Ground has been broken on a tourist resort in Virginia that will contain America’s largest indoor waterparks.
The $900m Spotsylvania County attraction is being developed by Kalahari Resorts and Conventions. It will have a 175,000 sq ft African-themed waterpark, and there will also be 907 rooms, meeting and convention space and a 90,000 sq ft “Tom Foolerys” Adventure Park.
The waterpark will contain waterslides, children’s areas, a wave pool and a surfing simulator, as well as 10 acres of seasonal outdoor pools.
The adventure park will contain climbing walls, rides and arcade games.
Caren Merrick, US Secretary of Commerce and Trade, said: “Tourism development is essential to building our economy and positioning the Commonwealth as a premier travel destination.
“The opening of Kalahari Resorts and Conventions will attract more visitors and businesses to Virginia, which will generate hospitality jobs and create a significant economic impact for the region.”
Todd Nelson, Kalahari Resorts’ owner, said: “Our family could not be prouder to call Spotsylvania County home to our fifth Kalahari resort.
“County and Commonwealth officials and the Virginia people have been incredibly welcoming and supportive in helping us to make Kalahari Resorts’ fifth location a reality in this beautiful state.”
Once open to the public in 2026, the resort will create 1,400 full and part-time jobs.
