New Safety Measures Blow Into Hurricane Harbor

While the theme park Six Flags Great America is currently closed, Hurricane Harbor at 1 Great America Pkwy in Gurnee, Illinois just opened on July 20. In accordance with Governor Pritzker's reopening guidelines, this comes with many rules to keep in mind when visiting the water park.

The preview phase from now until July 26 is only to members and season pass holders. With the reduced amount of people allowed in the park at this time, it's fairly easy to remain socially distant to others around you. There are stickers on the ground to delegate spacing while waiting in lines for the water rides.

Mask wearing over the age of two is enforced throughout the park, unless someone is actually in the water or heading to a slide. Don't plan on sunning without a mask while on a lounge chair. Employees are not afraid to tell guests to cover up and some roam around carrying signs with reminders about masks. Masks are provided at the front gate for any who forget to bring one.

After people pass the online registration, made to stagger arrival times, they will be temperature checked and their bags will be screened with touchless bag checks.

The Wave Pool has no waves and don't try to hang on the sides as you will be asked not to. The Lazy River is well spaced out with many employees sprinkled throughout to make sure guests are not floating too close. They will stress that you remain inside the donut hole of your float, so don't pull any stunts!

Lifejackets are provided and sanitized after every use. People can also bring their own lifejacket as long as its approved.

Alcohol-based hand-sanitizer is throughout the park and all rides are cleaned throughout the day.

Mobile food ordering is encouraged to avoid contact and drink bottle refills are served in paper cups each time.

Employees have gone through COVID-19 training and have masks, glasses and gloves to protect those around them.

There are a lot of rules to follow and keep in mind, but for those of us that have had our beaches closed, this is a rare opportunity to absorb some sun and play in the water.

For more up to date information and to make a reservation visit SixFlags.com. Out in the Park is still scheduled for Sept. 12, so stay tuned to the website upcoming guidelines and instructions.