Crystal Springs Resort - Hamburg, New Jersey

Kelly-Jo McIntyre

I recently stayed at this property and, while the service itself was decent, I was shocked by how every little thing seemed to come with an extra charge. I’ve never stayed at a hotel that charges for a crib—this alone felt like blatant nickel-and-diming. If my baby needs a crib, it should be provided as a courtesy, not an additional fee.

Moreover, essentials like water were outrageously priced at $10, which is inexcusable, even if this isn’t an all-inclusive resort. The kitchen was another letdown. It was advertised as “fully equipped,” yet there were no mixing bowls, barely any cooking utensils, and the knives were so dull they were practically unusable. The rooms are antiquated and we didn’t get good sleep due to lack of shades (the sunlight in the mornings woke us up very early). The beds are hard and not at comfortable.

To put things in perspective, I’ve stayed at similar properties—like the Marriott villas—and had a significantly better experience for a comparable or even better value. Their amenities are higher quality, and they don’t charge you for basics like a crib or sky-high water prices.

At this property, it feels as though you’re paying purely for the mountain view, which honestly isn’t worth the exorbitant costs. Given my experience, I don’t plan on returning and would advise anyone considering a stay here to be prepared for surprise charges and underwhelming amenities. It’s a shame because the resort could be great if they focused more on guests’ comfort and less on finding ways to charge for every minor convenience. Absolutely the worst experience…who rated this place a four diamond?

Leo M

exceptional short rib. Short ribs are the epitome of comfort food when prepared with care, and these didn’t disappoint. The meat was incredibly tender, falling off the bone with the slightest touch, while the rich, savory glaze provided the perfect balance of umami and sweetness. Each bite was a flavor explosion, enhanced by the slow-cooked depth of the sauce. Paired with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables, the dish felt indulgent yet grounded. If there’s one critique, it’s that the portion left me wanting more—a testament to how delicious it was. A must-try for any meat lover!

Emanuel Bloomfield-Jones

Crystal Springs Resort in New Jersey is a great getaway with clean, well-maintained facilities, plenty of amenities, and daily activities to enjoy. The staff stands out! They’re attentive, friendly, and accommodating. However, one drawback is that everything closes early during the week. Pools, gyms, cafes, and other amenities shut down by 9 PM, even during the holiday week leading up to New Year’s Eve. Given the premium price for that time, I felt things should have stayed open later to accommodate the added guests.

Grand Cascades Lodge vs. Minerals Hotel

I initially stayed at the Grand Cascades Lodge, but honestly, it didn’t live up to the hype. The lobby was small and congested, the hallways and gym were underwhelming, and the much-touted biosphere pool was smaller than expected and always crowded with kids. The standard room was basic and unimpressive. For over $1,700 for two nights, I expected more. Maybe I would have felt a little different if I was able to stay in a studio suite or higher. Unfortunately, they were sold out.

In contrast, the Minerals Hotel was a pleasant surprise. The spacious, modern lobby immediately felt more inviting, with features like a large sports club, rock wall, basketball court, and cafe all conveniently located. The indoor pool complex was a highlight, much larger and more impressive than Grand Cascades’ biosphere. It included multiple pools, a jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, heated outdoor pool, and even a gaming/arcade room nearby. Everything felt thoughtfully designed.

I ended up switching to the Minerals Hotel, and it was the best decision. Rachel at the front desk was incredibly helpful and set me up in a deluxe studio suite with a patio and fireplace. The room was larger and better than the standard room I had at Grand Cascades, and it cost $400 less! While I didn’t stay in a Grand Cascades studio suite due to availability, I did see one in passing, and they are definitely newer and more luxurious than the suites at the Minerals Hotel. However, even with that in mind, the overall experience at Minerals was far better for me.

Final Thoughts

For the price, Grand Cascades Lodge wasn’t worth it. However, I loved the Minerals Hotel and plan to return, especially in the summer with my kids. It’s only an hour from home, and I can see it becoming an annual trip for my family. If you value convenience, amenities, and family-friendly vibes, I highly recommend staying at the Minerals Hotel.

Lou Agrios

My son bought massages for all 4 of us at Mineral Springs and spent a lot of money. My woman was not good at all. My wife, daughter and son all DID NOT LIKE THEIR MASSAGES.

This resort charges so much for their massage services, yet they hire unqualified people.
DO NOT SPEND MONEY ON MASSAGES.

The food is just average. We ate at kites restaurant and crystal springs tavern .
We had no choice to eat there on Christmas because all businesses were closed. We weren't in the mood for Japanese or Chinese food.
Research other resorts b4 you book here.

Lori Gray

Time with my best friend was priceless. We were delighted to have lovely fall weather for our stay at Crystal Springs Resort. The front desk reception staff members were excellent. They were very welcoming and eager to help. The grounds of the resort are absolutely beautiful. We loved the garden and the Nature Trail. We also enjoyed the archery activity. The room itself was open and airy. The bed was very comfortable. We enjoyed toasting marshmallows in the fire pits and playing ping pong.

Regarding the room:

- It was comfortable.
- Daily housekeeper did a nice job.
- Battery for safe did not work.
- Curtains in the room were crooked.
- Landscapers started early in the morning and woke us up.
- We had late checkout with our package, but got locked out of our room at 11AM!
- Not all activities are offered every day, so we missed out on a few we would have liked to do.

This experience was NOT WORTH:
- $559 per night RATE
- PLUS $40.55 NJ Sales Tax
- PLUS $27.95 LODGING TAX
- PLUS $16.77 MUNICIPAL TAX
- PLUS $53.11 RESORT FEE!!!!!!!!!!
- OUR INITIAL RATE OF $559 ULTIMATELY ENDED UP BEING $697.38 per night JUST FOR THE ROOM ALONE! THIS IS HIGHWAY ROBBERY!! ABSOLUTELY RIDICULOUS for the room and experience we had.

Honestly, for the kind of money we spent at this facility, every detail (including on-site restaurants) should be 5-STAR and absolutely perfect. You have a captive audience with hotel guests staying on-site and should also be absolutely ashamed of yourselves for the quality of food, prices you charge and service provided.

Spa service/experience was also overpriced! $180 for 50 minute massage, plus 10% Spa Service Charge, plus NJ SALES TAX plus TIP on top of that! I did have a wonderful massage by Ashley but certainly not worth over $200 for it.

So extremely disappointed and will not be back ever again and would never recommend this to others.

Salvatore Coscia

The mattresses in the double queen rooms are as hard as a hard wood floor. For the price you will pay for the experience, you will be sleep deprived to even enjoy it due to the poor sleep experience. My wife and daughter had backaches and stiff necks. We were really interested in the beginning to recommend this location to our friends for our annual family vacation. Unfortunately , we cannot recommend this hotel and will not return. They are not accommodating. Such a shame as the activities were nice!

Brandon Chandler

Very nice hotel resort. Definitely could use a shuttle between their two sister locations for easier access to activities, but overall really good experience. 1 bedroom suite was spacious and had a full kitchen.

Kyle Stafford

My wife and I went there for three days. The rooms and on site dining are a little expensive but the whole place is very nice. All the staff there were very friendly and helpful. The rooms were great and everything was well maintained. The pools and hot tubs were beautiful and relaxing. There are also a lot of included activities at the resort and is very family friendly.