Wisconsin's Largest Indoor Waterpark Is Getting An $85M Expansion Opening Soon In 2026

There's nothing more refreshing than a nice dip in the pool when the weather starts to warm up, especially when heatwaves roll in. All the better if you can have a bit of fun and games at the same time. And that's exactly what awaits at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Wisconsin. Already home to the largest indoor water park in the state, covering an enormous 125,000 square feet, the resort is adding a new 75,000-square-foot indoor extension at a cost of $85 million. Its grand opening is planned for fall 2026, giving you yet another reason to add this booming Midwestern state to your bucket list.

Adding thrilling slides, family attractions, and relaxation areas to its already impressive range of facilities, the African-themed resort is aimed at water babies of all ages. Located just off I-90 at Exit 92, Kalahari's is a 10-minute drive from the Wisconsin Dells. Madison is around 50 miles away, where Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) is the most convenient major transport hub.

Highly rated by visitors with thousands of five-star Google reviews, Kalahari was also voted Best Indoor Water Park for the fourth consecutive year in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. In a Google review, visitor Nicken Yap wrote, "The indoor water park was so much fun and perfect for families with young children. Everything was very family-friendly, and we made so many happy memories together." Wisconsin Dells is also known as "The Waterpark Capital of the World," and Kalahari has more than earned its place as one of the best waterparks to visit across the U.S.

One of the best things about an indoor water park is that you're not limited to visiting solely in summer. The new glass enclosed extension with a retractable roof will let you enjoy the sunshine and fresh air when it's warm or relax indoors during the colder months. It could even end up being the unexpected destination for a Valentine's Day getaway. The resort already has 54 waterslides spread over both its indoor and outdoor water parks, as well as a lazy river and 20 pools, and the recently opened Sands Splash Oasis. The new expansion will include more pools, three additional waterslides, a family activity area, a swim-up bar, and a spa whirlpool.

The biggest thrills will come from Wild Wildebeest, the world's first covered boomerango family raft slide and its zero-gravity weightless sensations, and Green Python, which will send you along a series of coils on a six-seater raft including some drops and turns in its watercoaster section. Cheetah Mat Racers complete the slide line-up. "Kalahari wanted attractions that packed a punch, and our designers worked very closely with them to create surprising ride experiences not found anywhere else in the world," said Onno Meeter, President of Water Parks at WhiteWater, the company responsible for creating and manufacturing the new attractions.

Younger children will love Coral Cove with its underwater-themed play area, while adults can unwind in the Lost Lagoon spa whirlpool or head to The Grotto, an adults-only space where you can swim up to the pool bar without having to touch dry land. The Watering Hole is great for relaxing between rides, with its zero-depth-entry-pool and tanning ledges to cool off while you lounge.

Not just your average waterpark, Kalahari Resorts also provides you with a place to stay, restaurants, an adventure park, and, when you need a little you time, a luxury spa. Accommodation ranges from hotel suites and waterside villas to the recently opened Kalahari Treehouses. These wooden cabins tucked amongst the trees are spacious and peaceful with views over Lake Delton. Whatever accommodation option you choose, parking and access to the waterpark are included. If you're just visiting for the day, cabanas are available to rent.

When hungry tummies start rumbling, there's a choice of restaurants, from Italian and Mexican dining to sweet treats and ice cream for the kids for when their energy levels need topping up, which they probably will if you visit Tom Foolery's Adventure Park. It has a nice complement of attractions for when you need to take a break from the water and includes bowling, laser tag, go-karting, and a Ferris Wheel.

Entry to Kalahari Resorts waterpark starts at $59.99, and the resort operates on a completely cashless basis. Combo tickets that include entry to Tom Foolery's are available, but prices vary depending on the date. It's worth checking for special offers on the website to see if any discounts are available. Opening hours are generally from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m., with the outdoor waterpark closing at 7 p.m. All children under 48" tall must wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets, which are available on a first-come, first-served basis.