Need a “staycation” getaway? You won’t have to wait much longer. The largest and newest Great Wolf Lodge waterpark is set to open near Delaware by August 1.
Great Wolf Lodge is a chain of indoor waterparks and family fun centers that features everything from winding water slides, obstacle courses, interactive “quests” and more.
The chain prides itself on being a one-stop shop for a quick family getaway. It’s not meant to replace a trip to the beaches or national parks, it’s designed for the busy family who finds themselves with a free weekend and an itch to step outside their comfort zone.
Great Wolf Lodge Maryland will be located just off I-95 at 1240 Chesapeake Overlook Parkway in Perryville, less than half an hour from Newark. The location sits adjacent to Perryville’s Hollywood Casino.
The over $250 million project will be the biggest waterpark in the chain’s history so far, taking up 48 acres of space with 128,000 square feet of waterparks (at a comfortable 84-degree year-round), 57,000 square feet of family entertainment and a 700-room resort.
Plans have been in motion for this park for about two years. After being slightly delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the company broke ground on the site a little over a year ago and is slated to be complete in the upcoming months before being officially open for business on August 1.
What to expect: exclusive first looks
The waterpark will feature 22 water slides, including two brand new ones, that can be seen twisting from outside the confines of the building, with something to appeal to every age.
The new slides appeal to thrill-seekers, featuring 360-degree loops and steep drops through dark tunnels. But for the patron who prefers their feet on the ground, the park offers the “Otter Cave Waterworks”, a multi-level play structure with six smaller, attached water slides and the signature Great Wolf Lodge tipping bucket that pours 1,000 gallons of water every four minutes.
An outdoor pool will also be featured in the Great Wolf Lodge with cabanas for those in need of some R&R.
In addition to the waterpark, there is an adventure park with even more activities for families to enjoy including bowling, ropes courses, mini golf, a mirror maze and an arcade.
Those familiar with Great Wolf Lodge already may remember the “Magiquest” interactive journey designed for families to partake in. Along with the improvements of the new waterpark come more complex storylines and “enchanted forest-esque” interior designs for guests to immerse themselves into.
Perryville’s Great Wolf Lodge will feature a 700-room resort with suite options to suit parties up to 12 people.
Lastly, the all-in-one staycation destination will feature plenty of dining options for the whole family including a Dunkin Donuts, a buffet-style campfire restaurant with options ranging from hamburgers to Tex-Mex and an upscale dining restaurant.
Planning your trip
To book your stay, visit the Great Wolf Lodge website for its Maryland location. Overnight rates for rooms range from around $200-$400 per night, depending on availability and size of party. The park is typically busiest when school is out, so if you’re looking to avoid crowds and high costs, squeezing in a mid-week trip may be best.
If you’re looking for some money-saving tips, general manager Nadine Miracle and VP of Great Wolf’s corporate communications Jason Lasecki recommend signing up for email alerts. In honor of the park’s consistent 84-degree heating, flash sales for $84 nightly room rates are occasionally advertised to those on the email database.
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Contact Molly McVety at mmcvety@delawareonline.com.
