Indoor Waterparks Wisconsin Dells: Everything You Need To Know
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While outdoor waterparks are fantastic during the summer the worlds biggest, Noahs Ark Waterpark, is in Wisconsin Dells they dont work once temperatures cool. Thats when my family heads to Wisconsin Dells, The Waterpark Capital of the World.
This small Wisconsin town on the shores of the Wisconsin River, about an hour north of Madison. Its also just under two hours from Milwaukee. The citys name comes from the dells that were formed when the glacier came through millions of years ago. But the citys fame comes from its indoor waterparks.
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While the weather outside might be frightful, the weather inside is perfect. Climate-controlled fun with balmy poolside cabanas and slippery waterslides make Wisconsin Dells and its neighboring town, Lake Delton, a year-around playground.
Our waterpark loving family has tested nearly all of the waterpark fun in the Wisconsin Dells area. Here are our favorites
Besides The Indoor Waterpark At Great Wolf Lodge
MagiQuest is my familys favorite non-waterpark feature of Great Wolf Lodge. It kept our whole family racing up and down stairs, slides, and even cargo net crossings, with wands in hand. We had hours of fun trying to collect clues and defeat dragons and ogres!
The three-story gamescape is akin to a treehouse with interactive screens and intriguing fantastical decorations to keep everyones imagination in high gear. The Great Wolf Lodge at Wisconsin Dells also offers ShadowQuest, Northern Lights Arcade, and Build-a-Bear Workshop. Character appearances, kids yoga sessions, the famed Great Clock Tower Show are all dry land experiences that add fun to a Great Wolf Lodge stay.
- Colorful tubes for slides at Great Wolf Lodge | Credit: Amanda Williams
Take A Wisconsin Dells Ghost Walk
You might not think of ghosts when you are planning your trip to the Dells, but you should.
One of visitors favorite things to do in Wisconsin Dells is to take a ghost walk.
On your ghost walk of the city, you will learn about the historic sites, hear real-life ghost stories, and paranormal experiences.
You can also find a few haunted house attractions in the Dells that are permanent features of the citys list of unique activities.
The Wisconsin Dells is one of the coolest places to visit in the Midwest.
There are so many great things to do in the Wisconsin Dells that you will never run out of fun activities for you and your family.
Have you ever been to the Dells? Or did something on this list inspire you to plan your own Wisconsin Dells vacation?
I would love to hear about it in the comments!
If you need some packing assistance for your trip to the Wisconsin Dells, read my tips on how to pack lightly for inspiration!
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Wisconsin Dells In The Summer Months
Outdoor waterparks like Noahs Ark and Mt. Olympus are great too. You really need to visit Wisconsin Dells more than once to see it all.
We recommend both summer and winter to find the best Wisconsin Dells waterpark and theme park fun in this year around waterpark paradise.
If you happen to stay during warmer months, look for deals and carve out a little time for the Tommy Bartlett water skiing show, which is kitschy but a necessary nod to family vacations of our own childhood experiences.
- Go Karts at Tom Foolerys on site at Kalahari Resort. Photo credit: Amanda Williams
Many places offer go-kart driving experiences. If you are going to go for that adventure, we recommend Tom Foolerys on the Kalahari property over the infamous Big Chief Go-Karts on the downtown strip for safety reasons. We had a scary experience and subpar customer service, leaving with an ice pack and a vow to not return.
Our experience on the go kart track at Tom Foolerys was excellent and safe.
The Original Wisconsin Ducks and The Wild Thing Jetboat adventure are classic family experiences available in the summertime.
If you want to simply enjoy a no-fuss slide and a really nice sandy shore, Sunset Beach Resort is the ultimate in simple and rustic, but relaxing and affordable accommodations to simply chill in the beautiful northwoods.
Rick Wilcox Magic Theater
The Rick Wilcox Magic Theater is one of the best family attractions in Wisconsin Dells.
There are almost daily shows at the theater and are usually in the evening.
It is a comedy magic show performed by married duo Rick and Sue Wilcox.
They update the show every year with new illusions and comedic acts.
So even if you come back year after year, you will always be treated to a new show.
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Cool Things To Do In Wisconsin Dells
Are looking for cool things to do in Wisconsin Dells? Well, look no further!
The city is located in southern Wisconsin along the Wisconsin River.
It is known as the Waterpark Capital of the World, but there are also tons of things to do in the Dells besides waterparks.
You can explore wineries and breweries, go hiking, learn about the area at museums, and more.
No matter what youre interested in, there are attractions in the Wisconsin Dells for you and your family to enjoy.
