The eight-year-old stares down from the 30-foot climbing wall at FunZone 2.0, her sneakers gripping the colorful holds as her dad cheers from below. "I can't do it!" she calls down. Then something clicks. Maybe it's the encouraging shouts from other families, or the fact that three other kids just conquered the same wall, but she pushes up one more hold, then another. At the top, she rings the bell with a grin that could power the entire resort.
This is the moment Smugglers' Notch Resort banks on. Literally.
As the only resort in North America bold enough to guarantee family fun or refund your money, Smugglers' Notch Resort doesn't just promise memorable Vermont vacations - they stake their reputation on delivering them. After spending time exploring what they call "America's Family Resort," it becomes clear why they're confident enough to put their money where their marketing is.
Walk into any family resort and you'll find pools and playgrounds. What makes Smugglers' Notch different isn't just what they have - it's how thoughtfully they've designed every experience around the reality of family dynamics. Take their signature Family Fun Adventure Package, which doesn't just bundle activities together but creates a progression of experiences that build confidence and connection.
The resort's $4 million investment in FunZone 2.0 tells the story perfectly. This isn't your typical hotel game room with a few dusty arcade machines. We're talking about a 26,000-square-foot indoor entertainment complex where families can spend entire afternoons regardless of Vermont weather. The giant inflatable slide draws squeals from the Ozone level, while the 3,500-square-foot laser tag arena below delivers strategic battles that level the playing field between kids and adults.
The 30-plus arcade games keep everyone entertained, but it's really the Go Zone that demonstrates their commitment to meaningful family experiences. The climbing wall, Smuggs Warrior obstacle courses, and the Leap of Faith platform jump create genuine challenge and achievement moments - the kind that become family legends.
Here's what really captures the Vermont spirit: Smugglers' Notch delivers outdoor adventure without the intimidation factor that keeps some families from embracing mountain life. Their ArborTrek Canopy Tours let kids fly free with paying adults, introducing families to Vermont's forest canopy in a way that builds rather than tests courage. The brand-new 9-hole disc golf course provides another entry point into Vermont's outdoor culture, complete with free rental discs.
The three heated pools and Mountainside Water Playground opened May 23rd, turning the Green Mountains into a summer playground where families can swim with mountain views. It's Vermont leisure at its most approachable - scenic beauty paired with genuine fun rather than forced adventure.
What surprised us most were the evening activities that actually bring families together rather than splitting them apart. When Jammin' Sam hosts the Vermont Country Fair on the Village Green or Rockin' Ron the Friendly Pirate runs family bingo, three generations find themselves genuinely engaged in the same activity. That's harder to orchestrate than it sounds.
The Family Fun Adventure Package starts around $200 per night for a family of four in condo-style accommodations, including access to most activities and 30% off their award-winning children's programs. When you factor in the space of full condos (kitchens, multiple bedrooms, living areas), plus the breadth of included activities, it competes favorably with cramped hotel rooms and à la carte pricing elsewhere.
The guarantee itself reflects something important about Vermont's tourism evolution. While other destinations ask families to take expensive vacation gambles, Smugglers' Notch has built their operation around measurable family satisfaction. They track participation in their programs and know with confidence that families who engage for at least two days consistently report positive experiences.
For Vermont vacation planning, this represents a shift toward accountability that benefits everyone. Families get transparent expectations and genuine recourse if experiences don't deliver. Vermont gets a flagship family destination that elevates standards across the region.
The summer season runs through early September, with prime family weeks booking up by March. Smart timing means reserving directly with their vacation planners who can optimize packages around your family's specific interests - whether that's maximizing water activities, diving deep into children's programming, or balancing active adventures with relaxation time.
Smugglers' Notch has figured out something that eludes many family destinations: confidence comes from delivering consistently rather than promising extravagantly. When you're willing to guarantee the experience, you build operations that actually work for families. That eight-year-old ringing the bell at the top of the climbing wall? She's not just conquering her fear - she's proving that some vacation promises are worth making.
Ready to create your own family memories with Vermont's only guaranteed fun experience? Book your Family Fun Adventure Package directly with Smugglers' Notch and discover why they're confident enough to put their reputation on the line for your family's good time.
All listings featured on Vermont.com are independently selected by our editors. If you book or purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission - which in turn helps support our work - so, thank you!
Up in the Northeast Kingdom, in gorgeous Jay, VT we’ve found the perfect Vermont summer getaway, where epic relaxation and adventure vibes collide. Picture yourself surrounded by the lush greenery of a forest mountain creek and kicking back and soaking in the serenity of your own private backyard waterfall. With spacious bedrooms, a fun, open layout, and breathtaking views, this is the ultimate Green Mountain retreat for an unforgettable vacation.
This cabin is the perfect fusion of comfort and style, designed to make you feel at home and ready to unwind. With three bedrooms (including a beautiful master suite) and two full bathrooms, there's plenty of space for everyone to kick back and enjoy their downtime.
The open-concept living area is a chill spot where you and your group can hang out and relax - natural light floods in through the large windows, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere.
The living area leads seamlessly to the game room with foosball and wet bar, so entertaining is a breeze. Whether you're binge-watching your favorite shows or engaging in lively conversations, this is the spot to unwind and create lasting memories.
