The Village of Bradley is moving forward with a major indoor waterpark development that aims to transform the former Northfield Square Mall property into one of the region’s most significant family-entertainment destinations. With a construction budget estimated at roughly $80 million and a design footprint of 65,000–75,000 square feet, the project is expected to become one of the largest indoor waterparks in Illinois.
A Modern, Year-Round Indoor Waterpark
Early design plans outline a wide mix of attractions intended to draw families from throughout Illinois and neighboring states. The facility is slated to include a multi-slide tower, a lazy river, an indoor surf simulator, multi-level children’s play structure, activity pools, cabanas, food and beverage options, and dedicated event space. The building’s signature feature is a large retractable roof and glass enclosure designed to bring in natural light, reduce energy costs, and allow open-air operation during warmer months.
The waterpark’s architecture and aquatic systems are being developed by nationally recognized firms specializing in indoor resort design. The slide package and interactive attractions come from leading manufacturers known for large-scale installations around the world. An experienced operations consultant is working alongside the design team to shape guest flow, staffing plans, safety layouts, and pre-opening strategy.
Redeveloping the Former Mall Site
The waterpark anchors the wider redevelopment of the former Northfield Square Mall property, a site the Village purchased with the intention of converting it into a multi-use destination district. Much of the mall’s long-vacant interior will be demolished to make way for new infrastructure, improved site circulation, and updated commercial pads for future hotels, restaurants, and retail.
Village officials have described the project as a central component of a long-term revitalization strategy for northern Kankakee County. By repurposing the mall property—which had suffered from years of decline—the waterpark serves as both an economic catalyst and a way to rebrand Bradley as a regional destination.
Timeline for Construction and Opening
Design development is underway, with long-lead components such as slides and structural elements already being queued for fabrication. Site preparation and demolition work are expected to begin ahead of vertical construction, with core building activity projected to start in 2026. The Village has targeted a grand opening in 2027, aligning with the delivery of specialized equipment and the completion of the retractable roof system.
Economic Expectations and Regional Impact
Feasibility studies project strong early visitor numbers, with anticipated attendance potentially exceeding 400,000 guests in the first year and increasing gradually over the following decade. Officials expect this influx of visitors to stimulate hotel demand, drive restaurant and retail activity, and support long-term commercial investment in the surrounding corridor. The waterpark is also anticipated to generate new positions in hospitality, maintenance, food service, aquatics, management, and seasonal operations.
A New Identity for Bradley
The upcoming indoor waterpark represents one of the most ambitious projects the Village has ever undertaken. Once completed, it is expected to reshape local tourism, attract new families and visitors, and position Bradley as a year-round entertainment hub within driving reach of Chicago, central Illinois, Indiana, and parts of Wisconsin.
For residents, businesses, and families throughout the region, the project marks a major step in redefining the future of the former mall site and building a long-term destination with lasting community impact.
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