Any recommendations for a (Non Disney) family gathering?:(

[Karenj2]

We've recently had some illnesses in the family (an 11 yo who is unfortunately dying of cancer and my Dad who has kidney issues), which made me think that we haven't taken a true family vacation in a LONG time!

My parents live on the waterfront on the Chesapeake Bay, so it's not like we don't get together, but I was thinking it might be nice to go somewhere where my mom wouldn't feel obligated to cook every meal. (Not that we don't try to take over, she doesn't let us!)

My siblings and parents are all in the PA/DE/MD area, and some extended family are a bit further away. Can anyone recommend a good "reunion" type of place that has things to do for the active folks as well as things for the inactive folks? Unfortunately, my parents aren't interested in Disney World, and my older sister isn't interested in a cruise, and my younger sister is always "broke" when it comes to doing trips, so I'm having a tough time thinking of anywhere...

 

[HeatherC]

There is an all inclusive resort in PA. Forget the name, but I am sure someone will know it on here.

Or...Pigeon Forge or Gatlingburg, TN? Can rent a large log cabin with hot tubs, etc. Lots to do in the area.

Charleston, SC...can rent a large home or condo in or around the city.

Myrtle Beach? Can do as much as you want and spend as little or as much as you want.

Hope this gives you some ideas!

 

[Darcy03231]

www.rockinghorseranch.com

We love it! Its a great place for all ages and you can be as busy or as relaxed as you want.

 

[DisneyHumbug]

Woodloch Pines in Hawley PA
www.woodloch.com

 

[HM]

We had a family gathering at The Homestead in the VA mountains last summer. It was a great place. However, if your sister has money troubles, this place may not be good for your group, as it's a bit pricey...though they often have good specials. At least check out the information for it online and see what you think. We had a lot of activities to choose from, both free and at a cost for all ages. They have both winter and summer activities.

 

[elf]

This past fall spent a couple of days at Ocean City MD, we really liked it. It was off season, so 1/2 price and we stayed on the BoardWalk. The older folks can walk on the boardwalk, drink coffee eat ice cream. I watched my kids one morning playing in the sand (11 & 13) from my room til I could get down there.
My 11 year old is a horse nut, so we drove about an hour and took a boat tour of Assatteague (sp?) to see the wild pony's roam. I'm 50 and saw my first Bald Eagle. Also my first time seeing Dolphins in the ocean as opposed to aquarium. There were like a dozen pods traveling along the coast. It was magical.

We went after the death of someone we loved very much it was soothing for all of us. Although I think on season would be very chaotic.

Definately look into Woodloch Pines, PA it's known to be a good place for large family gatherings. Has something for everyone. Maybe get a house big enough for all so sister won't have to pay as much for private room. It's not cheap but I think you could get a deal.

 

[lucigo]

If you really want your mom to not have to do a thing, take her on a cruise. One year we took all 6 kids to Disney and stayed at a condo where I cooked and cleaned and did laundry. Oh what fun. The next year we took our first cruise and I was in heaven. The ONLY thing I still had to do was change diapers.

Just leave your sister at home. I know, I'm evil.

 

[a1tinkfans]

cruises are great but can cost $$ especially better cruise lines...good other ones mentioned here too

Just wanted to say I am sorry you all are dealing with such serious illness issues I hope you can get away and break the routine....sometimes its what is really needed........good luck with all.......