Why Is Wisconsin Dells The Water Park Capital of the World?

Freakanomics author Steven Levitt recently took a vacation and wonders why Wisconsin Dells is the water park capital of the world?

I've been asking that same question for a long time. Thankfully (for my self-confidence), Levitt was also stumped.

What is the real reason though?

Is it perhaps because it is such a novelty to the people of Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, and Iowa (who I think I can safely assume make up the bulk of the customers)? There isn't an area like it in the midwest. It's like enterting another world when you're in Wisconsin Dells. It's like a Las Vegas for the family, a fun-only zone.

Anyone have any guesses as to why there are so many water parks in Wisconsin Dells?

Tags: Wisconsin, Wisconsin Dells, Water Parks