Mt. Olympus Water and Theme Park

Mt. Olympus is the Dells park for families who cannot decide between a waterpark and a theme park, because it offers both. The Greek-mythology theming runs through outdoor and indoor water attractions, roller coasters, go-karts and midway-style rides, and the resort has its own hotel on site. It is a popular choice for families with older children and teens who want thrills beyond slides, and the indoor facilities make it more useful in cooler weather than a purely outdoor park. Check the current season and hours, since the outdoor areas are seasonal while indoor attractions often run longer.

Wisconsin Dells built its reputation as the Waterpark Capital of the World, but the fastest growth has come from parks that offer more than slides. Mt. Olympus is the clearest example: Greek temples and statues decorate the grounds, and the ride list includes roller coasters and dry rides alongside the water attractions. That variety means a group with different interests can all be happy: the kids in the wave pool, the teens on a coaster and parents in the lazy river.

Different ticket types apply to different sets of attractions, so read the options carefully before you buy. Some visitors want only the water areas, others only the dry rides, and others a combined pass.

Staying at the on-site resort can include perks such as early access or park passes, which is worth checking against the cost of separate lodging. Because the resort is a self-contained complex, it also simplifies logistics for families with small children: walk from room to rides, nap in the middle of the day and return in the evening.Plan around weather and crowds. Summer weekends are busy, with the best visits on weekday mornings. In cooler months the indoor water attractions and arcade keep the resort useful, while the outdoor rides may be closed.

Check height requirements for each ride, bring water shoes and sunscreen for outdoor days, and keep an eye on the park's weather policy. Food at the park is typical theme-park fare, with options to eat nearby if you prefer variety.Pair Mt. Olympus with calmer Dells outings. A boat tour or a trolley history ride gives a break from the thrills and teaches you something about the town.

For another waterpark-resort model, compare Kalahari and Great Wolf Lodge, which focus more on indoor water and resort amenities than on coasters. The tourism board's summer attractions page is a good starting place for current information.

Parking and resort fees can add up, so compare the total cost of a day visit against a package that includes lodging. Arrive at opening to ride the most popular attractions with short waits, then switch to water attractions in the heat of the day.