Best Splash Pads in Illinois: Top Picks for Families
Illinois families are lucky — the state has one of the largest collections of splash pads, spray parks, and water play areas in the Midwest. Whether you're in the Chicago suburbs, downstate, or anywhere in between, there's likely a splash pad within a reasonable drive.
Here are some of the best splash pads in Illinois, covering everything from free neighborhood spray parks to full-scale water parks.
Chicago Suburbs
The suburbs west and north of Chicago are home to some of the best water play facilities in the state.
Raging Waves Waterpark — Yorkville
One of Illinois' largest outdoor water parks, Raging Waves features thrilling slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and dedicated splash pad areas for younger kids. It's a full-day destination for families with kids of all ages.
Seafari Springs Aquatic Center — Hanover Park
A popular community aquatic center with a splash pad, water slides, and a pool. Well-maintained and family-friendly, it's a great option for northwest suburban families.
Coral Cove Water Park — Carol Stream
Coral Cove offers a water slide, splash pad features, and a pool in a well-shaded setting. One of the better free-with-admission options in DuPage County.
Turtle Splash Water Park — West Chicago
Part of the West Chicago Park District, Turtle Splash has a dedicated zero-depth splash pad alongside slides and a pool. Great for toddlers and younger children.
Pelican Harbor Aquatic Park — Bolingbrook
A large aquatic facility with a zero-depth splash zone, water slides, and a leisure pool. Very popular in summer — arrive early on weekends.
Paradise Bay Water Park — Lombard
Paradise Bay features water slides, a splash pad, and a leisure pool. Part of the Lombard Park District and reasonably priced for residents.
Hidden Creek AquaPark — Highland Park
A beautiful facility on the North Shore with a water slide tower, splash pad, and leisure pool. The lush landscaping sets it apart from typical municipal pools.
Phillips Park Family Aquatic Center — Aurora
Consistently rated one of the best aquatic centers in the Fox Valley area. Features a zero-depth splash zone, water slides, and a pool with something for every age group.
Cypress Cove Family Aquatic Park — Woodridge
A newer, well-designed facility with spray features, a splash pad, slides, and a lap pool. Excellent for families with a mix of ages.
Bensenville Water Park and Splash Pad — Bensenville
A smaller, community-focused water park with a dedicated splash pad area. Free for Bensenville residents, with reasonable day pass rates for non-residents.
Hampshire Park District — Hampshire
A quieter option away from the busier suburbs. Good for families looking for a less crowded splash pad experience.
Downstate Illinois
Super Splash Park — Carbondale
A regional favorite in southern Illinois. Super Splash Park offers water slides and splash features at an affordable price point for families.
Collinsville Aqua Park — Collinsville
Located near the St. Louis metro area, Collinsville Aqua Park is a popular destination for families in the Metro East region with a full range of water features.
Crestwood Aquatic Center — Crestwood
A well-run aquatic center in the south suburbs with a splash pad and pool facilities.
Indoor Options (Year-Round)
Illinois winters are long, and a few facilities offer indoor water play year-round.
Grand Bear Falls Indoor Waterpark — North Utica
Located near Starved Rock State Park, Grand Bear Falls is a full indoor water park resort. Perfect for a winter or shoulder-season getaway with the family.
Palm Island Indoor Waterpark — Batavia
An indoor water park in the Fox Valley area, open year-round. Ideal for rainy days or off-season splash pad fun.
The Oasis Water Park — Bloomingdale
An indoor/outdoor facility that extends the splash pad season beyond the typical summer window.
Tips for Visiting Illinois Splash Pads
Check hours before you go — most outdoor splash pads operate Memorial Day through Labor Day, typically 10am–6pm. Hours vary by facility.
Arrive early on hot days — popular facilities like Raging Waves and Pelican Harbor fill up fast on 90°+ days in July and August.
Bring water shoes — concrete and pavement surfaces get hot in the sun, especially at outdoor facilities.
Check admission — many park district splash pads are free or very affordable for residents. Non-resident day passes are usually available but at a higher rate.
Look for season passes — if you plan to visit the same facility multiple times, a season pass often pays for itself in 2–3 visits.
Find More Illinois Splash Pads
The spots above are just a selection of what Illinois has to offer. Browse the full list of splash pads, spray parks, and water play areas across the state on our Illinois splash pads page — updated regularly with hours, admission info, and amenities.