Are you searching for the perfect Wisconsin Dells Resort for your family? A fun water park hotel option is Wisconsin Dell’s Chula Vista Resort. It’s set off the beaten path in a quiet wooded setting along the Wisconsin River. Although it’s only 7 minutes to Downtown Wisconsin Dells you’ll feel far away from the overcrowded and touristy areas the Dells is known for.
Here guests can enjoy the indoor and outdoor water parks, play in the arcade, stroll the pretty riverwalk, golf, good restaurants and enjoy relaxing family time together. With a variety of Chula Vista room option from suites to condos to villas your sure to find a room that fits your families needs.
Although Chula Vista Resort is not as large as the Kalahari or Wilderness resort it’s also not as crowded and has more of a relaxing family vacation vibe. On our family’s stay, we really liked that the resort was less crowded leaving shorter lines at the water park and quicker reservations at the restaurants.
Check out our full Chula Vista Resort review and see if this is the spot for your next family vacation or weekend getaway.
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Family Review of Wisconsin Dells Chula Vista Resort
Our family has had two fun visits to the Chula Vista Resort and have really enjoyed ourselves. We’ve stayed both in the condos and the standard rooms and found both to be great.
Let’s go through all the details to help you decide if Chula Vista Resort is the right Wisconsin Dells hotel for your family.
Chula Vista Location
The Chula Vista resort is located in a quiet area nestled along the Wisconsin River. The back of the resort overlooks the woods and the water, while the front overlooks their golf course and water park.
It’s only a quick 7-minute drive to get to the busy Downtown Wisconsin Dells area. The difference between this resort and the other big water parks like the Wilderness Resort and Great Wolf Lodge is there are not any stores or restaurants located outside the resort. You will need to drive to get to any amenities outside the park.
This is why Chula Vista has more of a relax getaway feel than the other Wisconsin Dells Resorts located by more touristy areas of the Dells.
You truly feel like you are away from all the hustle and bustle when your at Chula Vista.
Address: 1000 Chula Vista Pkwy, Wisconsin Dells, 53965
Chula Vista Resort Map
The resort has several buildings with hotel rooms and condos stretched out along the Riverwalk. In the middle, you will find indoor and outdoor water parks. Making it an easy walk from most hotel rooms to the park. The restaurants are scattered throughout the property.
There is also an underground tunnel to the waterparks from the condo buildings. This is a great feature in the wintertime.
Here is a link to the Chula Vista Resort Map to check it out for yourself.
Chula Vista Water Park
There is both an indoor and outdoor water park at this hotel. Both are located in the same area in the middle of the parking lot. In fact, to get to the outdoor water park you’ll need to walk through the indoor water park.
I would say overall this water park is geared toward younger families meaning 13 and younger. If you are only bringing teenagers they will be bored and probably enjoy the Wilderness Resort or Kalahari better. But if you fit in the 13 and younger age group it will be really fun for the kids.
Los Rios Indoor Water Park
The indoor water park is not as large as Wilderness Resort or Great Wolf Lodge but it does have some really fun aspects kids will love. Plus as our kids were older on our second trip we felt more comfortable letting them run around on their own because it wasn’t so big. They really liked that alot.
The décor for the indoor water park is a giant rain forest theme. Inside there is a large toddler area with two small slides and water features. For older children, there is a huge climber area with water splashing and a huge bucket to dump water.
There is also a lazy river and sports pool for the kids with lily pads to walk across and basketball hoops.
You’ll find several indoor slides plus a raft racing slide against your friends, and a huge toilet bowl water ride.
The most unique ride is a water coaster that races around the second floor through the water and tunnels. This was our kid’s favorite ride and was a really fun feature.
Pool Towels – They do provide towels at the hotel but you need to ask for them when you scan your wristband at the front of the indoor waterpark. It’s the only place to get pool towels in the whole water park.
Pool Lockers– There are lockers located in the indoor pool area you can rent keep all your stuff safe while your swimming.
Changing Rooms – There are changing rooms with bathrooms located in the indoor pool area.
One downside is you enter the indoor water park through the arcade which kind of felt like Disney when they make you exit through the store. So talk to your kids ahead of time about whether they can do the arcade or not. It will help set the expectations.
Overall it’s a nice indoor pool area but on the smaller side. If your headed here in the winter and can’t do outdoor pools one or two days is plenty at Chula Vista.
Outdoor Water Park
There is one main area that has most of the outdoor water park attractions. This is located off of the indoor water park. But there are also two smaller pool areas gated off right in front of the hotel.
Smaller Outdoor Pools
Sports Pool – One is a sports pool with basketball hoops and chairs around the outside. This tended to be an area for older kids to hang out swim and play basketball.
