Excitement continues to build as the Bavarian Blast Waterpark at the Bavarian Inn Lodge in Frankenmuth, MI, nears its much-anticipated opening date in the late fall of 2024. The latest construction milestone saw the installation of a new roof over the expansive indoor waterpark area. This critical step will allow crews to outfit the space with the park's many attractions. With the new roof, the focus now shifts to completing the interior spaces and getting the facility ready for families to enjoy year-round fun. The new waterpark, Michigan's largest when complete, promises to transform the Bavarian Inn Lodge into a premier destination for indoor entertainment.

Swim-Up Bar and Upcoming Attractions

One of the most exciting features of the new expansion is the addition of an adult-only swim-up bar. This unique amenity will offer a relaxing space for adults to unwind while enjoying the ambiance of the indoor/outdoor pool area. The swim-up bar aims to create an upscale yet fun environment where guests can enjoy a drink without ever leaving the water, making it a perfect retreat for parents or couples looking for some downtime during their stay.

The waterpark will feature over 20 new aquatic attractions, including a large indoor wave pool, six new water slides, and an indoor lazy river. These slides will include a "family raft" slide designed to accommodate six to eight people, making it a perfect activity for groups to experience together. The expansion also includes new, thrill-inducing rides and more family-friendly options to ensure something for everyone. The indoor wave pool, with its gentle, rolling waves, will provide another excellent choice for those looking to relax or play in a simulated ocean environment.

Adding private cabanas will enhance the overall guest experience by offering a dedicated space for families or groups to gather. These cabanas will come equipped with comfortable seating and dedicated service, allowing guests to relax in privacy while enjoying all the park's amenities. It’s clear that the Bavarian Blast Waterpark aims to deliver a luxurious and convenient experience for visitors of all ages, with options that cater to both thrill-seekers and those looking for a more relaxed time.

Expanding Entertainment for All Ages

The Bavarian Inn Lodge is expanding its waterpark and greatly enhancing its family entertainment center, which will encompass an additional 45,000 square feet. This family entertainment area will offer various activities, from classic arcade games to new, immersive attractions. One of the highlights is Dragon’s Lair, a 2,500-square-foot laser tag arena that offers an action-packed adventure for kids and adults alike. In addition, the Treasure Haus, a new redemption store, will provide a fun way for guests to redeem their game winnings for unique prizes.

Another significant new attraction is the three-story ropes course, which includes three 26-foot climbing walls. This feature is designed to challenge visitors physically while providing a safe, supervised environment for families to bond over shared experiences. The climbing walls cater to climbers of all skill levels, making them accessible to beginners as well as more advanced participants. Alongside the ropes course, the expanded entertainment area will feature a wide variety of new arcade games, ensuring that there is always a bright moment for guests of all ages.

For younger visitors, the Bavarian Inn Lodge will continue to offer child-friendly entertainment options such as the two-level children’s play village and Willy’s Kingdom indoor mini-golf course, both of which have been updated as part of the expansion. These attractions, combined with the new waterpark amenities, ensure that the Bavarian Inn Lodge remains a top choice for family vacations, providing a comprehensive selection of activities that can be enjoyed in any weather.

Target Opening and Future Developments

The entire project is on track for a full opening by the late fall of 2024, with some parts of the family fun center already available to guests. The new waterpark will ultimately span over 140,000 square feet, making it the largest indoor waterpark in Michigan and a significant attraction for the state. This massive undertaking represents a $10 million increase from the original investment, with the added funds contributing to expanding both the waterpark and family entertainment spaces.

Michael Keller Zehnder, president of the Bavarian Inn Lodge, has emphasized that the expansion aims to "reimagine family fun" and create experiences that cater to guests of all ages. This ambitious project aims to position the Bavarian Inn Lodge as a destination that provides unmatched family entertainment in the region. By including a wide range of attractions—from high-energy slides to relaxing poolside cabanas—the lodge will cater to diverse interests, ensuring that every guest finds something to love.

A Look at the Long-Term Vision

As the Bavarian Blast Waterpark nears completion, it’s clear that the Bavarian Inn Lodge is committed to creating a memorable experience for every guest. Adding new water attractions, a swim-up bar, expanded entertainment options, and thoughtful amenities like private cabanas show a dedication to quality and guest satisfaction. Michael Keller Zehnder has stated that the vision for this expansion is to create a "premier destination in the Midwest" and solidify the lodge's place as a leader in family entertainment.

With the project set to be completed by late fall 2024, anticipation is growing as the Bavarian Blast Waterpark prepares to open its doors. The waterpark will undoubtedly become a significant draw for Frankenmuth, bringing in visitors from across Michigan and beyond. Whether guests are looking to relax by the pool, take on the thrill of a high-speed water slide, or enjoy a game of laser tag, the Bavarian Inn Lodge’s new offerings will provide something for everyone, making it a perfect destination for families, friends, and groups alike.