Kalahari Resorts and Conventions Opens America’s Largest Indoor Waterpark Resort
Kalahari Resorts and Conventions Round Rock is the new home of America's Largest Indoor Waterpark Resort with 223,000 square feet of wet-and-wild fun. The all-under-one-roof experience offers world-class dining, a luxurious spa, live entertainment, diverse shopping experiences, a thrilling indoor theme park and a state-of-the-art convention center. The Round Rock resort is Kalahari's fourth property and the brand's first foray into Texas and the Southwest market. The new resort created approximately 1,000 jobs in 2020 and expects to hire additional associates as demand grows in 2021.
"Everything is bigger in Texas, so it was the perfect place for our largest and most luxurious resort yet," said Todd Nelson, owner of Kalahari Resorts and Conventions. "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."
To celebrate the grand opening, Kalahari welcomed Grammy-nominated singer, actress and mom Jordin Sparks to be one of the resort's first guests.
"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," Sparks said. "Now more than ever, it's essential to find safe ways to have fun, de-stress and create memories."
The new resort boasts 975 guest rooms, 30 waterslides, 20 pools and whirlpools, three acres of outdoor pools, a world-class spa and salon and 20 on-site dining options, including four signature full-service restaurants, in addition to Tom Foolerys Adventure Park with thrill rides, zip lines, climbing walls, mini-golf, bowling, laser tag and more.
Health and Safety
Health and safety are a resort priority, and as a family-owned and -operated business, Kalahari Resorts works hard to do what is best for both guests and associates. The resort will adhere to all local and state public health and safety regulations, including guidelines for masks and social distancing. With 1.5 million square feet, Kalahari offers plenty of room for guests to spread out. Occupancy at the resort will be limited for amenities and attractions, including restaurants, in accordance with local rules and regulations.
The resort is taking several steps to ensure health and safety, including associate wellness initiatives, with self-assessments and temperature checks for associates, enhanced sanitation with hospital-grade disinfectants and new operational procedures that allow for social distancing and minimized contact. According to the CDC, proper operation, maintenance, and disinfection of pools and whirlpools with chlorine and bromine should remove or inactivate the virus that causes COVID-19. The resort will also have a wellness concierge to monitor and communicate safety initiatives to guests. Click here for full details on the Kalahari Commitment to Clean.
Authentically African-themed with a Texas Spirit
Kalahari Resorts are authentically African-themed, and the Round Rock resort features a one-of-a-kind modern African design with a local Texas spirit. The resorts were inspired by a Nelson family trip to Africa more than 20 years ago, and the family traveled to South Africa, Ghana and Tanzania to hand-select 1,000 pieces of African art, sculpture, furniture and retail items for the Round Rock resort. This $600,000 art investment is part of an ongoing brand commitment to the people, places and cultures that inspire the resorts. To date, Kalahari Resorts has invested more than $5.5 million in the purchase of African art, textiles and more to support African artists, craftspeople and entrepreneurs.
Kalahari Round Rock will also highlight local partnerships with food and beverage, retail brands, musicians, artists and makers for a resort experience that combines the best of Africa with the best of Texas.
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is a global leading lodging company based in Bethesda,Maryland, USA, with more than 4,200 properties in 80 countries and territories. Marriott International reported revenues of nearly $14 billion in fiscal year 2014. The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 19 brands, including: The Ritz-Carlton®, BVlgari®, EDITION®, JW Marriott®, Autograph Collection® Hotels, Renaissance® Hotels, Marriott Hotels®, Delta Hotels and Resorts®, Marriott Executive Apartments®, Marriott Vacation Club®, Gaylord Hotels®, AC Hotels by Marriott®, Courtyard®, Residence Inn®, SpringHill Suites®, Fairfield Inn & Suites®, TownePlace Suites®, Protea Hotels® and MoxyHotels®. Marriott has been consistently recognized as a top employer and for its superior business ethics. The company also manages the award-winning guest loyalty program, Marriott Rewards® and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® program, which together surpass 50 million members. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at 