Kiddie River – This is a perfect area for little kids to get away from all the craziness of the big water park. The Kiddie River is a lazy river with only 6 inches of water, spray features, and a small slide.
There are chairs set all around the pool to lounge in too. A perfect place for young families to hang out and enjoy a safer water experience.
Wave Pool
Located behind the hotel along the River Walk you’ll find the Wave Pool. The setting is really pretty and hosts Margaritas Mexican Grill and Cantina for food & drinks. It’s a nice place for families to just hang out and grab a bite to eat. You can even see the boats going by in the river from the pool patio.
The downside is the wave pool is not very big and does not have big waves. This wave pool is geared more toward younger kids. Our 10 year was bored so just keep that in mind.
Main Outdoor Pool Area
Water Slides – In the main outdoor pool area you will find a mix of waterslides for younger kids, kids in the middle, and older kids. There are a couple more intense waterslides for kids & parents with a racing track, a slide that has you going straight down, and the Howling Tornado.
Howling Tornado
Adventure Lagoon – This large pool area offers a place for families to just swim in the pool. It is also where the medium-level slides end up.
Splash Pad – Has a play structure in the middle with a dump bucket, geysers, and smaller water slides.
Cabanas
In the main outdoor pool area, you’ll find cabanas you can rent. These are a nice way to get out of the sun and have your own relaxing space. Plus it gives you a spot for your kids to find you when they are running around.
Depending on which one you get you’ll be able to watch your kids in the Splash Pad or Adventure Lagoon from the cabana.
The Beach
Located right by the outdoor pool area is a huge beach area for families. Kids can enjoy playing in the sand while parents enjoy a drink from the Tiki bar or sit by the fire pit. Often they have a bounce house located here for the kids too.
Chula Vista Activities
There are several non water activities for the kids to do while your at Chula Vista Resort.
Arcade
There is a medium-size arcade for the kids located by the entrance to the indoor water park. Plus tons of prizes for the kids to win. This area opens 30 minutes before the water park opens and closes 30 minutes after the water park closes.
Superstition Springs Miniature Golf
An 18 hole miniature golf course is located in the outdoor pool area. There are some challenging holes with waterfalls, ponds, and cute displays.
Scenic River Walk
Walk along this pretty River Walk located behind the hotel. The walk overlooks the Norway Pines and the Wisconsin River. Catch a glimpse of boats speeding by and birds in the trees. A nice spot to get away and take a relaxing walk.
There are benches set along the walk to take a break and enjoy the scenery too.
Dells Zip Line
The Dells first outdoor Ariel park with four different levels of courses. Each level has a different degree of difficulty so you can find something that works for all ages.
Sand Volleyball
There is a big sand volley ball area located next to the outdoor sports pool.
4D Action Cinema
Take a break from the water park and watch a 4D movie. They have several different movies to choose from on each visit.
Kids Activity Center
A fun place for families to do arts and crafts, play games or make something delicious. They also host family movie nights and other events so check the activity schedule when you get to the hotel.
Chula Vista Rooms – Suite, Cabanas & Villas
The Chula Vista Resort offers a variety of room choices to fit the needs of all different families.
Suites Room
The suites are standard rooms located in the main buildings along the riverfront. We liked that our Jr. Suite which had two double beds, a sofa sleeper, a small table & 2 chairs, and a balcony. It’s bigger than a standard hotel room which was nice so we could all spread out.
Condos Rooms
The condo units come in 1, 2, and 3 bedroom sizes. When we came with extended family these were great. You get a full-size kitchen, separate bedrooms, and a living room area. This let us all have a bedroom but still have a living room area to hang out when we weren’t at the water park.
There is also a Jacuzzi which was located in the living room. This was odd but the kids enjoyed playing in it.
Tip: There is an underground tunnel from the Condos and Suite rooms to get to the Indoor Pool area. This is a big advantage to these rooms, especially in the winter months. Ask for a room close to the entrance.
Villas
The Villas are located around the golf course with a pretty view. These large units offer space for up to six guests. There are loft options for kids which is a fun way to give kids their own space to play and sleep. This offers parents a chance at night to stay up later and enjoy some time to relax too.
The units have kitchenets, and living room areas to make it feel more like your own space then just a hotel room.
This is a great option for larger families or groups that want a quieter setting away from the main hotel.
Chula Vista Restaurants
There are 6 different restaurants at Chula Vista ranging from poolside food to sit-down restaurants. When we were there in June 2021 many of the restaurants had still not opened as the hotel was at half capacity.
Check before you go to see what restaurants are open. Here is what the resort offers and I indicated if it was open when we were there last.
