Parks and Recreation Department

The Park & Recreation Department has designed quality programs that encourages community participation and meets the diverse recreational needs of all of its citizens. Through numerous activities, programs and special events throughout the year, all age groups of the community are given the opportunity to participate and interact. The availability of quality leisure programs helps to strengthen the community, provide its youth constructive activities, and improve the overall quality of life of its citizens.

The Park & Recreation Department has created a reference guide for information regarding the Aquatic Center and approximately 50 different programs and activities for youth, teens, adults and senior citizens. The Park & Recreation Department hopes this guide will help inform residents of the fees, availability and registration information of the various programs. A free guide is available at the Roundhouse located at 633 North Wood River Avenue or by calling the Park and Recreation Department at (618) 251-3130 to receive one by mail.

Aquatic Center

The Aquatic Center is a $4 million water recreational complex that everyone in the family can enjoy. The younger children can safely play in the wading pool around our Umbrella Tree and Rail Apparatus, while older children can splash around the Olympic size pool. Teenagers have a great time hanging out with friends and enjoying the two 4-story high water slides with 320 feet of incredible turns and diving wells with a 1 and 3-meter board. For parents and sunbathers relaxing is not a problem with the 200 available chaise lounges and more than 8 lifeguards keeping the complex safe.

This regional attraction draws more than 40,000 visitors annually and provides numerous water programs and events during the 12-week season. The pool, slide or both can be rented for an exciting birthday party or other special occasion. Everyone can have a fun time at this water recreational facility located at 670 Whitelaw Avenue from Memorial Day weekend to the start of school.

For more information on rates, rental, water programs or summer employment at the Aquatic Center, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at (618) 251-3130.

Park Facilities

With 8 parks and more than 273.5 acres of recreational space, residents can enjoy virtually any outdoor activity. Many of the parks already have available amenities such as BBQ grills, shelters, parking and restrooms for outings and picnics. Through a substantial corporate donation from both BP and Triad Industries, the City was able to replace most of its playground equipment with state of the are equipment area children will enjoy for years to come.  Additionally, the convenient location of the parks throughout the City allow children safe access to basketball courts, soccer, baseball/softball fields and playgrounds that are close to home.

For information regarding renting a shelter for an outdoor gathering at Belk Park please contact the City Clerk at (618) 251-3100, for a shelter in one of the other park areas please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at (618) 251-3130.

Recreation Activities and Special Events

Throughout the year, the Park & Recreation Department provides residents of all ages a diverse selection of activities and events to choose from. Children and teenagers can take advantage of the numerous camps, clinics and instructional lessons to maintain or improve in sports or other activities. Groups can participate in the many sport tournaments and leagues that are available throughout the different seasons. Everyone can enjoy the special events that happen regularly such as summer concerts, breakfast with Santa and baseball games at Busch Stadium.

For more information regarding fees, availability of programs and registration, please contact the Parks & Recreation Department at (618) 251-3130.