Oodles of slides, surf and waves all under one roof

While planning my trip to the Dells, I'd been warned that water parks are like Vegas for kids. Nowhere did I understand that better than at the expansive, 125,000-square-foot Kalahari. The constant activity creates a high-decibel din. The bright lights make perpetual daylight. And the options for entertainment keep you floating from one extravaganza to the next. It was intoxicating, addictive fun.

Best features: With 125,000-square-feet under one roof, this park offers slides for all levels of bravery, water basketball, several kiddie play areas, a lazy river with rapids, a wave pool and a surf simulator.

Advisory: There is a kiddie play area right outside the locker-room doors. Keep walking: In the back of the park, other play areas are a lot less crowded. Because there are so many options, and so much space to explore, groups can get separated. Agree on a rendezvous spot before you're all set free.

Beyond the water: If the leopard cub in the lobby doesn't keep you enthralled, check out the paint-your-own-plate shop, a play room devoted to kids' crafts, and an arcade.

Practical matters: In Wisconsin Dells, Wis. Room rates start at $129 a night and include park passes. The water park offers day passes to the general public if registered guests don't bring it to capacity ($34 on weekdays; $39 weekends). Reservations and more info: 1-877-525-2427; www.kalahariresort.com.