These 10 Epic Waterparks in Illinois Will Take Your Summer To A Whole New Level
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Laura
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There’s nothing better than splashing around in some water when the heat is on. But why just hit up the community pool when you have some of the best water parks in Illinois at your fingertips? Check them out below!
Hurricane Harbor Chicago, 1 Great America Parkway, Gurnee, IL 60031, USA
What is awesome about this water park in Illinois is that it is part of Six Flags, so you can cool down after getting your thrills on some fast roller coasters. There are speed slides, lazy rivers, and rafting adventures. Learn more about Six Flags Great America and Hurricane Harbor.
Editor's note: Unfortunately, this site is permanently closed.
This 43 acre waterpark has 10 water slides. One of the favorites is the Double Dare Drop, which shoots you down 75 feet in just a few seconds. 7820 Cherryvale N Blvd, Cherry Valley, IL 61016.
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Editor's note: Unfortunately, this site is permanently closed. This water park is entirely indoor and part of a resort. It is 65,000 square feet of including a Hurricane Vortex and slides that weave in and out of the hotel. 1700 Nations Drive Gurnee, IL 60031.
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Formerly known as Splash City, you can do all sorts of activities at this water park in Illinois, whether you are young or old. Enjoy swimming, water slides, the lazy river, a water castle, and much more. Get more details on Collinsville Aqua Park.
Raging Waves Waterpark, 4000 N Bridge St, Yorkville, IL 60560, USA
This epic water park has your standard slides and a wave pool. But they also have a zip line, making this an even more awesome Illinois water park! Get more details about Raging Waves Waterpark.
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White Water Canyon, Illinois
This water park in Illinois is more geared towards the kiddos but adults can have fun, too. There is a water slide and a lazy river. There is also a super nice "sprayground." Get all the details at the Facebook page for White Canyon Water Park.
Rainbow Falls Waterpark, 200 Rev Morrison Blvd, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007, USA
The centerpiece of one of the best water parks in Illinois is the Calypso Twist. It is four giant water slides (two body slides and two tube slides). Get more information about Rainbow Falls Waterpark.
Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock, 2643 IL-178, North Utica, IL 61373, USA
After a long hike at Starved Rock, check into this rustic lodge. This park is 24,000 square feet. This Illinois water park has a lazy river, a wave pool, and rushing water slides. Read further on about Grizzly Jack's Grand Bear Resort.
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Raging Rivers WaterPark, 100 Palisades Pkwy, Grafton, IL 62037, USA
Talk about a water park in Illinois with an awesome view! Raging Rivers has numerous pools, slides, rafting, and flumes. Get more information about Raging Rivers Waterpark.
Sholem Aquatic Center, 2205 Sangamon Dr, Champaign, IL 61821, USA
This is not the largest water park in Illinois, but it does have some great attractions. Choose from rapids, falls, pools, and slides. Get more details from the Facebook page for Sholem Aquatic Center.
What do you think of these Illinois water parks? Any additions to the list? Tell us in the comments!
Another great way to cool off? Check out this ice cream trail in Illinois.
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More to Explore
Illinois Outdoors
What are the most beautiful hiking areas in Illinois?
Illinois water parks are great, but what about seeing the real outdoors here? Take in the beauty of the state by heading out to some of the most beautiful hiking areas in Illinois:
- Shawnee National Forest: At 289,000 acres, this is a huge area to explore with plenty of beautiful hikes to be had throughout. Some of my favorites include the 1.7-mile Rim Rock Recreational Trail or really any trails within Garden of the Gods.
- Buffalo Rock State Park: You’ll find this 298-acre park over in Ottawa. While there are only two trails here, one offers outstanding views of the Illinois River and beyond and the other will take you into the woods to explore the flora and fauna.
What are the best waterfalls in Illinois?
We know about the best water parks in Illinois. Now how about checking out some of the best waterfalls in Illinois:
- Ferne Clyffe Waterfall: Located in Goreville, this waterfall is 100 feet tall. You can reach it easily from two different two-mile loop trails.
- Cascade Falls: You’ll find this 45-foot-tall waterfall in the 1,938-acre Matthiessen State Park in Oglesby. You can reach it by a two-mile hike. While you are at the park, consider taking in some of the hiking, mountain biking, and fishing opportunities.
- Wildcat Canyon Falls: Located within the 2,630-acre Starved Rock State Park, this 125-foot waterfall can be accessed via a 5.8-mile loop trail. Other popular activities in this park include hiking and camping.
- Burden Falls: You’ll find this 20-foot waterfall in the Burden Falls Wilderness, part of Shawnee National Forest. See them from a 1.2-mile out-and-back trail.
What are the best beaches in Illinois?
Try beating the heat at some of the best beaches in Illinois:
- Sunrise Park: Located in Lake Bluff, the beach is on Lake Michigan. You can certainly visit year-round, but in the summer, the park has two swimming beaches as well as a section designated for dogs. There are also nearby rentals for paddleboards and kayaks.
- Montrose Beach: While there are several public beaches in Chicago, this one in Lincoln Park is one of the most popular. Head here for some supreme swimming in Lake Michigan. There is also a boat launch not too far away.