Where to Eat, Sleep and Play in Blue Mountain with Kids and Grandparents #MurphysDoBlueMountain

In the spring we packed up the kids and the grandparents and took them to Blue Mountain Resort, along with their visiting Great-Grandmother. We’ve shared some of the perks and struggles of multi-generational travel and we’ve also shared some of the fun activities we got up to off-resort. Today we want to show you EVERYTHING that we got up to during our two night stay and tell you why we’re all talking about heading back that way the next chance we get! Blue Mountain Resort is an all-season destination and while most of us may think of it as a perfect spot for winter activities, there’s also PLENTY on offer during the summer months for Ontario families looking for a relaxing one stop vacation spot.

Disclosure : Our visit was in partnership with Blue Mountain Resort and the Visit Grey tourism board but, as always, opinions are TOTALLY ours.

Where to Sleep

There’s SO many lodging options on site at the Blue Mountain Resort that it works well for families of all sizes and those on a budget. From inns and hotel suites, to three bedroom chalets and everything in between, you can find what you’re looking for. Just remember to book early as this is a popular destination! I’ve even seen some owners rent out their spots on the usual suspects like Booking.com and AirBnB, so that’s another option for last minute getaways. You really do need to ask yourself where to stay at Blue Mountain and for us the answer was the full-service four-diamond Westin Trillium House. With five adults and two kids, the two bedroom suite which came with a full living room that had a pull-out couch, and a full kitchen, was just perfect for our weekend getaway. Click here to read about the Westin Kids Club, the perfectly heated outdoor swimming pool and hot tubs that we made full use of.

Where to Eat and Drink

If it were up to my mom we’d have enjoyed every meal at our Westin Blue Mountain suite because she pretty much brought half her kitchen with her. While we enjoyed plenty of snacks during the day, we also ensured that we got out and explored the dining scene at the resort. There’s so many spots to eat at and we only took a very small bite of the many cuisines on offer but you’ll want to remember that there’s a shuttle that will take you around the resort, and so you if you want to go somewhere that’s a bit further away on a hot or cold day, keep that in mind. Blue Mountain has a thriving nightlife scene as well so be sure to plan some nights out once the kids and grandparents are tucked in.

Sunset Grill : When you want a hearty breakfast this is your spot. Expect good comfort food with huge portions, and a spot everyone can relax at. No reservations, and it can get busy with line-ups but we lucked out during our weekend visit and our group was seated within ten minutes. Traditional egg dishes, burgers and steaks can be found here, not forgetting the ginormous fruit bowls.

Oliver & Bonacini Grill : We’re a fan of all the O&B restos and I’ve dined here before, however on this occasion we ordered room service. My advice would be to dine at the restaurant versus ordering in.

Pottery Restaurant : If you’re looking for a leisurely meal, check out the Pottery Restaurant. They do offer casual lunches but we opted for the dinner. It is a fair walk away from the Westin so taking the shuttle would be smart if you plan to visit. Most dishes are great here and the menu changes with each season – if you see the fried cheesecake, get it! In fact, order two of them just for yourself. Click here for a full review.

Beaver Tails : Be a good Canadian or tourist (as the case may be) and get yourself a delicious Canadian treat. The kids and adults will love it!

Royal Majesty : After all the activities you’ll engage in, you’ll deserve the famous cinnamon buns here. Just ensure grandma only has one!

Twist Martini Lounge : If you’re looking to enjoy drinks outdoors, this is a fab spot for an afternoon pick-me-up.

MJ Byrnes Irish Pub : Even these guys have high chairs on offer!! Great spot for some beer – and if you’re able to sneak out late at night, like we were able to, you can find yourself on a dance floor with a live band!

Where to Play

Blue Mountain Resort and the surrounding areas offer activities for all ages and all skill levels. From newborns to 78 year olds, there’s space to run around, and things to explore. My kids were just happy finding rocks, but I was glad we managed to get to some of the many attractions and activities on offer. They even offer camps for kids during the summer and winter months so parents can truly enjoy some kid-free time, if they want to.

Cascading Putting Course : Baby Boy and my Grandmother, both had fun here as did everyone else. It’s laid-back and fun during the less busy season, but I can see it being a bit more serious during peak times. All you need to do is book your session at the Activity Centre and turn up for your time slot, everything is there waiting for you. Click here for a full review.

Plunge! Aquatic Centre : This spot is perfect for those 10 and younger. If you have older kids you’re better off visiting the Westin’s pool at no extra cost (if you’re staying at the hotel). My kids loved it, and we’d spend an entire day swimming between the pools if we visit again.

Iwa Spa : Mommy needs an afternoon off and checking into the spa is definitely the way to do it. Click here to read about my Ganban Yoku experience. 

Glama Gals : A mommy/daddy & me session with little ones are also just as fun as the adult spa visits so be sure to check out Glama Gals if your little one likes to get dolled up like mine does!

Rock Climbing : I was shocked at how our 4 year old did so well here. The hubs and Little Monkey may have found a new activity for them to do together! The activity centre is where you’ll want to book your time at and just turn up, they have all the gear you’ll need.

Crock a Doodle : Perfect for cold, rainy or extremely hot days, this indoor pottery painting activity will get the creative juices flowing. Be sure to visit a day before you check out to ensure you avoid any shipping charges as the items need to be fired overnight. Click here for our full review.

Ridge Runner : Thrill seekers will definitely love riding this beast of a coaster, and kids as young as 3 can ride with an adult.

Gondola : If you’re looking for some awesome pictures, this is where you’ll get them – from the open air Gondola. Young kids need to be secured in a stroller to ride on this.

Off-Resort Activities

Water Activities : If you’re looking to explore the nearby area there’s many water sports on offer from kayaking to boating and even helicopter rides.

Blue Mountain Beach : Ten minutes away is a beach for kids to build sandcastles, and parents to relax at. Definitely worth a visit if you’re enjoying a longer stay at the Blue Mountain Resort.

Scenic Caves : Ten minutes away from Blue Mountain Resort, kids can jump around at the playground, mine for gemstones, and go hiking up to a bridge. An entire day can be spent here if you have the time. Click here for a full review.

Alpaca Farm : This was loads of fun and educational for all of us and while the farm is an hour away, it’s worth a pit stop on your way into or out of Blue Mountain. Click here for a full review.

There’s so much more on offer at the Blue Mountain Resort and if you’re looking for an end-of-the-summer, fall or winter getaway, check them out!