Bellevue Bay Indoor Waterpark (Highway 34 and 75)

ita · Post by **ita** » Thu Mar 20, 2025 2:29 pm

Omahayngin wrote: Thu Mar 20, 2025 1:31 pm does anyone else just feel kind of “meh” with this project. sure it will be nice to have but it’s nothing crazy to me, the amenities arnt all that great but it will be nice to have in the colder months. just wish there was more that it offered.

What kind of additional amenities would you have wanted added to this project?

skinzfan23 · Post by **skinzfan23** » Thu Mar 20, 2025 3:22 pm

Kind of same renderings, but a little more clear:

almighty_tuna · Post by **almighty_tuna** » Thu Mar 20, 2025 3:37 pm

oh yeah, those are much better!

Stan · Post by **Stan** » Thu Mar 20, 2025 3:53 pm

More realistic view of what that wave pool will look like.

CBJason · Post by **CBJason** » Thu Mar 20, 2025 10:00 pm

ita wrote: Thu Mar 20, 2025 2:29 pm
Omahayngin wrote: Thu Mar 20, 2025 1:31 pm does anyone else just feel kind of “meh” with this project. sure it will be nice to have but it’s nothing crazy to me, the amenities arnt all that great but it will be nice to have in the colder months. just wish there was more that it offered.
What kind of additional amenities would you have wanted added to this project?

Yes, I’m curious about this also. I’m down on the gulf this week for spring break in orange beach. Went to the indoor waterpark that’s north of Gulf Shores. I know Bellevue’s is supposed to be modeled after the one in Dallas but this one seems very similar. I’ll say this after experiencing this one. As Skinfan says, staff it! For at least half of the operating hours today, 2 of the 6 major slides were shut down for what I assume was because of staffing shortages. They started off being open then got closed down before finally being opened up again. Also, something that seemed odd was that it seems they didn’t have an excess of the tubes that were required for some of those slides. So you had to wait down at the bottom of the slides to take the one from the exiting rider. I’ve never recalled having to do that anywhere.

Overall, it was really cool and the Omaha area will be lucky to have one that sets it apart from all the Great Wolf Lodge’s and its competitors as well as places like the Dell’s to get those all important tourist dollars!

skinzfan23 · Post by **skinzfan23** » Fri Mar 21, 2025 12:05 am

I think it has been mentioned but the building will also include an arcade and party rooms.

CBJason · Post by **CBJason** » Fri Mar 21, 2025 1:00 pm

skinzfan23 wrote: Fri Mar 21, 2025 12:05 am I think it has been mentioned but the building will also include an arcade and party rooms.

Yeah, OWA had those amenities as well.

skinzfan23 · Post by **skinzfan23** » Fri Mar 21, 2025 4:15 pm

CBJason wrote: Fri Mar 21, 2025 1:00 pm
skinzfan23 wrote: Fri Mar 21, 2025 12:05 am I think it has been mentioned but the building will also include an arcade and party rooms.
Yeah, OWA had those amenities as well.

I just checked it out and it does seem very similar. Sounds like it was a great facility other than the fee issues waiting for tubes/slides. Did it seem massive when you were there?

CBJason · Post by **CBJason** » Fri Mar 21, 2025 6:38 pm

skinzfan23 wrote: Fri Mar 21, 2025 4:15 pm
CBJason wrote: Fri Mar 21, 2025 1:00 pm
skinzfan23 wrote: Fri Mar 21, 2025 12:05 am I think it has been mentioned but the building will also include an arcade and party rooms.
Yeah, OWA had those amenities as well.
I just checked it out and it does seem very similar. Sounds like it was a great facility other than the fee issues waiting for tubes/slides. Did it seem massive when you were there?

Yes, it definitely felt spacious. A couple other things I forgot to mention. 3 of the slides ended up in an underground area called the cave, that was interesting. Also, on each side of the interior near the center area, were 2 jumbo tvs! Was able to watch the Creighton game and tourney!

skinzfan23 · Post by **skinzfan23** » Fri Mar 21, 2025 11:53 pm

Sounds great, I have only been to GWL in Minneapolis and KC to compare it to. I have been to Mt Olympus in the Dells but not any of the indoor ones, which are massive.

The biggest benefit will be the ability to be open year round as opposed to fun plex.

skinzfan23 · Post by **skinzfan23** » Fri Apr 11, 2025 5:14 pm

Not much to see yet but they have moved a lot of dirt in the past 2 weeks:

cchandler790 · Post by **cchandler790** » Sun May 11, 2025 11:18 pm

GenX · Post by **GenX** » Mon May 12, 2025 9:49 am

cchandler790 wrote: Sun May 11, 2025 11:18 pm

"Adventuretainment"

skinzfan23 · Post by **skinzfan23** » Mon May 12, 2025 10:02 am

I am assuming this is the latest plan for the area. Obviously I think the waterpark and the hotels near it are getting done bc they are being built right now, but with Bellevue's track record, I don't know how much more of this is going to happen. I know that they have been pushing for the casino/race track, but with the proximity to neighborhoods, I don't think that is going to go through smoothly. I am sure there is going to be a lot of opposition to the casino (myself prob included) I also don't know if the metro needs another casino.

