JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa Announces $18M AquaRidge Waterpark
May 10, 2023
PHOENIX – JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa announced Monday 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 embraces the destination with renewed areas offering an enhanced lazy river, the refreshed Wildfire Grove featuring two pools and a waterfall, and the Havasu Playground that will offer three new water slides set to open mid-summer, including the only dual-person vertical wall tube slide at a resort west of the Mississippi. The new Sedona Springs and exclusive adults-only Sky Island will open later this summer.
“We are very excited to welcome guests to AquaRidge WaterPark as part of our resort-wide $80 million transformation,” said General Manager Paige Lund. “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 catering to various ages and thrill levels, according to a press release. Guests can enjoy family-friendly cabanas in a prime location just steps from the Canyon Creek Lazy River, an active family zone with cabanas, a splash pad for kids and three one-of-a-kind water slides opening mid-summer. Food and beverage offerings in this area include Havasu Bar & Bites and a food zone area offering shaded tables and seating, Canyon Creek Bar for kid and adult-friendly refreshments, and Desert Ridge’s Taqueria for a meal pre or post-swim.
The original Wildfire Grove area has been completely updated and features two pools, a selection of Wildfire Cabanas, reservable plush chaise lounge chairs and the resort’s popular ‘Just A Splash’ pool bar. Menu items feature traditional Southwestern fare with a focus on barbeque favorites. The Wildfire Pool is an ideal location for kids to splash around the large waterfall while parents take to the shade in one of the Wildfire Cabanas, which include a misting fan, spacious couch and TV, seasonal fresh fruit, chilled water, sunscreen, personalized service, and two chaise lounge chairs.
As part of the new welcome experience, every guest staying at the resort now receives an RFID wristband, which acts as a room key and pool gate key. For those who reserve 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.
Sedona Springs and exclusive adults-only Sky Island will be unveiled later this summer. Sedona Springs will be a luxurious sanctuary that offers personalized concierge services along with three cabanas, five shaded daybeds, cushioned lounge chairs, a hot tub, and a stargazing area. Furthermore, Sky Island will be 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, VIP welcome attendant, and stone fire pits. It also will offer an exclusive space for weddings and private events overlooking the lake and golf course.
