35 Chicago Area Water Parks (What Parents Think)

We're collecting tips & reviews for the best water parks in Chicago & the suburbs (with a few Wisconsin favorites), to help parents plan a trip with their kids!

Whether you make it a Dells weekend or check out a local waterpark near you, our interactive map helps you find the best option for your family!

From lazy rivers to thrill rides to splash pads, these Chicago waterparks offer fun in the sun for the whole family. Remember indoor waterparks for a year-round option, too.

If you've visited any Chicago water parks, give your favorites a "like" and leave a review to share your tips with fellow parents!


 

    Kalahari Resorts

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    Kristy Pepping said:  Kalahari Resorts features an exciting mix of indoor and outdoor rides, slides, and entertainment. The resort has an indoor (84 degrees) waterpark and outdoor waterpark, theme park, salon, kidz spa, and much more. Plus, there are several on-site restaurants to please both sophisticated and picky-eater tastes. Kalahari also features body board surfing, kid-friendly hot tub, character breakfasts, and arcade. An indoor Ferris Wheel stands 6 stories tall within its carnival-like adventure park! Purchase day passes as a guest, or stay at the resort and they will be included.

    Baraboo, WI

    Wilderness Resort

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    Kristy Pepping said:  The Wilderness Resort is located on 600 acres consisting of cabin-themed properties and villas, and including multiple indoor and outdoor water parks, and so many family attractions. The resort features arcades, a laser arena, go-carts, ropes course, mini-golf and more, including Take Flight, an aerial adventure theatre ride.

    Wisconsin Dells, WI

    Noah's Ark Waterpark

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    Lisa R said:  Noah's Ark features water thrill rides, food, and over 80 family activities to enjoy including schooners, arcades, and a dive-in theatre. Also featuring two endless rivers, four children's water play areas, bumper boats, and two giant wave pools. It's recognized as being "America's Largest Waterpark." Parents with young tots can appreciate the exclusive kiddie area and gentle rides. There is lodging adjacent to the water park.

    Wisconsin Dells, WI

    Chula Vista Resort

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    Shila said:  Featuring both indoor & outdoor water parks with more than 2 dozen water slides, huge interactive kiddie play areas, activity pools, lazy river, luxurious poolside cabanas, outdoor hot springs, & more, Chula Vista was designed with the whole family in mind! The resort also features an 18-hole golf course, river walk, hot springs, spa, & plenty of family dining. Water park passes are included in all overnight stays, and day passes are also available for those not staying at the resort.

    Wisconsin Dells, WI

    Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park

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    Kristy Pepping said:  Mt. Olympus Water and Theme Resort offers both indoor and outdoor water parks, as well as thrilling rollercoasters and amusement park rides, like twirling teacups and bumper cars. Take a plunge down several water slides or sit in a hot tub to relax. Lodging options include typical hotel suites, but also tents for camping and unique treehouse beds! Kids love it!

    Wisconsin Dells, WI

Primary photo:   Raging Waves

Upparent collects community-submitted recommendations and reviews, and any ideas that are shared reflect the opinions of individual contributors.

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