Park District of Forest Park Aquatic Center

On the outskirts of bustling Chicago lies one of the most notable summer vacation spots in the USA — the Forest Park Aquatic Center. This modern water complex boasts a rich history and is rightfully considered the city's oldest aquatic center, remaining relevant for over a hundred years.

The facility recently underwent a massive $15 million modernization, turning it into a high-tech oasis of entertainment. Here, a professional 50-meter competitive pool harmoniously sits alongside interactive zones for the whole family. The complex is equipped with modern filtration and UV disinfection systems, ensuring crystal-clear water and visitor comfort.

It’s more than just a place to swim; it's a true hub for residents and tourists alike, where you can find everything from thrilling water slides to cozy landscaped areas with stone benches for quiet relaxation. The water park is perfect for both athletic achievements and a fun weekend outdoors.

To plan your visit to this modern aquatic complex, it's helpful to save its contact details in advance. Below is the up-to-date information to help you easily find the facility and contact its administration.

At the Forest Park Aquatic Center, there is something for every guest. For sports enthusiasts, the 50-meter pool with starting blocks is available for full-scale training sessions. Those looking for relaxation will appreciate the recreational pool with its "zero-depth" entry, which mimics a beach and is perfect for safe play with small children.

Adrenaline seekers can test themselves on the tall water slides: the complex features both a large play structure and a specialized 20-foot slide designed specifically for teenagers. Additionally, there are diving areas with professional 1-meter and 3-meter springboards where visitors can practice spectacular dives.

In addition to the attractions, the aquatic center offers various programs for swimming lessons and water activities. Families can spend time in the renovated area featuring interactive waterfalls and geysers, and after an active swim, relax on the landscaped lawns or new stone benches, enjoying the summer sun and festive atmosphere.

Getting to the Forest Park Aquatic Center is easy both by car and public transport. The facility is located at 7501 Harrison St, in close proximity to the metropolis. For drivers, it is most convenient to use the I-290 (Eisenhower Expressway), taking the Harrison Street exit in Forest Park. Convenient parking is provided for visitors on the complex grounds.

If you prefer public transportation, you can take the CTA Green Line subway from downtown Chicago to the Harlem station. From the station, you can reach the aquatic center on foot in about 10–15 minutes or take bus No. 53, which runs along Harrison St. You can also always order a taxi from the city center for a comfortable ride straight to the complex doors.

The history of this site began over a century ago in 1922, when it opened as the Forest Park Pool. At that time, it was the city's very first and oldest public aquatic center, becoming a symbol of summer recreation for many generations of local residents. Over the years, the facility has been adapted many times to meet changing standards of comfort and safety.

A significant milestone in the complex's development occurred in 1996, when it was transformed into a modern Aquatic Center after a major renovation. It was then that the zero-depth entry areas and the first water slides appeared, making it one of the leading water entertainment centers in the suburbs. Since then, the aquatic center has become a key venue for swimming lessons and community events.

The most extensive modernization in its recent history began in 2023. The $15 million project completely transformed the infrastructure: an Olympic-sized 50-meter pool was built, and innovative UV water disinfection systems were implemented. The renovated aquatic center grandly opened its doors on May 24, 2025, preserving its historical significance while gaining ultra-modern equipment.

To fully enjoy everything the complex has to offer, it is recommended that a typical visitor set aside 2 to 4 hours. This is usually enough time to try the slides, swim in the pools, and comfortably use the park's infrastructure, including showers and lounge areas.

For families with children or those planning to combine active training in the 50-meter pool with outdoor relaxation, it is better to plan for half a day. On summer weekends, the visit duration may increase slightly due to the popularity of the attractions among suburban residents.

The water park operates on a seasonal basis, typically welcoming guests from June through August. Generally, the doors are open from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM daily; however, the schedule may be adjusted based on weather conditions or scheduled events in the competitive pool.

Given that the facility has recently undergone a major reconstruction and schedules may change, we recommend checking the current operating hours on the official website or by phone before your visit. Currently, the status may be listed as "temporarily closed" until the start of the 2026 summer season.

After a refreshing break in the pools, you can continue exploring the surrounding area, which offers many options for active and family leisure. Exploring nearby locations will make your trip to Chicago even more fulfilling and diverse.

Several major entertainment centers and theme parks are located within reach of Forest Park, which will be of interest to both children and adults: