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Prepare yourself for another exciting summer at Wildwater Kingdom! To make your day at Wildwater Kingdom the highlight of your summer, we always have something fresh and thrilling planned!

  • Best Waterpark in Chicago

    Best Waterpark in Chicago

    Prepare your floatation devices and dive into the excitement at these indoor water parks located near Chicagoland! Inclement weather such as snow, rain, or wind will not hinder your enjoyment at these year-round attractions. Whether you seek a fun-filled afternoon with family or an entire weekend dedicated to swimming, there are numerous options just a short drive from the heart of Chicago.

    Indoor water parks cater to all age groups, from infants to adults. Most facilities feature designated play areas for toddlers, baby splash zones, and a range of slides and interactive playgrounds. Additionally, many parks offer lazy rivers and slides suitable for older children. Some locations may even include outdoor attractions that can be enjoyed during the summer months.

    If you are planning a trip soon or organizing a future escape, it is advisable to contact the parks in advance to obtain the latest information regarding availability and reservation procedures.

    Indoor Water Parks in Illinois

    Splash Central Indoor Aquatic Center
    700 S Bartlett Rd.
    Bartlett, IL 60103
    (630) 540-4800

    This indoor facility boasts two distinct pool areas and a hot tub. It features a zero-depth entry pool, a slide, and engaging water elements for younger swimmers. Adjacent to the activity area is a spacious activity/lap pool supervised by lifeguards. The center is open for general swimming and can be reserved for private events. Admission is free for children aged 2 and under. Family restrooms are available for changing, along with lockers for personal belongings. Be sure to visit their website for updated safety guidelines and operating hours, as these may vary seasonally.

    Pelican Harbor

    200 S Lindsey Ln.
    Bolingbrook, IL 60440
    (630) 739-1700

    During the winter months, this facility offers indoor lap swimming, a zero-depth entry pool, two water slides (riders must be at least 42 inches tall), a tot slide, tumble buckets, and a hot tub. The venue is also available for party rentals.

    Kroc Center Chicago

    1250 W 119th St.
    Chicago, IL 60643
    (773) 995-0151

    The facility boasts two swimming pools: a competition pool featuring six lanes suitable for lap swimming, complete with diving boards, and a family-friendly water park area. The water park includes a lazy river, a vortex pool, a hot tub, a water play structure, and two large slides (riders must be at least 48 inches tall to use them). You can find the schedule for open swim hours here or purchase day passes in advance.

    Adventure Island

    100 Symphony Way
    Elgin, IL 60120
    (847) 531-7030

    This facility is open throughout the year and offers three distinct indoor pool options. The recreational pool features zero-depth entry, floor fountains, a whirlpool, a large play structure for toddlers with a slide, and tipping toucans for added fun. Guests over 42 inches tall can also experience a 25-foot water slide. Additionally, there is a competition pool equipped with diving boards and eight 25-yard lanes for lap swimming. A separate heated therapy pool is available for senior programs and rehabilitation purposes.

    Pavilion Aquatics Center

    1000 Wellington Ave.
    Elk Grove Village, IL 60007
    (847) 593-6248

    Enjoy year-round swimming in an Olympic-sized indoor main pool, along with a zero-depth lagoon pool featuring interactive elements and a 72-foot water slide for swimmers over 43 inches tall. The facility offers open swim hours, private rental options, and special events such as Parents Night Out.

  • Best Waterpark in New York

    Best Waterpark in New York

    Summer has finally arrived, signaling a time to relish the great outdoors with your kids. While New York City offers a plethora of outdoor activities for your family to enjoy, it lacks one particular feature. A water park. However, there’s no need to fret! There are several water parks a short drive away from the Financial District that you can readily visit for the day. You’ll discover options nearby on Long Island, in New Jersey, and Pennsylvania that are only a few hours away. Regardless of which water park you decide on, you’ll be making lasting memories with your children while keeping cool during the summer heat.

