Key Lime Cove: Water & Fun w/o the Sun

Isn’t it sad that our swimming season here in Midwest ends on the Labor Day? Those of you living in the warmer climates have no idea how easy you have it. However, there is a light at the end of the tunnel – we have Key Lime Cove.

KeyLime Cove Indoor Waterpark Resort in Gurnee, Illinois, offers families the must-do tropical town vacation that is just a short drive from home. As The Official Resort of Six Flags Great America, the year-round resort is designed to provide the ultimate resort experience for guests.

It seems like a perfect getaway place for the whole family not far away from home. My daughter loves water fun and for her birthday we decided to have a little family getaway at the Key Lime Cove.

When we got to the hotel, we were overwhelmed (to say the least). With so much going on we didn’t know where to go first. Since we were only there for two days (and not a month), I can only share few highlights.

KEY LIME COVE SHOPS and STREETS

If you have visited Florida Keys, you will appreciate the atmosphere and Florida references. The charm of small shops and old streets, bright colors and small relaxation spots – it all screams V-A-C-A-T-I-O-N!

 KEY LIME COVE ACCOMMODATION

We stayed at the Mangrove suite – very spacious and with enough room to sleep, eat, and play – it is perfect for the family. A mirowave and a mini-fridge made me extra happy and designated dinning area helped us keep the party going.

SOMETHING SPECIAL BY KEY LIME COVE - SCAVENGER HUNT

When we first got to the room, we had a surprise waiting for us – a scavanger hunt the pirate Pete left behind through a bunch of clues. Kids loved this little adventure and there was a prize at the of the journey.

KEY LIME COVE WATER PARK

With so much going on at the resort it took us some time before we got to the water park for some splashing fun.

LOST PARADISE WATERPARK is a 65,000 sq ft, 84-degree tropical-themed indoor waterpark with loads of wet and wild playtime for the entire family.

WOW – it was so busy there, it took us a while to find a landing spot and I also realized, that I wouldn’t be able to watch after  both 3 and 5 year old here on my own (I only think, I am a super-woman). If you have smaller kids that need supervision – consider bringing help. There are plenty of guards on duty though and they do make sure that everyone plays safe and by the rules.

LEAPIN’ LIZARDS AT KEY LIME COVE

Waterpark, Shops, and Arcades – that wasn’t enough. Leapin’ Lizards studio has a lot of activities going on all day including decorating pumpkins and making a special birthday crown for those who who decided to celebrate their birthday here.

My family had lots of fun! At the end of the day, we had a great movie we watched in the room and a great dinner from the D.W. Anderson’s. Kids were tired – mom and dad were very happy. We even managed to sneak in a delicious dessert (after the kids went to sleep, of course) from the Island Temptations, because (lucky us), it is open till 11 pm.

KEY LIME COVE TOUR

Early in the morning before the waterpark opens, guests have a chance to go on a special adventure - behind the scenes look of the water park. Here are some facts you most likely didn’t know:

Waterpark Facts:
• 420,120 gallons of water
• Lazy river is 560 feet long and winds throughout the waterpark
• Tube slides are 45 feet high and 350 feet long
• Hurricane’s Vortex is 45 feet high and 140 feet long
• Pineapple splash bucket is 10 feet tall and holds 250 gallons of water
• Maximum occupancy of the waterpark is 1,476 guests

Bob, the head engineer of the park, had lots of information to share. However, here is the best part of the behind the scene tour – you can actually turn the water park on (if you get lucky, of course). My daughter did!

Guess which one turns the water on?

Thank You Key Lime Cove for the splashing fun!

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