Illinois Kids Can Cool Down at a Splash Pad Now Open in Rockford

When temperatures in the Rockford region and around Chicagoland start to rise and the humidity gets so thick we have air you can wear, we find refuge at our area pools, splash pads, and water parks.

The 5 Best Water Parks and Cool Down Spots Close to Rockford

Some of the top pools and water parks in the country are not far from your front door when you live in northern Illinois, with several huge liquid playgrounds less than 90 minutes away.

According to Yelp, these are the Top 5 Water Parks Near Rockford:

1. West Rock Wake Park in Rockford, Illinois

This Rockford water park got 5-star review from a visitor from California who said "the park layout is incredible, the locals are very friendly, and the vibes simply can't be beat."

2. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor (Magic Waters) in Rockford, Illinois

One visitor of Hurricane Harbor gave it high marks because it has a "great wave pool and lots of fun rides and slides for the kids. Even the little kids have their own area which is really nice"

3. Raging Waves Water Park in Yorkville, Illinois

Illinois' largest waterpark is about an hour and 15 minute drive from Rockford.

4. Stingray Bay Family Aquatic Center in Huntley, Illinois

One guest said that Stingray Bay is "a great place to take your kids for a day of playing in the water and soaking in the sun. Great for little ones and older alike."

5. Pelican Harbor Indoor / Outdoor Water Park in Bolingbrook, Illinois

If you don't want to drive out of town, there's a new option available to get the kids cooled down.

Splash Pad Opens in Rockford on Water Street

The Millenium Fountain now has its Splash Pad open at Waterside Park, according to a press release from the City of Rockford.

The Splash Pad was recently created after many years of people playing in the park fountain, which it was not designed for. After upgrades modernized the area to make it safe for "families with children of all ages, abilities and circumstances," according to the press release.

The Splash Pad at Millenium Fountain will be running through the Summer from 8 am to 9 am.