My kid's birthday(s)? Fall on the same day. 5 years apart, but the same day. My husband thought we'd save money on cakes over the years... haha. Their birthday is also at the beginning of February, which is pretty darn close to Christmas. They just had a holiday where they received plenty of gifts and I didn't want to add more "stuff" that wasn't necessary. What we did need however, was quality time together. The YMCA Estes Park was the perfect solution!
I've been to this YMCA campus a handful of times for their big annual yoga conference, but my family had never been. It was a completely different experience! They have more activities than you could ever schedule in. But, here's the cool thing; you go to what you want, skip what you don't feel like, and take part in whatever activities suit your family.
My kids are in 4th and 8th grade, girl and boy, and don't like too many of the same things. Something amazing happened up there... they interacted and actually played together in the snow! It was sight to see! They also worked together in the Escape Room, stood side by side in Archery, and played Marco Polo in the indoor pool. My kids had fun and it had nothing to do with cell phones or computer games! It was a Birthday miracle!
As for my husband and I, we appreciated the ease of having a cabin with a full kitchen so we could make breakfast and take our time heading out in the morning. It was clean, comfortable and very homey. Thank goodness for that because I wasn't feeling great so I stayed in the cozy cabin while my hubby took the kids swimming and sledding. They were planning on ice skating too but had too much fun with the other activities.
Although it was nice to have a kitchen we were on a little vacation so getting our main meals in the Dining Hall was kind of nice.. Everyone could get whatever they wanted to eat. No arguments! The food was surprisingly good, not at all what I expected. If/when you go and they have hummus, do not miss it. It's the bomb!
The YMCA of the Rockies knows how to make sure everyone's needs are covered. I found the Y's employees to be so helpful and kind. Good service is hard to find and they've got it down.
My only complaint is that we didn't stay long enough! We missed "playing" in their unbelievable ART ROOM! I'm not talking basic crafts, this was legit! A full ceramics painting room, jewelry making, tile painting, tie die, and more! I think I'd drive up for the day just to use it! We also missed the roller skating and making snow forts. I'm sure we missed more than that, but these were on our list of to-dos.
If you're considering a weekend staycation, spring break getaway or a summer family reunion, you've GOT to check out the YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park. I hear they only add more amazing activities to the summer schedule, so stay tuned for more from a mom's point of view this summer.
Our trip was hosted, but my opinions are my own~
