![The view from the top of the colorful water slide](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/18183407/water-parks-1024x576.jpeg)
Yes, we love sprawling on a towel along the caramel fragments of minerals and the waves of Lake Michigan. Or even gaining higher ground for a leisurely splash in a rooftop pool. However, when we need a getaway—particularly a thrilling one—these are the most formidable water parks near Chicago to head to.
1. Raging Waves Waterpark
Raging Waves Waterpark, the largest water park in Illinois, first opened in 2008 with 17 waterslides, a ¼ 14-mile-long lazy river, a 350,000-gallon wave pool, a sand area, a leisure pool, and two restaurants.
Sixteen summers later, the park has expanded to cover 58 acres, adding 15 more waterslides, 43 private cabanas, 11 dining options, and more.
2. Cypress Cove Family Aquatic Park
The Cypress Cove Family Aquatic Park is a fantastic destination for water fun, offering an array of attractions to suit every member of the family. The cherished water park near Chicago giant dumping bucket, a sandy beach area for relaxation, a zero-depth pool equipped with diving boards, three exciting water slides, and a lazy river that stretches over 600 feet. Moreover, the park also boasts a six-lane swimming pool catering to lap swimmers.
3. Six Flags Great America
Opened in 1976, Six Flags Great America houses one of the best water parks near Chicago, Hurricane Harbor, which covers 20 acres of land. The water park opened in 2005 and features numerous attractions, including Wahoo Racer, a six-lane water slide; Hurricane Mountain, four tube slides; a kiddie area called Buccaneer Bay; Castaway Creek, a lazy river; and many more.
4. Great Wolf Lodge
Conveniently situated just a short drive from Chicago and Milwaukee, Great Wolf Lodge Gurnee is renowned for its 80,000-square-foot indoor water park kept at 84 degrees, featuring pools, water slides, a play area, and more.
5. Mt. Olympus Water Park
Mt. Olympus Water Park, which was designed with a captivating ancient Greek theme, first opened its doors over thirty years ago. This expansive park covers an impressive 102.2 acres of land and offers an exhilarating array of attractions, including over 30 thrilling water slides and five exciting water coasters.
Visitors can experience the best of both worlds with a mix of indoor and outdoor water rides, such as the enchanting Neptune’s Water Kingdom and the thrilling Medusa Indoor Water Park.