Several family-friendly attractions, including the Peppa Pig Theme Park and Universal Kids Resort, are coming to North Texas. But soon, another family-focused resort could be making its way to the region, bringing even more fun and adventure for families to enjoy — this one with a waterpark.
The city of Allen is set to propose actions next week that could pave the way for a major economic boost to the area with the potential expansion of Kalahari Resorts & Conventions into the North Texas market.
What A Resort Would Mean
Kalahari is renowned for creating America’s largest indoor waterparks. The company also operates full-service vacation, meeting and convention facilities in four states, including an existing resort in Round Rock, a suburb of Austin.
Now, Allen is being considered as the site for Kalahari’s next venture, with a proposed location on the southwest corner of State Highway 121 and Stacy Road. The proposed resort would encompass a sprawling 1.2 million square feet of resort and convention space, including over 900 guest rooms, both indoor and outdoor waterparks, a convention center and a family entertainment center.
"With its welcoming spirit, family-focused values and vibrant growth, Allen is a community that truly embodies what we stand for,” said Todd Nelson, CEO, owner and founder of Kalahari Resorts, in an official statement. “We are always exploring opportunities to bring America’s Largest Indoor Waterpark Resort experience to more families.”
If approved, this project would bring not only thousands of visitors but also significant sales tax revenue, supporting the community and local businesses.
The Resort Would Bring A Big Economic Impact
The economic impact of such a massive development would be considerable, with a projected $1 billion investment and the creation of up to 1,000 jobs. According to a study by Hotel & Leisure Advisors, Kalahari’s Allen location is expected to generate more than $5 billion in direct and indirect spending over the first ten years of operation. The study also forecasts increased occupancy and revenue for existing Allen hotels, citing the positive effects observed at Kalahari’s other properties.
“A project of this magnitude would provide a tremendous economic boost to the Allen community, generating new tax revenue to help offset the cost of vital city services for both current and future residents,” said Allen City Manager Eric Ellwanger.
Beyond attracting out-of-town visitors, Kalahari has become a cherished amenity in other communities where it operates. Local residents are welcome to purchase day passes and season passes to enjoy the waterpark, and many of the resort’s dining and entertainment options are open to the public. The company also has a history of partnering with local organizations to support schools, charities and community events.
What’s Needed For This Resort To Become Reality
While city council approval is an important first step, Kalahari’s future in Allen is far from guaranteed. The project is still in the early stages, and securing land and incentives would allow the company to justify the significant costs associated with designing such a large-scale development. Architectural and site planning would take at least a year, and the process requires comprehensive development reviews, zoning approvals and public input.
The proposed Allen location would sit on a 123-acre property currently under contract by the Allen Economic Development Corporation (EDC), which will present lease agreements and an economic incentive package to Allen City Council at the Feb. 25 meeting. This package is designed to help the project qualify for state grants, while also giving the city of Allen flexibility to explore other uses for the property if the Kalahari project does not move forward.
A similar lease agreement between the city of Round Rock and Kalahari helped support the development of its first Texas location. The Allen EDC is also proposing an incentive package that would offer future tax rebates if the resort meets specific performance goals.
“This project is a game-changing opportunity for Allen, providing community benefits that would last for decades,” said Allen Mayor Baine Brooks. “Allen’s ease of access and thriving local amenities make it an ideal spot for Kalahari’s expansion to the Dallas-Fort Worth market.”
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