“Does it have a pool?” When I was a kid and my family took a road trip, that was always the first question my sister and I asked about any place we were staying. As long as there was a swimming pool of some sort, we were happy, and bonus points if it happened to be an indoor pool that allowed us to swim during nonsummer months.
Given the popularity of waterpark resorts, it’s a safe bet that sentiment still rings true with today’s youngsters. But for us older folks, who hold the all-powerful wallet, it takes a little more to impress. A nice aquatic element surely will keep the little ones happy, but to spur repeat visits, you’ve got to go above and beyond. This is especially true in today’s shaky economy.
In this, our second annual it Book, we’ve profiled 10 resorts that do just that. Along with some of the latest and greatest elements in waterpark design, each property has something special to offer. From accommodations to amenities to theming, these resorts have all created that extra-special something that makes them “it.”
You’ll also find a list of the top 25 resorts, ranked by waterpark size, room count and average daily room rate composite. Check out the big players — and your competitors’ rates.
How do you measure up? As you look at the profiles and list, you’ll notice that some of this year’s “it” resorts are not necessarily the biggest or most expensive. It takes more than big dollars and square footage to create that one-of-a-kind, magical experience that leaves an indelible imprint on your guests’ memories. With a little ingenuity and some inspiration from the featured properties, you’ll be well on your way to getting a call from us next year.
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