So, lets take a look at 20 cool things to do in Wisconsin Dells.
Outdoor Pools Open Prior To Memorial Day
Are there any outdoor pools open before Memorial Day? I have accomodations already but if the weather is great would love to find a place to “pay to play”. Thanks
4 replies to this topic
I would call/email the Dells convention bureau in the Dells.
They might know this answer. I highly doubt any pools open prior to Memorial day as it usually is not consistently warm in May.
Thank you. Wisconsin weather is always crazy. The other day it was 85….lol. I was being hopeful it would last. I will use your advice thanks
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Christmas Mountain Village For Dells Wi Skiing
The Christmas Mountain Village is the perfect Wisconsin Dells attraction for those visiting in the winter.
The village is a gorgeous skiing resort located on a beautiful Wisconsin mountain.
In the winter you can enjoy amazing ski slopes and in the warmer months, there is a 27 hole golf course.
The resort also has indoor and outdoor pools, mini-golf, a spa, and so much more.
It is a beautiful destination and is perfect for couples looking to plan a more romantic trip to the Dells.
Outdoor Pools Open September 9 2016
I am taking my grandson to the Dells for his golden birthday on the 9th. He really wants to go to some outdoor pools and slides. Can anyone suggest a place that my still have that available? It is only 4 days after the “usual Labor Day shutdown of outdoor pools”…..thanks so much for any answers….
It would be best to contact the hotels you are thinking of staying at. It would be dependent on weather plus staffing. Good luck.
Noah’s Ark last day of the season is Labor Day, but Mt Olympus indicates the outdoor water park will be open Sept 9th, weather permitting. The indoor water park will be open for sure.
Edited: 5 years ago
I should have noted that my info posted above is from their websites.
The outdoor pool at Black Hawk Motel will definitely be opened…and heated as well. As well as the indoor pool, which is open until 11:30 pm each night.
I would contact the hotels individually that you are thinking of staying at. The larger resorts are always a good option as well since they have both the option of indoor and outdoor depending on the weather.
Thanks Brad! I got Reward Points from my place of employment so I scored a nights stay at Blackhawk. I had 10 options and picked the tried and true!
Edited: 5 years ago
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Family Review Of Wisconsin Dells Chula Vista Resort
Our family has had two fun visits to the Chula Vista Resort and have really enjoyed ourselves. Weve stayed both in the condos and the standard rooms and found both to be great.
Lets go through all the details to help you decide if Chula Vista Resort is the right Wisconsin Dells hotel for your family.
Ultimate Guide To Wisconsin Dells Indoor Waterparks
Wisconsin Dells is called The Waterpark Capital of the World for a reason. This small Wisconsin town is home to more than 200 waterslides with five huge indoor waterparks and one even bigger outdoor waterpark. Heres a look at the Big Five indoor water parks. These Wisconsin Dells waterparks are the place to splash and have fun for the perfect family getaway on a chilly winters day or even in the heat of summer.
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After The Parks Close There Is More Water Fun To Be Had At Shamrock Motel
Our large outdoor pool is complete with a basketball hoop & unicorn slide. Perfect for relaxing after a fun-filled day.
For summer 2021, we are offering Noahs Ark Waterpark passes with your stay with us! We are just a couple of blocks from the Tommy Bartlett Exploratory, Mt. Olympus Park, and Big Foot Ziplines and Ropes Course.
Youll find something for everyone at Shamrock Motel and with our great waterpark packages, youll be sure to make a splash with the kids! So let our family take care of yours while youre visiting beautiful Wisconsin Dells!
We have a large picnic area with BBQ grills & picnic tables. The youngest members of your family will enjoy our playground. We also offer a laundry area, just in case you need it.
Explore Downtown Wisconsin Dells
You cant visit Wisconsin Dells without exploring the downtown area.
In Downtown Wisconsin Dells you will find plenty to do.
There are unique shops, locally-owned restaurants, and more.
At the Dells Bells Wedding Chapel, you can experience a Las Vegas-style wedding.
Or try your hand at ax throwing while you enjoy pizza and beer.
No matter what you are interested in, you are guaranteed to find a fun Wisconsin Dells activity downtown.
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Devils Lake State Park
Devils Lake State Park is just outside of the Dells in Baraboo Wisconsin.
With over 3 million visitors per year, Devils Lake is also Wisconsins most popular state park.
Its stunning scenic beauty is part of what makes it so popular.
The park is also a great place to go hiking, biking, and camping.
You can also find a cool nature center on the grounds where you can learn all about the parks native wildlife.
