Updated February 2025
When the weather outside is frightful, many folks plan an indoor water park getaway to take advantage of toasty 80+ degree indoor temperatures, regardless of weather conditions. But how do you choose the right water park resort for your vacation? Allow us to introduce you to the indoor water park resorts of Shores & Islands Ohio.
Theme: Northwoods lodge
Family fun: 33,000 sq. ft. indoor water park features a lazy river, four-story fort, giant tipping bucket, and more. Day passes are available for outside guests in limited quantities. Other activities offered include the Cub Club arts and crafts, character appearances, story time, and the Great Clock Tower show as well as a prize-winning arcade and mini bowling.
Food features: Snack bar located within the water park; take-out pizza, sandwiches, and salads; sweet shop featuring coffee, ice cream, pastries, and homemade fudge; on-site Dunkin’ Donuts open morning and afternoon; full-service Gitchigoomie Grill offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner along with a full-service bar.
Overnighting: Get deals on overnight stays here, including a great Early Saver deal when you book at least 60 days in advance. Don’t miss a variety of standard, themed, and premium suites.
Unique attributes:
- Sweet suites – This all-suite hotel features fabulous themed suites, including the “Wolf Den,” “Kid Cabin,” “Royal Bear,” and loft fireplace suites.
- MagiQuest – Play this fun, interactive game and turn Great Wolf Lodge into your own personal playground. Purchase a magic wand and set off on a quest throughout the resort, where you’ll unlock a world of adventure. Great for family play!
- Build-A-Bear Workshop – Create Great Wolf Lodge characters including Wiley the Wolf and Sammy the Squirrel using of a wide assortment of plush clothing and accessories. This make-your-own experience will allow guests to leave with a one-of-a-kind, special souvenir.
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions
Theme: Authentically African
Family fun: 173,000 sq. ft. indoor water park features a number of thrilling slides, a water coaster, lazy river, wave pool, special kids' areas, and more! Don't miss the all-new (in 2025) Dawn Breaker! The resort also features an outdoor water park in-season, with a five-slide tower! Other fun includes the Safari Outdoor Adventures Park which offers zip-lining, ropes course, rock-climbing wall, and the Safari Adventures Animal Park. Kids’ activities are offered daily, including crafts and character appearances, plus a huge family arcade with indoor glow golf, laser tag, virtual reality, and more.
Food features: There is truly something for every taste with a variety of onsite dining choices; everything from a quick-service pizza pub, deli, full-service dining options, room-service, sweet shop, and several lounges. Many guests enjoy B-Lux Grill & Bar - home of handcrafted burgers and shakes. This restaurant captures the latest craves through its robust influence of American-style food with fresh ingredients that are locally sourced. Sortino’s Italian Kitchen featuring family Sicilian favorites. Recently opened (2025) are Cinco Ninos and the fast-casual MACS - Macaroni and Cheese Shop!
Overnighting: So many overnight specials and packages are offered here, including multi-night discounts and fun stay enhancements. Need a break from your virtual classroom? Check out the Schoolaway Getaway, which features a safe place for learning filled with fantastic breaks.
Unique attributes:
- Authentic African décor/artwork – Don't miss the décor all throughout! The Nelson family has a passion for Africa – beginning with the family's first trip to the continent in the mid-90s, the family continues to regularly visit for inspiration and to purchase authentic items for their resorts, including hand-carved seating and tables, tribal masks and sculptures, hand-woven textiles and more.
- Storm Chaser – The Storm Chaser Slideboarding Adventure integrates gaming, skill, speed, and competitive sports into an experience that will define the water parks of the future. Storm Chaser features an interactive multi-level game built within a waterslide. It uses a smart gaming system that tracks your progress and scores your run down the waterslide as you hit your targets for points, and unlock new levels.
- Learn to “hang ten” on the Flow Rider - a 5 ft. wave simulator where you can test your body boarding or surfing skills...a fan favorite!
- Spa Kalahari – Pamper yourself during your getaway with a visit to Spa Kalahari, featuring a Himalayan Salt Halotherapy Room and Spa Kalahari, Jr. for younger guests.
Theme: Caribbean paradise
Family fun: 38,000 sq. ft. indoor water park features large wave-action pool, indoor/outdoor hot tub, water coaster, kids’ areas, and more. Win prizes at the state-of-the-art arcade and participate in daily family-fun activities. Be sure to check operating days and hours throughout the winter, as the park operates mostly on weekends, with increased hours during peak times.
Food features: Surfside Beach Bar located within the water park; a quick-service market featuring pastries and Starbucks coffee; breakfast buffet at the High Tide Cafe, and sweet treats at the Sprinkle Shack; room service is also available, including pizza.
Overnighting: With 237 well-appointed hotel rooms and suites, Castaway Bay's accommodations even include family-friendly layouts with bunk beds. A number of overnight packages are offered, which include accommodations, food, and activities combined at a savings. Cedar Point pass holders can receive discounts on select room types as well.
Unique attributes:
- Affiliation with Cedar Point – Cedar Point amusement park ticket packages are available during the operating season, and as a Cedar Point hotel guest you have access to discount tickets and admission to the park one hour prior to opening to the general public.
- Character visits - The Caribbean-themed Castaway Bay boasts its own unique set of mascots, Gordy & Friends, who are often found in the lobby or participating in family activities such as arts & crafts, game nights, and dance parties.
- The whole family will enjoy the Escape from Castaway Isle escape room experience, Gordy's Mini-Golf Adventure, and Tiki mini-bowling.
With so many great water park and accommodations features, it may be hard to choose! One thing is for sure, you'll definitely have a swim-tastic time in Ohio's Lake Erie Shores & Islands. The area’s water park resorts definitely make the ideal getaway for your family this winter!
