When the weather turns cool and outdoor activities wind down, your kids don't have to put their swim trunks away for the winter. An indoor water park can offer an escape from cold weather and keep kids entertained. If you visit the northern Indiana town of Shipshewana in Amish country, you'll find an indoor water park built into a resort hotel. Splash Universe Water Park Resort boasts an environment that is a toasty 86 degrees all year long, with a water temperature of 84 degrees.
You can board an inner tube and head down a twisting water slide that actually goes outside the building and comes back in. Those looking for a more relaxing experience can take a tube and float down a slow-moving indoor "river." A seven-level play fort for kids includes a bucket that tips over to spill 500 gallons of water. Kids can also walk across floating "lily pads" while holding overhead ropes. A children's pool provides entertainment for youngsters who are not ready for the adventure of other attractions. Adults can relax in a hot tub set aside just for them.
Guests who stay in a suite at the Splash Universe resort can enjoy the water park at no additional cost. For those who want to visit the water park only, Splash Universe offers day passes on a first-come, first-served basis. Some days may have limited availability due to a high occupancy rate in the resort. As of September, 2010, a full-day pass costs $29.95 while a half-day pass costs $24.95. These prices do not include state and local taxes. The park recommends that you call ahead to verify that day passes are available for a specific date. If you don't want to swim but want to hang out with others in your group, you can pay a spectator rate of $6.95.
Park hours vary with the time of year. As of 2010, when school is out for the summer, the park is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. When school is in session, the park is open only on Fridays (12 p.m. to 9 p.m.), Saturdays (9 a.m. to 9 p.m.) and Sundays (9 a.m. to 8 p.m.). Free life vests are available for children, but you are expected to bring towels for those in your group. The water park offers changing facilities that include lockers and showers. You cannot bring food or beverages into the facility, but they are available for purchase in the park.
Splash Universe
800 South Van Buren St.
Shipshewana, IN 46565
877-752-7482
splashuniverse.com
