Review of our staycation bowling experience

  So while we were in one city I wanted to make the most of it.  The city of Hampton has a lot to do and everything doesnt have to cost a lot of money.  Take advantage of summer discounts and combine them with other free activities to get the most out of your day.  Taking a little time to research and plan helps reduce unnecessary driving thus saving gas and precious time.

  We have participated in the kids free bowling a few years ago and I am glad that it is still around.  It provides a nice opportunity for kids to learn and have fun at something else.  Something a majority of children have never tried before.  Summer is not just about the pool and beach, bike riding or playing more video games.  Get out and try something new.  At the rate of a few dollars for a shoe rental it provides with you with a nice new experience.

  There are only two locations in my local area this year.  I choose Spare times and was not disappointed.  The staff were very nice, they raised the bumpers, located two small bowling balls for us and even input the players names!  During mid afternoon there were plenty of lanes open so we were not sharing a common area.  It was just my children and I left alone to play in our own world.

  I was fortunate to only need to purchase one pair of shoes for one child so that was $3.  I personally would love to buy her a pair and it would make a great investment if you were going to go everyday all summer but we will not be and her feet will grow again before she will have the chance to wear them next year.  I stood the sidelines and assisted and directed when needed but for the most part the 2 and 4 year old bowled by themselves.

  We spent maybe about an hour there at the most.  Distractions come up, potty break intermissions, a roll away ball at one point but I don't remember any tears this time around.  They both played pretty well on each of their games and played well together.  Team mom earned some points this day!

A day in the life at Great Wolf Lodge

We finished up a day at our local greatwolf
Lodge in Williamsburg, VA.  Although it can be found to be pricey there are discounts randomly posted through groupon.  These discounts may only be available on certain days so research your days and plan as far out in advance as you can to be the best rates. Rooms vary from standard to theme. As well as based on the number of people in your party.

You may check in the day off as early as 1pm and enjoy the water park even if your room is not available!!!!!  Of course there are locker rooms available. :)

Upon check in you will get your honorary ears

 and wristbands

 for everyone in your party that act as room keys as well as creditcards. So think very carefully who you give the "power" to or you may end up with several of these 

 and they work at vending machines as well.  

When you are not eating there are other areas to explore.    A video arcade, minature golf, bowling.

Of course the main attraction is the water rides! 

There are several to choose from.  Water slides? Yep! Wave pool? Yep! A lazy pool? Yep! A couple hot tubs, kiddie pool and more......  All inside in a temperature control climate.  As the weather gets warmer there is another pool outside.

 During the day there are photo opportunities with different

characters walking around, kids arts and craft activities and MagiQuest! (An interactive game with a wand)

We have gone several times over the last few years and even got vip wristbands and a treat in our room upon our return that night!

I can't wait to go back!

Howl!!!!