Good Morning America: Sunriver Resort Named Winner of the 2024 Parents Family Travel Awards

Family vacations shine brightest when every member finds their own special kind of fun. That’s exactly what makes Sunriver Resort in Central Oregon stand out – and why it has earned recognition as a winner in the 2024 Parents Family Travel Awards, Sunriver Resort continues to prove why it’s the ultimate destination for family adventure. Kristen Altmeyer, vice president and general manager of Parents, shared the exciting news during her appearance on Good Morning America’s What You Need to Know segment. She highlighted the resort’s unmatched offerings, noting, “Sunriver Resort has 40 miles of paved trails for hiking, snowshoeing, horseback riding—you name it. They also have a stargazing observatory which has a very large collection of telescopes. If you have a kid who loves space, this is your place.”

What truly makes Sunriver Resort exceptional is how it brings families closer together through shared experiences. Whether it’s a first successful bike ride, watching shooting stars during evening stargazing sessions or learning to paddleboard together, these moments become treasured family stories that last a lifetime. Read on to learn more about family-friendly activities throughout Sunriver Resort.

Family Adventures Flow on the Deschutes River

Outdoor exploration is a cornerstone of the Sunriver experience. The Sunriver Marina connects families to the historic Deschutes River, where outdoor adventures flourish in every direction. Parents and kids can paddle canoes and kayaks along the same waterway that once guided Native Americans and Oregon Trail pioneers. For families seeking new challenges, stand-up paddleboarding lessons offer an exciting way to experience the river together. Evening raft trips showcase Central Oregon’s legendary sunsets as families float downstream, surrounded by Cascade Mountain views.

Bike Adventures

At the Bike Barn, families can choose from a variety of bikes, including options suited for younger riders, to explore the miles of paved trails that wind through scenic forest landscapes. The rhythm of pedaling through towering trees and across open meadows creates a sense of shared wonder that will linger long after the trip ends.

Unforgettable Stargazing Experiences

As highlighted on Good Morning America, Sunriver Resort’s Oregon Observatory is an out-of-this-world experience for families, especially for kids who dream of exploring the stars. Home to the largest observatory in the U.S. sponsored by NASA, this International Dark Sky Place brings the wonders of the night sky to life with over a dozen high-powered telescopes. From spotting constellations and distant star clusters to getting up-close views of planets, stargazing at Sunriver is an awe-inspiring activity that adds a little magic to every stay. Families can enjoy interpreter-led tours, immersive planetarium shows, and Friday evening backyard stargazing sessions that are sure to leave everyone starry-eyed.

Every Child’s Favorite Forest Friend

No visit is complete without a meeting with Takoda the Bear, Sunriver’s beloved mascot who delights children with his warm presence. Whether it’s a quick photo or a chance encounter during one of the resort’s family events, Takoda has a way of sparking joy for kids and parents alike.

Kid-Approved Cuisine with a View

When it’s time to refuel, Sunriver Resort offers dining options that families genuinely appreciate. Lodge Kitchen brings Pacific Northwest flavors to life through its open-concept design, where kids can watch skilled chefs craft house-made pastries and prepare locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s panoramic views of Mt. Bachelor add natural drama to family meals. The historic Owl’s Nest, a Sunriver tradition since 1969, offers casual dining where parents can savor craft beverages while kids enjoy pub favorites, all while taking in sweeping golf course views.

Space to Relax, Room to Connect

Sunriver Resort’s attention to family needs shows in every detail. Spacious accommodations give families room to relax and reconnect after days filled with activity. From convenient dining options to easy access to outdoor pursuits, Sunriver Resort excels at anticipating what families need.

This recognition from Parents magazine is especially meaningful because it reflects input from families and travel experts alike. For parents planning their next family getaway, Sunriver Resort offers that rare combination of natural beauty, endless activities and thoughtful amenities that make family travel both exciting and effortless. This recent award simply confirms what generations of families have discovered – Sunriver Resort knows exactly how to help families create vacation memories that last a lifetime.

Good Morning America: Sunriver Resort Named Winner of the 2024 Parents Family Travel Awards

Sign Up for Updates