On October 20, 2023, Kalahari Resorts and Conventions, known for having the biggest indoor water parks in America, started building its fifth resort in Spotsylvania County, Virginia. The groundbreaking ceremony marked the beginning of the construction of a huge 1.38 million-square-foot resort, and people are eagerly looking forward to it.
The project plan includes 907 guest rooms and a 175,000-square-foot indoor water park with various attractions, along with outdoor pools spanning 10 acres. There’s a 90,000-square-foot Tom Foolerys Adventure Park for additional entertainment. The location features 12 dining options, from buffets to upscale dining, and boasts 150,000 square feet of event space. Notably, admission to the water park is included for all registered overnight guests, offering a well-rounded and attractive experience for a broad range of visitors.
Secretary of Commerce and Trade, Caren Merrick, expressed warm sentiments about this Kalahari indoor water park in Spotsylvania County development. She highlighted the significance of tourism in shaping Virginia’s economic landscape. “Tourism development is essential to building our economy and positioning the Commonwealth as a premier travel destination,” she emphasized. The addition of Kalahari Resorts and Conventions is anticipated to attract more visitors and businesses to Virginia, ushering in a wave of hospitality jobs and a substantial economic boost to the region.
The privately owned and operated Kalahari Resorts and Conventions, managed by the Nelson Family, have carved a niche in the hospitality industry. Their accolades are a testament to their commitment to providing unparalleled experiences, featuring indoor waterparks, family entertainment centers, luxurious accommodations, exceptional culinary offerings, and top-notch convention facilities.
Opening date for the upcoming Kalahari indoor water park in Virginia
The resort’s grand opening is slated for 2026. Located just off Interstate 95 in Thornburg, approximately 13 miles south of Fredericksburg, this site strategically positions Kalahari Resorts 22 miles closer to Greater Washington than Kings Dominion amusement park. It also offers a more convenient option for visitors from the D.C. area compared to the Great Wolf Lodge locations in Williamsburg, Virginia, and Perryville, Maryland.
Spotsylvania County Supervisor, Kevin Marshall, applauded this Kalahari water park project, highlighting that it represents a substantial investment exceeding $900 million by the Nelson family. Moreover, it promises to generate employment opportunities, offering both construction jobs and over 1,400 full-time and part-time positions upon its opening.
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Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, the Kalahari indoor water park in Spotsylvania County is poised to transport guests into an authentically African-themed experience. Boasting over 150,000 square feet of meeting and convention space, Kalahari Resorts and Conventions aims to become a premier destination in the region, offering a diverse array of amenities and attractions.
Additionally, with existing resorts in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, Sandusky, Ohio, the Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania, and Round Rock, Texas, the addition of the Spotsylvania County, Virginia location solidifies Kalahari’s reputation as a leader in the waterpark resort and conference experience industry. Their authentically African-themed resorts are home to America’s Largest Indoor Waterparks, offering well-appointed guest rooms and suites, the indulgent Spa Kalahari, family entertainment centers, signature restaurants, exclusive retail outlets, and state-of-the-art convention facilities.
