Splash Country Aurora vs Pelican Harbor Waterpark
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 | Splash Country Aurora | Pelican Harbor Waterpark |
|---|---|---|
| Parking |
Both parks share 1 amenities including Parking.
About Each Park
Splash Country Aurora
Illinois
Splash Country Aurora sits in Aurora's southwest side and serves as the local go-to spot for families looking to cool off during Illinois summers. This community-focused water park keeps things simple and affordable, which explains why you'll see plenty of repeat visitors throughout the season. The main draw is a solid collection of body slides and tube slides that provide enough variety without being overwhelming. The slides here aren't the tallest you'll find in Chicagoland, but they're well-maintained and perfect for kids who've outgrown the kiddie area but aren't quite ready for the massive slides at places like Raging Waves. The lazy river moves at a genuinely relaxing pace and makes a full loop in about eight minutes. Parents appreciate that they can actually see their kids from most spots around the river, unlike some larger parks where sightlines get tricky. The children's area features smaller slides, water features, and a shallow pool that stays busy but rarely feels overcrowded. What sets Splash Country apart is its manageable size and local feel. You won't spend half your day walking between attractions, and the staff tends to recognize regulars by mid-season. The food situation is basic but reasonably priced - think pizza, burgers, and nachos. Most families pack coolers for the picnic area just outside the main gate. Parking fills up fast on hot weekends, so arriving by 10:30 AM makes a real difference. The park tends to hit capacity on days over 85 degrees, especially Saturdays. If you're planning a…
Read the full Splash Country Aurora guide →Pelican Harbor Waterpark
Illinois
Pelican Harbor Waterpark in Bolingbrook delivers classic summer fun without the massive crowds you'll find at some of the bigger Illinois water parks. This community-focused outdoor park has been serving families in the southwest suburbs for years, and it shows in all the right ways. The staff actually knows what they're doing, and the facilities are well-maintained without feeling overly commercialized. You'll find a solid mix of attractions that work for different ages. The main pool area is spacious enough that you're not swimming shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers, and there's usually a good selection of water slides that range from mild to moderately thrilling. The kids' area gets a lot of attention here, with age-appropriate splash features and smaller slides that let parents actually relax instead of constantly worrying. The lazy river moves at a perfect pace for floating on a tube while the kids play nearby. What really sets Pelican Harbor apart is the atmosphere. This feels like a neighborhood park that happens to be really well done, rather than a corporate water park experience. Families come back year after year, and you'll see the same lifeguards working multiple seasons. The food is better than you'd expect, and prices are reasonable for a captive audience. Pro tips for your visit: arrive right when they open to claim the best lounge chairs, especially if you're visiting on weekends. The shade spots fill up fast during peak summer months. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and reapply constantly – the reflection off the water is…
Read the full Pelican Harbor Waterpark guide →Ready to visit Splash Country Aurora?