Best indoor water parks in Indiana and Illinois
Are you on the hunt for the ultimate destination to escape the winter blues?
We’ve compiled a list of the best indoor water parks in Illinois, Indiana, and surrounding states to get the entire family out of the house and into the water. With relaxing lazy rivers, wave pools, and adrenaline-pumping water slides, these water parks are the perfect place for your family to create unforgettable memories and make a big splash together!
Here are the best indoor water parks in Illinois, Indiana, and nearby!
Illinois
Grand Bear Falls Indoor Waterpark - Utica, Illinois
If you want an indoor water park with a spectacular view, head to Grand Bear Resort in Utica, Illinois. Just steps away from Starved Rock State Park, you'll be surrounded by breathtaking views as you enjoy the 24,000-square-foot indoor waterpark. At Grand Bear Falls Indoor Waterpark, plunge down twisting tube slides or splash around in the wave pool. The kids will have a blast with the splash tower in the kiddie pool, and the whole family (as long as they’re tall enough) can enjoy the water slides.
Day passes are available for the waterpark and are included with your stay at the resort if you’re spending the night.
Great Wolf Lodge - Gurnee, Illinois
One of the area's most popular indoor water parks is Great Wolf Lodge (also located in Wisconsin Dells and Cincinnati.) With over 80,000 square feet of aquatic fun, you'll never run out of things to do.
The wave pool and lazy river are perfect for kids of all ages, while the older kids can enjoy the body and tube slides. Got babies or todds? Your younger children can splash around in the Cub Paw Pool (a favorite for parents of kiddos who aren’t quite tall enough for the water slides). We love the indoor cabanas as a “home base” for you and your gang - equipped with a mini fridge, TV, and a safe to store your valuable items.
Indiana
Big Splash Adventure - French Lick, Indiana
This park may be a little smaller than others, but the retractable roof ensures endless enjoyment, rain or shine! Kids of all ages can take aim with water cannons, slide down thrilling tube and body slides, and brace for epic dump buckets.
There's even an activity pool complete with water guns and dump buckets. This water park is perfect for the whole family and features a lazy river, Buccaneer Bay play structure, Splish Splash activity pool for toddlers, an indoor pool, an adults-only hot tub, and an outdoor pool.
If you’re looking to make a weekend of your trip, the water park is attached to a 153-room hotel, offering many different types of rooms, including suites that can sleep up to 9 people.
Looking for more Midwest fun?
Ohio
Castaway Bay - Sandusky, OH
Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Erie, this tropical-themed indoor waterpark offers endless fun for every member of your crew. Dive into a world of adventure as you brave the 100,000-gallon wave pool or take a ride on Rocket’s Canopy Coaster– the only water coaster in northern Ohio! And your littles will love Fernando’s Tadpole pool!
With a variety of accommodations available, including spacious rooms and cozy suites, Castaway Bay is the ideal base for your family getaway. And when you're ready to take a break from the water park, explore the resort's dining options, live entertainment, and other exciting activities.
Wisconsin
Kalahari Resorts & Convention Center Indoor Waterpark - Wisconsin Dells, WI
Located in Wisconsin Dells, WI, this resort is one of the badger state’s best spots for adventure-seekers! With over 125,000 square feet of water attractions, you'll experience the ultimate indoor waterpark experience. Splash around in the lazy river or challenge yourself on one of the many thrilling waterslides. Don't forget to check out the FlowRider surf simulator, too! Your younger kiddos will love Leopard’s Lair, a multi-level water tree fort and there’s even a swim-up bar for mom and dad!
The resort features a variety of accommodations perfect for families of all sizes, from standard rooms to spacious suites. When you're ready to take a break from the waterpark, the Kalahari Resort offers a range of activities and entertainment options, including bowling, go-karts, and arcade games. Plus, with eight different restaurants and bars to choose from, you'll never go hungry!
With so many indoor water parks in Indiana, Illinois, and nearby, your family have plenty of choices for non-stop fun! Which will you and your crew pick for your next adventure?
Note: Each park has its own unique features and offerings, so be sure to check their websites for more information, including operating hours, ticket prices, and any safety guidelines or restrictions.
