Key Lime Cove Has Cure for the Winter Blues

These arctic temps, piles of snow and howling winds getting you down? Go to the tropics without leaving the Midwest at Key Lime Cove in Gurnee, Illinois. The indoor water park remains at 84 degrees all year long regardless of how brutal it gets outside.

With charming decor that transports you to the Florida Keys, the cheery theme continues throughout the entire venue. In our rooms, the bedspreads were bright and flowery. The artwork represents somewhere more sunny and sandy. The gift and snack shops make you feel like you are in a touristy town rather than a couple blocks off an icy interstate.

We dined at the Crazy Toucan where there were tropical drinks for the grown-ups and the kids and a menu full of seafood and spicy entrees along with some classic kid fare. There's also a killer spa that is a great way to cap off a relaxing weekend. I wasn't able to squeeze in a spa stop on this visit, but on my previous visit I stopped in for a pedicure and I totally recommend planning for an appointment for some spa services.

Fun, colorful storefront facades make you feel like you're on a touristy, tropical island.

The water park includes several slides, a wave pool, lazy river, water playground and my favorite part - the adults only hot tub. Visit www.keylimecove.com for more details on this perfect family getaway, especially in the middle of this crummy Chicago winter.