Grizzly Jacks vs Raging Waves
A side-by-side look at two water parks — rides, prices, amenities, and which one fits your trip.
Which Park Is Right for You?
Quick verdicts based on what each park offers.
Amenities Compared
What each park offers, side by side.
| Feature | Grizzly Jacks | Raging Waves |
|---|---|---|
| Parking | ||
| Arcade |
Only at Grizzly Jacks
- hot tubs
- Arcade
- go karts
Only at Raging Waves
- surfing simulator
Both parks share 1 amenities including Parking.
About Each Park
Grizzly Jacks
Illinois
Grizzly Jacks Grand Bear Resort sits about an hour west of Chicago in Starved Rock Country, and it's one of those combination destinations that actually pulls off both the water park and amusement park experience well. The indoor water park is the real star here, especially if you're visiting during Illinois' unpredictable weather months. The space feels surprisingly spacious for an indoor facility, with a decent-sized wave pool that generates some solid waves for body surfing and a lazy river that winds around a good portion of the park. The multi-level play structure in the kids' area keeps younger visitors busy for hours with its tipping buckets, smaller slides, and interactive water features. For older kids and adults, the tube slides provide the thrills, with a couple of racing slides that get competitive families going. What sets Grizzly Jacks apart is the combination ticket that gets you into both the water park and the adjacent amusement park. The outdoor rides include a decent wooden coaster and classic carnival rides that work well for families. The resort aspect means you can easily make this a weekend trip, though day visitors are welcome. The facility tends to get crowded on weekends, so arriving right when they open gives you the best shot at shorter lines. The cabanas book up fast during peak times, so reserve ahead if you want that extra space and shade. Food options are typical water park fare but reasonably priced compared to some resort destinations. The changing facilities…
Read the full Grizzly Jacks guide →Raging Waves
Illinois
Raging Waves sits on 58 acres in Yorkville and holds the title of Illinois' largest outdoor water park. The highlight here is absolutely the FlowRider, where you can bodyboard or surf on artificial waves. I've watched people wipe out spectacularly on this thing for hours. The Cyclone is their signature water coaster that shoots you uphill using water jets, which feels weird and awesome at the same time. For families with younger kids, Tadpole Bay offers smaller slides and interactive play features that'll keep little ones busy for hours. The lazy river here is solid - actually lazy unlike some parks where it's more like a rushing current. The wave pool generates decent waves every 10 minutes, though it gets packed on weekends. Thrill seekers should hit the Tornado, a massive funnel slide that drops your raft through a giant bowl before spitting you out. The park also has traditional body slides and mat racers if you're into speed competitions. Food options are typical water park fare - burgers, pizza, nachos - but portions are decent and prices aren't completely outrageous. Pro tips: arrive right when they open to claim a good spot, especially if you're not renting a cabana. The grass areas fill up fast on busy days. Bring reef-safe sunscreen because you'll be in the sun all day with minimal shade unless you spring for premium seating. The changing rooms can get swampy by afternoon, so consider changing in your car if possible. Parking is free but the…
Read the full Raging Waves guide →Ready to visit Grizzly Jacks?