If your family wants a splashy last hurrah for the summer, you probably can't beat a combo of pools, slides and SpongeBob. At Tucson’s JW Marriott Star Pass, right next to hike-and-bike-friendly Tucson Mountain Park, the usual Nickelodeon Getaway Package is adding an extra dose of slime-rich value:  Book a two-night stay between  August 20 and September 20, and you'll get a third night free. The usual package also includes goodies for the kids (a SpongeBob or Dora pillowcase, and other Nick-themed swag) and a character breakfast for two adults and two children. 

The 575-room resort has four  pools, a lazy river and water slide, an Arnold Palmer golf course and a spa. High-season weekends here include dive-in movies, a poolside game show and complimentary Slime Slushies.

What are those freebies really worth? When we checked late August dates, we found a starting rate of $179 a night for a double room with no view. The character breakfast usually costs $100 for a family of four ($35/adult  x 2 + $15/child x 2). So if you were to book a three-night stay plus a character breakfast on your own, you'd pay $637. The package offers added value to $279, which is a 43% savings. And let's face it: if your kids are of the right age, there'd be serious pressure to do the breakfast.

When booking online, look for the Third Night Free deal after entering dates. Alternatively, you can book by phone at 520/792-3500 and ask for the promotion by name.