School’s out for the summer and we can’t think of anything better to do on a hot, humid summer day than splashing with your kids in some of our local water parks. Here are our picks for some attractions to check out.
Schools out for the summer and we cant think of anything better to do on a hot, humid summer day than splashing with your kids in some of our local water parks. Here are our picks for some attractions to check out.
The Mega Wedgie at Hurricane Harbor
With an 80-degree drop (that’s practically straight down!), theMega Wedgie at Hurricane Harbor in Gurnee may
result in a little discomfort-and a whole lot of “I’m screaming
because it’s fun!”
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Most likely to live up to its name
Six Flags Great America and Hurricane Harbor
Miner’s Mountain at Splash Station
Splash Station in Joliet is always up for some good-naturedcompetition, especially at Miner’s Mountain, the
Midwest’s only six-lane racing slide. But make sure you don’t close
your eyes or you’ll miss out on seeing who goes underwater
first.
Most likely to indulge your competitive side
Tsunami Bay at Magic Waters
707,000 gallons doesn’t compare to Lake Michigan, but it’s stillpretty impressive. Check out Tsunami Bay at Magic
Waters in Rockford, the largest wave pool in the state. Plus, it’s
heated, which makes it better than our chilly shores any day!
Most like the beach
Centennial Family Aquatics Center
If you’ve got little ones at home, the best option might be awading pool-but we’re not talking about that little blow-up thingyou’ve got in your backyard. Check out Centennial FamilyAquatics Center in Wilmette, where the fenced-in wading
pool maxes out at 1 1/2 feet. There’s even a mini-slide to help
tots feel like big kids.
Best for getting your feet wet
Centennial Family Aquatic Center
Double Dueling Cannon Bowl at Deep River
Deep River Waterpark in Merrillville, Ind., has the ultimateclaim to fame: the Double Dueling Cannon Bowl, the
first ride of its kind in the world. You’ll be dizzy with
excitement as you spin around a “bowl” before finally splashing
into the water.
Most progressive
Kangaroo Falls at Raging Waves
If you’re going to hit a water park, you may as well getcompletely wet (don’t worry about your hair!). At KangarooFalls in Yorkville’s Raging Waves, the whole family can
climb on cargo nets and cross bridges, but beware: every so often,
the giant bucket fills with 1,000 gallons of water-and then dumps
it on those below.
Best chance of getting soaked
Splash Country’s Lazy River
If you’re in the mood to just lay back and relax, head toSplash Country in Aurora, which boasts a
1,100-foot-long lazy river. Sure, there are a few disruptions like
dumping buckets, sprayers, jets and bubbling rapids, but that’s
relaxing, right?!
Best for a lazy day
Find over 40 water parks, indoors and out, located aroundChicago in our water park directory.
Find more water parks in our directory