Wisconsin Waterpark Roundup: Noah's Ark, Wisconsin Dells
Jun 29, 2014 05:29AM ● By Julie Henning
Parking 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.
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).
Recently 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.
Noah'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.
Having 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).
While 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.
Park 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.