I also wonder what #1 is (theater), I wouldn't think this is a movie theater since Bellevue already has Twin Creek.

skinzfan23 · Post by **skinzfan23** » Mon May 12, 2025 10:04 am

EricHaley wrote: Mon May 12, 2025 9:49 am
"Adventuretainment"

On the last reiteration, they showed a indoor skydiving area, so I am guessing something similar to that.

Post by **nebugeater** » Mon May 12, 2025 11:10 am

skinzfan23 wrote: Mon May 12, 2025 10:02 am I am assuming this is the latest plan for the area. Obviously I think the waterpark and the hotels near it are getting done bc they are being built right now, but with Bellevue's track record, I don't know how much more of this is going to happen. I know that they have been pushing for the casino/race track, but with the proximity to neighborhoods, I don't think that is going to go through smoothly. I am sure there is going to be a lot of opposition to the casino (myself prob included) I also don't know if the metro needs another casino.

I also wonder what #1 is (theater), I wouldn't think this is a movie theater since Bellevue already has Twin Creek.

Wasn't there another hotel/waterpark being built in Bellevue, maybe 15 years ago, that was partially built? Construction stopped. Eventaully torn down.

Bob from Omaha · Post by **Bob from Omaha** » Mon May 12, 2025 11:17 am

What's the over/under on anything other than the water park actually being built?

skinzfan23 · Post by **skinzfan23** » Mon May 12, 2025 11:34 am

nebugeater wrote: Mon May 12, 2025 11:10 am
Wasn't there another hotel/waterpark being built in Bellevue, maybe 15 years ago, that was partially built? Construction stopped. Eventaully torn down.

If you read earlier in the thread, this has been brought up several times, but there was one on Hwy 370 near Wilshire Dr, but that was an independent hotel owner trying to build a waterpark attached to the hotel and when he didn't sell enough memberships, the project went under. The city didn't have any input on it. The current waterpark is being funded through bonds, so hopefully it does well or taxpayers will have to make up the difference.

skinzfan23 · Post by **skinzfan23** » Mon May 12, 2025 11:39 am

Bob from Omaha wrote: Mon May 12, 2025 11:17 am What's the over/under on anything other than the water park actually being built?

Thats what I am wondering. Bellevue doesn't exactly have the best track record for large developments. I could see it attracting a few restaurants to feed off the waterpark and visitors staying at the hotels, but other than the residential aspect I don't see much of it happening and if it does, it may be 10-15 years down the road. As for the hotels, the company behind the waterpark, American Resort Management, is obligated to build a hotel along with the waterpark. I don't think there is a population base to support much else. But the waterpark will be a nice addition to families visiting the Omaha metro for the baseball tournaments and having something to do other than the zoo.

Garrett · Post by **Garrett** » Mon May 12, 2025 11:40 am

Yet another nice rendering of a mixed-use development in suburban Omaha.

Call me when the first car dealership is announced.

skinzfan23 · Post by **skinzfan23** » Mon May 12, 2025 11:41 am

Garrett wrote: Mon May 12, 2025 11:40 am Yet another nice rendering of a mixed-use development in suburban Omaha.

Call me when the first car dealership is announced.

Or car wash.

djc311 · Post by **djc311** » Mon May 12, 2025 1:51 pm

skinzfan23 wrote: Mon May 12, 2025 11:41 am
Garrett wrote: Mon May 12, 2025 11:40 am Yet another nice rendering of a mixed-use development in suburban Omaha.

Call me when the first car dealership is announced.
Or car wash.

I'm sure Mega Saver and Rocket or Tommy's are already signed on... even if they're nearby, there are never enough!

djc311 · Post by **djc311** » Mon May 12, 2025 1:54 pm

skinzfan23 wrote: Mon May 12, 2025 10:02 am I am assuming this is the latest plan for the area. Obviously I think the waterpark and the hotels near it are getting done bc they are being built right now, but with Bellevue's track record, I don't know how much more of this is going to happen. I know that they have been pushing for the casino/race track, but with the proximity to neighborhoods, I don't think that is going to go through smoothly. I am sure there is going to be a lot of opposition to the casino (myself prob included) I also don't know if the metro needs another casino.

I also wonder what #1 is (theater), I wouldn't think this is a movie theater since Bellevue already has Twin Creek.

