Waterpark description: Designed to be fun for the whole family, the African adventure-themed indoor waterpark at Kalahari Resorts’ Wisconsin Dells property includes what is said to be the area’s only indoor surfing attraction, as well as a Master Blaster uphill water roller coaster, the Victoria Falls family raft ride, two water-play features, a lazy river, a wave pool and whirlpool spas.
The “it” factor: Wisconsin Dells is where it all began for the authentically African-themed Kalahari Resorts. Owner Todd Nelson opened his first waterpark resort there nearly a decade ago, with the goal of providing Midwestern travelers an innovative “world away” experience all under one roof. Today, this resort’s aquatic amenities include the indoor waterpark and the Zambezi Outdoor Waterpark. Open Memorial Day to Labor Day, Zambezi features water slides, the splashdown Safari interactive play area, a lazy river and luxury private outdoor bungalows, available for rent. Other offerings include Spa Kalahari, multiple dining options and retail shops, the Kid’s Club and a 100,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art convention center.
Additionally, in 2006, Kalahari Resorts opened the Trappers Turn Golf Club, now one of Wisconsin’s top-ranked golf courses. And last year was the grand opening of an 110,000-square-foot indoor theme park featuring a six-story Ferris wheel, multilevel go-kart track, laser tag, minigolf, bowling, a sports bar and five private party rooms.
But Nelson’s team isn’t stopping there. The company has adopted a number of green initiatives, with the goal of increasing environmental sustainability and decreasing energy expenses. Green features at the Wisconsin Dells property include a 103-panel solar hot water heating system, motion sensor lights and low-flow shower heads.
