Hotels That Go All Out for the Kids

For girls and boys who’ve dreamt of becoming a mermaid, this dream comes true at the Fairmont Kea Lani Maui. At the Mermaid University, little mermaids and mermen use professional grade tails, tops, fins and swim blades to go on choreographed swims through props simulating coral reefs, caves and marine life.

At The Peninsula Beverly Hills’ Young Chefs Academy, junior cooks don kid-sized Peninsula-monogrammed chef uniforms and enter the hotel’s kitchen. They can choose between a baking or cooking class, learning the basics of food making along with kitchen safety techniques.

At the Conrad Maldives Majaa Explorers Hub, science-based programs encourage young guests to discover the island’s ecosystem and learn about conservation. In addition to the ocean-inspired playground, kids enjoy hands-on activities ranging from exploring the land and sea, to gardening and cooking classes.

When not horseback riding, skiing or fly fishing, The Lodge at Blue Sky has a calendar of scheduled activities fit for the whole family. Guests of all ages can participate in events such as stargazing, making s’mores by the firepit or going on moonlit snowshoe treks.

The Kitchen at the SLS Baha Mar is not just for kids, but invites the whole family to join in on the fun. From workshops on Caribbean delicacies to classes with world-renowned chefs, guardians and kids can enjoy a night together cooking and dining. Teens wishing to be a junior master chef can also participate in culinary competitions against their peers.

The Willard InterContinental’s official mascot is Millie the Mallard, inspired by the duck that lays her eggs in the courtyard each year. Kids checking into The Willard receive a Millie Mile Adventure Map, personalized Library Card and Treasure Chest card. Checking out a book, borrowing a board game or exploring the city with the Millie Mile Scavenger Hunt earns “Millie Bucks,” which are redeemed at the hotel’s ice-cream cart.

Photo: John Russo Photography

The It Club at the Rome Cavalieri is no basic kids club, but a cultural immersion featuring Italian brands in the form of miniature Vespas, Ferrari F1 simulators and a Nutella Chocolate Bar. For older kids, there’s also the Gladiator School, where aspiring tiros train outdoors in full gladiator outfits complete with wooden swords.