Wisconsin Dells

Why: The indoor water park at Great Wolf Lodge has more than 100,000 square feet of slides and venues where the kids can blow off steam while moms and dads hit the bar and grill or Aveda spa.

How: About three and a half hours east on I–94.

Stay: The lodge’s northwoods-themed suites and condos can sleep up to fifteen and have cozy areas for kids. There are plasma TVs and fireplaces too. Water park tickets are free with lodging. Rates from $119. 608-253-2222

Eat: If you want to venture out, a local favorite is R Place, a family-style Italian restaurant open Thursday through Saturday evenings. 608-253-9240

Pack: Swimsuits! It’s a warm-weather vacation without sunburns.

P.S.: Families with younger kids should check out the smaller and tamer water park at Copa Cabana Resort, which offers guests free tickets to the Tommy Bartlett Exploratory. 608-253-1511