    Splish Splash

    Anyone who spent their childhood on Long Island understands that the Splish Splash water park is a summer essential. Ideal for both children and adults, this 96-acre amusement park is about a two-hour journey from NYC and features an array of slides, rides, a lazy river, and the favorite wave pool. There are attractions suitable for thrill-seekers as well as those who prefer relaxing on a beach chair. A general admission ticket costs $75 per person, but discounts are available if you buy them ahead of time. Remember, kids under two years old can enter for free. Families may also rent a cabana to store their belongings and unwind in the shade while enjoying meals from over ten diverse vendors.

    Six Flags Hurricane Harbor

    No summer experience would be complete without visiting Six Flags Hurricane Harbor. Your kids will adore all the rides, slides, and pools designed to keep them cool during the warmer months. Children of all ages will have a blast at this park located in New Jersey, which is only a 90-minute drive from NYC. You and your family can take pleasure in a lazy river, rafting, interactive playgrounds, slides, toboggans, and more! Ticket prices vary based on the add-ons and benefits you’re interested in.

    Land of Make Believe

    Head to New Jersey this summer to explore the Land of Make Believe, where you can experience an award-winning water park. Admission to the water park is included with a ticket to enter the Land of Make Believe. Children can enjoy an abundance of water slides and a lazy river, all featuring a fun pirate theme. Tickets are available online at a discounted rate, with children’s and adult admissions starting at $35.

    Island Waterpark

    Your family could easily spend the weekend discovering the Island Waterpark in Atlantic City, NJ. You’ll feel as though you are in a tropical paradise with attractions that include a pool overlooking the ocean, a swim-up bar (for adults only! ), a lazy river, slides, waterfalls, a surf simulator, and much more. Thanks to a retractable roof, this water park can be appreciated rain or shine! General admission day passes are priced at $49 each, and kids under three years old can enter for free.

    Hersheypark

    About a three-hour car ride from NYC, the Boardwalk at Hershey Park offers activities for everyone. You and your family can reserve a poolside cabana for the day where you can savor food and drinks from over ten various vendors including Nathan’s Hot Dogs and Rita’s Italian Ice. Attractions feature waterslides, a lazy river, a spray-ground, wave pool and pier. With a ticket to Hershey Park, you gain entry to the Boardwalk and other attractions for the cost of $87 for individuals aged 6-61 and $57 for children 3-8 and seniors 62 and older.

    SplashDown Beach

    Situated two hours away from the city in Fishkill, NY, SplashDown Beach is known as “America’s Biggest Little Water Park. ” However, this water park boasts large offerings, including exhilarating water slides, a lazy river, an adventure area, a wave pool, tube rides, a water playground, pool, and beach. A weekend pass can cost up to $64 based on your height, while a weekday pass may reach up to $59. Enjoyable treats, burgers, pizza, sandwiches, and smoothies are available for purchase throughout the park.

    Dorney Park

    The Wildwater Kingdom at Dorney Park is a two-hour drive and provides endless summertime enjoyment. Children of all ages can take pleasure in water slides, plunges, a water playground, a lazy river, wave pool, and much more. After spending several hours experiencing all the attractions, you and your family can rent a cabana and enjoy food from various vendors including Subway and Dippin’ Dots. You can obtain daily tickets for as low as $40, which also grants you access to the rides and amenities at Dorney Park.

    Morey’s Piers

    Morey’s Piers in Wildwood, NJ is the ultimate destination for summer fun. Adventure awaits your family at this amusement and water park combination where you can spend more than one day. The Raging Waters Water Park includes a collection of exciting slides, an activity pool, rope swing, shotgun falls, and a fountain pool. For those seeking a more laid-back day, visit the Ocean Oasis Water Park and Beach Club where guests can drift in a lazy river, lounge by the pool, enjoy the sandy beach, or check out the swim-up bar.

  • Who is Invented Waterpark First Time on History?

    Who is Invented Waterpark First Time on History?

    On a sweltering summer day, water parks serve as a favored destination for families and individuals seeking thrilling and enjoyable activities. The concept of water-related entertainment, however, has its roots in ancient history.

    This blog will guide you through the evolution of water parks, starting from their modest beginnings and advancing to the expansive, technologically advanced facilities we cherish today.

    Ancient Times: From Public Baths to Pleasure Gardens

    For centuries, people have sought enjoyment and relaxation through water-based activities. The public baths of ancient Greece and Rome were renowned as social and leisure hubs, featuring baths, saunas, gyms, and pools of varying temperatures. In Japan, onsens have been a source of relaxation and rejuvenation for decades.

