Kalahari breaks ground on its fifth resort, opening in 2026

AT: Jeffrey Seifert

jseifert@amusementtoday.com

THORNBURG, Virginia — Kalahari Resorts & Conventions broke ground on its fifth resort in the unincorporated community of Thornburg in Spotsylvania County, Virginia. The ceremony, which took place on October 20, 2023, marked the beginning of the construction of the 1.38 million-square-foot resort, estimated to open its doors to the public in 2026. This resort will be conveniently situated right off I-95, making it the perfect adventure destination for families in the D.C.-Maryland-Virginia metro area, and neighboring cities such as Richmond and Baltimore.

“Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is a welcome addition to Virginia’s ever-growing travel and tourism industry,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “Tourism development is essential to building our economy and positioning the Commonwealth as a premier travel destination. The opening of Kalahari Resorts & Conventions will attract more visitors and businesses to Virginia, which will generate hospitality jobs and create a significant economic impact for the region.”

The Spotsylvania County Kalahari Resort will offer 907 guest rooms and suites, a 175,000-square-foot indoor water park featuring thrilling waterslides, dedicated children’s areas, a massive wave pool, surfing simulator and 10 acres of seasonal outdoor pools. Adjacent to the water park will be a 90,0000-square-foot Tom Foolerys Adventure Park, featuring thrill rides, a ropes course, climbing walls, arcade games and more. The site will also include 12 on-site food and beverage outlets, including buffet and quick-bite options and four signature dining experiences.

The new location’s convention center will feature two large ballrooms, 16 breakout meeting rooms and 50,000 square feet of outdoor event space. As with previous Kalahari resorts, the Spotsylvania location will be African-themed with spectacular custom art and textiles created by genuine African craftsmen. To date, the Nelson family has invested more the $5.5 million to support African artists and designers.

The owners of Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, Todd Nelson and Shari Nelson, have been the driving force behind the development, creation and expansion of the Kalahari brand since its inception in 2000. “We have always loved Virginia,” said Todd Nelson. “We can’t wait to share the Kalahari experience with the people here.”