Nemacolin Woodlands Resort

Location
Farmington, Pennsylvania
800-422-2736
nemacolin.com

The Mood
Out-of-the-ordinary activity and lodging choices abound at this sprawling Allegheny Mountain resort—from off-road driving to winetasting to dogsled rides.

What’s Special
The Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired spa—one of the best among area resorts; plenty for golfers, including a golf school and the challenging Mystic Rock course, designed by Pete Dye; lodging that ranges from a French-inspired chateau to a boutique hotel to an English Tudor-style lodge.

Most Unusual Activities
Skiing; nine-hole Frisbee golf; a zoo with miniature horses, a camel, llama, and zebras; a zipline; a chance to build and race a remote-control car.

For Kids
Besides an extensive children’s program, there’s a Kidz Spa with treatments including updos, movie-star makeup, mini-massages, and mani-pedis.

The Food
The cuisine is several cuts above that of other resorts, especially at high-end Lautrec. Dining options include regional American; an upmarket steakhouse; family-friendly Italian; pizza and burgers; and an ice-cream cafe.

What’s Nearby
Architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s seminal dwellings, Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob; Ohiopyle State Park, with rafting, kayaking, and hiking and biking trails.

Drive Time
About three hours.

The Price
$319 to $729 a night; packages include extras.

Bottom Line
Great for extreme-sports aficionados and active types. 

—Cynthia Hacinli