    The 16th century saw the invention of the water slide in France, known as the “Magic Lantern,” which was a steep wooden slide treated with wax or tallow for smoothness. This attraction quickly gained popularity among locals.

    By the 18th century, pleasure gardens became favored destinations for day trips, showcasing elaborate fountains, waterfalls, and other aquatic features. In 1843, Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens opened, featuring a large lake where visitors could rent boats for paddling. The gardens also included a theater, concert hall, and dining options. The history of water-based entertainment is rich and continues to captivate audiences of all ages.

    19th Century: The Birth of Modern Water Parks

    The first modern water park was established in Switzerland during the 1800s, setting the stage for future developments with its combination of indoor and outdoor pools, waterfalls, and hot springs. However, water parks did not gain widespread popularity until the mid-20th century, when small water parks featuring pools and slides began to emerge in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s. These early water parks were relatively simple and primarily catered to children.

    Wet ‘n’ Wild Water World, which opened in Orlando in 1977, was among the first mini water parks. Although it was modest by today’s standards, it drew visitors from across the country. As a result, designers and developers began investing more time and resources into creating larger and more sophisticated water park experiences.

    1970s-1990s: The Era of Water Parks’ Flourishing

    The period from the 1970s to the 1990s is recognized as the flourishing era of water parks, during which they emerged as significant attractions. In 1977, Wet ‘n Wild in Orlando gained immense popularity, captivating guests with its remarkable water-based experiences. The park’s wave pool, generating six-foot waves, became a major draw, leading other parks to incorporate similar wave pools due to the rising interest in surfing.

    Another groundbreaking development was the introduction of high-speed water slides, allowing visitors to descend steep slopes at speeds reaching 60 mph. To ensure safety, designers implemented water-cooled braking systems to slow down riders at the slide’s conclusion. As the popularity of water parks surged, designers became increasingly creative and innovative. Some parks adopted computer-controlled wave generators to produce a diverse range of wave patterns, from gentle ripples to powerful surges.

    Present Day: Advanced and Eco-Friendly Water Parks

    Contemporary water parks deliver unparalleled excitement and adventure. These expansive facilities feature a multitude of attractions, including wave pools and high-speed slides, catering to all ages. Unlike their earlier counterparts, modern water parks prioritize sustainability. As awareness of environmental impact grows, designers and operators are actively working to minimize their carbon footprint.

    The implementation of energy-efficient lighting enhances the sustainability of water parks. LED lights consume 80% less energy compared to traditional options, resulting in cost savings for park owners and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, sustainable design practices incorporate water conservation technologies. Many parks utilize advanced filtration and recycling systems to conserve water, with rainwater being collected for irrigation and wave pool water being recycled for use in other attractions.

    Moreover, water parks are increasingly installing solar panels to generate renewable energy and decrease reliance on fossil fuels. For instance, the extensive solar panel installation at the Kalahari Resort in Pennsylvania produces up to 20% of the park’s energy needs.

  • Intriguing Insights About Water Parks That Will Inspire You to Plan a Visit

    Intriguing Insights About Water Parks That Will Inspire You to Plan a Visit

    If you previously thought water parks were exciting, prepare to be even more intrigued after reading this!

    For families seeking a fun outing, a visit to a water park is sure to be enjoyable, whether basking in the summer sun or finding refuge in an indoor facility during the long winter months. However, while you wait in line to experience your favorite waterslide, have you ever considered the fascinating details surrounding you? For instance, who was the pioneer behind the first waterslide? How much water is needed to fill that wave pool? And where can you find the tallest waterslide in the world? We have uncovered the answers to these questions and more. Continue reading to impress your family (and fellow line-goers) with these captivating facts about water parks.

    Water parks were not established until the 1970s.

    The World Waterpark Association attributes the invention of the water park to American entrepreneur George Millay. Although he founded SeaWorld in San Diego in 1964, his venture into the realm of water parks that offered a unique experience did not occur until a decade later. In 1977, he launched the first Wet ‘n Wild water park in Orlando, Florida, marking the inception of an entirely new industry. Although Wet ‘n Wild officially closed in 2016, Millay’s legacy as the “father of water parks” endures.

