Built to Play, Designed to Stay: How Playgrounds Give Resorts a Competitive Edge

Vacations allow families to step away from everyday routines and spend meaningful time together. But planning how to spend that time can be more stressful than relaxing for those traveling with younger children.

Without the usual conveniences of home—like nearby parks, familiar playgroups, or childcare—parents are often left scrambling to keep their kids engaged and active while still trying to enjoy their own downtime. This is where on-site playground experiences at resorts become more than just an added perk; they become a deciding factor in where families choose to stay.

Studies show that families often look for destinations that offer a wider range of kid-friendly amenities. In fact, 77% of parents say their children directly influence vacation decisions. When a destination can deliver a memorable experience for both kids and adults, families are more likely to overlook distance in favor of quality, convenience, and fun.

A high-quality, thoughtfully designed play area can transform a resort into a family-ready destination. It gives children the freedom to explore, socialize, and burn off energy while providing parents peace of mind and moments of rest. Resorts that invest in these amenities aren’t just catering to kids; they signal that they understand and value the full family experience. In today’s competitive travel landscape, that distinction matters—and it’s one that families remember when it’s time to book their next trip.

Engagement Considerations for All Ages

One critical design element to consider is age appropriateness. What’s exciting for a toddler may not interest a preteen, and safety needs vary significantly across age groups. That’s why multi-generational play areas should include clearly defined zones that cater to different developmental stages. For younger children, that includes “contained play,” which allows them to explore safely, while older kids are challenged and engaged with features like obstacle courses or more challenging climbing structures. The result is a shared space that feels inclusive, stimulating, and secure for everyone.

Playgrounds aren’t just for kids—they also offer real benefits for parents. For hospitality businesses, creating spaces that serve the whole family is key. That means designing environments where shopping, dining, rest areas and play zones are thoughtfully integrated. When parents can relax nearby while their children are safely entertained, the entire vacation experience becomes more enjoyable and stress-free.

Related: The Amenities Arms Race: How Resorts Are Redefining the Guest Experience

Digitally Immersive Playground Experiences

Immersive experiences can engage kids of many ages in a single playground setting. At first glance, some may associate playgrounds with digital experiences as an extension of screen time; however, these experiences are more of a blended interaction that combines physical activity with digital complements, such as interactive obstacle courses or interactive challenge structures.

Resorts featuring thoughtfully designed structures that balance digital integration with education, offering mental and physical engagement, provide immense value for families. These play environments do more than just entertain—they support cognitive development, problem-solving, coordination, and active movement, all of which are essential for growing minds and bodies. When children are given opportunities to climb, balance, explore, and imagine within a play space, they build confidence, reduce stress, and improve their social skills. Resorts that invest in these immersive and engaging play areas enhance the guest experience for families and foster healthier, happier kids, making the vacation truly restorative for everyone.

Ideally, neither physical nor digital activity usurps the other in these spaces. Playground design incorporating interactive digital elements is projected to grow by 40% by 2030, underscoring the competitive advantage and allure of play spaces that combine both elements. Some companies offer interactive play attractions that pack tons of activity into a small space, pitting players of all ages against one another in a fun, friendly, and challenging competition that’s as much fun to watch as it is to play.

Characters and Themes Create Lasting Memories

Vacation and resort play spaces are an excellent opportunity to excite kids and parents through interactive and branded character experiences. Beyond traditional licensed cartoon characters, play structures featuring logos, mascots, and variations of brands or products have also proven to be highly successful.

Consider incorporating a consistent theme throughout spaces and playgrounds, whether indoor or outdoor water parks, to give families the perfect opportunity to enjoy the moment and create shareable memories. Photo opportunities create tangible keepsakes to be cherished for years to come. Those small moments add up to tremendous organic traffic and visibility opportunities.

Related: Spotlight On Recreation and the Vacation Experience

Bottom Line: Resorts Benefit from Playgrounds

Resorts that invest in quality playgrounds also see clear financial benefits. Families with access to engaging, on-site play areas are more likely to stay on the property, reducing off-site excursions and increasing in-house spending at restaurants, shops, and other amenities. Thoughtfully designed playgrounds are more than just amenities – they’re strategic tools for guest retention and revenue growth.

By keeping kids entertained and providing spaces that support mental and physical development, resorts create an environment where parents can relax and enjoy their stay. These experiences not only enhance satisfaction but also build lasting memories that bring families back again and again.

For resorts looking to stand out, investing in purposeful, imaginative play is one of the smartest decisions they can make.

Rich Albright is Vice President and General Manager of Soft Play, a global leader in immersive indoor, outdoor, and waterplay environments. With over 20 years of sales and leadership experience, Rich oversees the creation of customized, imaginative play experiences—from sculpted structures to gamified environments—that inspire creativity and build brand loyalty.