If you’ve spent time in Virginia, you know we’re blessed with many fantastic resorts. From the beach to the Blue Ridge, the choices are endless. But a true four-season resort is tough to find. I will suggest–and back up with evidence–that Massanutten Resort in Virginia is the best four-season resort in the state.
It’s not the fanciest, but beautifully manicured, clean, and action-packed. If you’re looking for a place offering something for every family member all year round, this is it.
And the resort is no more than a couple hours’ drive from every major metropolitan area in the state, including the Washington DC area.
So let’s dig in and see what makes Massanutten Resort in Virginia one of the places me and my family visit every year.
Massanutten Resort in Virginia is centrally located.Table of contents
Things to Do in Massanutten Resort in Winter
Massanutten Resort in Virginia shines in the winter!At its heart, Massanutten is a ski resort–so winter is its time to shine. Considering it averages only about 20” of snow annually, it’s pretty good skiing. And it’s about to get better. The resort has a multi-year plan to expand and improve the runs and lifts.
Massanutten Virginia ski resort gets cold enough to make plenty of snow and typically opens right before Christmas. In a good year, they can stay open until March 30.
Massanutten Resort in Virginia Skiing Information and Rates
Massanutten Sports- https://www.massresort.com/play/snow-sports/hours-rates/
2,925 ft. of elevation
70 skiable acres, including 14 runs serviced by seven lifts
Two different lift ticket rates:
- Adult- 4-hour M-F $51 (weekend/holiday $80), 8-hour M-F $61 (weekend/holiday $90)
- Jr/Sr/Military- 4-hour M-F $41 (weekend/holiday $66), 8-hour M-F $51 (weekend/holiday $76)
Equipment Rental rates:
- Adult- 4-hour $46, 8-hour $52, night session $46
- Junior/Senior- 4-hour $39, 8-hour $45, night session $39
Ice Skating at Massanutten Resort in Virginia
The Massanutten Fitness & Rec Club tennis courts are transformed into a frozen winter wonderland for ice skating. Minors will need a release filled out, which can be done ahead of time here.
Lessons are available for adults and children. For more information and to buy tickets, check out all the details here.
- General Admission- $10
- Age 5 and under- $5
- Military/Gold Card Member- $8
- Skate Rental- $3
- Helmet Rental- $2
Indoor Water Park at Massanutten Resort in Virginia
The water park is located at the base of the mountain and is open year-round–inside only in the winter. But it’s always heated to a toasty 84 degrees, and everyone will love the pools, slides, lazy river, and hot tubs.
You’ll need to purchase water park tickets at least one day before arrival. Rates vary depending on height and the day of the week. Children 2 and under are free.
Indoor Pools
- Woodstone Meadows Recreation Center:
Open daily 11 am – 7 pm
Starting Nov 14: Fri – Wed 11 am – 7 pm, closed on Thurs
Special Hours: Nov 24 open 12 – 7:30 pm - Massanutten Fitness & Rec Club:
Starting Nov 8: Thu – Tue 8 am – 8 pm, closed on Weds
Street Curling
The Street Curling Rink (located at Massanutten Fitness & Rec Club) provides a unique opportunity to experience the excitement of Olympic curling. Street Curling uses synthetic ice to create an iceless curling experience. The game is easy and fun to play but challenging to master. However, everyone in your family will have a great time!
General Admission – $25 per session, maximum of 8 people per session, ages 6+Gold Card Owners – $20 per session, maximum of 8 people per session, ages 6+
Snow Tubing
Don’t ski? No worries–nearly everyone can snow tube. The Massanutten tubing hill has 16 900’ long lanes with a 120’ vertical drop. Slide down solo or link up with your family and friends and go together.
This is a very popular activity that sells out quickly, so plan ahead. For more information and to get tickets–go here.
- 90-minute session rates Mon-Fri $30
- Weekends /Holiday- $40
Fitness & Rec Club with Pool
The Massanutten Fitness & Rec Club is a bright and modern fitness and recreation center with offerings for all ages and fitness levels. The fitness center is on the top floor of Massanutten Fitness & Rec Club and has an open and airy environment.
You’ll find newer exercise equipment, including dumbbells, cable machines, a Smith machine, plenty of multi-station strength machines, and cardio equipment.
You’ll have loads of fun in the fitness class studio, where you can take Zumba, aerobics, or yoga classes.
If swimming is more your thing, the 25-meter heated pool offers water aerobics and lap swimming. If you’re tired after a long day of skiing, hit the hot tub and then the Salt Therapy booth for ultimate relaxation.
