Get ready for an unparalleled resort experience right in the heart of Texas! Kalahari Resorts and Conventions in Round Rock TX has officially opened its doors, bringing with it the title of America’s Largest Indoor Waterpark Resort. This massive destination redefines family fun and business gatherings, offering an all-encompassing experience under one roof.
Spanning an impressive 223,000 square feet, the indoor waterpark is just the beginning. Kalahari Round Rock Tx boasts world-class dining options, a rejuvenating spa, vibrant live entertainment, unique shopping experiences, a thrilling indoor theme park, and a state-of-the-art convention center. As the fourth property in the Kalahari brand and their first venture into Texas and the Southwest, this resort is set to become a landmark destination. In its inaugural year of 2020, Kalahari Round Rock TX generated approximately 1,000 jobs, with expectations for further growth in employment as demand increases.
Todd Nelson, the visionary owner of Kalahari Resorts and Conventions, expressed his enthusiasm: “Everything is bigger in Texas, so it was the perfect place for our largest and most luxurious resort yet. We’re proud to be able to open the Round Rock location as scheduled despite what a challenging year it’s been for everyone. The $550 million resort brings much needed tourism dollars and hospitality jobs to the area and offers a welcome getaway for locals and travelers.”
Echoing this sentiment, Round Rock Mayor Craig Morgan remarked, “We are absolutely thrilled to be able to help open this amazing resort and waterpark. We couldn’t ask for a better boost for our economy right now or for an experience that’s more fun for visitors and residents alike.”
The journey to bring Kalahari Resorts to Round Rock TX began in June 2016, with the city engaging in a comprehensive public engagement process to consider the project and economic incentives.
To mark the grand opening, Kalahari Round Rock TX welcomed Grammy-nominated singer and actress Jordin Sparks as one of their first guests. Sparks, a self-proclaimed thrill-seeker, shared her excitement: “I’m a thrill-seeker for sure, and waterslides are a lot of fun. Kalahari Resorts in the Poconos was my family’s favorite getaway last year, so I’m excited to have a Kalahari Resort option closer to home. Now more than ever, it’s essential to find safe ways to have fun, destress and create memories.”
This image shows the impressive exterior of Kalahari Resorts Round Rock TX at dusk, highlighting its large scale and modern African design influences.
Inside Kalahari Round Rock TX, guests are treated to an array of amenities. The resort features 975 luxurious guest rooms, an exhilarating waterpark with 30 waterslides and 20 pools and whirlpools, three acres of outdoor pools for sun-soaked relaxation, a world-class spa and salon for pampering, and an impressive 20 on-site dining options. These dining choices include four signature full-service restaurants, catering to diverse palates. For thrill-seekers of all ages, Tom Foolerys Adventure Park offers a wide range of attractions, from thrilling rides and zip lines to climbing walls, mini golf, bowling, and laser tag.
Prioritizing Health and Safety at Kalahari Round Rock
Kalahari Resorts emphasizes the health and safety of its guests and associates as a top priority. As a family-owned and operated business, they are committed to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for everyone. Kalahari Round Rock TX strictly adheres to all local and state public health guidelines, including regulations for masks and social distancing. The expansive 1.5 million square feet of the resort naturally allows for guests to spread out comfortably. To further ensure safety, occupancy limits are in place for amenities and attractions, including restaurants, in accordance with local regulations.
Specific measures implemented at Kalahari Round Rock TX include associate wellness initiatives such as daily self-assessments and temperature checks. Enhanced sanitation protocols utilize hospital-grade disinfectants throughout the resort. New operational procedures have been implemented to facilitate social distancing and minimize contact points. A dedicated Wellness Concierge is available to assist guests, monitor safety initiatives, and provide clear communication. Guests can also be reassured by CDC guidelines which indicate that proper operation, maintenance, and disinfection with chlorine and bromine effectively remove or inactivate viruses like COVID-19 in water facilities.
This photograph captures the vibrant and expansive indoor waterpark at Kalahari Resorts Round Rock TX, showcasing a variety of waterslides and pool areas designed for family fun.
Authentic African Theme Meets Texas Charm
Kalahari Resorts are renowned for their authentic African theme, and Kalahari Round Rock TX is no exception. The resort showcases a unique modern African design infused with local Texas spirit, creating a distinctive and inviting atmosphere. Inspired by a Nelson family trip to Africa over two decades ago, the family personally curated over 1,000 pieces of African art, sculpture, furniture, and retail items from South Africa, Ghana, and Tanzania for the Round Rock resort. This significant $600,000 art investment demonstrates Kalahari Resorts’ ongoing commitment to the cultures that inspire their brand. To date, Kalahari Resorts has invested over $5.5 million in African art and textiles, supporting African artists, craftspeople, and entrepreneurs.
Kalahari Round Rock TX also embraces local partnerships, collaborating with food and beverage providers, retail brands, musicians, artists, and makers from Texas. This fusion of African authenticity and Texan local flavor creates a uniquely enriching resort experience.
Reservations for Kalahari Round Rock TX are currently open, inviting guests to book their ultimate getaway at kalahariresorts.com/roundrock.
A Major Economic Driver for Round Rock
The Kalahari Resorts and Convention Center represents a significant economic boost for the City of Round Rock TX. The city strategically partnered with Kalahari to establish its fourth resort in this location, recognizing the potential for job creation and revenue generation. Its advantageous location near Old Settlers Park and Dell Diamond, popular venues attracting over a million visitors annually, positions Kalahari Round Rock TX for success as a major tourism destination.
The economic incentive agreements between the City of Round Rock and Kalahari Resorts stipulate that Kalahari will maintain a minimum employment of 700 and invest at least $350 million in the expansive 975-room resort, the 200,000-square-foot indoor/outdoor water park, and the 150,000-square-foot convention center. The City of Round Rock owns the 351-acre land parcel, leasing it to Kalahari for a term of up to 99 years. To facilitate the project, the City issued bonds to provide $40 million for the construction of the City-owned Convention Center and $30 million for city-owned infrastructure improvements. After annual debt payments on these bonds, the City and Kalahari will share remaining select State and City tax revenues. The City anticipates receiving $4 million annually in new tax revenue after debt and incentive payments during the first 10 years of the agreement, highlighting the substantial long-term economic benefits of Kalahari Round Rock TX.
