Many North Texans aren't strangers to the Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine and with the economic downtown, many families have spent Spring Break at the staycation destination.
But what you may not know is how green matters to the hotel chain.
You probably would not have imagined that a huge hotel with one of the biggest indoor water parks around would be recognized for its commitment to the environment.
But that's exactly what's happened at the Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine.
"They have little signs up that talk about the importance of taking care of the environment," said Shelly Brown, hotel guest.
Great Wolf said it is the first and only national chain to have all of its properties in the nation 100 percent "green seal certified."
"Great Wolf Lodge takes great pride in being leaders in the industry," said Michael Schafer with Great Wolf.
If you look around the hotel you will find blue recycle bins everywhere, even in the rooms.
"One main thing that we do is we recycle five items, paper, plastic, aluminum, glass and cardboard," said Joe Cruz, director of housekeeping.
And like many other hotels, guests are encouraged to re-use towels.
"That was nice, you just hang your towels back up and they will leave them there for you the next day," said Dena Johnson, hotel guest.
Even torn sheets are recycled, turned into smaller sheets or pillow cases and every hotel room has low-flow toilets, showers and faucets.
The hotel's commitment to the environment also extends to the water park. "One of our systems is the defender filter by Neptune Benson," said Schafer. "It uses 80 to 90 percent less water than a traditional sand filter."
Everyone at Great Wolf is encouraged to play a part in the environmental effort with the hotel's "Project Green Wolf Program."
"Basically everything we do here has kids in mind," said Brenda Gilbreath with Great Wolf. "Which gives us a great opportunity to not only entertain but also enlighten them about all the changes in the environment, and other things we can do to make those changes."
And that sits well with parents who are planning their next vacation, or just thinking about their children's future.
If we cant save our planet, I don't know what there is gonna be for these two when they are older," said Shera Bryson, hotel guest.
