5 Best Indoor Water Parks in Illinois and Indiana

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When the weather isn’t cooperating or you’re just in the mood for some year-round water fun, there’s nothing quite like an indoor water park. Illinois and Indiana offer some of the best indoor water parks in the Midwest, where you can dive into adventure, relax in a lazy river, or make a splash with the whole family. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just looking for a fun day out, these water parks provide endless opportunities for family fun.

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Being in Wisconsin, and not too far from the Waterpark Capitol of the World: Wisconsin Dells, I am familiar with places like the Kalahari Resort and even the Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark of the Grand Geneva Resort of Lake Geneva. I know what it takes to become a family favorite for the entire family.

From water features like wave pools and water slides to kiddie pools and lazy rivers, these indoor water parks have something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for thrills or just a place to unwind, you’ll find it at these top destinations. So grab your swimsuit, pack up the family, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories!

1. Great Wolf Lodge, Gurnee, Illinois

1700 Nations Dr, Gurnee, IL 60031

Located just a short drive from Downtown Chicago, Great Wolf Lodge in Gurnee, Illinois, is one of the best indoor water parks in the region. This massive indoor water park offers everything you need for a magical family getaway. With over 80,000 square feet of water fun, there’s something for kids of all ages.

Highlights include the lazy river, where you can float along at a leisurely pace, and the thrilling water slides that will have older kids and adults coming back for more. The wave pool is a great place for the whole family to enjoy, while the kiddie pool and buccaneer bay play structure are perfect for younger children.

5 Best Indoor Water Parks in Illinois and Indiana Great Wolf Lodge

After a day of splashing around, relax in the hot tub or enjoy the resort’s other amenities, like the bowling alley or the movie theater. With day passes available, it’s a great place for a quick visit or a longer stay in one of the cozy hotel rooms.

2. Big Splash Adventure, French Lick, Indiana

8505 IN-56, French Lick, IN 47432

For a wild family vacation in Indiana, Big Splash Adventure in French Lick is a must-visit. This indoor water park is housed under a huge retractable roof, offering over 40,000 square feet of aquatic fun. With attractions like the Lost Treasure Lagoon and the Buccaneer Bay play structure, there’s plenty to keep kids of all ages entertained.

Older children and adults will love the water slides and the thrilling rapid water channel. The lazy river is a great way to unwind, while the kiddie pool offers a safe space for the little ones to splash around. Big Splash Adventure also features an outdoor waterpark for the summer months, making it a versatile destination for any time of year.

With hotel accommodations on-site, you can extend your stay and explore other nearby attractions, like Holiday World or the historic French Lick Resort.

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3. Pirate’s Cay Indoor Water Park, North Utica, Illinois

2558 N 3650rd Rd, Sheridan, IL 60551

Located near Starved Rock State Park, Pirate’s Cay Indoor Water Park offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. This water park is themed around a pirate’s life, with attractions that include a wave pool, lazy river, and a variety of water slides.

Pirate’s Cay is ideal for families looking for a fun day trip or a weekend escape. The play zones are perfect for younger children, while older kids will love the thrills of the jolly roger jetty water slide. The park also features a zero-depth entry pool, making it accessible for all ages.

Pirate’s Cay is part of the larger Grand Bear Resort, which offers comfortable accommodations and other amenities like a bowling alley and an indoor pool.

4. Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock, Utica, Illinois

2643 IL-178, North Utica, IL 61373

Nestled near the scenic Starved Rock State Park, Grand Bear Resort is home to the Grand Bear Falls Indoor Waterpark. This truly unforgettable place is a haven for water lovers, offering over 24,000 square feet of water fun under a glass-enclosed, climate-controlled space.

5 Best Indoor Water Parks in Illinois and Indiana lazy river

The waterpark features a variety of attractions, including the lost river, water slides, and the ever-popular lazy river. Younger children will enjoy the kiddie pool and water playground with dump buckets, while older kids can challenge themselves on the more thrilling slides. The waterpark also has a hot tub for adults looking to relax.

Beyond the waterpark, the resort offers plenty of other activities, making it a great place for a family trip. Whether you’re planning to explore the nearby Starved Rock State Park or just enjoy the resort’s amenities, Grand Bear Resort is a perfect destination for creating unforgettable memories.

5. Splash Valley Aquatic Park, Kankakee, Illinois

1850 River Rd, Kankakee, IL 60901

Splash Valley Aquatic Park in Kankakee, Illinois, is a smaller but equally fun option for families looking for a weekend getaway or a day trip. While not as large as some of the other indoor waterparks, Splash Valley offers a great mix of water attractions that are perfect for kids of all ages.

The park features a lazy river, water slides, and an interactive water playground with dump buckets and water guns. The kiddie pool is perfect for younger children, while older kids can enjoy the more adventurous water slides.

Splash Valley also has an indoor pool and hot tub, making it a great place to relax after a day of water fun. With its affordable general admission and convenient location, Splash Valley is a great place for local families to enjoy some quality family time.

Final Thoughts on the 5 Best Indoor Water Parks in Illinois and Indiana

Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip or a full-blown family vacation, the indoor water parks in Illinois and Indiana offer something for everyone. From the sprawling waterparks at Great Wolf Lodge and Kalahari Resort to the more intimate settings at Splash Valley and Pirate’s Cay, each destination provides a unique experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

5 Best Indoor Water Parks in Illinois and Indiana water slides

So why wait? Pack your swimsuits, grab the whole family, and head to one of these amazing indoor water parks. Whether you’re floating down a lazy river, racing down thrilling water slides, or just relaxing in a hot tub, these water parks are the perfect place to make a splash no matter the weather. Enjoy your next weekend getaway at one of these top spots and dive into a world of fun and adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions about the 5 Best Indoor Water Parks in Illinois and Indiana

Do these indoor water parks offer day passes, or do I need to stay at the resort?

Many indoor water parks, such as Great Wolf Lodge and Kalahari Resort, offer day passes to the water park, allowing you to enjoy the attractions without staying overnight. However, staying at the resort can provide additional benefits like early access to the park and special activities for resort guests.

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Are there water parks that cater to younger children?

Yes, several indoor water parks are ideal for younger children. Pirate’s Cay Indoor Water Park and Splash Valley Aquatic Park both offer kiddie pools, interactive water playgrounds, and gentle slides perfect for younger kids. These parks also feature shallow areas with zero-depth entry pools for added safety.

What should I bring for a day at the indoor water park?

Be sure to bring swimsuits, towels, and water shoes. Some parks provide towels, but it’s always a good idea to bring your own. You might also want to bring a change of clothes, snacks (if outside food is allowed), and any flotation devices needed for younger children.

Are there any food options available at these indoor water parks?

Yes, most indoor water parks offer a variety of dining options ranging from snack bars to full-service restaurants. For example, Great Wolf Lodge and Kalahari Resort feature multiple eateries where you can grab a quick bite or enjoy a sit-down meal with the family.

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What safety measures are in place at these indoor water parks?

Indoor water parks have several safety measures, including lifeguards stationed throughout the park, life jackets available for younger children, and height restrictions on certain slides. Parks like Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark also offer retractable roofs to provide an outdoor feel while ensuring a safe and controlled environment.

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