JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa has announced the next phase of its $80 million resort-wide transformation: AquaRidge WaterPark, a 140,000-square-foot reimagined and expanded pool experience designed with water-filled adventures for all ages.
The $18 million pool transformation offers renewed areas just in time for the summer heat and includes an enhanced lazy river, the refreshed Wildfire Grove featuring two pools and a waterfall and the lively Havasu Playground that will offer three new exhilarating water slides set to open mid-summer, including the only dual-person vertical wall tube slide at a resort west of the Mississippi.
“We are very excited to welcome guests to AquaRidge WaterPark as part of our resort-wide $80 million transformation,” says General Manager Paige Lund in a statement. “Our intentional design and exclusive programming will offer our guests an entirely reimagined experience from the moment they enter AquaRidge WaterPark. The water park will offer surprises and delights around every corner, luxury accommodations including secluded areas for respite, and family-friendly activities that appeal to all types of travelers.”
The new Havasu Playground features a full line-up of water park experiences that cater to a variety of ages and thrill levels. Guests can float down the newly enhanced Canyon Creek Lazy River, enjoy an active family zone featuring expansive cabanas and a new kids splash pad or catch some speed on three brand-new multi-story water slides, which include a high-speed body slide with a steep drop for thrill-seekers, a mellow body slide for beginners and Gullywasher, the only dual-person vertical wall tube slide at a resort west of the Mississippi that combines a traditional serpentine with a heart-racing plunge that launches riders up a vertical wall for a show-stopping finish.
Food and beverage offerings include Havasu Bar & Bites that now offers a new outdoor food zone with shaded tables and seating, Canyon Creek Bar for kids and adult-friendly refreshments and Desert Ridge’s Taqueria for a savory meal pre- or post-swim.
The original Wildfire Grove area has been completely refreshed with two pools where kids can splash around the large waterfall, a selection of Wildfire Cabanas complete with refreshing amenities, upgraded poolside plush cabanas and daybeds at Sedona Cove and the popular “Just A Splash” pool bar featuring traditional Southwestern fare with a focus on barbeque favorites.
JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa will also unveil the tranquil Sedona Springs and exclusive adults-only Sky Island later this summer, which will bring guests a luxurious sanctuary offering personalized concierge services along with three cabanas, five shaded daybeds, cushioned lounge chairs, a hot tub and a stargazing area, plus a new, exclusive adults-only retreat that will feature an infinity edge plunge pool and hot tub, four secluded cabanas, cushioned chaise lounges, a selection of daybeds, a VIP welcome attendant and stone fire pits.
As part of the new welcome experience, every guest staying at the resort now receives an RFID wristband, which serves as a room and pool gate key. For those reserving a cabana or daybed, the pool concierge team will escort guests to their specific area upon entry to the water park and assist with any requests to elevate their experience.
To explore the resort’s newest offerings and reserve a cabana or daybed, visit desertridge.ipoolside.com.
Photos courtesy of JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa
