Friday, May 29, 2009

The New Kalahari

In December, the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells completed yet another expansion, this time building an indoor amusement park that connects the hotel to both Damon's and the movie theater (both were stand-alones before). The indoor park is full of fun activities from bowling to go-karts to video games to an indoor ferris wheel. Admission is free; the activities cost money.

Both the indoor and outdoor waterparks at the Kalahari are great. I have been there about 5-6 times in various times of the year, and never has the line for any ride been longer than 10-15 min. (some lines at Noah's Ark are 45+ min.). Cool rides include the toilet bowl and the surfing ride.

Of course, this is a family-friendly environment, but adults can have fun, too. Be sure to check out the bar Kahunaville, for example. The bartenders do a great performance nightly in which they acrobatically make drinks.

If you stay in a suite, you'll probably be at the Sands, an addition to the Kalahari near Kahunaville. While a bit of a walk to the waterpark, at least guests have their own outdoor pool. The parking lots for the Sands are not as close to the main entrance as they could (or should) be.

Behind the Sands are the condos. Again, quite a bit of a walk to use the rest of the Kalahari's amenities, but they are good for a more secluded getaway.

If you plan on staying, make sure to check out the Kalahari's Web site for specials.

Friday, May 15, 2009

Good time to eat out

(courtesy of EatDrinkMadison.com)

Many higher end restaurants are feeling the recession, especially as diners gravitate toward more medium- to lower-priced restaurants. That's why several restaurants have added prix-fixe menus and other specials they would never offer otherwise. Examples:
1) Fleming's added a $35.95 prix-fixe menu
2) Johnny Delmonico's added lunch
3) Claddagh's added a $59.99 dinner-for-two special
4) Ruth's Chris added a $39.95 prix-fixe menu
5) Kushi Bar Muramoto added lunch

And the list goes on. If you're still going out to eat, I recommend taking advantage of these great deals while the economy is still bad!