Magic Waters Waterpark

First of all, I prefer outdoor waterparks just because an indoor waterpark seems to be a contradiction in terms. You need a hot day with plenty of sunshine to really get the true waterpark experience. That being said, I was overall happy with our experience at Magic Waters and plan to return despite the 2 hour drive from downtown Chicago.
The park is extremely clean considering it’s outdoors and run by the Rockford Park District. Park staff is very visible cleaning up after both nature itself (leaves and bird droppings) along with the few human slobs who attempt to spoil it for everyone. The parking lot was spotless and well thought out with benches/​tables for folks to sort out belongings.
Now, on to the attractions themselves! The main attraction is the tsunami wave pool which is huge and the wave effect is timed to happen every 20 minutes so lovers of calm water can also enjoy the pool. The water slides are in two seperate areas with one tailored to the younger kids and the other for an older crowd. The «Double Dare» has about an 8 story verticle drop that will scare the heck out of you but once you arrive at the landing you wanna do it again. There’s also a seperate kiddie waterpark for the 0 – 5 y/o’s that has several slides and waterfalls.
Lifeguard supervision is about the best I’ve seen anywhere and the park clearly has safety as the number one concern. Park management is also very visible and interacting with guests throughout the park.
Bottom line… Magic Waters is worth the trip and will not disappoint. Try to go on a weekday and bring your cooler (no booze) to save on the food expense.