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Wisconsin Parent

Wisconsin Waterpark Roundup: Noah's Ark, Wisconsin Dells

Jun 29, 2014 05:29AM ● By Julie Henning
Perhaps the most well known attraction in the Wisconsin Dells, Noah's Ark waterpark lives up to its status as America's Largest Waterpark. A "must visit" for a summertime trip to the Wisconsin Dells, schedule a full day to enjoy the entire park.Built on 70 acres, Noah's Ark has 51 waterslides, two wave pools, two endless rivers, four children’s water play areas, bumper boats, and a mammoth 4-D movie theater.

Big Kahuna Wave Pool Noah's ArkParking is either $5 or $10 for the V.I.P. lot, but as far as I can determine, there is no advantage to parking in one lot over another. We like to park in one of the general admission lots as close to the shaded picnic areas/pavilions as possible.

Noah's Ark Picnic Tables Outside food is not allowed into the park, but many people pack a cooler and head back out for a mid-day lunch (just ask for your hand to be stamped for re-entry).

Tadpole Bay Noah's ArkRecently visiting with seven children, ages 4 to 13, I have a new appreciation for the four different children's water play areas (and bumper boats) scattered around the grounds. This allows for the "big kids" to ride without meltdowns from their younger siblings.

OctoExplorer Noah's ArkNoah's Ark is home to Black Anaconda, a 1/4 mile long water slide that reaches speeds of 30mph. After one ride, I can see why it's branded America's most thrilling water coaster.

Quadzilla Noah's ArkHaving frequented the park over the years, I always leave with the feeling I didn't have time to ride/try everything. My personal favorite is Flash Flood; a group boat ride that plummets down into a pool of water and creates a mammoth wave around everyone (someone with a waterproof video camera captured the experience here).

Zip Line at Paradise LagoonWhile we rented a locker for the day ($15 for a large locker with a $3 refund when you return the key), I wish we would have worn our sandals/flip flops around the grounds. The asphalt is extremely uncomfortable in places and I noticed almost all of the rides have cubbies for storing your shoes and sunglasses.

Adventure River Noah's ArkPark admission varies based on your age, when you buy the ticket, if you purchase it online, and if there is a promotion running at the time of purchase. While my sister and her husband received complimentary admission with their military ID's, it might have been less expensive to purchase tickets for their children online. If you plan to visit the park more than twice in a summer, a season pass is the best option.