    Waterslides are grounded in scientific principles.

    At first glance, water parks may seem purely entertaining, but similar to the design of roller coasters, they are heavily based on scientific principles—particularly physics and advanced engineering. Nowadays, computer software plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of waterslide enthusiasts. These programs assess factors such as friction and mass for each slide, ensuring that riders are evenly spaced during turns and positioned optimally on each track. The continuous flow of water on those slides is also a matter of balancing friction, speed, and safety.

    A water park typically requires around a million gallons of water.

    Water is a valuable resource, so it may come as a surprise that it can take approximately 900,000 gallons to initially fill a water park.

    Disney boasts the title of having the largest wave pool in North America. The wave pool at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, situated within the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, requires nearly 3 million gallons of water to reach full capacity. To put this into perspective, an Olympic-sized swimming pool holds approximately 660,000 gallons. Additionally, visitors can enjoy impressive 6-foot waves at the lagoon!

    Water parks today are a culmination of innovative designs from around the globe. According to the World Waterpark Association, the water parks we cherish feature remarkable creations from various regions. For example, the first wave pool was developed in Europe, while the lazy river and speed slide originated in the Asia-Pacific area, and the inaugural waterslide was invented in New Zealand. Quite fascinating, isn’t it?

    The excitement extends beyond just water parks. Some establishments, such as Great Wolf Lodge, Aquatopia, Timber Ridge, and Avalanche Bay, are part of larger family-oriented resorts that provide both indoor and outdoor activities. For those wishing to stay dry, many resorts offer thrilling ropes courses and zip line experiences high above the ground, as well as leisurely local tours. Other resorts feature in-house activities, including character meet-and-greets, arts and crafts, arcades, mini golf, and more. Great Wolf Lodge even presents an engaging interactive game called MagiQuest, where children can use magic wands to discover treasures, befriend treetop pixies, and confront a menacing dragon.

  • Most Longest Waterslide in The World

    Most Longest Waterslide in The World

    Relaxing in a water park is the best way to fight the summer heat, at least for a day. Everyone in the family may easily enjoy the nearby wave pools, ice cream sandwiches, and lazy rivers.

    Although it may seem unbelievable now, the idea of a water slide was first proposed only 115 years ago. The New Zealand International Exhibition in 1906 saw the debut of the first instance of this now common summers pastime. Four riders went down a flume sliding across the water in a water chute over Victoria Lake, which would go on to become a global sensation.

    Herbert Sellner, a Minnesotan, created a comparable water toboggan ride a few years later that went down a slope and onto one of the 10,000 lakes in the state.

    One hundred years later, engineers have boldly created and constructed a plethora of water slides and coasters that have raised the standard globally. There are some long, tall, and quirky water slides that get your heart beating if you’re looking for more exhilarating summertime action.

    Our ranking of the world’s tallest, fastest, and longest water slides can be found below.because nothing compares to the rush of racing through corners at heights that defy gravity. And don’t worry, even the most outrageous rides are designed to adhere to strict water slide safety regulations, so you are the only one jumping in a safe and exhilarating manner!

    Are you trying to find a fantastic slide for your company? Take a look at these slides.

    1. The Longest

    It’s all in the name. Malaysia is home to the longest tube water slide in the world. Inside the Escape Penang amusement park, it trots down a canopied mountain and is simply referred to as “The Longest.” With a length of 3,645 feet, or 12 football fields, the slide is much longer than any other water slide.

    The park’s proprietors had an idea for a ride that would allow guests to experience the rain forest up close. During the four-minute ride, adventurers can nearly touch the overhanging branches as they speed down the mountain.

    2. Waterslide

    This is another water ride at Buena Vista Lodge in Costa Rica with a straightforward name. The longest flume in the world is the Waterslide, where passengers sit on the slide rather than an inflatable. Waterslide offers its riders the unique experience of being in the water rather than just on top of it, with a length of 1,300 feet, or four football fields. Waterslide is a part of the Buena Vista Adventure Centre, which offers visitors a taste of Costa Rica in one place including ziplining, waterfalls, and hot springs.

