Local Events
Illinois Mattel Waterpark Project Near I-57 Moves Forward, Groundbreaking Soon
Bradley, IL – Plans for a major Mattel themed indoor waterpark near Interstate 57 took another step forward Monday night as village trustees approved a resolution accepting a construction bid for earl
By Nolan Pierce · 2026-10-13T15:52:49.515Z
Bradley, IL – Plans for a major Mattel themed indoor waterpark near Interstate 57 took another step forward Monday night as village trustees approved a resolution accepting a construction bid for early site work.
According to Bradley Finance Director Rob Romo, Tenco Excavating was the only company to submit a bid for the earthwork associated with the development near Exit 315 of I 57 in Kankakee County, south of the Chicago metropolitan area.
The work involves preparing the property and installing essential infrastructure, including natural gas, electrical service, stormwater systems and water mains.
The approval marks another milestone for the proposed indoor attraction, which is expected to bring Mattel's recognizable entertainment brands into a year round waterpark environment.
What Could Be Coming to Bradley? Mattel recently revealed its first detailed look at the Mattel Wonder Indoor Waterpark planned for Bellevue, Nebraska, offering a glimpse of the company's broader entertainment concept.
The Nebraska destination is planned to feature approximately 100,000 square feet of attractions, including a Barbie themed pink activity pool, a FlowRider surf simulator and a Hot Wheels multi slide racing tower.
Families could also experience a lazy river inspired by UNO, Rock 'Em Sock 'Em Robots and Magic 8 Ball, along with a Fisher Price water play structure featuring the iconic Rock a Stack toy.
The Bellevue facility is expected to feature a retractable roof and climate controlled environment, allowing year round operation.
When Will the Illinois Waterpark Open? Bellevue is currently identified as the first Mattel Wonder Indoor Waterpark scheduled to open, with an anticipated debut in late 2027.
Other announced destinations include Bradley, Illinois; Orlando, Florida; and Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina.
While the Nebraska designs provide an early look at Mattel's vision, specific attractions and an opening date for Bradley have not been confirmed in the supplied announcements.
Monday's approval moves the Illinois project through another important construction planning stage as residents await additional details about the development.