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Celebrate 75 years of family memories at Chula Vista Resort, where every moment is filled with joy and excitement.
Where 75 Years of Fun Comes to Life
Generations of Memories. One Special Place.

75 Years of Splash, Stay & Play

For 75 years, Chula Vista Resort has been more than just a place to stay—it’s been where traditions begin, families reconnect, and unforgettable moments unfold along the Wisconsin River.

From summer vacations and weekend getaways to first waterpark adventures and generations returning year after year, Chula Vista has been part of the memories that matter most.

Now, we’re celebrating 75 incredible years—and you’re invited to be part of it.

Join us as we honor our past, celebrate the present, and look ahead to even more memories to come with special events, exclusive offers, and new experiences all year long. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, there’s never been a better time to experience Chula Vista Resort.

Our Story

75 Years of Chula Vista: A Legacy on the Wisconsin River

Every great tradition starts somewhere.

For Chula Vista Resort, it began along the banks of the Wisconsin River—where natural beauty, warm hospitality, and a vision for something special came together. Over the past 75 years, that vision has grown into one of the most beloved destinations in the Wisconsin Dells.

This is the story of how Chula Vista became a place where families return, memories are made, and every generation finds something new to love.

Wisconsin River

Before It All

A Landscape Shaped by Time

Thousands of years ago, glacial movement carved the sandstone cliffs and narrow gorges that define the Wisconsin Dells today. The river, bluffs, and canyons that surround Chula Vista remain the backdrop for every guest experience.

HH Bennet Photo

1800s

A Destination Begins to Take Shape

As the Wisconsin Dells developed, the area became known for its natural beauty and cultural significance. By the mid-1800s, visitors were already being drawn to the “wild, romantic scenery” that would define the region as a place for leisure and escape.

Chula Vista Hotel Grounds

1873

The Name “Chula Vista” is Born

John Cummings built a summer home along the Upper Dells and named it Chula Vista—Spanish for “beautiful view.” Guests traveled by train and stagecoach to experience the peaceful riverside setting that still defines the resort today.

Joe and Vera Kaminski

1951

The Kaminski Family Legacy Begins

Joe and Vera Kaminski take ownership and transform Chula Vista into one of the first full-service resorts in the Wisconsin Dells. Their vision—and commitment to innovation—marks the beginning of a multi-generational legacy that continues today.

banquet hall

1960s–1980s

Innovation & Expansion

Chula Vista grows alongside the Dells, introducing new dining, entertainment, and convention spaces. The resort becomes a hub for gatherings, celebrations, and live entertainment—creating traditions guests return to year after year.

kiddie pool

1980s

A Vision Ahead of Its Time

Long before indoor waterparks became an industry standard, Chula Vista was already exploring the concept—demonstrating a commitment to innovation that would shape its future.

90s outdoor waterpark

1990s

A Resort Reimagined

Major expansions bring new guest rooms, a grand lobby, and enhanced amenities. Chula Vista evolves into a modern resort while maintaining its family-owned character and personal touch.

fab 50s musical

2000s

A New Era of Adventure

A transformative expansion introduces condominiums, expanded meeting space, golf experiences, and both indoor and outdoor waterparks—making Chula Vista a year-round destination for families, groups, and events.

Chula Vista Indoor Waterpark

2006

A Game-Changing Milestone

The opening of the multi-level indoor waterpark and large-scale resort expansion redefines the guest experience—combining stay, play, and entertainment like never before.

The Tavern

2010s

Continuing to Evolve

From upgraded amenities to new dining and rebuilt facilities, Chula Vista continues to invest in the guest experience—blending tradition with modern expectations.

Chula Vista Resort Outdoor Waterpark

Today

Celebrating 75 Years

Now a cornerstone of the Wisconsin Dells, Chula Vista Resort welcomes guests from across the country to experience everything from waterpark adventures to relaxing river views.

With five generations of family leadership and decades of innovation, the story continues—one stay, one memory, and one tradition at a time.

Why Visit During Our 75th Year?

Children playing in sand at outdoor waterpark

Anniversary-Only Experiences

From themed weekends and special events like sweepstakes and on-site giveaways, the return of our Chick-Pic to throwback moments celebrating our history, our 75th year is packed with unique experiences designed just for this milestone.

These are moments you can only be part of right now.

hotel room with family

Exclusive 75th Anniversary Offers

Take advantage of limited-time deals created specifically for our anniversary year.

Whether it’s discounted stays, added perks, or special packages, these offers make it easier than ever to plan your getaway—and they won’t last forever.

two young children playing at the outdoor waterpark

Be Part of the Story

This year, it’s not just about visiting—it’s about participating.

Guests are helping us celebrate by sharing their memories, photos, and traditions as part of our #75YearsOfMemories campaign. It’s your chance to be featured and become part of Chula Vista’s legacy.

Join us by sharing your story using #75YearsOfMemories and tagging @ChulaVistaResort.