The fitness center also has plenty for the kids, including their own pool, a game room, and a basketball court.
Spa
Sore and tired from a long day in the snow? Then treat yourself to a serene retreat for a massage, facial, or manicure.
Take your choice of a Swedish, hot stone, or couples massage. Afterward, opt for a 30-minute infrared sauna to improve circulation and decrease pain.
Tweens and teens can even get in the action with specially priced packages. Of course, the spa is open year-round, but it’s incredibly soothing in the winter!
For a complete guide to the spa, go here.
Bar Hop in Harrisonburg
Harrisonburg is home to James Madison University and has a lively nightlife. Here are some of my favorite bars when I’m in town!
O’Neill’s Grill https://www.oneillsgrill.com/
O’Charley’s https://www.ocharleys.com/
Three Notch’d Brewing Company https://threenotchdbrewing.com/pages/hburg
Jack’s Hideaway https://www.jacktownhideaway.com/
Pale Fire Brewing https://www.palefirebrewing.com/
Billy Jack’s Shack (my favorite–try the Greg Brady sliders) https://www.billyjacksshack.com/
Things to Do at Massanutten Resort in Spring
Springtime is a glorious time at Massanutten Resort in Virginia.Hiking
As winter gives way to spring, the landscape of Massanutten sees the color come back. A hike is a great way to see the mountain laurels, melting snowfall, and full waterfalls along with the emerging wildlife.
See more on Massanutten hiking in the Summer activities above.
Chairlift ride
The snow has melted, and your skis are in storage, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a scenic chairlift ride. Pack your camera and head to chairlift #4 from the ski lodge to start your journey.
- Wear appropriate shoes and bring a jacket if it’s the least chilly.
- No animals are not allowed on the chairlift.
- A round trip takes about 90 minutes.
- Storms may cause delays and closures.
- Scenic chairlift rides are not available during winter operations.
Rates
- Adults – $15 in-person or $12 advance tickets
- Children 12 & under – $10 in-person or $8 advanced tickets
- Children 5 & under (36″ minimum height requirement) | Free
Wildlife viewing
Spring is the best time to see wildlife emerge from winter hibernation. Massanutten Resort and the surrounding mountains are home to an abundance of animals. I’ve seen bears, white-tailed deer, foxes, beavers, woodchucks, squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits, bobcats, and dozens of species of birds.
More on that next…
Bird Watching
This area of the Blue Ridge Mountains is an essential corridor for migratory birds. Spring and fall are the best times to see an enormous variety of birds.
Don’t be surprised to see raptors, warblers, and the other 80+ species that visit the region. So if you love the sights and sounds of birds, grab your binoculars and camera and head out from late April through May.
Petting Farm and Pony Ride
If you have small children, head to the Woodstone Meadows Stable & Petting Farm in Massanutten. April to June is an excellent time for your kids to ride a pony and see all the animals in their spring glory–maybe you’ll see some babies!
This is an ideal activity for summer and fall too!
Petting Farm $10
- Feed the sheep, bunnies, donkeys, ducks, a pot-belly pig, a turkey, a goat, and more!
- Hours vary seasonally. Please call for availability. Please call 540.289.6152 or resort ext 65273.
Pony Rides $10
- Good for kids two and older (or the first-time rider).
- Gentle, full-size horses are hand-led for two laps around a designated area inside the arena.
- Hours vary seasonally. Please call for availability. Please call 540.289.6152 or resort ext 65273.
Things to Do at Massanutten Resort in Summer
Summer in Massanutten Resort in VirginiaFishing
Have a ball fishing with the family at Hopkins or Painters pond. The ponds are stocked with trout, perch, small-mouth bass, blue and other species. You’ll need a resort ID when buying the license or renting gear.
- You must have the correct ID and a valid State or County fishing license (except those exempt under state law).
- One fishing pole per person is allowed.
- Fishing is allowed between one hour before sunrise and one hour after sunset all year.
- Locations: Painters Pond on Palmer Road and Hopkins Pond below the Gate House.
- Permits and fishing licenses are available year-round at The Market, behind the Woodstone Check-in Center. During spring, summer, and fall at The General Store, by the ski lodge.
- Obey NO FISHING signs when posted.
Golf
Mountain Greens Course
This challenging 18-hole mountainside course at Massanutten Resort in Virginia takes golfing with a view to a new level. The stunning par 72/73 course makes it tough to choose between teeing off or taking a picture.
If you want to look at the Mountain Greens Course scorecard, click here. To book tee times, click here.
Guest Rates:
- 9-holes walking $36, riding $51
- 18-holes walking $50, riding $75
- 9-hole club rental $18, 18-holes club rental $30
Woodstone Meadows Golf Course
This 65 par 18-hole course offers 5,065 yards of golf with a par of 65. Large fairways and lovely greens provide a playing field that your whole family will enjoy.
If you want to look at Woodstone Meadows’s scorecard, click here. To book tee times, click here.
Guest Rates:
- 9-holes walking $36, riding $50
- 18-holes walking $51, riding $75
- 9-hole club rental $18, 18-hole club rental $30
Family Adventure Park at Massanutten Resort in Virginia
The Massanutten Family Adventure Park offers an exciting experience for all the kids in your family–or those who are a kid at heart! Zip lining, tubing, and climbing will keep the adrenaline up.
The Climbing Wall provides 16’-30’ climbs, and the Quick Flight will have you experiencing a 30’ free-fall sensation.
The Mega Zip has 800 feet of heart-pumping plunge and can reach up to 30 MPH.
Summer Tubing features two lanes that are 600 feet in length and offer a drop of 120 vertical feet. $10 for two rides and $14 for four rides.
The Kids’ Adventure Course, (for ages 12 and under) has a log crossing, swinging vine bridge, zip line, Burma bridge, and a net traverse.
You can also try your hand at getting rich quickly with gem mining!
Indoor/Outdoor Water Park
Indoor
See Things to Do in the Winter section above. (Jump link)
Outdoor
The Outdoor WaterPark is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day weekend.
The MASS Mayhem, Peak Plunge, or Valley Vortex water slides will keep the kids busy for hours.
Your whole family will love racing down the 296-feet mat racer or relaxing in the wave pool as three-foot waves keep you entertained.
Click here to check out a map of this great WaterPark.
Hiking Massanutten
The entire area inside and around Massanutten offers an abundance of hiking trails, from easy to very difficult.
Outside the resort, head north the Road 636, where you’ll find plenty of hiking trails leading to amazing overlooks, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Camping
Sometimes, a stay at the resort isn’t the type of vacation you are looking for, but being close to the action at Massanutten is still on your radar. Bring that tent or 5th wheel and stay nearby at one of the scenic, well-equipped campgrounds or RV parks.
Top 5 Massanutten Resort in Virginia area campgrounds
Rock Tavern River Camp https://www.massanuttensprings.com/rock-tavern-river-kamp.html
Hawk Nest Mushroom Farm https://www.facebook.com/hawksnestveganfarm/
Downey Meadow showaltereric@yahoo.com for information
Loft Mountain Campground https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/loft-mountain-campground.htm
Dundo Group Campground https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/dundo-group-campground.htm
Top 5 Massanutten area RV parks
Harrisonburg/Shenandoah Valley KOA https://koa.com/campgrounds/harrisonburg/
Shenandoah Valley Campground https://www.shenandoahfamilycampground.com/
Endless Caverns RV Park https://endlesscaverns.com/
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park https://www.campluray.com/
Luray KOA https://koa.com/states-provinces/virginia/
Canoeing/Kayaking/Tubing
With 21 years of experience serving adventurers, let Massanutten Adventures help you with fun in the water. Canoeing, kayaking, and tubing on a scenic stretch of the Shenandoah River. An adventure not far from the resort, good fun for everyone in the family.
Tennis/Pickleball
At the Woodstone Recreation area, you will find tennis and pickleball activities for all skill levels. From clinics where you can learn the basics to private lessons to hone in on those developing skills, you’ll find just what you need to prepare you for these high-energy sports.
Outdoor Swimming Pools
Massanutten Resort has two indoor pools and four outdoor pools for exercise and fun!
Outdoor for Summer
- Woodstone Meadows Recreation Center Outdoor Pool
- Mountain Peak Pool
- Woodstone Leisure Pool – This pool is not supervised, and no Lifeguards are on duty. Your unit key will allow you access.
- Regal Vistas Leisure Pool -This pool is not supervised, and no Lifeguards are on duty. Regal Vistas Owners and guests may use this pool. Your unit key will allow you access.
Skyline Drive and Shenandoah National Park
Massanutten is conveniently located only minutes from the Shenandoah National Park & Skyline Drive. Take a left out of the main entrance and drive east on 33 until you reach the Swift Gap Entrance to the park. Drive or hike as you take in the beauty of the area. Plenty of roads and trails to explore, and you’ll find that you don’t have to take the same path twice.
