The nearest airport is Madison, Wisconsin’s Dane County Regional, an hour from the water-park action. For the local low-down, see wisdells.com.
The rate for each of the following hotels includes admission to its water park.
Great Wolf Lodge A tad mellower than the other two, and well suited to families with young children. 1400 Great Wolf Dr.; 800/559-9653; greatwolflodge.com; doubles from $150.
Kalahari Waterpark Resort Thanks to the open-door day-pass policy—and the surf simulator—this one has a frenzied-teen sensibility. 1305 Kalahari Dr.; 877/525-2427; kalahariresorts.com; doubles from $129; park day-pass $28.
Wilderness Hotel & Golf Resort Stay in a cabin here and go cross-country skiing. The park itself is sprawling and chaotic—heaven for most kids. 511 E. Adams St.; 800/867-9453; wildernessresort.com; doubles from $89, cabins from $275.
Sundara Spa Mom and Dad’s little helper! Free car service provided from all of the water parks. 920 Canyon Rd.; 888/735-8181; sundaraspa.com; treatments from $125.
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