As summer reaches its peak, families in and around Chicago are seeking ways to beat the heat and enjoy outdoor activities. Waterparks provide the perfect solution, combining thrill rides with refreshing water attractions.
From expansive commercial parks to charming local facilities, there’s a diverse range of options for everyone. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or looking for a relaxing day in the sun, these waterparks offer something for every member of the family.
Here’s a comprehensive list of 20 waterparks worth exploring this summer:
Raging Waves, located at 4000 N. Bridge St. in Yorkville, is renowned for being the largest outdoor water park in Illinois. With a staggering 32 slides, 43 private cabanas, and 11 dining spots, there’s no shortage of entertainment. Day passes start at $44.99, and operational hours through July are from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Deep River Water Park in Crown Point, Indiana, provides a fantastic outing with regular admission priced at $30 Monday through Thursday and $39.95 Friday through Sunday, along with discounts for Indiana residents and children under 46” tall. The park is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, featuring attractions like the DRAGON Speed Slides and KRAKEN racer.
Santa Springs, part of Santa’s Village located at 601 Dundee Ave. in East Dundee, charges tickets starting at $38.99, granting access to both the water park and amusement park. The hours vary by date, making it a versatile option for fun.
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Chicago in Gurnee, situated at 1 Great America Parkway, has standard daily tickets beginning at $30. Open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, this 20-acre facility offers rides and attractions for all ages, with free access for Six Flag members.
For those planning a day trip, Noah’s Ark Water Park, located in Wisconsin Dells, about a 3-hour drive from Chicago, is the largest water park in the area. Day tickets start at $34.99, and you can enjoy over 50 water slides and attractions, making it worth the drive.
Schaumburg’s Water Works, located at 505 N. Springinsguth Rd., offers open swim sessions priced at $10 for residents and $14 for non-residents. The park operates Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and weekends from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Inside a community recreation center, it features three water slides and a rapid water channel for fun.
In Aurora, Splash Country, co-owned by the Fox Valley Park District and the City of Aurora, is known for its incredible lazy river, which is the second largest in Illinois. Admission for residents is $8 on weekdays and $9 on weekends, while non-residents pay $12 on weekdays and $13 on weekends. Operating hours are from 12:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Thursday and 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday to Sunday.
Mystic Waters in Des Plaines provides a family-friendly atmosphere, with residents paying $13.50 and non-residents $17.75. This park has higher admission prices for adults, with discounts for later arrivals. Operating hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Residents can enjoy Coral Cove Water Park in Carol Stream at a cost of $9, with non-residents paying $12. The park is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., offering a splash pad and two slides, making it an entertaining option for all ages.
Atcher Island Water Park in Schaumburg, guests can enjoy a tropical-themed environment, which is accessible for $10 for residents and $14 for non-residents. The park operates daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Paradise Bay Water Park in Lombard offers varied ticket prices depending on residency status, ranging from $10 for youth residents to $19 for non-resident adults. The park hosts several attractions, including three slides and a dive well, and is open from 12:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, with earlier hours for pass holders.
For those living in Tinley Park, White Water Canyon Water Park provides a day of fun for residents at $10 or $5 after 5 p.m., while non-residents pay $20. It features a lazy river and drop slide, operating from 12 to 8 p.m. daily.
West Chicago boasts Turtle Splash Water Park, where admission costs residents $12 and non-residents $15. The park opens at 12 p.m. and operates until 6:30 p.m. daily. Early entry is available for season pass holders, adding to the flexibility of planning a visit.
In Elk Grove Village, Rainbow Falls Waterpark welcomes visitors for $12 for residents and $18 for non-residents, with various discounts available. Open from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and until 6 p.m. on Sundays, it features a whirlpool and tot playground.
Woodstock Water Works charges $12 for residents and $15 for non-residents, offering a twilight discount after 5:30 p.m. Operating hours vary with Monday through Friday from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. and weekends from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Pelican Harbor in Bolingbrook combines indoor and outdoor attractions for just $12 for residents and $18 for non-residents. The park has various water features, including four water speed slides.
Seafari Springs in Hanover Park offers guest fees of $12 for in-district visitors and $14 for out-of-district. The park has special hour arrangements and is open until 7 p.m. on weekends. With four slides and three water features, it promises to be very enjoyable.
Seascape Family Aquatic Center in Hoffman Estates has entry fees of $12 Monday through Thursday and $14 on weekends, with discounts for seniors and twilight entrants. Open from 12 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on regular days, it features four slides and a diving area.
Lastly, Sea Lion Aquatic Park in Lisle charges $9 for residents and $14 for non-residents. The park offers open swimming from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, featuring exciting play areas for the young and the activities for the whole family.
Whether you’re looking for a day packed with excitement or a leisurely afternoon at the pool, there’s a waterpark near Chicago that fits your desires. With a variety of pricing options, attractions, and hours of operation, families can create joyful summer memories in the refreshing waterways atop hot days.
image source from：nbcchicago
