A Surprising Discovery: A Family Getaway Where Nobody Asked for Their Phone!
Finding a vacation that works for the whole family can be tough, especially when “the whole family” includes grandparents, parents, teenagers and younger kids.
Everyone wants something different. Someone wants adventure, someone wants relaxation, and someone just wants good food. And if you’re traveling with teenagers, there’s always the question of how much time they’ll spend on their phones.
So when a client recently came home from a trip we planning to Mohonk Mountain House in New York and told me that her young teenage grandkids never once asked for screen time, I was delighted. Mission accomplished!
Everything You Need, All in One Place
Mohonk is an all-inclusive mountain retreat in New York’s Hudson Valley, with three meals a day, afternoon tea, countless activities and entertainment included with your stay.
And there is so much to do.
Families can spend their days hiking, swimming, kayaking, fishing, playing tennis or pickleball, trying archery or tomahawk throwing, taking carriage rides, or simply exploring the beautiful grounds.
There are games rooms, a library and even spaces you can reserve for your family to hang out and play games together. For younger children, childcare and Kids’ Club options are available.
Bring the binoculars, too. There’s plenty of wildlife around the property!
Relaxation Is Part of the Plan
It’s not all go-go-go.
There’s a sandy area by the lake, a heated indoor pool and an excellent spa. My client also loved Founders Club for quieter meals.
And I loved this family-friendly option: you can get food to-go and enjoy it outside picnic-style, or bring it back to your room for a quiet family movie night.
The main dining room can be busy, but there’s a kids’ buffet right in the middle of the room, so younger kids don't have to wait for their meals to arrive (anyone who has had to deal with hangry kids waiting for food knows what a game changer this is). And there’s even a fantastic BBQ right by the lake.
Picture This in the Fall...
My client said their room was immaculate, but the feature that really caught my attention was the working wood-burning fireplace in every room.
Now picture that in October with the leaves changing, or in winter, coming back from a day outside, lighting the fire and settling in for the evening.
Sounds pretty perfect to me.
Why I Think Mohonk Is Great for Multigenerational Travel
This is where I think Mohonk really shines.
Everyone can do their own thing without actually being apart. Grandparents can enjoy the spa or a quiet meal. Parents can join the activities, or take some time for themselves. Kids have plenty to keep them busy, and teenagers have enough going on that their phones suddenly become a lot less interesting.
And because meals and so many activities are included, there’s much less planning and decision-making once you arrive.
That makes it an especially appealing option for multigenerational trips, family celebrations, reunions or simply families who want an easy getaway without getting on a plane.
A Chance to Actually Disconnect
I think this is what I love most about the idea of Mohonk.
We spend so much time trying to get our families to put their phones down and spend time together. Here, you don't necessarily have to convince them.
There’s nature to explore, activities to try, meals to enjoy and plenty of opportunities to simply be together.
Sometimes the best family vacation isn't the one where you see and do the most.
It’s the one where everyone actually enjoys being together.
If you’re looking for a family getaway that makes that a little easier, Mohonk Mountain House is definitely one I’d put on your list.
Want to know if Mohonk would be a good fit for your family? Let’s talk. I’d be happy to help you figure it out and take care of the details.
