What It’s Like To Stay at the Mountain Lake Lodge (Dirty Dancing Resort)

As someone who’s watched Dirty Dancing more times than I can count, staying at the Mountain Lake Lodge (Dirty Dancing resort) — the real-life Kellerman’s — had been on my bucket list for years. This is the place where Baby was put in a corner (briefly), Johnny smirked and stole hearts, and the most iconic lift in cinematic history happened in a lake. It’s not just a movie; it’s a whole mood. So when I found out you could actually stay there in Pembroke, Virginia, I packed my metaphorical watermelon, grabbed a weekend bag, and took myself on a solo trip into the mountains.

This post is part trip diary, part helpful guide for fellow fans (or supportive travel companions of fans) wondering if the Dirty Dancing lodge is worth the hype. Spoiler: it is. From walking the same stone steps as Baby to trying not to cry at the gazebo, I’m breaking down everything you need to know — with just enough nostalgia and fangirl energy to keep it fun.

Arrival at Mountain Lake Lodge: Instant Kellerman’s Vibes

Rolling up to the Mountain Lake Lodge resort feels like stepping straight into the movie — minus the 1963 hairdos (unless you’re into that, in which case, respect). Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, the lodge looks exactly like you hope it will: charming, rustic, and just the right amount of retro. I half-expected someone to offer me dance lessons or watermelon duty at check-in.

The lodge itself has a cozy, camp-meets-cabin feel, with big porches, wooden beams, and sweeping views of the grounds — many of which are instantly recognizable from the film. You’re not watching ‘Dirty Dancing‘ anymore… you’re in it.

I arrived in the late afternoon, which gave everything that golden-hour glow that made the whole place feel a little magical. The mountain air? Crisp. The vibe? Unapologetically nostalgic.

The Dirty Dancing Details: Living the Movie Magic

One of my favorite things was the self-guided scavenger hunt that leads you around the property to all the iconic filming locations. I didn’t carry a watermelon (regret), but I did dance in the gazebo — because how could I not?

There were definitely a few moments that gave me pause — like standing where the famous lift scene on the lake was filmed and coming across the memorial rock for Patrick Swayze. The rock is easy to miss if you’re not looking, but for fans, it’s a touching little tribute.

What I appreciated most is how the lodge leans into the Dirty Dancing nostalgia without going over the top. It’s not kitschy or overly themed — just thoughtfully done. If you love the movie, the details are all there. You just have to slow down and take them in.

But if you do want full-on Dirty Dancing immersion, Mountain Lake Lodge hosts frequent Dirty Dancing Weekends and an annual Dirty Dancing Days Summer Festival.

The Stay: Cozy, Comfortable and Classic

I stayed in the Norfolk cottage, one of the newer fully updated cottages on the property — modern, comfy, and still charming enough to feel like it belonged in the Dirty Dancing universe. I parked in the 15-minute loading zone to haul my luggage inside (solo travel = one trip or bust), then moved my car to the lot over by Kellerman’s. Slightly annoying? Sure. But I get it — having cars parked all over would totally kill the movie magic.

The room was even better than I’d hoped — cozy, charming, and the kind of place that makes you want to curl up with a glass of wine and rewatch the movie again. It wasn’t exactly a 1960s time capsule (thankfully — I do like modern amenities), but there were just enough nostalgic touches, like the plaid comforter and rustic cabin-chic pillows, to make it feel like a subtle nod to the era.

The bed was surprisingly comfy, and the view of the resort from my window was absolutely stunning. The room wasn’t the reason I came, though. I came for the magic of being in the place where it all went down. And Mountain Lake Lodge delivered on that in every way.

What to Do at Mountain Lake Lodge Besides Dirty Dancing

Okay, so let’s be real — most people come here for the Dirty Dancing experience. But even if you’re not a die-hard fan (or, like me, you want to take a break from pretending you’re Baby), there’s so much more to do.

Take a Walk Where the Lake Used to Be

The property itself is gorgeous, and if you’re into nature, hiking, or just wandering around, the scenery won’t disappoint. I took a little walk down to the lake (well, where the lake used to be), and it was so peaceful. There’s a 2-mile Lake Loop Trail that circles the original shoreline and a Lake Bed Trail that leads you right to where the water currently sits — a small, still pool these days

Catch Sunset Views at Bald Knob

Ready to trade lake views for mountain ones? I highly recommend the hike up to Bald Knob for sunset. It’s only about half a mile, but don’t be fooled — it’s steep and a little intense. Totally worth it for the panoramic views, though. I loved the sunset so much that I included it in my 10 Unforgettable Outdoor Adventures in Southwest Virginia.

If you’re not in the mood to pretend you enjoy hiking (or you’re solo like I was), the lodge also offers guided bus rides to the top — an awesome alternative that still gets you all the sunset magic, minus the cardio.

