When the weather outside isn’t cooperating, or you’re simply in the mood for a splashing good time without worrying about sunscreen, indoor water parks are the perfect way to entertain the whole family.
Northwest Indiana is home to some of the best indoor water parks, offering everything from thrilling water slides to relaxing lazy rivers. Whether you’re looking for interactive play areas for younger children or adrenaline-pumping adventure slides for older kids, this guide has you covered. So pack your swimsuits, and let’s dive into the best places for a day of family fun!
1. Deep River Waterpark
Located in Crown Point, Deep River Waterpark is one of the largest water parks in Northwest Indiana and a popular destination for families. While it’s best known for its outdoor attractions during the summer, the park also features an incredible indoor waterpark experience that’s open year-round.
Here, you’ll find a zero-entry pool, which is perfect for younger children, and thrilling tube slides for the older kids and adults. The lazy river provides a relaxing float, while the wave pool creates the excitement of ocean waves without the sand. For little ones, the kiddie pool features small slides and interactive water jets. After a day of splashing, you can warm up in the park’s hot tub or grab a bite at the snack bar.
Location: East Lincoln Hwy, Crown Point, IN
2. Big Splash Adventure
A short drive south to French Lick brings you to Big Splash Adventure, an indoor waterpark that’s worth the trip. This 40,000-square-foot facility features adventure slides, a lazy river, and the Lost Treasure Lagoon—a water playground that’s perfect for younger children. The spiraling Banana Peel Tube Slide is a must-try for thrill-seekers, while the zero-depth entry areas provide a safe space for toddlers to enjoy the water.
Big Splash Adventure is more than just a waterpark; it’s a full family getaway with overnight stay options. The attached hotel makes it easy to turn your visit into a weekend adventure. Dining options are plentiful, and the facility even hosts special events, making it a great place for a family vacation.
Location: French Lick, IN
3. Great Wolf Lodge
While technically in Gurnee, Illinois, Great Wolf Lodge is just a short drive from Northwest Indiana and offers one of the largest indoor water park experiences in the metro Chicagoland area. It’s the perfect place for families with kids of all ages, offering something for everyone.
Younger children will love the Buccaneer Bay Play Structure and lily pad crossing, while older kids can brave the body slides and adventure slides. The interactive play areas, water jets, and splash pad provide endless entertainment for younger children. For relaxation, the lazy river and hot tub are always a good idea.
Great Wolf Lodge also features a retractable roof, making it a year-round destination regardless of the weather. With an onsite hotel, dining options, and a variety of activities, it’s a perfect place for a family getaway.
Location: Gurnee, IL (Miles East of Northwest Indiana)
4. Splash Island
Nestled in the South Shore area, Splash Island offers a friendly waterpark environment with a mix of indoor and outdoor attractions. The indoor pool is open year-round and features water basketball, small slides, and an exciting climbing wall for older children.
Younger children will enjoy the shallow waters of the splish-splash pool and spray features, while the older kids can test their skills on the Jolly Roger Jetty Water Slide. For families looking for a mix of fun and relaxation, the zero-depth entry pool is ideal. Splash Island also has dining options and plenty of seating areas, making it a great place for a day of family fun.
Location: South Shore Area, IN
5. Monon Community Center
Located a short drive from Northwest Indiana, the Monon Community Center in Carmel features an Aquatic Center with both indoor and outdoor water attractions. The indoor pool includes a lazy river, water slides, and interactive water features. For younger children, the kiddie pool has plenty of small slides and splash zones to keep them entertained.
What sets this facility apart is its focus on fitness, with a lap pool and areas for water aerobics. The Monon Community Center is perfect for families looking to combine fun with fitness, making it a good idea for a weekend trip.
Location: Carmel, IN
6. Abe Martin Lodge
If you’re heading to Brown County State Park, the Abe Martin Lodge is a hidden gem for families. This indoor waterpark offers a cozy, rustic vibe that’s perfect for a relaxing family getaway.
The water attractions include a zero-entry pool, tube slides, and a lazy river. The interactive water features and splash pad are perfect for younger children, while older kids can enjoy the deeper pools and water slides. The lodge itself is surrounded by the natural beauty of Indiana’s largest state park, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration.
Location: Brown County State Park, IN
7. Michigan City Aquatic Center
For those closer to the northern part of Northwest Indiana, the Michigan City Aquatic Center is a fantastic option. While it’s smaller than some of the larger water parks, it’s a great place for families looking for a more low-key experience.
The center includes an indoor pool with water jets, a zero-depth entry area for younger children, and a lazy river. The splash pad and climbing wall add extra fun for older kids. It’s a popular destination for locals, especially during special events.
Location:Michigan City, IN
8. Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari
While Holiday World is primarily known for its outdoor roller coasters and attractions, its Splashin’ Safari waterpark has some indoor waterpark features that make it a worthwhile visit even during the off-season. Located in Santa Claus, Indiana, this park includes a mix of indoor and outdoor water attractions, making it a versatile option for families.
The Buccaneer Bay Play Structure, water playgrounds, and zero-depth entry pools cater to younger children. Meanwhile, older kids and adults can enjoy the thrilling Pirate’s Plunder and Lost River rides. With plenty of dining options and an overnight stay available, it’s a great place for a family vacation.
Location: Santa Claus, IN
9. Boulder Beach Water Park
Although it’s part of the larger Indiana Dunes area, Boulder Beach Water Park offers an indoor experience perfect for families who love water attractions. The waterpark includes a lazy river, splash pad, and water jets for younger children. Older kids will enjoy the body slides and interactive play areas.
With its proximity to Lake Michigan and the Indiana Dunes, this park is an excellent choice for families looking to combine indoor and outdoor activities during their trip.
Location: Near Indiana Dunes, IN
Northwest Indiana and its surrounding areas boast some of the best indoor water parks, ensuring fun for the whole family, no matter the season. From the lazy river at Deep River Waterpark to the adventurous slides at Big Splash Adventure, these parks offer a variety of attractions suitable for younger children, older kids, and adults alike.
Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a quick day trip, or an overnight stay, these indoor water parks are the perfect place to create unforgettable memories. So grab your towels, pack some snacks, and head out for a splashing good time! Just remember—a day at the waterpark is always a good idea, rain or shine.
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