Kalahari Resorts & Conventions has announced that its highly anticipated Virginia resort will officially open on Nov. 12, 2026, bringing one of the country’s largest indoor water park destinations within a relatively short drive of Montgomery County.
The $900 million resort is under construction in Spotsylvania County, Virginia, just off Interstate 95, approximately 80 miles from central Montgomery County. Once complete, it will become Kalahari’s fifth U.S. location and will feature more than 175,000 square feet of indoor water park attractions, approximately 900 guest suites, a full-service convention center, restaurants, shopping, arcades and other family entertainment. The African-inspired resort is expected to attract visitors from across the Washington metropolitan area and the East Coast.
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions was recently named to TIME’s inaugural list of America’s Best Private Companies 2026. The family-owned company earned recognition for its workplace culture, employee development and community impact. Founded more than 25 years ago by Todd and Shari Nelson, Kalahari says it has built its growth around investing in employees through leadership development, wellness initiatives and a promote-from-within philosophy, while also supporting local communities through volunteer programs, charitable giving and workforce development initiatives. TIME and research firm Statista selected the 500 companies based on employee survey data and measurable societal, environmental and workplace impact.
“This recognition isn’t about a ranking; it’s about our people,” Founder and CEO Todd Nelson said in announcing the honor. “We’ve always believed that when you invest in people, supporting their growth, their well-being and being there for them through life’s toughest moments, you build something stronger.”
Kalahari currently operates resorts in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin; Sandusky, Ohio; Pocono Manor, Pennsylvania; and Round Rock, Texas. The Virginia location marks the company’s first resort in the Washington, D.C. region and is expected to become a popular destination for families seeking a water park getaway without air travel.