Horseback Riding
What’s better than hiking on foot? Doing it on horseback, of course! Enjoy the beauty of the Massanutten Mountains on a leisurely guided trail ride on the back of a gentle and trail-wise horse.
Even if you or your kids have never ridden, the trail guides will match the horse to your experience level. The trail is suitable for riders ten and above. Trail rides are by reservation only, and summer riding gets booked several days in advance.
Trail rides cost $110
Live Music at Base Camp
Click here to find out everything that is going on at Base Camp, from the eats to live music. Massanutten makes it easy to plan your nights with their entertainment and dining calendar you can find here.
“Cooter’s Place”
The famed Dukes of Hazzard garage mechanic has set up shop with his shopping, dining, and museum, conveniently close by in Luray. For fans of the show, this is a “must-see.” Get your picture taken with the General Lee and other cars from the show.
Check out the website to see what’s there…and it’s a lot.
Things to Do at Massanutten Resort in Fall
Massanutten Resort in Virginia in the fall.Fall is a fantastic time to spend at Massanutten Resort. The crowds are light, the days are warm, the nights are cool, and except for outdoor water sports and swimming, you can do everything in the fall that you can do in the summer.
But there are a few standouts for fall.
Hiking
Fall is a beautiful time of year to get out for a hike and explore Massanutten. The weather is excellent, and the landscape has a new feel with the gorgeous changing foliage. This is another time of year when migrating birds journey against the backdrop of the magnificent fall colors.
See more on Massanutten hiking in the Summer activities above.
Wineries Near Massanutten Resort in Virginia
Fall is the best time to visit the numerous wineries around the Massanutten Resort area. The weather is perfect, the scenery is terrific, and the grapes are freshly harvested.
My favorite wineries to visit are:
- Brix & Column Winery- The entire winery is first class. The wines are great, and the views are even better! They often have live music. This is a must-do winery when I’m in the area.
- CrossKeys Vineyard– This is another winner. Think Italian villa meets the Blue Ridge. The food and wine are excellent, and you can’t beat the views. Go check it out for sure.
- Purple Wolf Vineyard at White Oak Lavender Farm– This is a cozy, adorable winery with extensive outdoor seating. The wines are lavender infused and delicious. Not only that, they have a gift shop that sells everything lavender. Don’t miss it!
There are many other excellent wineries, distilleries, and breweries in the area. You could spend days checking them all out.
Antiquing
Fall is a great time to go antiquing. People often spend the summer clearing out their homes and garages and donating or selling valuable items. Harrisonburg is a short drive away and has several antique stores with a mountain flare.
- Rolling Hills Antique Market
- Shenandoah Heritage Antique and Farmers Market
- Antique Barn
- Valley View Antiques and Collectibles
- Heartworn Vintage
- Stumps Old Town Antique
- Mill Creek Country Store- Antiques, Coffee, Tea, and Deli
Where to Stay at Massanutten Resort in Virginia
There are plenty of housing options at Massanutten Resort in Virginia.There are many options for your family to stay in Massanutten. I usually stay at the sprawling Woodstone Meadow condo complex that overlooks the golf course. These are huge two-bedroom/2-bath units with spacious kitchens, fireplaces, a deck, and full-size appliances.
These are beautifully appointed condos; most have a golf course or mountain views.
Insider tip: Be aware that the upstairs units have an outdoor gas grill but no stove, and the downstairs units have an indoor stove but no grill. So pick according to your needs.
Other places to stay at the resort include Regal Vistas, Woodstone Casas, The Summit, Eagle Trace, Massanutten Resort Hotel, Shenandoah Villas, Shenandoah Villas at Killy Court, and Eagle Trace at Killy Court.
When you make your reservation with the resort, they can give you all the information for your family’s needs.
Every season is an exciting time to be at Massanutten Resort. Go and tell me what you think!
4 thoughts on “Massanutten Resort in Virginia: The Best for Families”
Wow, there is truly a lot to do at this resort. It sounds perfect for families visiting the area.
I would especially love to go in Winter! Thank you for this good guide
My family has been to Virginia before. It was a quick visit though. I’m saving this article as it has inspired me to plan another trip to Virginia. I’m most looking forward to hiking in Massanutten & Shenandoah National Park.
You definitely give lots of fun and adventurous things to do all year long. I love that you have street curling as an option!