Kalahari Water Park & Resort: Your Next Family Getaway
Take it from someone who’s visited all the indoor waterparks in Michigan—Kalahari Ohio in Sandusky is a waterpark destination that’s totally worth the drive. Perfect for toddlers, teens, and everyone in between.
Kalahari is big. Like, Midwest’s-largest-indoor-waterpark big.
At 173,000 square feet, we’re talking more slides, more pools, more fun.
Just a quick 4.5-hour drive from Grand Rapids in Northeast Ohio, Kalahari Resort Ohio is close enough to avoid, “Are we there yet?” meltdowns, but far enough that it feels like a real getaway.
We think you’ll love this family adventure, so let’s jump right in.
Kalahari Ohio Indoor Waterpark Attractions
Once you step into Kalahari Resort Sandusky’s indoor waterpark, it’s like you’ve stepped into summer, even if there’s snow back home.
Check out these epic features:
- Lazy River: Float along the 920-foot lazy/torrent river, perfect for a laid-back ride. It’s shallow and super safe for all ages.
- Water Slides: We loved Victoria Falls, a family ride that fits up to four people on a giant raft.
- Leopard’s Lair: A multi-level water tree fort for all ages, featuring a zero-depth entry pool, slides of all sizes, water features, and cross-firing water cannons. Prepare for shrieks of joy.
- Kid-Friendly Hot Tubs: Two indoor/outdoor hot tubs perfect for kids (with an adult). Must be 6 years old to enter.
- Giant Wave Pool: With its zero-depth entry and giant man-made surf waves, this pool is endless fun.
Psst! A brand new water slide opens December 20, 2024.
The Dawn Breaker will take you through the night to the dawn of a new day as you chase an African sunrise!
- Crocodile Cove & Shooting Star: Shoot some hoops in the pool for a fun twist on swimming.
- Mud Hut Swim-up Bar: For the 21+ crowd, enjoy indoor/outdoor hot tubs with walk/swim-up bar service.
- Flow Riders: Test your surfing skills! (Or, in my case, wipe out while your kids laugh. It’s still a good time.)
- Mermaid Experience: Learn to swim like a mermaid in this unique class. It’s a 30 – 45-minute experience priced around $35 (swim test required).
- Underwater VR Experience: Dive into the ocean or blast off into space with this cool underwater virtual reality experience. Available for guests aged 7 and up who are at least 48 inches tall.
Kalahari Ohio Outdoor Waterpark Highlights
Visiting in the summer? Kalahari Resort’s outdoor waterpark is the place to be. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day, it’s packed with splishy and splashy fun.
- Waterslides: Opt for mild, wild or something in between with three huge slides and smaller ones, too. There’s a slide for every thrill level.
- Kids Safari Pool: A splash zone designed just for little ones to splash and play.
- Foam Parties: These happen every hour, and yes, it’s as fun as it sounds.
- Bugs Burrow: It’s like stepping into a giant bug’s backyard, but the kind of bugs you actually want to hang out with. Think bright colors, sprays, and slides for kids.
- Lagoon Pool: With a large sun deck for relaxing and sunbathing, and a massive pool for splashing fun.
- Outdoor Playground: Perfect when kids need a break from the water.
- Concessions: Convenient food and drink options to keep you fueled all day. FYI – most ordering happens through a kiosk, not an actual person. You check in, get your wrist bands and room key, and even order food through a kiosk. Talk about technological advancements!
Safari Outdoor Adventure Park
Beyond the water attractions, Kalahari Resort Sandusky offers the Safari Outdoor Adventure Park where ziplining, climbing walls, and ropes courses will keep your adventurous side entertained.
You’ll also find Mini Golf and Animals in the Outdoor Adventure Park where you can get up close and personal with various animals, perfect for an educational and entertaining experience.
But wait, there’s more!
When your kids find out they have access to arcades, an escape room and laser tag, prepare for shrieks of joy.
There’s also a 7-D Motion Theater that’s more than just a movie – it’s an immersive experience for the whole family.
Staying at Kalahari Ohio: Accommodations for Every Family
Kalahari’s lodging options are designed with families in mind. Many rooms feature full kitchens, which is really nice if you like to bring your own food.
Traveling with a crowd? Kalahari Resort Sandusky has lodging options ranging from cozy rooms for two to a 10-bedroom Entertainment Duplex that sleeps up to 44 people!
So go ahead and plan that family reunion, friend getaway, or large group getaway.
Bonus: the resort is all under one roof, so no need to trek through the cold to get to the action.
Parent-Approved Pro Tips for Kalahari Ohio First-Timers
- Arrive early. You can access the waterpark before your room is ready, so pack swimsuits in your carry-on bag.
- Stash your stuff. Lockers are available, but pack light to save a few bucks.
- Claim your spot. Poolside chairs fill up fast, so stake your claim early if you plan to lounge.
Plan Your Kalahari Ohio Adventure Today!
Don’t wait—book your family’s next big adventure at Kalahari Resort Ohio. Check for deals and packages that’ll make your wallet happy. Your kids (and your inner kid) will thank you!