Kilbourn City Grill is located off of the lobby and offers a sit-down option with breakfast in the morning and becomes a family-friendly sports bar at night. Think pub food for lunch and dinner. (was open in June 2021)
Kaminski’s Chop House is an upscale steak house located near the lobby. Their claim is to be one of America’s Top 10 Chophouses. (was open in June 2021)
The Tavern Restaurant is located at the Cold Water Canyon Golf Course. It offers specialized burgers and sandwiches to guests. A good spot for after a round of golf at the resort. (closed in June 2021)
Crash Landing Waterpark Snack Bar – Located off of the indoor water park. Crash Landing offers pizza, hot dogs, and burgers. Good spot to eat lunch while at the water park. There are tables both inside and outside to sit and eat. (was open June 2021)
Margarita Cantina – Fun spot by the wave pool to eat some Mexican fare and grab a Margarita for the adults. (closed in June 2021)
Cactus Outdoor Waterpark Bar and Grill – Located by Adventure Lagoon at the outdoor water park. This spot offers sandwiches and snacks plus drinks for the adults. (closed in June 2021)
Market Fresh To Go – This quick-service spot is located in the lobby to pick up pastries, muffins, donuts, and Starbucks coffee in the morning. It does tend to get a long line in the morning for coffee. At lunch try their paninis sandwiches and salads to go. (was open in June 2021)
Luigi’s Pizzeria – Order pizza delivered to your room when you’re exhausted at the end of the day and just want to relax in your room.
Things to Do in Wisconsin Dells
There are so many fun things to do in Wisconsin Dells With kids outside the water park hotels. An entertaining way to explore this area is to break up your day with activities in the Dells and pool time at the hotel.
Downtown Wisconsin Dells
If you want to get out and take a drive head to Downtown Wisconsin Dells only 7 minutes away. Here you will find a cute touristy street filled with restaurants, shops, and arcades.
We loved visiting Wild Fun Zone located on the strip. My kids really loved the glow-in-the-dark indoor miniature golf and awesome laser tag course. Just look for the building with the Gorilla on top.
Another area not to miss is the Glockenspiel Clock and Bavarian Village. Every half hour the huge cuku clock goes off and tells the story of the Pied Piper. It’s free and fun to watch while your eating ice cream or some local fudge.
You’ll also find a nice scenic river walk if you’re looking for a quiet stroll. From the walk you can see the famous Dells rocks along the river.
Get all the details in our Best Downtown Wisconsin Dells Attractions.
More Things to Do in Wisconsin Dells
Looking for more fun Wisconsin Dells Attractions to visit? There are tons of cool family-friendly things to do in Wisconsin Dells.
In the summer months, you’ll love horseback riding, the Tommy Bartlet Show, canyon rides, zip-lining, ropes courses, outdoor waterparks and more. In the winter months enjoy the many indoor amusement parks, skiing, snow tubing, and shopping.
Find out our 30 Favorite Things to Do in Wisconsin Dells any time of year and have a blast on your family vacation.
Hiking Devil’s Lake State Parks
Devil’s Lake State Park and Mirror Lake State Park are both located only minutes from Wisconsin Dells. Visitors will see beautiful views, take easy or challenging family hikes, go kayaking, fishing, swim at the beaches, and more.
It’s a great way to take a break from the water park and get out into nature for the day.
What to Pack for the Water Park
Wondering what to bring with you on your trip to a water park? Here are a few things I would suggest. You can click the link to see the item I use for each category.
Make sure to grab your FREE Family Travel Packing List too so you don’t forget anything.
Goggles – The kids will want googles when they swim in the wave pool, Adventure Lagoon or sports pool.
Beach Bag – I like to bring a beach bag to hold our cover-ups, a book for myself, phones and water toys.
Waterproof phone case – I like to take pictures of the kids having fun so I use this waterproof case to keep my phone dry while in the pool.
Waterproof bag to hold your room key, cash, and other small items
Flip Flops – Your feet will get wet even if you’re not in the pool
More Wisconsin Dells Resort Options
There are tons of great options for Wisconsin Dells Resorts. Check out a few of our favorite Wisconsin Dells Hotels so you can compare and find the best resort for your family.
Wilderness Hotel & Golf Resort. This is one of our favorites to visit because we love the extra activities like go-karts, laser tag, and indoor ropes course. Plus they have several rooms of indoor pools so there is tons to do even in the winter months.
Great Wolf Lodge – What stands out at Great Wolf Lodge is their MagiQuest Game. It’s a really cool indoor quest the kids go on to find clues and complete different levels to slay the dragon. Plus they have a really fun water park and great indoor wave pool.
KOA Wisconsin Dells – This is another option if you like to camp, have an RV or want to rent a small cabin. It has an awesome location right by downtown Wisconsin Dells and tons of amenities like a pool area.
Other Wisconsin Family Getaway Ideas – Consider Lake Geneva and Door County too when you’re planning a family vacation. Both have tons of cool family attractions you’ll love.
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