2023 update: This property wrote to inform us that the water park closed several seasons ago. So don’t make that a reason to visit Cherry Valley Hotel (formerly with “Lodge” in the name) in Ohio.
A few weeks ago, on a crisp winter day, we headed to Coco Key Water Park at Cherry Valley Hotel in Newark, Ohio, a place we went to several years ago. I was pleased to find the features that made this resort a worthwhile stop still intact. For anyone looking for a quick, affordable family-fun get-a-way, particularly when the weather outside is not hospitable, the Cherry Valley Hotel and CoCo Key indoor waterpark has enough to keep people happy if you’re aiming for low-keyed fun.
Courtyard view on a crisp winter day–just waiting for flowers to bloom
The hotel, a 184-guest room complex situated around a lovely landscaped courtyard with a botanical garden and arboretum has a country manor feel. Some may think the décor is dated, but there’s a place for country when you’re mostly surrounded by farmland in central Ohio. Homey is settling into a comfortable chair and there are plenty of settle-in spots in Cherry Valley Hotel’s common areas. Plus, there’s room to wander in the expansiveness.
The lodge’s lobby opens into a lounge with two stone fireplaces and seating with views of the outside. From here, hallways in a maze-like feel fan out where guest rooms, the dining room, other lounge areas, an indoor swimming pool, and an exercise room are connected so one doesn’t really need to go outside.
- Get a Car Rental
- Search for Great Tours HERE
- Buy Travel Insurance
Guest rooms range from suites with Jacuzzi tubs to rooms with king-size beds and pull-out sofa beds. Warm red and gold tones and the artwork echo a country estate feel, but lighter wood headboards and dressers feel modern.
The resort’s restaurants got a makeover during the name change and are now looking more contemporary. There are several outlets, including a buffet restaurant for breakfast, plus a brewpub.
One of the biggest draws to Cherry Valley Lodge used to be CoCo Key, the indoor waterpark with enough to do to keep teens and toddlers happy. We headed here armed with a Groupon about to expire in two days, and we had company. The staff handled the crowd well, and within minutes we had staked out seats and a table. As of 2023 though, this water park is no more.
A personal pizza and a drink came with our pass. The pizza was a surprise. It was excellent with a perfect crust and homemade sauce. One of the staff members in the snack bar makes the sauce from scratch.
King bed guest room with sofa bed (on other side of dresser)
During our visit, the staff was super friendly and accommodating and the grounds and rooms looked taken care of, as was the waterpark. If you’re not looking for fancy, but a relaxing time with friends or family, Cherry Valley Lodge is a place to keep in mind. Also, it’s pet-friendly for a $25 per night fee.
The grounds include a shuffleboard court, a volleyball court, and horseshoes. There is a fairly sizable arcade located near the entrance of CoCo Key. To enjoy the outdoors, head to the nearby 14-mile jogging and bike trails
Cherry Valley Hotel’s room rates currently start at $94. You can book direct or compare those rates at Hotels.com or Expedia.
Post and photos courtesy of Jamie Rhein
