Kid Amusement Parks in Illinois: Top Spots to Thrill Your Little Ones
1. Six Flags Great America
Located in Gurnee, Six Flags Great America is arguably the most renowned amusement park in Illinois. Spanning over 300 acres, this park is packed with attractions that cater to all ages. Themed areas include everything from classic thrill rides like the Goliath, a record-breaking wooden coaster, to family-friendly rides like The Justice League: Battle for Metropolis. For younger children, Looney Tunes Seaport provides a safe environment filled with gentle rides and character meet-and-greets.
Six Flags also offers a water park section, Hurricane Harbor, where you can find everything from wave pools to thrilling water slides. Seasonal events such as Fright Fest and Holiday in the Park transform the atmosphere with festive decorations and special entertainment.
Key Features:
- Thrilling Rides: Goliath, X-Flight, Superman: Ultimate Flight
- Family Attractions: Looney Tunes Seaport, Carousel
- Seasonal Events: Fright Fest, Holiday in the Park
- Water Park: Hurricane Harbor
2. Navy Pier’s Chicago Children’s Museum
Although not a traditional amusement park, the Chicago Children’s Museum at Navy Pier offers an interactive and educational experience that young children adore. It’s perfect for those days when the weather doesn’t cooperate for outdoor adventures. With exhibits designed to engage children in play and learning, highlights include the Kidecraft Zone, where kids can engage in hands-on activities, and Tinkering Lab, where creativity is encouraged through various building and crafting activities.
Key Features:
- Interactive Exhibits: Kidecraft Zone, Tinkering Lab
- Educational Focus: Encourages learning through play
- Location: Navy Pier, Chicago
3. Santa’s Village Amusement Park
Situated in East Dundee, Santa’s Village Amusement Park offers a charming blend of classic amusement park fun and festive holiday spirit. The park is designed with a Santa Claus theme and includes attractions like Santa’s Speedway and Reindeer Rapids. It’s particularly enchanting during the holiday season, when the park is decorated with lights and festive decorations, creating a magical experience for children and families.
Key Features:
- Themed Rides: Santa’s Speedway, Reindeer Rapids
- Holiday Decorations: Festive lights and decorations during the holiday season
- Family-Friendly: Emphasis on a magical, family-oriented experience
4. LEGOLAND Discovery Center
Located in Schaumburg, LEGOLAND Discovery Center is a great spot for LEGO enthusiasts. This indoor attraction features interactive LEGO-themed exhibits, including a mini-land with famous Chicago landmarks built from LEGO bricks. The 4D cinema, creative workshops, and LEGO play zones provide endless entertainment. It’s an ideal destination for a rainy day or a break from outdoor adventures.
Key Features:
- Interactive Exhibits: Mini-land, 4D Cinema
- Creative Workshops: Build and play with LEGO bricks
- Indoor Attraction: Perfect for inclement weather
5. The Magic House
In St. Louis, just a short drive from Illinois, The Magic House offers a delightful experience for children. This children’s museum focuses on interactive exhibits that stimulate learning and creativity. Highlights include the Wonder Works area, which features hands-on activities and exhibits designed to spark curiosity. Though not an amusement park in the traditional sense, it provides a range of activities that can entertain children for hours.
Key Features:
- Interactive Exhibits: Wonder Works, various hands-on activities
- Educational Focus: Learning through play
- Nearby Location: Close to Illinois, in St. Louis
6. Frontier City
Though located a bit further afield in Oklahoma City, Frontier City is worth mentioning for those willing to travel a bit beyond Illinois. The park has a Western-themed atmosphere and offers a variety of attractions including roller coasters, water rides, and live entertainment. The park’s unique theme sets it apart from other amusement parks and provides a distinct experience for families.
Key Features:
- Western Theme: Themed rides and attractions
- Thrill Rides: Various roller coasters and water rides
- Live Entertainment: Shows and performances
7. The Great Escape and Splashwater Kingdom
Located in Glenmont, New York, this park offers a blend of amusement park fun and water park excitement. Though not in Illinois, it’s notable for families who travel across states looking for a variety of experiences. The Great Escape includes thrill rides, family attractions, and a water park area known as Splashwater Kingdom. It’s an excellent option for a vacation destination that combines multiple types of fun.
Key Features:
- Thrill Rides: Various roller coasters and attractions
- Water Park: Splashwater Kingdom
- Family Attractions: Rides and activities for all ages
8. Wild West Town
For those looking for a more unique experience, Wild West Town in Union, Illinois, offers a Wild West-themed experience. This park is ideal for families interested in stepping back in time and experiencing the excitement of the Old West. Attractions include interactive shows, panning for gold, and wagon rides.
Key Features:
- Wild West Theme: Shows and interactive experiences
- Gold Panning: Hands-on activities
- Family Fun: Emphasis on engaging and entertaining the whole family
9. Brookfield Zoo
Though primarily a zoo, Brookfield Zoo in Brookfield, Illinois, provides a range of interactive exhibits and family-friendly activities that make it a great destination for children. The zoo features a variety of animal exhibits, play areas, and seasonal events that can complement a visit to an amusement park.
Key Features:
- Animal Exhibits: Wide variety of animals
- Play Areas: Interactive spaces for kids
- Seasonal Events: Special activities and events throughout the year
10. Oak Brook Park District’s Central Park
Lastly, while not a traditional amusement park, Central Park in Oak Brook offers a range of outdoor activities and playground facilities that can be just as entertaining. The park features play structures, sports fields, and walking paths. It’s an ideal spot for families looking to enjoy a day outdoors in a less structured environment.
Key Features:
- Play Structures: Various playground equipment
- Outdoor Activities: Sports fields and walking paths
- Family-Friendly: Ideal for casual outings and picnics
Conclusion
Illinois is home to an impressive variety of amusement parks and family attractions, each offering its own unique blend of fun and excitement. From the high-energy thrills of Six Flags Great America to the educational fun of the Chicago Children’s Museum, there’s no shortage of options for keeping kids entertained. Whether you’re looking for traditional amusement park experiences or interactive educational adventures, these destinations are sure to create lasting memories for the whole family.
Top Comments
No Comments Yet