The "theater" appears to be some sort of amphitheater-type of stage... just a guess based upon the small drawing. However, it doesn't appear to have a lot of standing/seating space out front of it.

I also like how there's a #10 in the middle of the horse racing parking lot which is intended to represent "mixed use".

skinzfan23 · Post by **skinzfan23** » Mon May 12, 2025 3:52 pm

djc311 wrote: Mon May 12, 2025 1:54 pm

The "theater" appears to be some sort of amphitheater-type of stage... just a guess based upon the small drawing. However, it doesn't appear to have a lot of standing/seating space out front of it.

I also like how there's a #10 in the middle of the horse racing parking lot which is intended to represent "mixed use".

There is a separate amphitheater listed, so I don't think its that. Also I think they are trying to say that area near the casino/racetrack is mixed use. (prob should have moved that #10 across the street)

omaha79 · Post by **omaha79** » Tue May 13, 2025 9:13 am

skinzfan23 wrote: Mon May 12, 2025 10:02 am I am assuming this is the latest plan for the area. Obviously I think the waterpark and the hotels near it are getting done bc they are being built right now, but with Bellevue's track record, I don't know how much more of this is going to happen. I know that they have been pushing for the casino/race track, but with the proximity to neighborhoods, I don't think that is going to go through smoothly. I am sure there is going to be a lot of opposition to the casino (myself prob included) I also don't know if the metro needs another casino.

I also wonder what #1 is (theater), I wouldn't think this is a movie theater since Bellevue already has Twin Creek.

I don't see the casino and racetrack ever happening. Bellevue can't get one block of downtown revitalized, let alone build something like that, especially in the face of all the opposition from the state and Omaha. But, if nothing else, I'm glad they moved it away from Fairview, which was a terrible idea with the lack of roads in and out of there....oh yeah, and the fact you may not be able to use the Fort Crook Rd Bridge south for up to 10 years, because Bellevue can't afford to replace it.

Good ol Rusty. always over promising and under delivering. I just want functional bridges and roads along with a downtown that doesn't have entire empty blocks for a decade. He's really outkicking his coverage if he thinks he has any chance with this casino project.

skinzfan23 · Post by **skinzfan23** » Tue May 13, 2025 9:56 am

omaha79 wrote: Tue May 13, 2025 9:13 am
I don't see the casino and racetrack ever happening. Bellevue can't get one block of downtown revitalized, let alone build something like that, especially in the face of all the opposition from the state and Omaha.

I hope you are right. I know in Nebraska, casinos have to either be at a racetrack or Indian casino. I don't think the metro needs another casino with the 5 we already have. Living so close to this proposed area, I will definitely fight it.

omaha79 · Post by **omaha79** » Tue May 13, 2025 10:28 am

skinzfan23 wrote: Tue May 13, 2025 9:56 am
omaha79 wrote: Tue May 13, 2025 9:13 am
I don't see the casino and racetrack ever happening. Bellevue can't get one block of downtown revitalized, let alone build something like that, especially in the face of all the opposition from the state and Omaha.
I hope you are right. I know in Nebraska, casinos have to either be at a racetrack or Indian casino. I don't think the metro needs another casino with the 5 we already have. Living so close to this proposed area, I will definitely fight it.

I emailed the mayor a year ago and flat out said if it ends up on Fairview, I'll fight every step of the way. If it ended up on Hwy 34, my opposition is a bit less, but I'm still not really for it as the metro has enough already and this isn't really going to be a destination for anyone compared to the areas where casinos already are. I could see it being a huge failure and ending up as a blight within 10 years. I really think he's trying to outkick his coverage with this.

skinzfan23 · Post by **skinzfan23** » Sat Aug 16, 2025 7:40 pm

Not much yet, but this is all the grading for the restaurant/retail plots near Bellevue Bay. The waterpark area has been graded for the past 2 months and is to the east of this area.

skinzfan23 · Post by **skinzfan23** » Wed Aug 27, 2025 4:35 pm

Bellevue Bay Indoor Water Park Advances: Site Grading Continues; Construction Documents Submitted for Final Approval

The City of Bellevue announced today a major advancement in the Bellevue Bay Indoor Water Park project, as the full set of construction documents has been officially submitted for final review and approval. At the same time, grading crews remain active on site, shaping the land for future development.

Current work includes preparing building pads, access drives, and stormwater systems—laying the groundwork for upcoming utility installations and foundation construction.

Next steps in the project include:

Continued grading and erosion control

Utility connections

Foundation construction (pending permit approval)

skinzfan23 · Post by **skinzfan23** » Fri Aug 29, 2025 11:22 am

Bellevue Bay Water Park Promises to Make a Splash by 2027

A few details from the article:

the project remains on track for a Spring Break 2027 opening despite the challenges that large-scale developments often face. “The total construction timeline is from 18 to 22 months,” Johnson said. “Of course, weather and state permits can delay that timeline, but that’s what we’re currently anticipating.”

