Water under the bridge at the Dells

Last year was a rough one for the Wisconsin Dells. Lake Delton -- a recreational centerpiece of the Dells -- drained in a mere three hours after torrential rains in June caused water to plow through its breached shoreline.

But all of that is water under the bridge now. Lake Delton is ready for visitors. Tommy Bartlett's all-new ski show kicks off at 8 p.m. Friday, and those amphibious tour vehicles known as Ducks have returned.

It's also that time of year for the Dells' outdoor water parks to open. Gates open Friday at Riverview Park & Waterworld. The massive Noah's Ark Waterpark -- with more than 60 rides, slides, wave pools and lazy rivers -- starts its season Saturday.

These are hardly the only options at the Waterpark Capital of the World. Kalahari, Wilderness Resort, Great Wolf Lodge, Chula Vista and other water parks helped the Dells rake in nearly $1.07 billion in tourism money last year, a 3.9 percent increase from 2007, according to the Wisconsin Dells Visitor & Convention Bureau. Not bad for a bad year.

For some money-saving Dells bargains, check out the Deals & Offers link at wisdells.com. The Web site also has a downloadable copy of the 2009 Wisconsin Dells Vacation Guide, or you can order a free copy by calling (800) 223-3557.