Families looking for an easy weekend-getaway and perhaps a break from the Wisconsin Dells should consider a stay at the Blue Harbor Resort and Spa in Sheboygan. Recently remodeled and under new management, Blue Harbor is the centerpiece of Sheboygan's South Pier shopping, dining, and beach-going. A popular summertime wedding destination, sand dunes and sail boats offer a Cape Cod-like backdrop for photos and general memory making.

Featuring a nautical theme throughout the facility, families with younger children may enjoy either the Aquarium or Boathouse Suite—both have bunk-bed sleeping arrangements in cleverly decorated rooms complete with their own TV. The ceiling light fixture is even designed to look like the man on the moon. A variety of room sizes, prices, and configurations are available with either lake or city views, including condominiums offering full kitchens and a home-away-from-home feel.

In addition to the resort's outdoor heated pool, putting green, bocce ball court, and community fire pit, the main draw is the Breaker Bay Waterpark and arcade. Offering waterpark passes with hotel admission, guests will enjoy the 54,000 square feet of indoor (year-round) waterpark and entertainment action. Ideal for the elementary-age crowd, the waterpark does cater to toddlers and adventure-seekers (but don't expect as many stomach-dropping rides like you might find at Noah's Ark in the Wisconsin, Dells).  Day passes to the waterpark are also available if you aren't staying at the resort (locker rooms are available on site with showers and changing areas). Complimentary life jackets are available (and encouraged) for toddlers and new swimmers venturing into deeper water. Dropping 1,000 gallons of water onto patrons every five minutes, a giant hot tub and lazy river are options for people looking to keep their hair looking good. Adjacent to the waterpark is both a concession stand and video arcade (game prices range from 25 cents to one dollar). Located on the second floor balcony directly above the waterpark is the Blue Harbor Kids Club, offering scheduled take-home crafts for a nominal fee as well as toys, books, and a supervised play area ideal for rainy days and a diversion from the bright lights and water slides.

The Kids Club also offers scheduled activities throughout the facility, including daily outside activities (weather permitting) including s'mores and story time around the campfire pit in the summer months. Families dining at the resort will want to take advantage of the coupons located around the children's menu. From a free ice cream cone at the sweet shop to a free kite and sand pail from the boutique to 50% off a children's day pas at the waterpark (with a paid adult admission), the savings on the menu far outweigh the cost of the $6 kids meal.

Adults traveling on a romantic weekend will want to add the resort spa, romantic dining, and boardwalk strolls on their itineraries. With shopping, dining, and miniature golf a stroll down South Pier Drive, downtown Sheboygan and nearby Kohler offer more options for weekend fun (look for these stories soon).

A special thanks to Blue Harbor Resort and Spa for providing our family complimentary lodging and daily waterpark passes. Wisconsin Parent does not endorse any establishment, event, organization or venue we wouldn’t take our own families to.