Family vacation ideas: All-inclusive resorts

There's no shortage of activities for families vacationing at these all-inclusive resorts. Kids and parents spend the days swimming, hiking and playing games; nighttime is reserved for family dinners followed by different types of entertainment (musicians, jugglers, magicians).

Mohonk Mountain House
The turreted Mountain House, nestled in the middle of a nature reserve, resembles a storybook castle. Surrounded by 2,200 acres of woodland—full of hiking trails and some seriously breathtaking views—it's easy to see why families come to Mohonk year-round. In the spring and summer, visitors of all ages can take guided nature walks and canoe rides. Cross-country skiing, tubing and snowshoeing are a big draw in colder months. 1000 Mountain Rest Rd, New Paltz, NY (800-772-6646, mohonk.com). Rooms from $270 per adult per night, children ages 4–12 $99, children under 4 free. Includes meals and most resort activities.

Rocking Horse Ranch
Old-school bonding is the name of the game here. The resort, reminiscent of an upscale sleepaway camp, sports a laundry list of activities—horseback riding, shuffleboard, bungee jumping and mini golf; there's also an indoor water park and a giant outdoor water slide. Magic acts and jugglers take to the stage nightly after an all-you-can-eat dinner. 600 State Rte 44/55, Highland, NY (800-647-2624, rhranch.com). Rooms from $219 per adult per night, children ages 7–15 $100, ages 3–6 $65, children under 3 free. Includes meals and all resort activities.

Woodloch
More than 30 activities are on the roster each day at this Poconos resort, from Olympics-style sports and scavenger hunts to game-show spin-offs. Especially fun for families are the rock-climbing wall, zip line and bumper cars. The spa offers a variety of treatments for parents. 731 Welcome Lake Rd, Hawley, PA (800-966-3562, woodloch.com). Rooms $99–$205 per adult per night, children ages 7–12 from $40, ages 3–6 from $22, children under 3 free. Includes meals and all resort activities.