While searching for a new and exciting winter family escape, I came across Crystal Springs Resort—a luxury getaway in New Jersey—and I honestly can’t believe it took me this long to discover it. Our stay was hosted, but as always, all opinions are my own.
With the Appalachian Mountains as its backdrop, Crystal Springs Resort is known as New Jersey’s premier golf, spa, and culinary destination. Just two hours from Philadelphia, it features six top-rated golf courses, ten dining options—including a four-star restaurant and a world-renowned wine cellar—two award-winning spas, and a top-tier wellness program. The beautifully designed guest rooms and luxury suites offer stunning mountain and valley views, making every moment feel like a retreat. But what truly captivated me? The tropical oasis of the Biosphere Pool Complex—an indoor paradise that made us forget it was winter outside.
What sets this resort apart is how it effortlessly caters to everyone while managing to be luxurious and family-friendly at the same time, which is a rare combo! It’s packed with family-friendly activities, yet it also feels like the perfect spot for a romantic couples’ retreat or a fun getaway with girlfriends. The service was exceptional, and unlike other family resorts that can feel overwhelmingly crowded and hectic as hell, Crystal Springs has just the right balance of energy and relaxation. Crystal Springs Resort somehow manages to be luxurious and family-friendly at the same time, which is a rare combo.
During our stay, we saw everything from bridal showers to corporate retreats happening at the picturesque Clubhouse, making it clear that this resort is not just a place to stay—it’s a place to celebrate. If you’re looking for a destination that truly has something for everyone, Crystal Springs Resort delivers. Here’s everything you need to know about our stay and why I highly recommend it.
The Hotels: Grand Cascades Lodge vs. Minerals Hotel
Crystal Springs Resort offers two hotel options, Grand Cascades Lodge and Minerals Hotel. Guests staying at Grand Cascades Lodge have access to amenities at both hotels, while Minerals Hotel guests have access only to facilities at Minerals. We stayed at Grand Cascades Lodge, which was about a eight-minute drive from Minerals Hotel.
Grand Cascades Lodge
This AAA 4-Diamond Hotel is home to the resort’s top-tier amenities, including world-class golf courses, Reflections Spa, Restaurant Latour, and the Wine Spectator Grand Award-winning Wine Cellar. And of course, my personal favorite—the tropical Biosphere Pool Complex. The luxury rooms and suites are beautifully designed, spacious, and offer incredible mountain views.
📍 Address: 3 Wild Turkey Way, Hamburg, NJ 07419
Minerals Hotel
We didn’t visit this area during this trip, but this hotel has a more relaxed, family-friendly vibe with modern rooms, an indoor and outdoor pool, steam room, sauna, hot tubs, and Elements Spa. It’s also home to a state-of-the-art sports club and a 9-hole family-friendly golf course.
📍 Address: 2 Chamonix Dr, Vernon, NJ 07462
Getting There & Transportation
We drove from Bucks County, and the trip took approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. Upon arrival, we opted for the $25 valet service, which was absolutely worth it. This one-time fee covers your entire stay, and the process was seamless—valet staff unloaded our luggage and brought everything to our room. On departure day, our car was brought to us within minutes.
If you prefer self-parking, there are designated unloading zones, a parking lot, and a garage available.
Our One-Bedroom Suite at Grand Cascades Lodge
Our family of five stayed in a One-Bedroom Suite at Grand Cascades Lodge, and it was perfectly suited to our needs. The suite was modern, beautifully decorated, and incredibly spacious, featuring:
- A fully equipped kitchen (with a stove, oven, dishwasher, and essential cookware)
- Dining area & living room (with a sofa bed)
- Private deck with scenic mountain views
- A spacious bedroom with a king-size bed
- Large bathroom (with a tub, shower, and double sinks)
- Washer & dryer (which came in handy for our bathing suits)
- A cozy fireplace & high ceilings that added to the warm, airy vibe
One thing to note: there was no microwave in the kitchen, which caught us off guard. If you’re planning to cook or heating up food, I’d recommend bringing a dish sponge, paper towels, cooking oil or butter, and a laundry pod.
The Pools: A Tropical Escape in the Winter
Biosphere Pool Complex
This indoor tropical paradise is a major highlight of the resort. Designed as a greenhouse with a retractable roof, the Biosphere allows 100% natural sunlight in, making it feel like a real island escape—even in the middle of winter.
It features:
- A heated lagoon-style pool surrounded by lush tropical plants
- A 140-foot waterslide (huge hit with the kids!)
- A grotto-style hot tub
- An underground aquarium
The pool isn’t overwhelmingly large, making it easy to keep an eye on the kids while still relaxing.
Outdoor Heated Pools & Hot Tubs
There are two outdoor heated pools—a smaller swim-out hot pool and a larger outdoor hot pool just a short walk away. There’s something magical about soaking in the warm water while surrounded by crisp winter air and mountain views.
Dining at Crystal Springs Resort
Crystal Tavern
On our first night, we had dinner at Crystal Tavern, which offers a locally sourced menu with a cozy upscale atmosphere. Sitting by the fireplace, we indulged in the char pork ribs and lobster mac and cheese—both of which were standout dishes. We also had breakfast here on our last day, and everything was just as delicious. The smoked salmon pastrami and shakshuka were my favorites, but my daughter’s steak and eggs stole the show.
Emerald Room
For a breakfast buffet, we visited Emerald Room, where we found a spread of hot classics like scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, and potatoes, along with a smoked salmon platter, Belgian waffle and pancake station, a fresh bread and pastry selection, made-to-order omelets, and fresh fruit. The hot chocolate bar and fresh juice station were a huge hit with the kids.
Spring Bistro
Our best meal was at Spring Bistro, an Italian restaurant that impressed us with every dish. The gnocchi alla vodka was declared the best gnocchi ever by my daughter, and the seafood ragu with ink spaghetti was packed with flavor. The branzino was perfectly cooked, and the cast-iron bistecca with roasted potatoes was my son’s favorite. The Margherita pizza was also a winner. We ended the meal with gelato and biscotti, which the kids devoured before we could even get a bite.
Resort Activities
We love how Crystal Springs offers daily activities, ranging from kid-friendly fun to adults-only experiences. While we were there they had:
- Glow-in-the-Dark Painting Workshop 🎨 (extra fee) – Such a fun, unique experience!
- Animal Educators Presentation 🦔 (included) – We met a sugar glider, hedgehog, and even an armadillo.
- Stuffed Animal Workshop 🧸 (extra fee) – The kids got to stuff their own plushies by hand.
- Pony Rides 🐴 (included) – A hit with the little ones.
- Axe Throwing 🪓 (included) – My husband and I had way too much fun with this!
- Marshmallow Roasting 🔥 (included) – A cozy fireside treat.
Things We Want to Try Next Time
There’s so much more to explore at Crystal Springs, and we’re already planning a return trip to check out:
- Champagne Chalet – Private, heated glass houses for dining.
- Reflections Spa – Heard amazing things!
- Restaurant Latour – The resort’s elevated fine dining experience.
- The Wine Cellar – A must for wine lovers!
Final Thoughts: Will We Be Back?
Without a doubt, yes! Our family had an amazing time, and we’re already thinking about returning—especially during the holidays when even more seasonal attractions are offered. The perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and top-tier service makes Crystal Springs Resort a must-visit destination.
Between the tropical pool oasis, delicious dining, and endless activities, this resort truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a family trip, a couples’ retreat, or a girls’ getaway, I highly recommend Crystal Springs Resort—just be prepared to want to come back every year like we will!