At 115,000 square feet, the facility will only trail giants like Kalahari Resorts in Wisconsin and the recently expanded Fallsview in Niagara Falls, but the long-term vision aims even higher. “At phase three, Bellevue Bay will be the largest indoor water park in the country,” said Harrison Johnson, Bellevue’s Director of Community & Economic Development. “The wave pool you’ll see in phase one will eventually be covered and expanded, and more water features will follow.”

omaha79 · Post by **omaha79** » Wed Sep 03, 2025 4:01 pm

They need an adult bar/pool.

skinzfan23 · Post by **skinzfan23** » Wed Sep 03, 2025 4:36 pm

omaha79 wrote: Wed Sep 03, 2025 4:01 pm They need an adult bar/pool.

The plans do include a swim up bar.

Stan · Post by **Stan** » Thu Sep 04, 2025 8:13 am

Adult swim up bars give me the ick. I witnessed people at the adult only hot tub at Great Wolf Lodge drink beer after beer without getting up to go the bathroom. Kids will at least go to the bathroom when at the pool since their parents have told them to, but adult only pools have a bunch of entitled adults and I know the pee to water ratio is skewed heavily with these types of places.

thenewguy · Post by **thenewguy** » Thu Sep 04, 2025 8:26 am

i can't wait for this to be open. Don't want to see FunPlex struggle, but having another option would be great. Now if we just had some roller coaster action around here...

(and no, I don't want to drive to KC or DSM every time)

skinzfan23 · Post by **skinzfan23** » Thu Sep 04, 2025 9:30 am

thenewguy wrote: Thu Sep 04, 2025 8:26 am i can't wait for this to be open. Don't want to see FunPlex struggle, but having another option would be great. Now if we just had some roller coaster action around here...

(and no, I don't want to drive to KC or DSM every time)

I'll keep you posted since its less than a mile from my house. Last I heard, its projected to be open by late 2026 or early 2027. Although, there was another article from the Bellevue Times that stated that its a 18-22 month timeline for construction, which would put it March 2027 at the earliest.

Dusty · Post by **Dusty** » Thu Sep 04, 2025 11:01 am

At 115,000 square feet, the facility will only trail giants like Kalahari Resorts in Wisconsin and the recently expanded Fallsview in Niagara Falls, but the long-term vision aims even higher. “At phase three, Bellevue Bay will be the largest indoor water park in the country,” said Harrison Johnson, Bellevue’s Director of Community & Economic Development. “The wave pool you’ll see in phase one will eventually be covered and expanded, and more water features will follow.”

Where are they getting 115,000 from? I thought it was going to be 100-105K.
Does enclosing the outdoor wave pool count as the total of 115,000 square feet?

Competing with the giants would involve nearly doubling the size it's projected at. Are they saving all this surface parking for expansion of the park itself?

Keep in mind... Kalahari TX and OH are over 200,000 sq ft.

Omahayngin · Post by **Omahayngin** » Fri Sep 05, 2025 11:40 am

i know that somewhere i read that yes they are planning to expand after the initial phase is constructed and complete. dont know any details though

skinzfan23 · Post by **skinzfan23** » Fri Sep 26, 2025 9:14 am

Bellevue Times reported yesterday that RFP for developments surrounding the waterpark went out. Obviously, these are to entice and solicit developers to build and probably full of smoke, but according to the document the waterpark is an $80 million investment (not sure how that could have risen from the $60 million) And they are still stating that a horse track and casino are under review by the state gaming commission. (hopefully this is a no go....don't think it fits well within the nearby neighborhood and the family-friendly vibe they are going for.)

The only other big takeaway is the first hotel is mentioned being a 150 room Homewood Suites (with a value of $31 million) there is another 150 hotel with a to-be-determined brand valued at $28 million as well.

They are trying to move quickly and state that developers should act on projects within 18 months of purchase of land or it reverts back to the city.

https://bellevuetimes.com/wp-content/up ... INAL-1.pdf

skinzfan23 · Post by **skinzfan23** » Thu Oct 02, 2025 4:01 pm

From the city of Bellevue Facebook page:
Gas pipeline was relocated and is finishing up

skinzfan23 · Post by **skinzfan23** » Mon Dec 01, 2025 9:09 pm

According to the Bellevue Times, Bellevue is expected to sign a sub-licensing agreement tomorrow to hold the exclusive rights within a 200 miles radius to use Mattel brands at the waterpark.

Not sure exactly what that even means for the waterpark. Although, it states that they will work to develop and incorporate Mattel-themed attractions, decor and merchandising.