling a canoe around the glacier-carved lake, fly fishing in a mountain river or hiking on a nearby trail. Parents will love that the Boathouse restaurant whips up sophisticated Northwest dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Accommodations range from rustic cabins with no running water to deluxe lodge suites.

Details: 13300 U.S. Highway 20, Sisters, Oregon; 541-638-7001

15. Painter’s Lodge

Fishing adventures await! The Campbell River area is known around the world for huge runs of large Chinook salmon. A fishing resort set on the Georgia Strait, Painter’s Lodge offers a wonderful experience for families interested in guided fishing expeditions, even for beginners. The lodge rooms vary in size. On-site dining specializes in seafood, of course. Look for value packages that combine lodging with guided fishing.

Details: 1625 McDonald Rd., Campbell River, British Columbia, Canada (on Vancouver Island); +1-778-722-9843  

16. Middle Beach Lodge

Do your kids like exploring tide pools for starfish? How about spotting whales? Journey to Tofino on Vancouver Island’s wild and remote west coast for the vacation of a lifetime. Perched on a bluff over the water with walking trails down to the sandy beach below, Middle Beach Lodge’s deluxe cabins are favorites for families who seek both respite and adventure. This spot has offers modern tree house accommodations, so cool! Luxuries abound, from fluffy robes and duvets to deck chairs for lounging. Cook up dinner in your cabin, or head to Tofino for sushi or fish tacos.

Details: 400 Mackenzie Beach Rd., Tofino, British Columbia, Canada (on Vancouver Island); 250-725-2900 or toll free 1-866-725-2900

17. Nita Lake Lodge

If luxury is your criterion, book an oversized suite at upscale Nita Lake Lodge near the base of Whistler Mountain. Summer is the off-season here, and ski runs are replaced by hiking trails through wildflower meadows. A family-size suite has a kitchenette, a balcony with views of sparkling Nita Lake, a basalt gas fireplace and a soaker tub. The lodge’s Winter Den restaurant generates buzz for its inventive bistro fare. Little ones will love the lodge’s complimentary rentals of bikes, fishing rods and canoes. Soak sore muscles in the outdoor plunge pool or in the rooftop hot tub.

Details: 2131 Lake Placid Rd., Whistler, British Columbia, Canada; 888-755-6482