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6 Places to Swim, Splash and Cool Off in Peoria (and beyond)

Need to cool off on a hot day in Peoria? Here's where to go!

By Julia Briggs, Macaroni KID Peoria June 15, 2023

Kids want to cool off, but not sure where to go in Peoria? Here is a list of splash pads and pools in the Peoria area to take kids on these hot summer days.

We advise always checking with the venue when possible before heading out as hours and availability can change due to any number of factors, ranging from weather to staffing issues.


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 Splash Pads in Peoria




Santa Fe Park Splash Pad

1400 N Benedict St.
Chillicothe, IL 61523

What to expect: This is a lovely Splash Pad in Chillicothe, IL. It is located in Santa Fe Park. There are a couple of rules such as no water toys, skateboards, bikes, (etc), are allowed in the splash pad area. Infants must wear swim diapers. Children must be supervised by an adult at all times. There is a public restroom, playgrounds, baseball diamonds, walking path, and open grassy areas all in this same park.

Dates and hours: May-June 9am-7pm, July 8am-8pm, August 9am-7pm, September 10am-6pm (as weather permits)

Admission price: FREE




Water Playground at Harry Lahood Park

1515 Kingsbury Rd
Washington, IL 61571


What to expect: A great family fun water playground for the whole family to enjoy! 

Dates and hours: Dawn - Dusk

Admission price: FREE

Splash Pad at Proctor Recreational Center

309 DuSable St
Peoria, IL  61605

What to expect: A great way to cool off! This is a fun splash pad at Proctor Recreational Center. Enjoy it along with all that Proctor has to offer. 

Dates and hours: 11am-7pm Memorial Day - Labor Day

Admission price: FREE


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Pools in Peoria (and surrounding areas)

Pool at Shore Acres Park

100 Park Blvd
Chillicothe, IL 61523

What to expect: Shore Acres pool is an outdoor pool that boasts fun for the whole family. The facility includes two water slides, a diving well, a zero-depth entry pool with play equipment, and a full-service concession stand.

Dates and hours: June 3th - August 12th 2023,  12:00pm - 6:00pm, Seven Days a Week
*Weather Permitting

Admission price: Age 4 & Up: $8
                              Seniors Age 60+: $7
                              Age 3 & Under: Free *
                            *with paid adult admission

DragonLand

Mineral Springs Park
193 Red Bud Memorial Dr
Pekin, IL 61554

What to expect: DragonLand has something for everyone!
It is fully handicapped accessible, and has a zero-depth, play/entry area, and two water slides.
There is a sand beach to enjoy, full concession stand, and much more! 

Dates and hours: May 27 - August 13, 12pm - 5pm 

Admission price: Age 4 – Adult: $7.50
                              3 and under: Always FREE

***2023 Family Night Rates:
(Starting June 5)
Tuesdays: 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Family of 4: $20.00
Add-ons: $5 each

GWYNN FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER

What to expect: This is the place for outdoor summer fun! The facility offers a zero-depth pool, a water slide, a diving well, and a wet sand play area.

Dates and hours: Monday-Thursday & Saturday noon – 5:30pm

Admission price:0-17 years of age – $4.00/person
Adults: $5.00/person

If you are a Peoria Public Schools student, use your Summer of Fun pass for FREE admission to Gwynn Family Aquatic Center!