The Springs Waterpark vs Great Wolf Lodge Gurnee
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 | The Springs Waterpark | Great Wolf Lodge Gurnee |
|---|---|---|
| Parking | ||
| Arcade |
Only at The Springs Waterpark
- swimming pool
Only at Great Wolf Lodge Gurnee
- wave pool
- surfing simulator
- cabana rentals
- gift shop
- group rates
Both parks share 2 amenities including Parking, Arcade.
About Each Park
The Springs Waterpark
Wisconsin
The Springs Waterpark sits inside the Country Springs Hotel in Waukesha, making it the perfect spot for a weekend getaway about 30 minutes west of Milwaukee. This 45,000 square foot indoor facility keeps the fun going year-round, which is huge when Wisconsin winters hit. The park centers around a good-sized indoor pool area with water slides that kids absolutely love. You'll find a couple of twisting tube slides and body slides that aren't too intense, making them perfect for families with kids who want some thrills without the terror. The lazy river here is solid for floating around, though it's not the longest I've experienced. What really works well is the kids' area with smaller slides, water features, and shallow pools where toddlers can splash safely while parents actually relax nearby. The hot tubs are a major win, especially if you're visiting during colder months when the contrast feels amazing. Since you're staying right in the hotel, you can easily pop back to your room for snacks, forgotten goggles, or a quick nap, which is honestly one of the best parts about resort water parks. The space feels well-maintained and clean, though it can get pretty crowded on weekends and school holidays. I'd recommend arriving right when it opens if you're visiting during peak times. The arcade gives kids something to do between swim sessions, and the food options are typical hotel fare but convenient. This isn't a destination park like Wisconsin Dells' massive resorts, but it's perfect for families…
Read the full The Springs Waterpark guide →Great Wolf Lodge Gurnee
Illinois
Great Wolf Lodge Gurnee brings the indoor water park resort experience to the Chicago suburbs with a massive 38,000-square-foot water park that stays a toasty 84 degrees year-round. The centerpiece is Fort Mackenzie, a four-story interactive water fort with tipping buckets, water cannons, and slides that'll keep kids entertained for hours. The Howlin' Tornado is their signature funnel slide that sends rafts swirling through a massive bowl before splashing down into the pool below. For families with younger kids, Cub Paw Pool offers gentle slides and shallow water that's perfect for toddlers. The Alberta Falls is their lazy river, though it's more of a winding adventure than a relaxing float since it weaves through caves and past waterfalls. Their FlowRider surfing simulator draws crowds of teens and adults trying to master the artificial wave. Parents love that everything is contained under one roof, so you don't have to worry about weather or losing track of kids across a sprawling outdoor park. The water park is exclusively for hotel guests, which keeps crowds more manageable than typical day-use parks. Book your stay well in advance, especially for weekends and school breaks, because this place fills up fast. The rooms aren't fancy, but they're clean and functional with bunk beds that kids love. Bring water shoes since the pool decks can get slippery, and don't forget goggles for the kids. The arcade and other dry activities give you options when you need a break from the water. Food inside is typical resort…
Read the full Great Wolf Lodge Gurnee guide →Ready to visit The Springs Waterpark?