Get Wild at the Nature Center

One of the most unexpected highlights of my trip? The Mountain Lake Lodge Nature Center. Guests can participate in guided hikes, stargazing sessions, nature crafts and even live reptile presentations.

I joined one of their reptile presentations, and I cannot say this enough: SO much fun. Also educational! Who knew I’d be fangirling over snakes? The reptile experience happens Tuesday through Saturday at 3:30 PM. 10/10 recommend.

Meet the Reptile Rockstars

The Nature Center’s reptile experience is part science lesson, part show-and-tell, and all kinds of cool. Here are a few of the scaly critters I met with fun facts below:

• 🦎 Blue-Tongued Skink – From Australia and totally mellow. Yes, its tongue is actually blue. Yes, I was weirdly obsessed with it.
• 🐸 Argentinian Horned Frog (aka Pac-Man Frog) – This little round legend (one albino, and one not) is nicknamed for resembling the video game character. Surprisingly captivating for something that mostly just… sits there and stares.
• 🐍 Western Hognose Snake – Mid-shed and feeling a little cranky. Fair. (Wouldn’t you be, if your eyes were cloudy?)
• 🐍 Mexican Black Kingsnake – Just shed the day before I met it, so it was extra glossy. Even its belly is black!
• 🐍 Ball Python – Named for its defensive habit of curling into a ball. Extremely relatable.
• 🐍 Reticulated Python (Albino) – Only 3 months old now but will grow up to 20 feet long. Yep, twenty. These guys are the longest snakes in the world.
• 🐍 Woma Python – In the wild, it eats other reptiles. In captivity? Frozen mouse fine dining.
• 🐍 Albino Patternless Burmese Python – 1.5 years old, 8 feet long, and goes home with the naturalist, every night. Eventually she’ll grow to 15 feet. Apparently, female reptiles are bigger to make room for eggs. Queen behavior.

🐍 Fun Fact: Snakes shed their entire skin in a single day — and their poop looks surprisingly like dog poop. Cages get cleaned every day, because, well…poop.

Relax, Play, and Explore

Not every moment needs to be a thrill ride and Mountain Lake Lodge has plenty of ways to relax in a more low-key way: a swimming pool, volleyball court, yard games, a playground, and wide-open lawns made for napping, reading, or shameless lounging. There’s a fire pit for marshmallow roasting and stargazing, and depending on the weekend, you might luck into live music or a farm-to-table dinner. (Check the event schedule.)

Where to Eat at Mountain Lake Lodge

After a day of hiking, fangirling, or just doing absolutely nothing — you’re going to want food. Luckily, the lodge has a few on-site spots that make refueling easy (and surprisingly good).

I had dinner at Salt Pond Pub, which is casual, cozy, and perfect for a post- (or pre-) adventure meal. I sat out on the patio, soaked up the view, and ordered something comforting and carby (as one should)—pizza!

Breakfast at Harvest was everything you’d want in a morning meal and a dining room that feels like it belongs in a mountain resort movie. (Oh wait…)

I ate out on the porch — the exact one where Baby watched Johnny’s showdown with Max Kellerman and Robbie. (No big deal, just casually dining in cinematic history.)

And can we talk about my breakfast? I’m still dreaming about the grits skillet: eggs, bacon, scallions, melty cheese… pure deliciousness. Unbelievably good.

I also grabbed a drink at the Stony Creek Tavern one evening — because when you’re staying at the Dirty Dancing lodge solo, treating yourself to a solo cheers just feels right.

If you’re short on time (or just want to snag a snack between activities), there’s also Mary’s Market on-site with quick bites and drinks.

Souvenirs & Gift Shop Finds

Mountain Lake Lodge has two gift shops— and yes, one of them is very Dirty Dancing. Kellerman’s Gift Shop is where you’ll find all the movie merch your nostalgic heart could want. There are T-shirts (I carried a watermelon, anyone?), mugs, and lots of other things you probably don’t need but will absolutely want. It’s worth popping in at least once, even if just to grab a Kellerman’s sticker for your water bottle or a fridge magnet to mark the moment.

On the flip side, Mountain Lake Outfitters focuses more on lodge-branded gear and outdoorsy essentials. It’s also the place to sign up for guided hikes, nature programs, and other activities during your stay.

10/10, Would Carry a Watermelon Again

So, did I have the time of my life? Honestly — yes. Thank you, Southwest Virginia! Whether you’re there to channel your inner Baby, soak up the mountain air, or just live out your 1980s film fantasy for a weekend, Mountain Lake Lodge hits the sweet spot between nostalgia and nature. I left with a zillion pics, a happy heart, and a deep desire to rewatch the movie again. Nobody puts this resort on the back burner — and I’m already plotting my return.

Ready to carry your own watermelon? Book your stay at Mountain Lake Lodge and live out your Dirty Dancing dreams. Book your trip here.

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