    3. Mammoth

    The longest water slide for groups of four to six people is located at Holiday World, a water park in Santa Claus, Indiana. For over two minutes, riders of the multi-person water coaster “Mammoth” are propelled up, down, and around a network of blue and yellow pipes. The flume is 70 feet high and 1,763 feet long, or nearly six football fields, spanning three acres of land. Before passengers are dropped off into the cold water, the experience begins with a conveyor belt journey to the top.

    4. Kilimanjaro

    Kilimanjaro is the world’s longest drop slide. Kilimanjaro, named after the well-known peak in Tanzania, is located about 85 miles northwest of Rio in the Aldeia das Aguas Park Resort in Barra do Pirai, Brazil. Three seconds are allotted to riders to get ready for the nearly vertical, 164-foot plummet to the ground below.

    With 234 stair steps up to the drop zone, enthusiasts must undertake a strenuous journey to the summit of this attraction. Those who dare to tackle this flume after the long walk wind up hurtling down the mountain at nearly sixty miles per hour.

    5. MASSIV Monster Blaster

    One of the tallest water slides in the world is the water coaster, a ride that simulates roller coasters with ups, downs, and g-force propulsion. Schlitterbahn Waterpark in Galveston, Texas, is home to MASSIV Monster Blaster. From the beginning of this 330-yard (one football pitch) flume, riders can see the Gulf Coast because it is 81 feet above the earth.

    In order to simulate the gravitational forces required to spring up before sliding down, riders are propelled forward throughout the ride. Three consecutive drops mark the end of this highest water slide coaster.

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  • Special Events

    Opening Weekend

    Saturday, May 26 – Sunday, May 28

    Come celebrate the start of the season with us at Wildwater Kingdom! Military personnel will be admitted to the park free of charge for the duration of the weekend! Simply show a legitimate military ID. In addition, there will be $1 cotton candy on Sunday, $1 hot dogs on Saturday, and $1 fountain drinks on Monday! (As long as supplies last.)


    Home School Day

    Friday, June 8

    Take in a unique presentation from the Akron Zoo at Lakeside Pavilion from 11:30 am to 12:15 pm! To buy your tickets, interact with the exotic birds at Parrot Hope Sanctuary!


    Joe Haden Day

    Wednesday, June 13

    Meet the Cleveland Browns cornerback Joe Haden! More details coming soon.


    Father’s Day Hole-in-One Challenge – Sponsored by Pepsi

    Father’s Day, Sunday, June 17th

    On Sunday, June 17th, stop by Wildwater Kingdom to try your luck at our Hole-in-One Challenge and enter to win fantastic prizes, like as a Sony 46″ LCD TV! A visit from exotic birds from the Parrot Hope Sanctuary will be among the many wonderful activities that dad and kids may enjoy together.


    Jungle Terry Appearances

    Friday, June 22 AND Saturday, July 21

    When Jungle Terry visits Wildwater Kingdom, you’ll be joined by wild creatures! Children may learn about these fascinating animals and get up close and personal with Jungle Terry’s collection.


    Girl Scout Day

    Wednesday, June 27

    We invite Girl Scouts to join us for an exciting day in the park that includes a unique water safety lesson! There is also lunch provided. to buy your tickets!


    Dive-In Movies

    Saturday, July 14 AND Saturday, July 28

    Swim up to the big screen with an inner tube! Don’t miss our Dive-In Movie Nights, when you may swim in our enormous wave pool and watch one of your favorite films. Return soon for additional details.


    Kids’ Day

    Saturday, August 4

    At Wildwater Kingdom, kids have a fantastic time every day, but on Saturday, August 4th, we’re hosting the largest kids’ celebration of the summer! View exotic birds from the Parrot Hope Sanctuary, Balloon Bender Dave, Jungle Terry, and more!


    Splash Bash – Guest Appreciation Day

    Sunday, August 12

    For yet another fantastic summer at Wildwater Kingdom, we would like to thank YOU, our guests. This is an event you won’t want to miss! There will be raffle prizes and Sparkles the Clown will do face painting. In addition to another visit from the Parrot Hope Sanctuary, there will be $1 hot dogs and $1 fountain drinks available while supplies last!