Every year, my family discusses what we missed or needed more of in the past year. For 2022, we realized that we needed to travel together more. That is why I wanted to go on a trip with my whole family after summer church camp this year.
First, we thought about going to the Dominican Republic but our passports would not be ready in time. Next, we considered Puerto Rico because no passports would be needed. Since my late father-in-law was experiencing some health challenges, we chose a resort in the New York Tri-State area instead.
I thought that perhaps we should wait until another time to take the trip. Then, I told myself “No.” There are always going to be obstacles for family trips but we should make this vacation happen now and appreciate it as a family. I’m so glad that we did! When our vacation ended, life got busy again and I am grateful for those special moments together.
Family Fun at Minerals Hotel
I talked to the marketing team at Crystal Springs Resort and received a special media rate to stay at the Minerals Hotel. My family had a fantastic time, even though we were a bit tired from a camp that we had attended the previous week.
At first, I thought we would mainly rest and eat but our trip was very active. On the first day, we checked out what activities the resort offered and made a list of things that everyone wanted to do. We didn’t finish everything on the list but still felt like it was a fantastic trip.
Minerals Hotel Room
We had a Deluxe Room with Balcony/Patio. It was nice, clean and comfortable. I am fond of doing a walk-through of rooms so you can see the room for yourself below:
The thing that I loved the most about the room was the beds. (What can I say? I love a good night’s sleep.) The beds were so comfortable that it was hard to get out of them each day. One of our sons missed breakfast each day because he wouldn’t get up!
Activities at Minerals Hotel
As I mentioned, this was a lively, active getaway. When we checked into the hotel, we were given a listing of the daily activities. There were plenty of options for each day. The following were some of our favorites:
Archery
Our sons had a blast during this guided activity.
Axe Throwing
My guys weren’t going to leave until they each hit the bullseye.
Fishing
We drove to the Quarry for a relaxing time of fishing. We didn’t catch anything but it was still a pleasant time.
Pickleball
I see why pickleball is such a fast-growing sport. The hotel had paddles and balls for this popular new sport. We had such a good time playing (with our unofficial rules) that I now want to find a local place to play.
Etcetera
We also spent time at the game lounge playing pool and a few games at the arcade. The guys were also pleased with the sports club and basketball court that were available at the hotel.
I realized that fifty was my age limit for playing 2-on-2 basketball with my husband and sons. After falling to the ground due to a bad (moving!) block and then later getting hit in the face with a ball, I was done. Well, at least Team Parents ended with a WIN.
One noteworthy thing is that there are extra fees for some pastimes since Minerals Hotel is not an all-inclusive resort. For instance, we paid additional fees for axe throwing, archery, pickleball and fishing. Such costs (many of which are per person) can add up so be sure to check the website first so that you can budget accordingly.
Nearby Dining
Tasty food options are essential to my family when we go on vacation.
The Quarry Grill
We ate at a nearby restaurant, The Quarry Grill, on the first night. My husband Reggie had read that they sold excellent smash burgers…and they did. The staff was super friendly and the food was impressive. The burgers, thin-sliced fries and milkshakes were all mouthwatering.
Wing’s Asian Bistro
Another local restaurant, this spot had some good Asian food.
Cravin Thai
We all wanted Thai cuisine and Cravin Thai, a local restaurant, had a great variety of Thai dishes – including a surprisingly good Thai burger.
Kites Restaurant
At the Kites Restaurant in the Minerals Hotel, my husband and youngest son (the breakfast eaters) went to the breakfast buffet. Each day, a breakfast credit was given which covered a portion of the costs. Reggie and Sean especially raved about the French toast and maple butter.
Final Thoughts
My family truly enjoyed our trip and we are so glad that we went to the Minerals Hotel. We would return. If you get the opportunity, definitely take that family trip. You won’t regret it!
