Watch the trip highlights here: YouTube Short
Over the July 4th weekend, we packed our bags for a quick yet unforgettable family getaway from Chicago to Gurnee, Illinois. With two young kids, my husband, myself, and my brother-in-law joining in, this trip turned into a fun mix of rides, water splashes, and family bonding all while keeping our budget in check.
🏨 Where We Stayed: SpringHill Suites Chicago Waukegan/Gurnee
- Hotel: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Chicago Waukegan/Gurnee
- Check-in: July 4, 2025 – 1:22 PM
- Check-out: July 5, 2025
- Cost: Around $180/night (includes complimentary breakfast)
This hotel was perfect for families. Spacious suites, a pool for the kids, and breakfast included which helped us save on one meal each day. Plus, it’s only a 10-minute drive to Six Flags.
🎟️ Fun & Thrills: Six Flags Great America + Hurricane Harbor
We purchased combo tickets to cover both Six Flags Great America and Hurricane Harbor Chicago.
- Tickets: ~$65 per person (online summer deals)
- Total for 5 people: About $325
- Parking: $30/day
- Pro-tip: Look for annual pass during Black Friday deals you will save a lot
Day 1: Six Flags Great America
- Roller coasters for the adults (Goliath, Raging Bull)
- Family rides and Looney Tunes attractions for the kids
- Packed snacks kept food costs low inside the park
- Many more fun rides and shows
Day 2: Hurricane Harbor
- Wave pool and lazy river were the kids’ favorites
- Water slides kept the day thrilling for the adults too
- Renting a locker for the day cost about $20( We din’t rent the locker)
🍴 Meals & Snacks
To keep costs under control, we struck a balance between packed food and park treats:
- Packed Lunches & Snacks: Homemade sandwiches, fruits, and juice boxes (saved ~$60).
- Dinner Stop: Local restaurant near the hotel (~$80 for 5).
💰 Trip Budget Breakdown
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Hotel (1 night) | $180 |
| Park Tickets (5) | $325 |
| Parking (2 days) | $60 |
| Meals | $80 |
| Gas (roundtrip from Chicago ~90 miles) | $25 |
| Total | $670 |
Pro-Tip: If you only count the core family of 4, the cost falls closer to $500, making it a very doable weekend trip.
🌟 Why This Trip Was Worth It
- Quick 1.5-hour drive from Chicago
- Great mix of thrill rides and kid-friendly attractions
- Staying nearby made the trip stress-free
- Celebrating July 4th weekend with family created lasting memories
This trip reminded us that you don’t need to fly across the country or spend thousands for a family adventure. With a little planning, you can squeeze in fun, relaxation, and quality family time — all within driving distance of home.
✅ Would we do it again? Absolutely! Next time, we might try a two-night stay to enjoy the parks at a slower pace.
Inspire and Beyond 
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