Top 22 Indoor Water Parks in Chicago for Family Fun

Looking for year-round family fun in Chicago? Indoor water parks offer the perfect tropical escape from our city's unpredictable weather! From splashing in wave pools to zooming down waterslides, these climate-controlled oases let families enjoy summer vibes no matter the season.

As parents and caretakers, we know that finding ways to keep kids entertained in winter can be challenging. That’s why indoor water parks are such a fantastic solution. They offer a taste of summer, even during our freezing-cold Chicago winters. These family-friendly destinations have features for every age group, from tumble buckets, kiddie pools, and water sprinklers for little ones to thrilling water slides and climbing walls for older children and teens. Best of all, because these are inside, water parks in Chicago on this list are typically open year-round! If your kids fall in love with the experience in the winter, you can keep enjoying water park access during the dog days of summer, too!

Chicagoland Indoor Water Park Tips to Keep in Mind

Before heading to the best indoor waterpark near Chicago, here are some parent-tested tips to help make your family's water adventure safe, fun, and stress-free:

• Pack your own towels: Some waterparks don’t offer these (surprising, right?). So pack your own so you can keep your kids dry and warm after they’re done playing in the water.
• Measure your kids before you go: Some waterpark features, like the climbing wall and certain slides, have height requirements. So it’s a good idea to measure your kids before you go if you haven’t in a while — you don’t want them to wait in a long line only to be turned away.
• Bring swim diapers: Traveling with a little one who isn’t yet potty trained? Most properties require swim diapers for these tiny visitors.
• Check for hotel perks: If you’re staying at one of the many waterpark resorts in the Chicago area, ask if you get any perks as a hotel guest. Some properties offer front-of-the-line passes and similar benefits to guests staying overnight.
• Confirm the outside food policy: If the park allows outside snacks, bring them. Waterparks and amusement parks have one thing in common: on-site food that’s way overpriced!
• Bring water shoes: The surfaces around the water features can be slippery, and water shoes with good traction can help prevent accidents. These shoes also protect your kids’ feet from any sharp objects that might be on the bottom of a pool.
• Respect the lifeguards: Make sure your kids understand that what the lifeguard says, goes. The lifeguards are there to keep everyone safe and disobeying them could mean being asked to leave the park.

These are great tips to keep in mind for most waterpark resorts in the Chicago area. But it’s always a good idea to call the park you’re visiting and ask about their specific rules before you go.

How to Choose the Best Chicago Indoor Waterpark for Your Family

With several indoor water resorts near Chicago to choose from, finding the perfect spot can make the difference between a good day and a great one. We've gathered advice from our parent community to help you narrow down your choices and pick the best option for your water-loving crew:

• Match activities to your kids’ interests: Every child has their favorite way to play in the water. Athletic kids might love showing off their skills at water basketball, while thrill-seekers will probably spend all day racing down waterslides. Think about what makes your children light up and look for parks that offer those specific features.
• Research hours, pricing, and events: Start by checking the basics — when they're open (hours can change seasonally) and how much it'll cost your family to visit. Many parks offer money-saving options like family value packs or seasonal passes. Also, look into special events, but remember that movie screenings or classes might mean some attractions are temporarily closed during your visit.
• Evaluate on-site amenities: The fun goes beyond the water features! Check out what else the park offers: Are there convenient food options? How about locker rooms for changing? Can you rent floaties or toys? Some parks even include perks for parents, like the swim-up bar at Great Wolf Lodge in Illinois’ Lake County (which is near Chicago), because grown-ups deserve some fun, too!
• Consider travel distance: Your perfect park should be within comfortable driving distance. If you're coming from areas like Putnam County or Lake County, map out your route and factor in traffic time. Planning to arrive early helps you make the most of your day and avoid peak crowds.
• Read reviews and check recommendations: Our Upparent community shares honest feedback about their visits, and these real experiences can help you make an informed choice. Reading through parent reviews and recommendations gives you the inside scoop on what really matters — from the cleanliness of facilities to which slides are worth the wait.

The best water park for your family is one that matches your children's interests, fits your schedule and budget, and comes recommended by other parents who have been there. Using these guidelines will help you plan a splash-tastic day that everyone will enjoy!

Our List of the Best Indoor Water Parks Near Chicago

Chicago's wild weather doesn't mean your family has to put water fun on hold! From local hidden gems tucked into neighborhood recreation centers to sprawling resort destinations, we've gathered trusted recommendations from real Chicago parents who understand the joy of seeing their kids splash and play all year round. 

Our interactive map helps you locate the perfect indoor water park for your family's next adventure. And when summer finally arrives (because it always does!), be sure to check out our parent-tested recommendations for the best outdoor waterparks around Chicago that add even more options to your family's splash-time fun.

Looking to mix up your indoor family activities? Our community loves sharing their experiences for all sorts of activities, from the best bowling for kids in Chicago to indoor ice skating for families in Chicago. When it comes to finding things to do with kids in Chicago, our contributors know best!