Are you familar with MWR? The Morale, Welfare & Recreation (MWR) provides “customer-focused programs and services that contribute to resiliency, retention, readiness, and quality of life for military members, veterans and their families.”
In general, MWR programs offer military families so many affordable, cost-saving activities. From travel and recreation to rentals and events, every military family should stay in-the-know and take advantage of the savings.
Here are five offerings to consider:
Aquatic Facilities
If you’re looking to cool down this summer or get your water fix throughout the year, take advantage of the MWR aquatics centers! In the Hampton Roads area, MWR operates numerous pools, beaches, and the Gator Water Park. In Bangor, their aquatics center offers fun inflatables and an outdoor picnic area. In Kings Bay, they offer a double flume water slide, wading pool, and water-drop umbrella play feature for kids. In Groton, there’s North Lake conveniently located on base. Many aquatic centers host fun, “Dive In” movies as well. Check out your local base and see what they offer!
Youth & Child Programs
The MWR hosts a variety of youth and child programs at every military base. For example, Naval Base Kitsap offers Crafternoon Curbside Pick-Up on the first Thursday of every month. In Kings Bay, be sure to check out the CRAB (Children’s Activities Building). In Groton, the MWR hosts regular virtual storytime sessions on their Facebook page. In addition, most bases host swim lessons, after school meet ups, hobby classes and other special events during the year. Coming up, don’t miss the Trunk or Treats!
Equipment Rentals
Need equipment? From tables and chairs to kayaks and recreation vehicles (RV), you’d be surprised what you can rent from the MWR.
In Hampton Roads, you can rent boogie boards, surf boards and more at Dam Neck and even RVs and campers at Little Creek. In Millington, you can rent popcorn machines, camping tents and more. In Hawaii, you can rent beach chairs, hiking backpacks, bouncy houses and more at Hickam Beach. In Saratoga Springs, MWR even offers pontoon boat rentals!
Tickets & Travel
The Navy’s Recreational Lodging Program offers quality recreational lodging at 46 sites around the world, including more than 2,631 RV spots, cottages, cabins, townhomes and hotels, and more than 332 tent sites. The Jim Creek Recreation Area in Washington state is a popular destination, as well as the Bay View Cottages in San Diego.
Did you know you can purchase discounted tickets at MWR? Before you plan any trips to big, area attractions, be sure to check out your local office! Discounts include major area tours, attractions, museums, amusement parks and more. For example, MWR offers nearly 50% off tickets to Sea World. For the full list, click here.
Events
Throughout the year, MWR hosts events, travel outings and special occasions. Looking ahead, don’t miss these fun events:
- Slice of Summer on Aug. 19 (Groton)
- Tandem Sky Dive on Aug. 26 (Charleston)
- End of Summer Block Party on Sept. 2 (Guam)
- Glass Float Frenzy at the Beach on Sept. 16 (Bangor/Bremerton)
- Fall Doormat Craft on Sept. 26 (San Diego)
- End of Summer Boat Bash on Sept. 26 (Norfolk)
- Salem Day Trip on Oct. 7 (Portsmouth)
To stay in-the-know, make sure you follow your local MWR Facebook page:
- Bahrain – MWR
- Bangor – MWR
- Charleston – MWR
- Guam – MWR
- Kings Bay – MWR
- Millington – MWR
- Monterey – MWR
- Naples – MWR
- Norfolk – MWR
- New London – MWR
- Pearl Harbor-Hickam – MWR
- Portsmouth, NH – MWR
- Portsmouth, VA – MWR
- San Diego – MWR
- Saratoga Springs – MWR
- Washington D.C. – MWR
For more information on base resources, organizations and benefits, click here.