Need a break from the daily grind and daily routines? I know we do every now and then. Sometimes it’s nice to pack up the kids and get away for a day or two. We did this last week. We didn’t go far, but we had a wonderful weekend staycation at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center!
The Gaylord National is located at the National harbor. They have the perfect family getaway ready for you and your family this summer. My family and I loved the SummerFest package that the Gaylord National offers. It is the perfect mixture of family fun, adventure, and relaxation! Here is a peek into our weekend, and an idea of what you can expect when purchasing a SummerFest package.
We checked in and immediately the kids saw the SummerFest activity board and were ready to become pirates! We enjoyed a fun scavenger hunt throughout the resort, as well as some silly pirate interactions in the atrium. It wouldn’t be a summer vacation without some pool time. So we strapped on the swim suits and made our way to the pool- just in time for the Pirates Pool Invasion. The pirates played games, gave tattoos, and interacted with all of the kids on the splash pad. My kids had such a great time at the pool and splash pad, they did not want to leave.
After a delicious meal at the National Pastime Grill- just one of restaurants located on the resort, we enjoyed an evening stroll. The Gaylord National is so beautiful and serene. This was a perfect time for my husband and I to take a few deep breaths and soak in the beauty around us. The kids loved exploring the outside, too! Avast, it was time for the Swashbuckler’s Storytime Adventures! We got seated and we were greeted by two friendly pirates. These pirates taught us to talk like them, and read us a few pirate tales from the sea. It was a fun time for the kids, while we sat back and enjoyed seeing them brush up on their pirate talk. The last event of the night took place in the Atrium. The fountain comes alive with the new spectacular laser light show. With a beautiful kaleidoscope of colorful lasers and the dancing fountain all synchronized to music. It is a must see! We staked out a balcony spot at the Belvedere Lobby. Mom and Dad enjoyed a cocktail while the kids enjoyed hot chocolate, and we all enjoyed the show. As I mentioned earlier, it really is a good balance of fun and relaxation. We may or may not have ordered room service in the form of delicious dessert once the kids were asleep. Shhh- It’s our little secret.
The next day began with the Capt’n Bones Buccaneer Breakfast. It was another fun pirate experience where they kids got some more treasure, participated in a few games, and made a craft! Plus, the breakfast buffet was superb! A great variety of hot and cold breakfast items, including an omelette station. It was the prefect way to start the day. Of course, the kids wanted to get back in the pool before we left… so we did!
After we checked out, we had a few hours before our final event of the day. We enjoyed the National Harbor shops and the gorgeous docks. There is so much to see and do there, like the PEEPS Store, The Capital Wheel, Pedal Boats, the Carousel, and much more!
Last, but definitely not least, we enjoyed the Urban Pirates boat ride. It was an adventurous pirate time at sea, and my kids loved every second of it. They got to dress, talk, and play like pirates. The boat ride itself was fun, and we had a gorgeous view of the National Harbor. It was the perfect way to end our staycation.
My kids-4, 10, and 11-all enjoyed the pirate themed activity sand adventures. It was engaging and the pirates did a great job including the kids in on the fun at each event. Please note that there are additional fees for some of these events, such as the boat ride. This family fun package runs through September 5th, 2016. There was plenty of time for play and activities of your own choosing as well. The rooms are modern, spacious, and have very comfortable beds. Plus, you can’t beat the views! So, if you are looking for a fun getaway that your kids will love, SummerFest at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, is truly fun for the whole family!