Noahs Ark or Mt Olympus? Which Dells Waterpark is Best for Kids?

The Wisconsin Dells is known as the Water Park Capital of the World for good reason. During the summer this small town fills with midwesterners eager for water fun in the sun. One of the big decisions when vacationing in the Dells is which water park to visit. There are a lot of options, depending on where you are staying, but the two biggest are Noah’s Ark and Mt Olympus.

Noah’s Ark

This is the older waterpark of the two and has crafted a reputation for being the best waterpark in the area. Over the years it has expanded and built many new rides, while catering to people of all ages. Most children in the Midwest have been to Noah’s Ark at some point during their childhood at least once.

PROS:
More diverse water play options – especially for children under 5.
Better water slides for adults.
Offers a pretty awesome season pass for repeat visits.

CONS:
No hotel attached. However, the Flamingo Motel offers 1 Free ticket for every night and is located next door.
No theme park rides.
No indoor water parks if the weather does not cooperate.

Mt Olympus 

This is a newer addition to the Wisconsin Dells area. Mt Olympus is a resort hotel with the water and theme parks included in the price of a stay, but it can also be used by the public.

PROS:
Both a Water Park & Theme Park. Great, if you are looking for both.
Indoor and Outdoor play options for inclimate weather.
Attached hotel with complimentary tickets for the whole family for the park.

CONS:
Kiddie areas are located at the back of the park which is a LONG walk in and out for little legs. (unless you are staying at the hotel)
Fewer kiddie water play areas for children under 5.
Best deal is if you are staying at the hotel, not as great for the public.

Which is best? In all honesty, it depends what your family is looking for. If you are looking for a hotel with a fun waterpark and theme park attached where you can spend the whole week or weekend in one place then Mt Olympus is your best bet. As an all round summer escape, Mt Olympus is more complete. If you are looking for a day or two of water park awesomeness then Noah’s Ark is the better bet. As a water park – Noah’s Ark is more fun for all ages.

*Correction: At the time of original posting, parking at Mt Olympus was free. Several readers have commented since that they now charge $15-20 for parking. This information could not be verified on their website. Also, the prices listed below are their typical prices, both parks offer deals on their website at different parts of the season. Check online for details.