Kalahari Resorts & Conventions today announced that its $85 million, 75,000-square-foot waterpark expansion – the Aquadome™ – will open to the public on October 10, 2026 at its Wisconsin Dells flagship resort. The new additions introduce a first-of-its-kind retractable roof for the Dells and the world’s first enclosed Boomerango — setting a new benchmark for the indoor waterpark category Kalahari’s founder helped create over 25 years ago.
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Kalahari Resorts & Conventions Wisconsin Dells Indoor Waterpark Expansion
Wisconsin Dells-natives Todd and Shari Nelson opened the original Kalahari Resort in 2000 with a 74,000-square-foot indoor waterpark, betting that a fully enclosed park could turn a summer-only destination into a year-round one. A 2002 expansion grew the park to 125,000 square feet and earned Kalahari the title of America’s Largest Indoor Waterpark, a distinction the brand has carried across five properties in Wisconsin, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas and, opening this November, Virginia.
This expansion is the latest chapter in that story and the capstone of a multi-year reinvestment cycle at the Wisconsin Dells flagship, which has also added 237 new guest rooms, a renovated Spa Kalahari, new dining at Cinco Niños and Sortino’s Italian Kitchen, a lobby renovation, and the May 2026 openings of Kalahari Treehouse Adventures and Daylene’s Supper Club.
“The Aquadome is built for how our guests actually spend a day with us – one space that keeps the fun going no matter what the weather does, slides for every age and thrill level, and a pool made for slowing down once everyone’s ready to relax,” said Travis Nelson, President of Kalahari Resorts & Conventions. “We’ve watched this property grow for 26 years, and this expansion is our biggest step yet in proving Wisconsin Dells is the year-round aquatic destination.”
At the center of the expansion is an all aluminum and glass enclosure with a retractable polycarbonate roof, the first of its kind at any waterpark in the Dells, designed and built by OpenAire. Closed, it functions as a fully enclosed indoor waterpark during cold or wet weather; opened at the push of a button, it gives guests an open-air experience on nice days, giving Kalahari guests the best of an indoor and outdoor waterpark in one space.
“Our retractable roof, aluminum building lets Kalahari give guests an open-air waterpark experience on nice days, while still offering the reliability of a fully indoor park the rest of the year,” said Mark Albertine, President of OpenAire.
Three headline slides — Zambezi Rapids, Viper Venom and Nile River Racers — all launch from a 70-foot tower that anchors the Aquadome.
- Zambezi Rapids is the world’s first enclosed Boomerango. The six-person raft ride extends outside the building, with weatherizing, creating an outdoor landmark visible on approach, while the enclosed ride experience delivers the signature drop-and-climb thrill.
- Viper Venom is the first and only six-person indoor water coaster in North America featuring an uphill section that extends the ride experience without adding tower height.
- Nile River Racers uses WhiteWater’s Parallel Pursuits format — four conjoined lanes, each with a different profile — built to drive repeat rides rather than a single trip down the slide. Younger guests have their own zone in Adventure Bay, a themed kiddie complex with six WhiteWater slides feeding a shallow landing pool, while The Grotto gives adults a dedicated swim-up bar away from the family attractions.
“Kalahari wanted attractions that packed a punch, so our designers worked closely with them to create exceptional high-thrill ride experiences that would appeal to not just teens and adults, but kids as well,” said Onno Meeter, President, Water Parks at WhiteWater. “With thrill rides complementing kids’ slides in the beautifully themed kids’ area, Kalahari’s expansion is destined to produce lifelong adrenaline junkies and loyal season passholders.”
Inside the Aquadome, guests will also find The Watering Hole, a nearly 10,000-square-foot zero-depth entry pool with in-water tanning ledges, in-water lounge chairs and cabanas set at the water’s edge. A 40-foot screen overlooking the pool plays sports and music throughout the day.
“The amenities planned here create an incredible aquatic experience for Kalahari guests,” said Josh Martin, President & Creative Director of Martin Aquatic. “This expansion, paired with the existing waterpark offering, raises the bar in Wisconsin Dells, making this a true aquatic leisure destination.”
The connector space between the existing waterpark and new expansion will debut two new dining concepts: Zulu Grill, a fast-casual restaurant with everyday classics like cheeseburgers, salads, pizza and chicken tenders, and Shari’s Daiquiri Bar, a full-service bar serving frozen daiquiris, fruit-forward cocktails and non-alcoholic options for guests relaxing poolside or between rides.
The Aquadome will open to the public on October 10, 2026 and will be available to all Kalahari Resorts & Conventions guests as part of the Wisconsin Dells waterpark experience. For reservations and more information, visit kalahariresorts.com/wisconsin.
About Kalahari Resorts & Conventions
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, founded by Todd and Shari Nelson, is home to America’s Largest Indoor Waterparks, and offers an unmatched mix of all-under-one-roof experiences for families, vacationers and meeting attendees. With locations in Wisconsin Dells, WI; Sandusky, OH; Pocono Mountains, PA, Round Rock, TX; and a new resort opening in November 2026 in Spotsylvania, VA, each property draws inspiration from the rich culture and vibrant landscapes of Africa. Recognized by USA TODAY’s 10BEST for Best Indoor Water Park and Best VR Water Slide, Kalahari continues to set a standard for family entertainment and hospitality.
Across its growing collection of resorts, guests can expect well-appointed accommodations, signature dining, unique retail, expansive indoor and outdoor waterparks, immersive adventure parks, and state-of-the-art convention centers. In 2026, Kalahari introduced its Treehouse Adventures, luxury treehouses located on the shores of Lake Delton in Wisconsin Dells. Select locations also feature full-service spas and wellness destinations, creating the ultimate all-in-one getaway. For the latest news and media resources, visit kalaharimedia.com.
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