Zehnder’s Splash Village Hotel and Water Park is a popular tourist spot in the Bavarian village of Frankenmuth, Michigan. The resort offered a 20,000 square foot waterpark, called the Splash Park, that drew thousands of tourists each year, but there was demand for a larger facility that could entertain older audiences. But the demand was growing so they needed a larger space.

Zehnder’s engaged OpenAire to create an additional 30,000 square feet of aquatic attractions, including a 70-foot high slide tower, called the Atrium Waterpark.

"We are very excited about giving our guests double the fun at Splash Village," said Zehnder’s Chairman and CEO Al Zehnder. "Nine years ago we opened Splash Village with a 20,000 square foot waterpark. The Atrium Waterpark is our new 29,000 square foot expansion that includes a retractable roof; an outdoor pool; two, six-story thrill rides; family cabanas and more."

Guests are able to enjoy both waterpark areas during their stay; a total of 50,000 sf of water fun, connected by a short walk through the Splash Village Resort. The hotel was also expanded to accommodate even more guests at the year-round waterpark.

Zehnder’s Splash Village Hotel and Waterpark is now the only waterpark in Michigan to feature a retractable roof. The maintenance-free, aluminum-framed enclosure with retractable roof allows guests to enjoy an outdoor experience in the sunshine when the weather is warm, while still taking advantage of the waterslides and pools during the cold northern winters.

Due to the retractable roof, the park was able to open during the covid pandemic (at mandated capacities) because of the large volume of fresh air in the space, which created a naturally healthy safe space, beloved by guests and owners.