Wisconsin Dells, WI Kalahari Resort

The Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, is an African-themed hotel and water park. The Dells--as locals call the area--is located in south-central Wisconsin, about 60 miles northwest of Madison. As of 2009, the area has more than 20 indoor and outdoor water parks. At more than 125,000 square feet, the indoor water park at Kalahari Resort is the state's biggest.

History

Wisconsin Dells-native Todd Nelson opened the Kalahari Resort in 2000. In 2002, Nelson added the FlowRider, the first indoor surfing feature in the country.

Features

The Kalahari Resort features an indoor and outdoor water park, indoor theme park, convention center and hotel with 750 rooms. The company also owns nearby Trappers Turn Golf Club.

Inspiration

Nelson, who said he is fascinated by Africa, visited the continent to better understand the culture. Many of the items on display at the Kalahari Resort are authentic African pieces, including sculptures, art and furniture.

Significance

The Kalahari Resort has a number of environmentally friendly features, including low-flow shower heads in hotel rooms, solar panels and a fan system in the indoor water park that reduces the cost of heating the area.

Fun Fact

As of 2009, the Kalahari Resort in Sandusky, Ohio, the sister resort to the one in the Dells, boasts the largest indoor water park in the country--173,000 square feet.

References

• Wisconsin Dells
• Kalahari Resort
• About Todd Nelson

Resources

• Kalahari Resorts
• Wisconsin Dells