When I think of memorable family moments I think of the Poconos. For decades, I’ve traveled down I-80 many times with a car full of laughter and a trunk full of groceries. Here's why the Poconos are my favorite getaway for family vacations.
1. Easy Access
Just 90 minutes away from Manhattan is East Stroudsburg, PA. The drive has gorgeous scenery and lots of nearby family fun.
2. Stress Free
After a long week of the New York hustle and bustle, there is no greater feeling than hopping out of your car and being greeted by nature.
3. Location Location Location!
I was excited to be one of the first families to experience the newly renovated 2 bedroom villas at Pocono Mountain Villas by Exploria Resorts (formerly The Villas at Tree Tops and Fairway). As a child, I visited the property with my family yearly and now as a mother of 2 I am happy to continue the tradition. Recently the resort joined the Exploria Resorts family and is undergoing renovations and improvements. I was pleasantly surprised to open the door and see the beautiful hardwood floors and updated furniture.
My autistic son is transitioning to adulthood. This milestone in his life has caused him lots of stress and anxiety. This getaway provided him the peace he needed. Pocono Mountain Villas by Exploria Resorts has a gorgeous property. Damian found his serenity on the balcony. I strongly believe there is therapeutic value when we are exposed to nature. His smile confirmed it.
The 2 bedroom villa has 2 full bathrooms (one has a Jacuzzi). Each bedroom has a full size bed, flat screen TVs in every room, a spacious living room with a full size sofa bed, a dining room, a kitchen and the bonus: a loft area with 2 twin size beds. I enjoyed seeing the kids jump and play without the usual “Stop! People live downstairs” and other space restrictions that we face living in a New York City apartment.
We used the dining room table and fully furnished kitchen daily for breakfast and dinner. Cooking during a vacation saves us money and works best for my picky eaters. It also allows us to bond and create family memories - and that's priceless. On Saturday night, it felt like a Thanksgiving Day feast (minus the turkey).
4. Family Fun
Pocono Mountain Villas by Exploria Resorts has a full calendar of activities for the entire family to enjoy. From trivia at the pool to rope courses high in the sky. Everything is just a stroll away or accessible via the shuttle buses.
We enjoyed long hours at the pool, had fun in the arcade, and went to an Ice Cream Social event at the Activity Center to indulge in some sweets. We made ice cream sundaes, shared some laughs and then hopped right back into the pool that was directly outside of the activity center.
Now that the kids are older I decided to up the level of excitement and try Pocono TreeVentures, TruClimb & Blue Lightning Tubing, all minutes away from my villa. Pocono TreeVentures sits on 14 acres and has 5 courses. The safety harness and briefing were overwhelming for Damian but he did enjoy seeing us zipline and followed the course from below. Now, the Blue Lightning Tubing was a huge hit for all. A ticket is valid for 2 hours of riding and they went on the ride over and over again. My kids described the experience as "The best time ever!"
Learn more about Exploria Resorts and book your stay to start creating your own memories. Use Promo Code: PoconoAdventures for 20% off a 2 night stay.
PS: Check out our Instagram Takeover on the Exploria Resorts Instagram page and see all the fun we had.
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