There are over 27,000 acres of park for you to explore, so you can easily spend all day exploring the park.
Holiday Inn Express Wisconsin Dells Outdoor Pool
While the Holiday Inn Express Wisconsin Dells Outdoor Pool is heated, it is not open all year long. During the summer months, it is great to be outside, and having a wonderful Outdoor Pool at the Holiday Inn Express really shines. Add to that a large, twisting water slide and a shallow childrens pool and you have a perfect place to relax and take in some of the rays from the sun.
When the weather is bad or it is colder outside, take the kids to the Indoor Pool to enjoy water fun all year long.
Pool Information:
- Outdoor Pool Dates: Open around Memorial Day and closes on Labor Day
- Outdoor Pool Hours: 8 am 11 pm
- Pools: There are 2 outdoor pools at the Holiday Inn Express in Wisconsin Dells. The main pool is great for adults and has a continuously flowing water fall. The Shallow pool is perfect for the little ones and has a small water slide.
- Water Slide: The outdoor water slide offers some great additional fun for the adults and bigger kids. The water slide is 55-feet of turning fun and splashes down in the main pool.
- Towels: Pool Towels are located at the Pools.
- Notice: Pool hours can change without notice. Always check the daily schedule at the Holiday Inn Express for the updated hours to the pools and any events.
- Who: Pool is for guests at the Holiday Inn Express
- Lifeguards: Lifeguards are available all day during Peak Season but may change at different times during the year.
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More Wisconsin Dells Resort Options
There are tons of great options for Wisconsin Dells Resorts. Check out a few of our favorite Wisconsin Dells Hotels so you can compare and find the best resort for your family.
Wilderness Hotel & Golf Resort. This is one of our favorites to visit because we love the extra activities like go-karts, laser tag, and indoor ropes course. Plus they have several rooms of indoor pools so there is tons to do even in the winter months.
Great Wolf Lodge What stands out at Great Wolf Lodge is their MagiQuest Game. Its a really cool indoor quest the kids go on to find clues and complete different levels to slay the dragon. Plus they have a really fun water park and great indoor wave pool.
KOA Wisconsin Dells This is another option if you like to camp, have an RV or want to rent a small cabin. It has an awesome location right by downtown Wisconsin Dells and tons of amenities like a pool area.
Other Wisconsin Family Getaway Ideas Consider Lake Geneva and Door County too when youre planning a family vacation. Both have tons of cool family attractions youll love.
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Chula Vista Water Park
There is both an indoor and outdoor water park at this hotel. Both are located in the same area in the middle of the parking lot. In fact, to get to the outdoor water park youll need to walk through the indoor water park.
I would say overall this water park is geared toward younger families meaning 13 and younger. If you are only bringing teenagers they will be bored and probably enjoy the Wilderness Resort or Kalahari better. But if you fit in the 13 and younger age group it will be really fun for the kids.
Los Rios Indoor Water Park
The indoor water park is not as large as Wilderness Resort or Great Wolf Lodge but it does have some really fun aspects kids will love. Plus as our kids were older on our second trip we felt more comfortable letting them run around on their own because it wasnt so big. They really liked that alot.
The décor for the indoor water park is a giant rain forest theme. Inside there is a large toddler area with two small slides and water features. For older children, there is a huge climber area with water splashing and a huge bucket to dump water.
There is also a lazy river and sports pool for the kids with lily pads to walk across and basketball hoops.
Youll find several indoor slides plus a raft racing slide against your friends, and a huge toilet bowl water ride.
The most unique ride is a water coaster that races around the second floor through the water and tunnels. This was our kids favorite ride and was a really fun feature.
Wave Pool
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Mt Olympus Water Park Hotel And Theme Park
A heavy-hitter in the Wisconsin Dells waterparks realm is the Mt. Olympus Resort. This property is sprawling across most of the main strip of town.
The Mt. Olympus Hotel Rome is on-site. Its the most expensive option but doesnt require you walk outside to get to the indoor waterpark. Any other rooms are resort rooms and generally are advertised as 2-5 minutes from the park, which could mean a few miles down the Wisconsin Dells strip.
In two nights, we were able to easily do and see all the indoor waterpark slides and pools and also enjoy the indoor amusement park. This winter visit is best for the 4-10 years crowd for activities available.
The indoor waterpark has a pretty rad beached pirate ship for youngsters. The indoor theme park includes rides for smaller kids, bumper cars, a climbing wall, and an arcade. The rides are included with your stay and the kids spent more time doing the rides than the slides.