Now, let's talk about the backyard—the true gem of this property. Brace yourself for the peaceful sounds of your own private waterfall cascading into a tranquil swimming hole. Take a seat in the comfortable Adirondack chairs, close your eyes, and let the soothing sounds of nature wash over you.
If you’re looking for a more vigorous afternoon, it's time to put on your hiking boots and conquer the nearby Jay Peak summit. A part of the Long Trail, this moderate hike will lead you through lush forests, over babbling streams, and ultimately up to an awe-inspiring viewpoint. The hike takes close to three hours (it’s an out-and-back), but the views from the top looking into Canada are absolutely worth it.
When hunger strikes, head over to The Belfry—a hidden local gem in nearby Montgomery Center that's all about good vibes and mouthwatering flavors. A long-time staple, the staff at the Belfry have an unbelievable way of making you feel completely at home like you’ve been coming there for years. Our recs: any of the burgers are sensational, but the Jay Peak Burger with garlic and VT cheddar is *chef’s kiss*.
So you’ve hiked the long trail, cooled off in the backyard and now you’re ready to really make a splash? Less than 15 minutes away, look no further than the Jay Peak Pump House - Vermont’s only indoor water park. Get your adrenaline pumping as you hit up their water slides, relax on the lazy river, or take on the water obstacle course. Between all of this and the attached snack bar, you’re going to have a heck of a lot of fun.
Once back at the house, settle back for the evening in the living room (maybe a little wood-burning stove action if it’s one of those perfect cool mountain nights), or serve up a match or two of foosball. Or if you’re really feeling the outdoor vibes (who can blame you?) head out to the creeks-side firepit and dig into some ‘smores. No matter how you wrap up your day at this summer hideaway, you’ll have a solid night’s sleep knowing what a perfect day it’s been.
This Jay Cabin can sleep up to six guests and is currently listed at $324 per night.
All listings featured on Vermont.com are independently selected by our editors. If you book or purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission - which in turn helps support our work - so, thank you!
Sure, Vermont is an absolute winter wonderland with world-class skiing and riding galore. But if you think that's all the Green Mountain state has to offer, buckle up, because we’re about to take you on a summer tour of a Vermont property that will knock your woolen socks off.
Tucked away in the rolling landscape of Sugarbush Ski Resort, is a stunning mid-century modern retreat that has been meticulously renovated to indulge your every whim and fancy. This isn't just any summer home; it's a professionally decorated, architect-designed masterpiece.
When you walk into the cathedral-ceilinged great room, prepare to be awestruck by panoramic mountain views framed by expansive windows. Grab a book, sink into a cozy window seat and let your city stress melt away faster than a maple creemee in July.
At the heart of the home, the fully outfitted chef's kitchen sings with professional-grade Italian appliances and a custom walnut island. You can whip up a farmer’s market feast or sizzle some locally caught trout while your companions regale you with tales of their day.
The bedrooms are nothing short of dreamy. Two king bedrooms, a queen bedroom, and a custom bunk room offer sumptuous linens and stunning views. The primary suite offers a work area for those who can't totally escape the grind, an oversized soaking tub, and a rain shower that will make you feel like you're bathing under a Vermont summer drizzle.
Downstairs, the second king room conveniently opens to an outdoor sitting area—hello, morning coffee—and the hot tub, perfect for soaking under the stars after a day of hiking.
The large entry and mudroom are the perfect staging area for summer adventures with ample storage for hiking gear or bikes. And for those rainy days, the spacious TV and game room is the perfect setting for family movie marathons or board game championships. A bar and direct access to an outdoor courtyard and an 8-person saltwater hot tub are just the cherry on top of this vacation sundae.
Don't let the tranquil setting fool you; the property is just 3 minutes away from the vibrant life of Lincoln Peak and Mount Ellen. An 18-hole golf course, lift-serve mountain biking, disc golf, and summer camps galore await you and your family at this Summer hideaway.
Also nearby you’ll find Lawson's Finest Liquids. A staple in the local community and well beyond, this brewery is renowned for their exceptional, high-quality craft beers. The beirhall itself is welcoming, with a beautiful taproom where you can enjoy the charm of Vermont while sipping on their latest creations. Don't miss their flagship beer, the Sip of Sunshine IPA, which truly lives up to its name. The beer menu is extensive, ensuring there's something for everyone, from the craft beer novice to the seasoned connoisseur.
Of course, great beer should be paired with great food and luckily, American Flatbread is just down the road. This local-favorite restaurant goes beyond the regular dining experience serving up artisanal pizzas baked in a primitive wood-fired oven. The restaurant's ethos revolves around farm-to-table dining, with ingredients sourced from local farmers and producers. Their menu celebrates Vermont's agricultural bounty, boasting fresh, seasonal toppings that make each bite unique and delicious. Pair one of their flatbreads with a cool Lawson's beer for a match made in heaven.
Surrounded by gorgeous natural beauty and activities galore this property truly sets a new standard for summer vacation rentals. It can comfortably sleep 10 guests and promises to make your Vermont summer vacation unforgettable. The house is currently listed at $1517 a night.
