Parks

The Downers Grove Golf Club is the site of the nation’s first 18 hole course, founded in 1892. The 18 hole course was reduced to nine holes in the late 1890's and the current course offers scenic views with mature trees, rolling hills and water on seven of the nine holes. The course is perfect for the golfer who doesn't have four hours to play or wants to play a round before or after work and provides the perfect setting for the Downers Grove Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry's Last Swing, Board of Directors' Invitational.

Lyman Woods and Belmont Prairie are two natural areas totaling 175 acres. Several educational programs are offered at both areas which are well attended by residents, local schools and other private educational institutions in the area. Visitors can stop in the William F. Sherman Jr. Interpretive Center to view the exhibits or check out a T.I.M.B.E.R. pack for a self-guided journey of Lyman Woods to learn about plants, animals and insects native to the region.

The Recreation and Fitness Center is a 69,000 square foot facility is host to 4500 Fitness, indoor track, 3 full size gymnasiums, fitness studios and meeting rooms. The center's multi-purpose rooms accommodate up to 120 guests and is perfect for receptions, graduations and business meetings.

The Lincoln Community Center, once the historic Lincoln School building, houses the District's early childhood programs, dance classes, a ceramic/art studio, active adult center, recreation offices and a variety of rooms available for rent. An auditorium with a theatrical stage is also located in this building along with a full service commercial kitchen.

The Downers Grove Park District Museum is a unique part of the Park District located in Wandsheider Park. Situated on the museum campus is the 1892 Blodgett House, the 1846 Blodgett house and the annex building. The 1892 Blodgett House replicates a home in Downers Grove during the Victorian era housing historical objects from that time period and the annex building is the home of museum exhibitions.

The Park District hosts a multitude of special events each year including the CARA circuit 5 Miler race, Big Pig - P.I.G. Championship of the World basketball shooting competition, Polar Express, Flea Market, Fishing Derby, Road Rally, Wheely Big Trucks, Firefly Night Golf and a 10-week Summer Concert Series. Their special events appeal to all age groups. SEASPAR, the South East Association for Special Parks And Recreation, is an extension of Downers Grove and ten neighboring communities whose commitment is to provide comprehensive recreation opportunities for residents with disabilities. Offices are housed in the Recreation Center building and programs are available to children as young as three years old, senior citizens, and everyone in between.